Copenhagen

Denmark

Europe

Destinations

According to the United Nations’ World Happiness Report, Denmark is officially one of the planet’s happiest countries. It’s also one of the most popular tourist destinations. More than 30 million foodies, fashionistas, and curious explorers choose to visit this Scandanavian country each year.

In the U.S., when someone mentions the happiest place on earth, your first thought is probably Disneyland. But according to the United Nations’ World Happiness Report, Denmark is officially one of the planet’s happiest countries. It’s also one of the most popular tourist destinations. More than 30 million foodies, fashionistas, ice hockey fans, history fanatics, and curious explorers choose to visit this Scandanavian country each year.

There’s a long list of reasons why travelers head to the Nordic island nation. Travel experts give Denmark high marks in safety, and women traveling alone often report that they feel secure doing so. The Danish people share a common belief that all people are equal, and everyone deserves acceptance. This mentality, combined with the country’s forward-thinking environmental and social policies, is just part of what makes this such an awesome destination. Whether you seek spectacular natural landscapes or a fun-filled getaway complete with unique cultural experiences, you’ll find everything you need in Denmark.
<h2>1. Bike to Magnificent Destinations</h2>
The preferred mode of travel in Denmark is the long-held tradition of cycling. In fact, there are twice as many bikes in the country as there are cars. Some of the top cycling destinations include the picturesque island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea and the quaint, peaceful city of Svendborg on the island of Funen. The more adventurous cyclists should try the Limfjord Cycle Route from Hals to Thyborøn, a 372-mile scenic trek through an array of landscapes, including forests, hills, and lakes.

[caption id="attachment_10895" align="alignnone" width="1540"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10895" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-939499354-1.jpg" alt="Shot of a young man going for a bicycle ride with his son in a cart along the promenade" width="1540" height="1154" /> pixdeluxe / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Immerse Yourself in Viking History</h2>
Dress as a Viking and hop aboard a 1000-year old Viking ship in Roskilde to get an authentic feel for the Norseman’s way of life. Travel to Lindholm Høje and explore the 700 graves in the Viking cemetery. The burial ground dates back to between 400 and 1000 AD. The annual Viking fair at the Trelleborg Viking Ring Fortress in Northwest Zealand is a week-long festival in July featuring Viking lore, crafts, and a battle reenactment.

[caption id="attachment_10926" align="alignnone" width="1540"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10926" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-171137020-1.jpg" alt="viking festival in moesgard, denmark" width="1540" height="1070" /> ManuelVelasco / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Explore the Cliffs at Mons Klint</h2>
More than 200,000 people each year travel to see a spectacular landscape in Denmark, the Møns Klint, which lies just two hours outside of Copenhagen. These white chalk cliffs jut out of the water, extending nearly four miles into the sky and bordering more than 400 feet of the Baltic Sea coastline. Hunt for ancient, 70-million-year-old fossils along the beach or sail through the surrounding crystal blue waters. Rent an Icelandic pony and explore the many trails through the area’s cliffs and forests.

[caption id="attachment_10927" align="alignnone" width="1540"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10927" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-999440800-1.jpg" alt="Cliffs at Møns Klint, Denmark, Europe. Photo of the trees in the forest at Møns Klint. Shoot up to the sun in the background, and a little boat," width="1540" height="1026" /> IllustratedFritz / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Discover Diverse Architecture</h2>
Denmark is a land of architectural variety. Kronberg, the castle near Copenhagen that inspired Shakespeare’s Hamlet, is a must-see majestic marvel. Another fascinating site to visit is Roskilde Cathedral, the burial site of 40 Danish kings and queens. In Aarhus, stroll through the streets of Old Town, one of the best-preserved areas in Denmark. If you prefer modern architecture, check out the Copenhagen Opera House, the Wave residential building in Vejle Inlet, and the Iceberg apartment building in Aarhus.

