Denmark Things to Do

The capital of the island of Funen and the third largest city in Denmark, Odense makes a pleasant side-trip from Copenhagen. Most famous as the birthplace of fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen, the undisputed king of Denmark’s literary heritage, Odense has steadily earned its place on Denmark’s tourist trail, as well as being a key transport hub for the island.

You won’t have to look far in Copenhagen to see that cycling is the travel method du jour – some 40% of city dwellers reportedly choose cycling over public transport. From businessmen getting their blood pumping on route to the office and retirees pedaling leisurely to the local bakery in the morning, to vast groups of tourists gliding along the waterfront, you’ll be in good company if you choose to pedal the city streets.

As one of Europe’s smallest capital cities, exploring Copenhagen is an easy task but once you’ve taken in the city’s sights, there’s still plenty to discover in the surrounding area. From dramatic fortresses to idyllic islands, here are 5 of the best day trips from Copenhagen.

One of Europe’s coolest and most cosmopolitan capital cities, Denmark’s vibrant capital appears tailor made for sightseeing. Here are a few tips for getting around in Copenhagen.

1. Take a walking tour
The best way to navigate Copenhagen’s pretty canal ways and cobbled squares is on foot and the city’s bustling café culture means there’s always somewhere to catch your breath on route. Many of the city’s principal sights are within easy walking distance of each other and a walking tour could take in the Latin quarter, the National museum, the 17th century Renaissance castle of Rosenborg Slot and the iconic Little Mermaid statue. Alternatively, stroll the historic Christianshavn canal quarter, hit the shops on Strøget, get your heart racing at the city’s famous amusement park, Tivoli Gardens or take in the expansive views from the top of the Round Tower, Rundetårn.

Marking the northernmost point of Denmark, the jutting peninsula of Skagen is one of the country’s biggest attractions, once a popular haunt for artists in the 19th century and retaining its vibrant cultural scene today.

With its ruggedly beautiful coastline, seemingly endless stretches of sand and cloudless azure skies, the area is evocatively nicknamed the ‘Land of Light’ in celebration of its uniquely iridescent sunlight. With more sunlight hours than anywhere else in Denmark, Skagen’s beaches are the town’s main draw, transforming the humble fishing town into a lively seaside resort during the summer months.

With dishes that have been around since the late 19th century, Denmark has plenty of options for famous food visitors should try. Perhaps the most well-known Denmark dishes is the smørrebrød, an open-face rye sandwich normally paired with sausage or cold cuts. Today, there are a large variety of these sandwiches, all earning their own names. For example, there is the Rullepølse, or rolled stuffed pork on rye, complete with a slice of meat jelly, tomatoes, onions and parsley.