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Things to Do in Denmark
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Plan language: EnglishMost popular attractions in Denmark
Things to do in Denmark include exploring Nyhavn Harbor with its colorful 17th-century waterfront and lively cafés, visiting the enchanting Tivoli Gardens, open since 1843, and admiring The Little Mermaid statue, just 1.5 kilometers from the city center. Rosenborg Castle and The National Museum of Denmark offer fascinating glimpses into Danish history.
1. Tivoli Gardens
Copenhagen
Quick facts: Twinkling lights, fragrant food stalls, and a blend of historic wooden rides with modern coasters create a fairytale atmosphere that can flip into an adrenaline rush in a single turn. Nightly concerts and seasonal shows keep the place feeling fresh, and with over four million visitors annually it ranks among Europe's most densely enjoyed amusement spots.
Highlights: Step under a canopy of more than 2,000 twinkling bulbs and paper lanterns, where the hundred-year-old wooden roller coaster Rutschebanen, built in 1914, clacks over oak beams so close you can catch the warm resin scent. Every summer evening around 9:30 pm the park's brass band plays a century-old tune that signals the nightly lights show, and couples still cling to the carved carousel horses as if following a 19th-century courting ritual.
2. The Little Mermaid
Copenhagen
Quick facts: Perched on a low rock by the water, a small bronze figure draws more camera clicks per square meter than many grander monuments, and pranksters have repeatedly targeted it for headlines. Visitors notice how tiny the silhouette is up close, the salt air and ferry horns making the scene unexpectedly intimate while its literary inspiration keeps sparking debates among locals and tourists.
Highlights: Edvard Eriksen sculpted the bronze figure in 1913, using actress Ellen Price's head and his wife Eline Eriksen's body as models, and the statue is only about 1.25 meters tall so people often climb onto the rock to sit beside her for photos with salt spray and gull calls in the air. A famous little-known story is that the head was stolen in 1964, and despite repeated vandalism locals still leave flowers, beer cans, or small knitted hats on the rock as an odd apology and celebratory gesture.
3. Nyhavn Harbor
Copenhagen
Quick facts: Bright, candy-colored facades along the canal frame a nonstop parade of cafés, wooden ships and lively terrace dining. A surprising number of famous writers once lived on those quays, and live music with clinking glasses often drifts across the water at dusk.
Highlights: Brightly painted 17th- and 18th-century townhouses in about a dozen candy-bright hues lean over the canal, while weathered wooden sailing ships with masts over 20 meters bob beside cafés, so the air carries salt, frying onions and strong coffee. House No. 20 once sheltered Hans Christian Andersen, and locals still say sailors used to toast his table with aquavit at the blue-painted inn on the quay.
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Denmark, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
4. Rosenborg Castle
Copenhagen
Quick facts: Step into a glittering royal treasury where crowns and sceptres catch the light under glass, while an atmospheric Long Hall displays tapestries and armor that make royal pageantry feel surprisingly close. Wander a beloved city garden where riotous tulip beds and trimmed parterres invite picnics and people-watching, ancient trees provide cool shade, and statues and winding paths reward slow exploration.
Highlights: Built between 1606 and 1624 for King Christian IV, the red-brick castle still houses the royal treasury where crowns and orbs glint under warm conservation lights, and the oak-panelled rooms smell faintly of beeswax and old leather when the museum's curators open the displays. Laid out originally as a 17th-century pleasure garden, the park preserves a long lime allée and a 200-meter plane-tree corridor where locals spread blankets to eat warm, sugar-dusted pastries and listen for church bells mixing with the sweet scent of horse-chestnut blossoms.
5. The National Museum of Denmark
Copenhagen
Discover Denmark's rich past through captivating Viking treasures and ancient artifacts. Walk through time and meet fascinating characters from history.
Quick facts: You can explore over 14,000 years of Denmark's history through carefully preserved artifacts and immersive exhibitions. The museum houses a famous Viking exhibition featuring real treasures like weapons, jewelry, and runestones.
Highlights: One standout highlight is the well-preserved Egtved Girl's burial site, offering rare insights into Bronze Age rituals and clothing. The Viking collection includes a sword that belonged to a legendary chieftain, displayed with detailed background stories that bring history to life.
6. Kronborg Castle
Helsingør
Step inside a castle that ruled the sea and inspired Hamlet. Experience ancient battles, royal halls, and eerie tunnels echoing centuries of history.
Quick facts: Often connected to Shakespeare's Hamlet, this castle was a key Renaissance stronghold controlling the entrance to the Baltic Sea. Its massive artillery and strategic location made it a fortress icon and a royal residence over centuries.
Highlights: The infamous underground casemates stretch nearly 3 kilometers, where soldiers once lived in dim lantern light; during summer, live historical reenactments bring these corridors alive with the sounds of battle and muskets. Visitors can also catch the magical echo in the grand ballroom, famed for its perfect acoustic design that carries even a whisper across the room.
7. LEGO House
Billund
Step inside a vibrant world of creativity and play. Engage with life-sized LEGO builds and immersive interactive exhibits.