[caption id="attachment_10938" align="alignnone" width="1540"]<img class="size-full wp-image-10938" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-463440937-1.jpg" alt="The Cathedral in Roskilde on a foggy December day." width="1540" height="1299" /> PhotographerCW / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Sing With the Trees in Aalborg</h2>
Travel to Kildeparken in Aalborg, Denmark’s Park of Music, and experience the Singing Trees. In 1987, Cliff Richard planted a tree in the park as a memorial of his performance at the Aalborg Congress and Culture Center. Over the years, more than 80 other artists have done the same. Legendary performers Elton John, Rod Stewart, Sting, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, and ZZ Top have planted trees in the park, along with local artists as well. The oak and cherry trees “sing” when visitors press a button on a plaque that bears the artist’s name.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-10962" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1471001201-1.jpg" alt="Andrea Bocelli singing tree in Park of music in Kildeparken." width="1540" height="973" />


<h2>6. Get Married on Ærø Island</h2>
What was once a tiny island famous for its stunning beaches, rugged coastlines, and sloping hills is now the wedding capital of Europe. Same-sex couples and foreigners alike discovered the ease of weddings and the romantic surroundings in Ærø a few years ago. The island’s main town of Ærøskøbing is a meticulously preserved Middle Age village with cobblestone roads, cottages covered in flowers, and breathtaking sea views. Enjoy bike rides, fishing, or kayaking, and then make your way to one of the village’s eateries and dig into some delicious local fare.

[caption id="attachment_11025" align="alignnone" width="1540"]<img class="size-full wp-image-11025" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-1085065444-1.jpg" alt="Colorfull houses on the beach of Denmark" width="1540" height="1023" /> Elena Horrmann / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Visit the World’s Largest Island</h2>
Greenland, which is 840,000 square miles of land, is not only the largest of Denmark’s 400-plus islands, but it’s also the largest island in the world. If you’re seeking a destination with fewer bodies, this is the place to go. Not only will you find fewer than 60,000 residents here, but you’ll also experience fantastic vistas in a true Arctic landscape. Join in on one of the night time snowmobile excursions and catch some awe-inspiring views of the Aurora Borealis.

[caption id="attachment_11026" align="alignnone" width="1540"]<img class="size-full wp-image-11026" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-1138612654-1.jpg" alt="iceberg floating in greenland fjord at night with green northern lights." width="1540" height="827" /> posteriori / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Hang Out With a Wild Horse Herd</h2>
Wild herds of Exmoor ponies live in the southern part of Langeland, one of the southern islands in Denmark. Visitors can get within 164 feet of the herds to observe these unique equines, which are close relatives of the now-extinct horses that once roamed Europe. The ponies eat the grass on the island, which not only helps to ensure plant diversity but allows the sun to reach the ground’s surface. Because these animals are shy, there are a few rules to observe, but the herds are a definite must-see.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-11027" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-841832064-1.jpg" alt="Wild Exmoor ponies on a meadow in Langeland, Denmark" width="1540" height="1026" />


<h2>9. Stand Where Two Seas Meet</h2>
Travel north to Skagen, and you can stand in the place where the North Sea and the Baltic Sea meet. This area is the northernmost town in the country. Grenen, Denmark’s northernmost point, is a split formation of sand and gravel deposited by the sea where visitors can see the collision of the two seas. Skagen enjoys more hours of sunshine each day than any other spot in Denmark and offers Old World charm, historical memorials, art, entertainment events, and cuisine for every taste.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-11030" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/shutterstock_1258745692-1-1.jpg" alt="Girl standing on the beach where Baltic Sea and North Sea meets. Panorama of the beach coastline. Skagen, Grenen in North Jutland, Denmark" width="1540" height="1026" />


<h2>10. Drive Underwater Across the Baltic Sea</h2>
The Øresund Bridge is a marvel of Danish and Swedish engineering. The bridge provides a convenient and safe way to travel across the Øresund, the strait that forms the border separating Denmark and Sweden. The structure includes a bridge, a railway on the lower deck, and a road for vehicles on the upper deck, plus a man-made island called Peberholm. Travelers pass through an immersed tunnel that plunges into the Baltic sea to commute between Copenhagen and Malmö, Sweden.

