Wondering about the top spots to visit in Denmark? Denmark is a Nordic country in Northern Europe, situated as the southernmost of the Scandinavian nations. It consists of a peninsula and an archipelago of 443 islands. Although it’s relatively small, Denmark boasts a wealth of incredible places to discover.
Denmark features historic towns, innovative architecture, stunning scenery, magnificent castles, charming islands, and exciting theme parks that offer fun for the whole family. Feeling intrigued yet? Ready to dive in and start exploring?
So, what should you do in Denmark? To assist with your planning, we’ve put together a list of some of the best places you can visit in Denmark.
Copenhagen is not only the capital but also the most populous city in Denmark. With its history dating back to the 12th century, Copenhagen is brimming with historical and cultural attractions. The city epitomizes a multicultural vibe, characterized by its canals and cycling culture. As you navigate the city, you’ll find a delightful mix of old and new. Imagine cobbled squares and narrow streets lined with historic buildings set against cutting-edge architecture, green developments, and a futuristic metro system.
One fantastic way to explore Copenhagen is by bike, so consider renting one or joining a bicycle tour. Canal tours are also a popular attraction. Besides that, Copenhagen is home to amazing restaurants where you can savor both local and international cuisines. The city hosts several Michelin-starred eateries, including the world-renowned Noma, famous for its modern takes on traditional Nordic dishes. Additionally, the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is considered one of the best in the world, ranking as the 85th most-visited art museum globally. Its permanent collection features an extensive array of modern and contemporary art.
Aarhus, the second-largest city in Denmark, was named a European Capital of Culture in 2017. Founded during the early Viking Age, Aarhus is one of Denmark’s oldest cities. Just like Copenhagen, Aarhus offers a multitude of interesting places to visit.
For instance, consider visiting Råbjerg Mile, a migrating sand dune that is a truly fascinating natural phenomenon. This dune, covering an area of 2 km² and standing 40 meters above sea level, moves up to 18 meters north-eastward every year due to the wind. The sandy hills of the Råbjerg Mile are a fantastic place to explore, appealing to both adults and children.
Then, there’s Kronborg Castle, located in Helsingør. Dating back to the 16th century and made famous as Elsinore Castle in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” Kronborg is one of Northern Europe’s most important Renaissance castles and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bornholm is another terrific place to visit. Located some 200km east of the Danish mainland in the Baltic Sea, this charming island is known for its sandy beaches, numerous cycling paths, and unique round churches. Even though it’s closer to Germany and Sweden, a trip to Bornholm is definitely worth it if you have the time. Be sure to explore Rønne, the island’s main town, known for its half-timbered houses. Gudhjem, a picturesque town on the rocky coast of the Baltic Sea, is also a must-see, especially in the summer. Don’t miss Hammershus, the island’s most popular attraction, featuring impressive medieval fortress ruins. The Østerlars Round Church is the largest and best-known of Bornholm’s four unique round churches.
Billund, the home of the Lego Company, houses the original Legoland theme park that opened in 1968. Next to the original Lego factory, this park attracts over 2 million visitors annually and is Denmark’s largest tourist attraction outside of Copenhagen. Billund also features Lego House and the Lalandia waterpark. The Lego House, located centrally in Billund, is designed to look like giant Lego bricks and offers an experience center for visitors to build with Lego bricks both physically and digitally.
Lastly, the Faroe Islands, a North Atlantic archipelago halfway between Norway and Iceland, are a part of Denmark. If you have the time, the Faroe Islands are just a two-hour flight from Copenhagen and offer some of the best sights in Denmark. Spend a few days exploring the rugged coastline and majestic mountains, soaking in the breathtaking ocean views. The Faroe Islands offer an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss.