Denmark is a Scandinavian country located in Northern Europe, famous for its rich history, culture, and picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, Denmark has something to offer to everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit in Denmark that you shouldn’t miss:
The National Gallery of Denmark
- The country’s largest collection of Danish art is housed in The National Gallery of Denmark. In the late 19th century, the original exhibits were relocated from Christiansborg to the present location. With a massive extension, the museum now boasts of an expanded space that allows natural light to flood into the interior.
- Encompassing over 700 years of European and Scandinavian art, the museum showcases paintings by notable artists such as the Dutch Masters, Picasso, and Edvard Munch, among others. Additionally, the museum presents an impressive collection of Danish art. If you’re looking for a relaxing spot, the café is an excellent place to unwind and enjoy the ambiance.
Skagen (Denmark best places to visit)
Skagen, the northernmost town in Denmark, boasts stunning terracotta-roofed houses and painted timber buildings that gleam against the deep blue-grey of the North Sea. A popular destination for painters and poets, the town is known for its fresh air and picturesque location between the Jutland beaches and the dunes.
One of its oldest lighthouses stands as a testament to the town’s longstanding connection to the sea, while numerous glass, pottery, and craft boutiques along the beachfront and Sankt Laurentii Vej street have established Skagen as a haven for artists and free-spirited individuals.
Fredericia
Located between the Jutland Peninsula and the scenic island of Funen, Fredericia was originally built as a fortified town to defend Danish lands after the Thirty Years’ War. The town’s history is still visible today through its encircling city walls, gates, and bulwarks, with monuments like The Foot Soldier serving as a reminder of Fredericia’s strategic significance throughout history.
However, if military history isn’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other things to enjoy in Fredericia, including the beautiful Eastern Beach, charming Palsgaard Lake, rustic Jutland taverns, and many more attractions.
Legoland
If you’re traveling with kids, you can’t miss Legoland, located in Billund. This amusement park is based on the popular toy brand and features more than 50 rides and attractions, including a giant Lego replica of famous landmarks from around the world.
Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen (Denmark best places to visit)
A must-visit destination in Copenhagen, Tivoli is a renowned recreational area that attracts many tourists. Established in 1843, this amusement park was the inspiration behind the famous Disney theme parks.
Tivoli boasts an extensive range of attractions. Including a roller coaster, roundabouts, puppet theaters, restaurants, cafés, gardens, food pavilions, and a concert hall designed in the Moorish style.
Tivoli is a globally recognized symbol of the city and has been featured in countless movies. At night, the park comes alive with breathtaking firework displays, while the gardens are lit up with festive lights during the Christmas season. On Friday nights during the summer, visitors can enjoy free rock concerts.
The Danish Riviera
- The northern coast of Zealand island boasts of the so-called Danish Riviera, which stretches from one end to the other. It is home to some of the most luxurious beach resorts in all of Scandinavia.
- Castle towns of Helsingor and Hillerod are especially popular, hosting the majestic Kronborg Castle (known for Shakespeare’s Prince Hamlet) and the elegant Renaissance Frederiksborg Palace respectively.
- For beach lovers, Gilleleje and Hornbaek offer the perfect escape with their long stretches of sun-kissed yellow sand, bordered by rolling dunes and colourful rose beds. The area is also famous for its coastal forests, including the primeval beech groves of Gribskov (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the younger Tisvilde’s Scots pines.
Ribe (Denmark best places to visit)
Ribe is Denmark’s oldest town, and it’s like stepping back in time. With its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and charming town square, Ribe is a perfect place to experience the best of Danish culture and architecture.
Viking Ship Museum
The Viking Ship Museum located in Roskilde offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors to witness the Vikings’ shipbuilding techniques and the restoration of the discovered vessels by modern shipbuilders. The boatyard situated next to the museum utilizes conventional methods to revive ancient boats.
Tourists can also learn about the Viking Age and the significant role that maritime life played in the culture and existence of the Vikings. The museum’s main exhibition, Viking Ship Hall, showcases five ships that were once used by the Vikings to form a blockade on Roskilde Fjord.
These ships excavated underwater, restored, and are now on display. In addition, the museum recently introduced the high-tech “Climb Aboard” experience that immerses visitors in the life aboard a Viking ship.
This interactive exhibit allows guests to explore the ship’s compartments and supplies, wear costumes, and even experience sensory changes that mimic the journey through rough seas and calm, day and night, and different weather conditions.
Jaegersborg Dyrehave (Denmark best places to visit)
Located about 40 minutes north of Copenhagen, Jaegersborg Dyrehave is a vast forest park where around 2,000 deer live among ancient oak trees.
It’s an ideal destination for a day trip, thanks to its breathtaking scenery and the presence of Bakken, the world’s oldest amusement park. In 2015, the forest was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cementing its place as a must-visit location.
The Island of Bornholm
Bornholm Island in the Baltic Sea is a must-visit destination for tourists, attracting both locals and foreigners with its temperate climate, scenic beaches, and extensive hiking and biking trails.
The Hammershus Castle Ruins, a 13th-century fortress built to defend the island, is one of the top tourist spots. Several museums are located on the island, such as the Kunstmuseum in Gudhjem, which boasts a stunning view of Christiansoe from its waterfront location.
The museum has a diverse collection of fine art and sculptures, including several displayed outside. Tourists can also explore the Melstedgård Agricultural Museum just outside Gudhjem. Rønne’s Bornholm Museum houses a diverse collection of cultural and natural history exhibits. From Viking-era artifacts to contemporary art, the museum has something for everyone. Explore the island’s seafaring history and discover the local culture through the museum’s various collections.
Odense (Denmark best places to visit)
- Odense, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, is a must-visit location in Denmark. However, there is so much more to discover in this charming town, including impressive sculptures and esteemed exhibitions.
- Odense boasts quaint Scandinavian houses, stunning turrets, and the moats of Egeskov Castle, as well as the resting place of King Canute and the imposing Knuds Kirke.
- Take a leisurely stroll around the city and make sure to indulge in the famous Danish Smørrebrød, a star of the local cuisine. This open-faced sandwich features a slice of rye bread topped with various toppings, such as roast beef, pickled herring, eggs, mayo, and shrimp.