[caption id="attachment_11035" align="alignnone" width="1540"]<img class="size-full wp-image-11035" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-1027421186-1.jpg" alt="Aerial view of Oresund Bridge connecting Sweden and Denmark" width="1540" height="962" /> ferrantraite / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>11. Hunt for the Hidden Giants</h2>
A Danish artist named Thomas Dambo challenges visitors to find the Six Forgotten giants hidden in six western locations around Copenhagen. The treasure hunt is a unique and intriguing way of getting visitors and residents outside to enjoy the majestic natural beauty of the area. Hunters can follow a map that leads to each of the sculptures, which have names like Thomas on the Mountain and Oscar Under the Bridge that give clues to their locations. Trek through pine groves, across streams, and around swamps to find the whimsical giants.

[caption id="attachment_11064" align="alignnone" width="1540"]<img class="size-full wp-image-11064" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/Oscar-Under-The-Bridge-1.jpg" alt="Oscar Under The Bridge" width="1540" height="866" /> Martin Heiberg / Copenhagen Media Center[/caption]


<h2>12. Settle In and Hygge</h2>
Denmark is the land of hygge, a small word that describes a national concept about day-to-day Danish life. It represents contentment, joy, and good vibes for the simple things that make us feel cozy. This way of life isn’t hard to find in Denmark because you’ll see it in parks, at concerts, street festivals, park picnics, and local restaurants and bars. The high season for hygge, however, is Christmas, when locals light the long nights with millions of candles, sip on mulled wine, and stroll through the streets, wrapped up in blankets and oversized scarves.

[caption id="attachment_11066" align="alignnone" width="1540"]<img class="size-full wp-image-11066" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/10/GettyImages-690414892-1.jpg" alt="Couple of tourist in Copenhagen" width="1540" height="1026" /> piola666 / Getty Images[/caption]

The Top Sights and Locales in Denmark

The capital of the European nation of Denmark, Copenhagen got its start in the 10th century as a humble fishing village. Today, Copenhagen is Denmark’s center of culture, economy, and government. If you’re planning to visit, you don’t want to miss these tourist attractions in Copenhagen.

The capital of the European nation of Denmark, Copenhagen is home to nearly 800,000 people. This celebrated city got its start in the 10th century as a humble fishing village. Today, Copenhagen is Denmark’s center of culture, economy, and government. The city is filled with historic, natural, and cultural attractions that lure visitors from all over the globe. If you’re planning to visit, you don’t want to miss these tourist attractions in Copenhagen.
<h2>1. Little Mermaid Statue</h2>
One of the most iconic landmarks of Copenhagen, the statue of the Little Mermaid has been a fixture on the city’s waterfront since 1913. The statue commemorates the Little Mermaid’s author, Hans Christian Andersen, the celebrated Danish author and poet. The bronze statue is perched on a rock on the Langelinie Promenade and can be viewed 24 hours a day.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/1014651706-1024x683.jpg" alt="1014651706" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">philip yk seok / Getty Images</span>
<h2>2. Nyhavn</h2>
Nyhavn is a waterfront area that dates to the 17th century. The harbor is famous for its collection of historic wooden boats and colorful waterfront buildings. This popular tourist attraction is also home to theaters, galleries, cafes, restaurants, and tourist-friendly shops. When visiting Nyhavn, be sure to check out some of its highlights, like the Memorial Anchor landmark and Boat Theatre.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/502861561-1024x683.jpg" alt="502861561" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">SuppalakKlabdee / Getty Images</span>
<h2>3. Tivoli Gardens</h2>
A popular recreational feature of the city, Tivoli Gardens has been delighting residents and visitors since 1843. It features amusement park rides, cafes, theaters, gardens, food pavilions, and more. During the Christmas season, the entire park is strewn with lights. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to have an enjoyable time at this iconic Copenhagen destination.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3344" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_588653543-1.jpg" alt="shutterstock_588653543 (1)" width="1000" height="662" />

