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Denmark Travel Guide

Denmark, Denmark Travel Guide
Denmark
Denmark
Nyhavn, Copenhagen

“Denmark is like a secret little place with its own special language.”

helena Christensen
Denmark, Denmark Travel Guide

Top Five Destinations In Denmark

  1. Copenhagen Is Denmark’s vibrant capital city and the cultural and financial center of the country. Fantastic Nyhavn and intriguing Christianshavn are major draws for visitors. Drop down into one of many classic bars for a beer in Nyhavn. The city is full of Dutch Renaissance architecture and medieval churches. It has fantastic restaurants, buzzing nightlife, and great shopping.
  2. Odense Is the charming birthplace of Han Christian Anderson. This was also the haven for worshippers of the Norse Gods. The city is full of vibrant colors and a strong sense of community. Many sites to visit include Funen’s Abbey, the 11th Century Saint Canute’s Cathedral, and the Viking Castle.
  3. Aarhus and environs Iconic sites, lively music scene, pristine beaches, castles, and twisted forests. This eighth-century fortified Viking settlement was a trade center for centuries due to its strategic location. It is famous for its music festivals. The old town area has beautifully preserved houses and is lovely to stroll through. The 13th century Aarhus Cathedral is well worth a visit.
  4. The wild and untouched Northern shores Beautiful windswept seaside, buried churches, and dramatic nature.
  5. Kronborg Castle The magnificent 13th century home of Shakespeare’s Hamlet in the town of Elsinore. Dramatic in both the architecture and setting.

Did you know?

Denmark Stats

  • Population: 5.8 million
  • Capital City: Copenhagen
  • Currency: Danish Kroner (DKK)
  • Government type: Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy
  • Monarch: Margrethe II
  • Prime Minister: Mette Frederiksen
  • Ethnic groups: Danish (includes Greenlandic (who are predominantly Inuit) and Faroese) 86.3%, other 12.7% (largest groups are Polish, Syrian, German, Iraqi, and Romanian)
  • Languages: Danish, Faroese, Greenlandic (an Inuit dialect), German (small minority)
  • Religions: Evangelical Lutheran (official) 74.7%, Muslim 5.5%, other/none/unspecified of less than 1% each Roman Catholic, Jehovah’s Witness, Serbian Orthodox Christian, Jewish, Baptist, Buddhist, Mormon, Pentecostal, and nondenominational Christian 19.8%
  • U.S. State Department Risk Level: 3 due to Covid
  • Terrorist groups: Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps/Qods Force (2019)
  • GDP 348.1 billion Rank 16th
  • Denmark averages 171 days of precipitation in either rain or snow.
  • There are 7,314 miles of Denmark’s coastline.
  • Denmark is the world’s fifth largest importer of food despite its small population.
  • The diverse economy has a mixture of agriculture, tourism, and energy.
  • Denmark’s inventions include Google Maps, the loudspeaker, Lego bricks, dry cell batteries, and insulin.
  • Major trading partners: Germany, Sweden, the U.K., the US, Netherlands, Norway, and Japan.
  • Life Expectancy 81.2 years of age.
  • The literacy rate is 99%.

Funs facts

  • Denmark is the world’s biggest consumer of meat per capita.
  • The Denmark flag is the oldest in the world, from 1219.
  • Named one of the happiest countries on earth multiple times.
  • A word that reflects the Danish soul, Hygge, is about creating a cozy feeling of togetherness, well-being, and a warm atmosphere.
  • The Danish alphabet has three additional letters.
  • The Danish Monarchy is the oldest continuing monarchy in the world.
  • Danish pastry originated in Austria. It was brought there by relocated Austrian bakers who replaced Danish bakers when they went on strike.
  • The bike culture is prevalent and considered a safe and effective mode of transport. There is 12,000 km of bike paths and lanes in Denmark. 75% of Danes continue to bike in the winter—50% bike to work daily.
  • Danes are the world’s highest consumers of coffee.
  • Soccer is the national sport.
  • The two oldest amusement parks in the world reside in Denmark. Walt Disney visited Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen and was so inspired he created Disneyland.
  • Shakespeare’s famous play Hamlet at Elisnore Castle, which is modeled on Denmark’s Kronberg Castle
  • On Denmark’s Faroe Island, the population of sheep is twice that of humans.
  • Denmark is the biggest producer of minks.
  • Hans Christian Anderson of fairy tale lore is the most famous Dane author.

