Denmark Travel Guide

Last Updated on 27 January 2026 by Johan

Denmark lies in Northern Europe. It borders Germany to the south and connects to Sweden via the Øresund Bridge. The North Sea lies to the west, while the Baltic Sea borders the east. Norway is separated from Denmark by the Skagerrak Strait. The country consists of the Jutland Peninsula and more than 400 islands, of which around 78 are inhabited. The largest islands are Zealand, Funen, and North Jutland, with Copenhagen located on Zealand. Denmark also includes Greenland and the Faroe Islands, which are self‑governing territories within the kingdom.

Explanation of the name: Denmark

The name Denmark comes from the Old Norse Danmǫrk, meaning “borderland of the Danes.” The word “mark” refers to a frontier or border district. Medieval legends also link the name to King Dan, a mythological figure. The name was first recorded in the 9th century and has remained in use ever since. In Danish the country is called Danmark, and in English it is Denmark.

History: Denmark

Denmark has been inhabited since the end of the Ice Age. Early settlers were hunters and fishermen, later replaced by farmers using stone, bronze, and iron tools. By the Iron Age, Denmark traded with the Roman Empire. During the Viking Age, Danish seafarers explored and raided across Europe. The kingdom was unified under Harald Bluetooth in the 10th century, who introduced Christianity. In the Middle Ages Denmark expanded its influence across Scandinavia. The Kalmar Union in the 14th century united Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under one crown. Later conflicts reduced Danish territory, but the kingdom remained strong. In the 19th century Denmark lost Norway and parts of Schleswig and Holstein. The country became a constitutional monarchy in 1849. During World War II Denmark was occupied by Germany but maintained resistance. After the war Denmark joined NATO and later the European Union. Today Denmark is a modern welfare state with high living standards.

Denmark is divided into five regions: Capital Region, Central Denmark Region, North Denmark Region, Region Zealand, and Region of Southern Denmark. These regions are further divided into 98 municipalities, each with elected councils responsible for local services.

Tourist information: Denmark

Denmark is known for castles, coastline, and culture. Copenhagen offers Nyhavn harbour, Tivoli Gardens, and the Little Mermaid statue. Aarhus is a lively university city with museums and modern architecture. Odense is the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen. Aalborg combines Viking heritage with contemporary design. Roskilde is famous for its cathedral and music festival. Denmark’s islands and beaches provide opportunities for sailing, cycling, and walking.

Attractions sorted by distance from Copenhagen

Nyhavn Harbour, Nyhavn 1‑71, 1051 Copenhagen. This colourful harbour is lined with restaurants and historic houses. It is a lively place to enjoy Danish food and watch boats along the canal.

Tivoli Gardens, Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 Copenhagen. Opened in 1843, it is one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Visitors enjoy rides, gardens, and concerts in a unique setting.

The Little Mermaid, Langelinie, 2100 Copenhagen. This bronze statue was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale. It is a symbol of Copenhagen and a popular photo stop.

Roskilde Cathedral, Domkirkepladsen 3, 4000 Roskilde. A UNESCO site and burial place of Danish monarchs. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and history.

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Gl Strandvej 13, 3050 Humlebæk. Famous for modern art and sea views. The museum combines architecture with landscape and is a highlight for art lovers.

Kronborg Castle, Kronborg 2C, 3000 Helsingør. A UNESCO site known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Visitors explore grand halls and fortifications overlooking the Øresund.

Hans Christian Andersen Museum, Jernbanegade 1, 5000 Odense. Dedicated to the life and works of the author. Exhibits include manuscripts, personal items, and interactive displays.

Legoland Billund, Nordmarksvej 9, 7190 Billund. A family favourite with rides and Lego models. Children and adults enjoy themed areas and creative attractions.

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, Aros Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus. Famous for its rainbow panorama walkway. The museum offers contemporary art and striking architecture.

Lindholm Høje Museum, Vendilavej 11, 9400 Aalborg. Displays Viking burial grounds and artefacts. Visitors learn about ancient traditions and see reconstructed settlements.

Museums

The National Museum of Denmark, Ny Vestergade 10, 1471 Copenhagen. Covers history from prehistory to modern times with artefacts and exhibitions.

The National Gallery of Denmark (SMK), Sølvgade 48‑50, 1307 Copenhagen. Houses European and Danish art from the Renaissance to the present.

The Viking Ship Museum, Vindeboder 12, 4000 Roskilde. Displays original ships from the Viking Age and offers boat‑building workshops.

The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Gl Strandvej 13, 3050 Humlebæk. Combines art with architecture and landscape in a coastal setting.

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, Aros Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus. Famous for its rainbow panorama walkway and modern exhibitions.

Fun things for children

Families can enjoy Legoland Billund, Copenhagen Zoo, and Experimentarium science centre. Tivoli Gardens offers rides and shows. Fårup Sommerland and Djurs Sommerland are amusement parks with roller coasters and water rides. Aquadome at Lalandia Billund provides indoor pools and slides. Children also enjoy interactive exhibits at the Natural History Museum in Aarhus.

Local events in 2026

The Roskilde Festival runs from 27 June to 4 July 2026. Copenhell, a metal festival in Copenhagen, takes place from 24 to 27 June 2026. Copenhagen Jazz Festival is scheduled for July 2026. The Copenhagen Light Festival will be held from 30 January to 22 February 2026. The Ribe Viking Market runs from 27 April to 3 May 2026. Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen hosts its summer season from April to September 2026.

Culinary destinations

Danish cuisine combines tradition with modern innovation. Classic dishes include smørrebrød (open‑faced sandwiches), frikadeller (meatballs), and flæskesteg (roast pork with crackling). Fish dishes such as pickled herring and poached cod are common. Danish pastries (wienerbrød) are famous worldwide. Seasonal treats include æbleskiver (Christmas pancakes) and risalamande (rice pudding with almonds). New Nordic Cuisine emphasises local and seasonal ingredients. Denmark also produces cheeses such as Havarti and beers including Carlsberg and Tuborg.

Cycling and walking routes

Denmark has more than 11,000 km of sign‑posted cycling routes. The Pilgrims Route crosses Jutland. The Baltic Sea Route circles southern Denmark. The North Sea Cycle Route follows the west coast. The Sun Route runs through Zealand. EuroVelo routes connect Denmark to the rest of Europe. Walking trails include Mols Bjerge National Park, Bornholm’s coastal paths, and Thy National Park. Seasonal activities include beach holidays in summer and Christmas markets in winter.

More information on our website

Fun things to do in Denmark

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