<h2>4. Oresund Bridge</h2>
The Oresund Bridge is a motorway and railway that crosses the Oresund Strait, linking Norway with Sweden. At 25,000 feet, the longest combined railway and roadway in Europe is a celebrated feat of engineering — and no less dramatic for the sea that surrounds it. Oresund Bridge is particularly important to both nations as it links the major metropolitan centers of Copenhagen and Malmo. T

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/139465515-1024x878.jpg" alt="139465515" width="1024" height="878" /><span class="image-caption">stbose / Getty Images</span>
<h2>5. Kronborg Castle</h2>
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kronborg Castle is the famous setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet. This incarnation of the historic castle dates to 1640, but its earliest version dates to a stronghold constructed during the 1420s. Located in the coastal town of Helsingor, the castle boasts an arresting view of the Baltic Sea and is only about a 40-minute drive from Copenhagen. Highlights include the ballroom and the artworks adorning the walls, and the richly appointed Royal Apartments full of paintings and gilt-and-leather furniture.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/105637087-1024x679.jpg" alt="105637087" width="1024" height="679" /><span class="image-caption">rusm / Getty Images</span>
<h2>6. National Museum of Denmark</h2>
Copenhagen is home to the National Museum of Denmark, an important site showcasing Danish history and culture. Located near the Tivoli Gardens, the National Museum features a massive collection of Danish artifacts including a 2,000-year-old chariot, Nordic pottery, Bronze-age weaponry, and more. While the museum is especially notable for its regional collections, it also owns impressive artifacts from ancient Greece, Italy, the Near East, and more.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3343" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_426949183.jpg" alt="shutterstock_426949183" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>7. Christiansborg Palace</h2>
Located in the center of Copenhagen on the island of Slotsholmen, Christiansborg Palace has witnessed more than 800 years of Denmark history. The palace houses the nation’s parliament today but was originally designed as the seat of power for Danish royalty. Several of the castle’s wings are still in use by the current royals.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/185261293-1024x681.jpg" alt="185261293" width="1024" height="681" /><span class="image-caption">fotoVoyager / Getty Images</span>
<h2>8. National Gallery of Denmark</h2>
The National Gallery of Denmark is home to the nation’s large collection of Danish Art, not to mention recognizable pieces by world masters like Bernini, Peter Brueghel the Elder, Durer, Matisse, and Picasso. The gallery owns 9,000 paintings and sculptures in addition to thousands of paper-based pieces. The building itself dates back to 1889.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/172429121-1024x604.jpg" alt="172429121" width="1024" height="604" /><span class="image-caption">PhotographerCW / Getty Images</span>
<h2>9. National Aquarium Denmark</h2>
As the largest aquarium in Northern Europe is a major Copenhagen attraction. Surrounded by water on all sides, the National Aquarium resembles a whirlpool when viewed from above. It features a center tank and five arms, each filled with saltwater and freshwater creatures. Marvel at hammerhead sharks, moray eels, Philippine crocodiles, Nile perch, lionfish, snapping turtles, and more.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3342" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_1034478580.jpg" alt="shutterstock_1034478580" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>10. Stroget</h2>
If your idea of a great cosmopolitan experience is shopping, head to the center of the city and peruse the boulevard known as Stroget, one of the longest pedestrian byways in Europe. Stroget features high-end boutiques and chains as well as budget-friendly shops, and residents and tourists alike love to browse the stores. Other impressive sights like the Church of Our Lady and Stork Fountain are nearby.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/467338494-1024x819.jpg" alt="467338494" width="1024" height="819" /><span class="image-caption">anshar73 / Getty Images</span>

Denmark

Europe

Top Stories

The Top Sights and Locales in Denmark

10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Copenhagen