Denmark Map

Good to know before you go

  • Tipping is not needed in Denmark, as it is included in your bill. It is not customary or expected. This includes restaurants, cab drivers, porters, bartenders, and other service workers. Credit cards are accepted everywhere.
  • Overall, the clothing is stylish and well kept. They are casual dressers, often wearing jeans and comfortable shoes. Women do wear dresses often, and nylon stockings remain trendy.
  • Do not jaywalk in Denmark, or you will be fined. Danes are rule followers, which is why their society is so organized.
  • Driving is easy in Demark with normal rules of the road. Just be very careful with bicycles!
  • Before getting on a bike in Denmark, become familiar with the norms. There is a bike traffic issue, and it can be overwhelming to visitors. Practice first!!
  • The life of a Dane is often defined by three words: simplicity, politeness, and equality.
  • Danish people don’t give much value to possessions or high income. The simple life is the essence of the Danes.
  • Greetings in Denmark are polite with a handshake. The Danes consider initiating a conversation with them while riding public transportation as being disrespectful.
  • Women and Men are equal in Denmark. They receive equal compensation.
  • Danes are happy and peaceful people.
  • The Danes are very private people, and the unspoken rule of privacy is to be respected at all times. If you walk by a home with open windows, do not peer inside, it is viewed as very rude.
  • They pay the highest taxes in the world for their healthcare, social services, and unemployment.
  • Denmark has a deep folk music history. The arts are an essential aspect of their lives, and many concerts and music programs can be found for travelers.
  • The Danes are known for their Folklore and storytelling. You will be richly rewarded if you can engage them to share a story.
  • Denmark has a heavy seafood and meat diet.
  • The Danes prefer to be left alone and would appreciate it if you left their dogs alone too. Admire from a distance.
  • The weather can be harsh, and even summers never get that hot. Plan layers even for summer travel.
  • Most Danes speak excellent English.
  • Spirits are expensive in Denmark. Beer is the most popular drink.
  • Most restaurants and tourist sites do not allow smoking.
  • It is a very safe country.

Denmark Essential Info

U.S. Consular Emergency
The 24-hour number from a U.S. Phone is 1-888-407-4747
Outside of U.S., 011-202-501-4444

U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen
Address: Dag Hammarskjolds Alle 24
2100 Copenhagen
Phone +45 3341 7100
Emergency after hours +45 3341 7400

US Consulate in Nuuk
Address: Postboks NR 552
Nuuk 3900 Greenland
+299 38 41 00

Emergency Numbers
GENERAL 112
Police 114

Country Code
+45 Denmark
+299 Greenland
+298 Faroe Islands

Time Zone
UTC+1

Driving
Right side

Adaptors
“Standard” Euro plug
Type C or F

Tourism Office
https://visitdenmark.com
New York Office usa@visitdenmark.com

When to travel to Denmark

Denmark is a top-rated destination for tourists. It is the happiest place to live on earth, so why wouldn’t you want to be there? It also rains (rarely snow) every other day of the year, so weather can be an issue if you don’t plan for it. During the peak tourist season, July & and August can be crowded. May and September can still have nice weather but with fewer crowds.

Summers stay mild but may get chilly or feel like there is no summer. June is the driest month of the year. Days are long, and you will see everyone outside. Winter months are the low season, but the Christmas markets and festivals draw many visitors, keep that in mind. The noted “Hygge” indeed does occur in winter, and Danes just cozy up in their home for the short cold days.

Overall, Denmark can be a year-round destination if you plan accordingly.

  • Summer 54-72°F (12-21 °C)
  • Spring 34-61°F (1-16 °C)
  • Fall 39-62°F (4-17 °C)
  • Winter 30-39°F (-1-4 °C)

Our Favorite Denmark Resources

This resource section contains some Amazon affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

Travel Books/Guides

Our trip to Denmark was during a two-week trip to seven different countries. What we can pack is limited, and it had to have bang for the space required. These guides served us well in planning and during our travels.

Denmark Lonely Planet’s Denmark (Country Guide)

A passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice, the highlights Denmark has to offer, and what hidden discoveries await you. Sample the Danish food, immerse yourself in Viking history, wander amazing castles, and stop by the home of Lego – all with your trusted travel companion. Detailed info to plan your visit to this amazing country. Discover this travel guide here.

DenmarkDenmark Rick Steves Snapshot Copenhagen & the Best of Denmark

Full disclosure, we are huge Rick Steve’s fans; it will be rare we do not recommend one of his wonderful guides, and for Denmark version did an excellent job for a few days there. We love his travel style and perspective. His off-the-beaten-path approach and his independent travel philosophy match well with how we travel. The guides never disappoint. This book made the cut into our suitcase and was a fantastic resource. Find this must-have guide here.

Our favorite websites
  1. Denmark Tourism

www.visitcopenhagen.com

2. U.S. Department of State: Bureau of Consular Affairs Denmark Country Info

We cannot encourage you enough to visit this website as you plan and prepare for your trip. This is the U.S. Federal Government addressing the safety, security, travel risk, entry, exit, visa documents mandates, emergency U.S. and Embassy contacts, health, local laws, special circumstances, threats, traveler vulnerabilities, government warnings, and transportation in Denmark. This is your best and most reliable resource for all this important info. Check back often before you go, as things can change quickly. Being prepared is essential in all travel, but especially internationally.

Denmark International Travel Information (state.gov)

3. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers Health Resource

This CDC travel resource provides essential health info for your specific destination. Using their tool, you can determine which vaccines, medications, and health advice recommendations are needed for Denmark.