Quick facts: Discover a central landmark embodying over 900 million LEGO bricks all stacked up into a colorful architectural marvel. Experience hands-on fun with interactive zones where creativity and engineering meet in every corner.
Highlights: Explore the iconic LEGO staircase consisting of four vibrant zones symbolizing different play experiences. Over 25 million LEGO bricks form life-sized models, including a striking Tyrannosaurus Rex that fascinates visitors.
8. Aarhus Old Town
Aarhus
Step into a lively snapshot of Danish history with authentic crafts and cobbled streets. Experience the vibrant life of centuries past brought vividly to life.
Quick facts: The streets come alive with 75 historical buildings transplanted from all over Denmark, forming a lively outdoor museum that feels like stepping back into real life centuries ago. Walk on cobbled lanes and watch artisans hammering, weaving, and baking in authentic setups that are genuinely the heartbeats of Danish heritage.
Highlights: At the cobbler’s workshop, hear the rhythmic tapping of hand-tools as local craftsmen revive 18th-century shoemaking traditions that have been continuously practiced here for over 40 years. Pop into the tavern where you can order a traditional Danish hot dog made from recipes cherished since the 1930s, served amid the authentic scent of old wood and flickering candlelight.
9. Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Humlebæk
Discover a stunning fusion of modern art and nature by the sea. Explore immersive exhibits and serene sculpture gardens for a refreshing cultural escape.
Quick facts: Perched on a coastal cliff, this art museum uniquely blends modern architecture with sprawling sculpture gardens facing the Øresund Strait. It hosts a diverse range of works from giants like Picasso and Warhol alongside Nordic artists, creating a vibrant art mosaic.
Highlights: Visitors can stroll through 30 acres of grounds dotted with over 60 sculptures by renowned artists. The seamless indoor-outdoor flow lets you experience art while soaking in stunning views of the sea and rolling Danish landscape.
Where to Stay in Denmark
Selected by City Buddy based on guest reviews and proximity to top attractions
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Popular Cities in Denmark
Traditional Sweet Dishes
Danish Pastry
Known locally as 'wienerbrød,' Danish pastries are famous worldwide and have roots traced back to Vienna, Austria, though they have evolved uniquely in Denmark.
Kransekage
This traditional marzipan ring cake is often served at celebrations like weddings and New Year's Eve, symbolizing good luck and prosperity.
Rødgrød med Fløde
A red berry pudding served with cream, it is beloved in Denmark and often used as a tongue-twister for learners of Danish language.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Smørrebrød
These open-faced sandwiches are a Danish culinary icon, featuring various toppings on rye bread, often enjoyed during lunch.
Frikadeller
Danish meatballs made with a mix of pork and veal, typically pan-fried and served with potatoes and gravy, they are a staple in Danish home cooking.
Stegt Flæsk med Persillesovs
This dish consists of crispy fried pork belly served with parsley sauce and potatoes, often regarded as Denmark's national dish.
Traditional Beverages
Akvavit
A traditional Scandinavian spirit flavored with herbs and spices, particularly caraway or dill, commonly enjoyed during festive occasions in Denmark.
Gammel Dansk
A bitter herbal liqueur often consumed as a digestif, known for its complex blend of herbs and spices.
Danish beer
Denmark is renowned for its beer culture, home to famous brands like Carlsberg and Tuborg, which are enjoyed both locally and internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions about Denmark
What are the best months to visit Denmark?
Is Denmark an expensive country to visit?
How safe is tap water in Denmark?
How good is the public transport system in Denmark?
How many tourists visit Denmark each year?
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Most popular day trips
Copenhagen
The capital city, known for its historic center, Nyhavn harbor, and Tivoli Gardens.
Aarhus
Denmark's second-largest city, famous for modern art museums and lively cultural scene.
Odense
Birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, with charming old town and open-air museum.
Roskilde
Known for the Viking Ship Museum and Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO site.
Malmö (Sweden)
A Swedish city just across the Øresund Bridge, perfect for a international day trip.
Getting there
Train stations
InterCity, regional, international links including to Sweden and Germany
InterCity, regional lines
InterCity, regional lines
From Copenhagen Airport, take the train or metro directly to the city center in about 15 minutes.
Click to get eSim for Denmark
The easiest and most affordable way to get mobile internet wherever you travel.
Visa & entry
EU/EEA countries, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and others
Most non-EU/EEA countries not listed as visa-free
Check if your country is visa-exempt and remember the 90-day Schengen stay limit.
Comments (8)
The city vibes in Copenhagen are relaxed. Felt safe walking around even late. Prices are a bit high but worth the experience. 4 days was enough for me.
If you’re keen on biking, Denmark is perfect. The bike lanes are clearly marked and it’s a fun way to explore the city and countryside.
Skip the high-priced restaurants near Nyhavn. Instead, grab a meal in Vesterbro for delicious food at reasonable prices.
Food trucks are everywhere and offer great cheap eats if you're not up for fancy dining. The design and architecture really make the city stand out.
Was expecting more nightlife but it’s pretty low-key. The museums were enjoyable, though some were pricey. Definitely pack layers, it gets cold fast.