Denmark Travel Guide

Some facts about Denmark

In many ways, Denmark truly embraces tradition. The Danish monarchy dates back thousands of years, and their flag is considered to be the oldest in the world to be continually in use. According to legend, the 'Dannebrog' fell from the sky during a battle in Estonia in the early 13th century, spurring the Danish people on to victory.

But Denmark thinks just as much to the future. They're a green energy leader, with half of their electricity coming from wind and solar power and plans for their electricity supply to be 100% renewable by 2030. They love cycling too – many Danes ride bikes as their main mode of transport, particularly in cycle-friendly Copenhagen.

Denmark often ranks as one of the happiest countries in the world, which may have something to do with the 'hygge' lifestyle they're associated with. It's all about taking time out to spend with loved ones and embrace life's simple pleasures, emphasising comfort and well-being over busyness and stress. It's no surprise then that LEGO was founded in Denmark, which surely lays claim to being one of the world's most wholesome toys.

Practical Info

Culture and etiquette

Religion

Around three quarters of the Danish population are members of the Church of Denmark, which is a Lutheran Protestant church. Although only a fifth on Danes see themselves as 'very religious'.

Tipping

Tipping isn't an expectation in Denmark – a service charge is usually added at restaurants, hotels and in taxis. If you've had really great service, feel free to tip around 10%.

Smoking

Smoking is banned in indoor public places like restaurants, shops and public transport. The only exception to the rule is for establishments smaller than 40 square metres that don't serve fresh food – so you'll find some small pubs where indoor smoking is allowed.

Jabs, visas and other advice

For up-to-date advice on jabs, visas and other foreign advice, we recommend following the government's website.

Emergency numbers

In an emergency, call 112.

Top

Getting to Denmark

The quickest and easiest way to get to Denmark is to fly. It takes 1 hour 45 minutes by plane from London to Copenhagen, and there are plenty of other airports around the country.

But there's something to be said for making the journey part of the holiday. You could hop on the Eurostar from London to Brussels, Cologne or Hamburg, stay the night and then take the train to Copenhagen the next day. Denmark's also a popular cruise destination, with plenty of ports and harbours all over the country.

Getting around Denmark

There are plenty of internal flights around Denmark if you need to travel long distances. It takes less than an hour to get from Copenhagen to Aalborg in the north. The roads are excellent too if you fancy a scenic drive – the 3,500km long Marguerite route goes through practically the whole of the country, passing hundreds of Denmark's top attractions.

Trains between major cities are fast if you don't fancy driving but do fancy exploring. Feeling active? The cycling infrastructure is great as well, with plenty of cycle paths that'll reward you with georgeous countryside views.

If you're staying in Copenhagen there are buses, trains and a metro system. You'll find plenty of taxis too in major cities.

What's the weather like in Denmark?

Denmark has a temperate climate with fairly warm summers and fairly cold winters. Copenhagen sees average highs of 21°C at the height of summer, making it a popular time to visit.

Spring usually promises mild temperatures and comparatively little rainfall, while you'll need to pack a raincoat if you're travelling in autumn – expect rain and wind aplenty.

Where to stay in Denmark

Copenhagen

The Danish capital is the number one destination on most tourists lists when it comes to Denmark. Its colourful townhouses, historic waterfront, and fascinating museums and galleries are a joy to explore. And the cuisine is the envy of Europe – the city is home to more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other in northern Europe.

Aarhus

You should definitely head to the capital, but don't just stop there. Denmark's second-city Aarhus is a cultural hotspot full of charm – it was named European Capital of Culture back in 2017 and boasts modern art and a well-preserved Old Town with architecture from different eras of Danish history.

Odense

Odense is a real life fairy tale. After all it's the birthplace of acclaimed fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen, whose life and work you can learn about at the dedicated museum in the heart of the city. The cute cobblestone streets and charming architecture only add to the fantasy.

LEGOLAND Billund

The most-visited attraction outside of Copenhagen is the orginal LEGOLAND resort in Billund. Entertaining families and LEGO-loving adults since 1968, your inner child will love the rides, water slides and iconic bricks the city is built on.