CDC’s Travelers Health Page for Denmark

DenmarkOur favorite maps

Denmark Denmark National Geographic Adventure Map, 3329 Easy to read the map with practical road and travel information. We have enjoyed the National Geographic maps as they provide good accurate details. It seems geared toward the adventure traveler, which we appreciate. Hundreds of points of interest are on this map, including our beloved Castles. Though we default to Google Maps, it was excellent for planning. Find this essential map here.

Our favorite apps

Copenhagen Travel Full city guide in your pocket. Click the A.R. button and turn yourself 360 to see what is near you to visit. Has offline maps.

Rome2rio: Trip Planner Trip and Holiday Organizer Enter any address, landmark, or city in the App will instantly display all your travel options, and booking info, along with accommodation providers and things to do. Find on your local app store.

Rick Steves Audio Europe App includes a vast library of Rick Steve’s audio content. Get cultural and travel info. Includes self-guided tours of top attractions and historic walks. A must-have. Find on your local app store.

Duolingo-Language Lesson Audio lessons that help improve your listening and speaking skills. Find on your local app store.

Learn The Danish Language – Drops Focus is practical words using picture-enhanced learning. Great to practice before you go. Easy and fun.

Google Translate We used this often to practice proper pronunciations of Danish words. As we always encourage, learning the basics of greeting and thanking people in the local language is essential. Google Translate was an easy app to use. If needed, you can enter text in English, and it will speak back in Danish to aid in communicating with locals. Furthermore, it came in very handy to translate text into images instantly.

Do you have a favorite Denmark travel resource? Share your favorites in the comments section at the bottom of this page or

© 2024 Wanderers Compass All Rights Reserved

Squaremouth.com

Our favorite travel insurance site!

If you book a trip, don’t forget to get travel insurance within 14 days of your first booking. We could not be stronger advocates of being well-insured. Not just for the little stuff but the big things like medical emergencies. We never leave home without it. Over the years, we have used many sites but have now found our go-to place. Squaremouth.com does a fantastic job; it has a user-friendly interface, uses top-rated and reputable insurance carriers, and most policies cover COVID-19 medical issues and cancellations. They also mediate on your behalf if you have problems with your policy.

To empower you as a consumer, we suggest you read our blog post on the importance of travel insurance and how to get the best coverage from top-rated companies for an affordable price.

MedjetAssist

Medical transport back home from anywhere in the world

They are the premier global air medical transport. One caveat to travel insurance is that medical evacuation usually gets you to the closest facility to care for you. Medjet gets you back to the U.S. to the hospital of your choice once you are stable enough to fly. They cover COVID-related transport as well.

Medjet carries its own policies. The policy is only for transport and no other aspects of travel insurance. They have individual trip policies starting at $99 and annual policies for around $300. Most of their policies limit the age to 74 and younger. Prices are not based on age below that.

To learn more about how Medical Evacuation membership with Medjet Assist works, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.  

Expedia.com 

Hotels, home rentals, BNBs, flights, and other transportation & tours 

Expedia is a US-based company whose mission is to power global travel for everyone and everywhere. Whether planning a family vacation, booking for business, or organizing the trip of a lifetime, they are a fantastic resource. Wanderers Compass focuses on independent travel, and using sites like Expedia makes that possible. Every aspect of travel you need, from airfare, accommodations, rental car, and cruises to activities to do at your destination, can be booked on Expedia.  

Booking.com

Hotels, Home rentals, BNBs, Flights, and other Transportation & Tours 

Booking.com connects millions of travelers to memorable experiences, various transportation options, and incredible places to stay – from homes to hotels and much more. It is one of the world’s largest travel marketplaces for established brands and entrepreneurs of all sizes.

We always check Expedia and Booking.com to verify prices. At times, one is sold out of rooms while another at the same place has rooms. As well we often find some European hotels, especially smaller ones, on Booking.com but not on Expedia. It could be they are a Europe-based company. Try both before booking accommodations.

Vacation Rental By Owner (VRBO)

Are you traveling with a family or having an extended stay at your destination?

With over 2 million bookable vacation rentals, VRBO connects homeowners with families and vacationers looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. The VRBO community offers families or groups various rental property types such as condos, cabins, lake rentals, beach houses, etc.

VRBO is under the Expedia group ownership now, which many were worried about, but it hasn’t panned out to be a concern. It is a massive network with access to all lodging forms should issues arise. Joelle has used VRBO for many years with her family with no problems.

Viator

As the leading marketplace for travel experiences, Viator believes that making memories is what travel is all about. And with 300,000+ experiences to explore—everything from simple tours to extreme adventures (and all the niche, interesting stuff in between)—making memories that will last a lifetime has never been easier.

With industry-leading flexibility and last-minute availability, it’s never too late to make any day extraordinary. This one site has it all and has experiences throughout the world. We use them often during our travels, especially for food tours. We especially take the time to read the reviews provided.

Amazon.com

An excellent source for travel essentials and guides

We now have our own Amazon Storefront with all our favorite travel accessories and gear in one place. Check out our travel store at the link below.

Wanderers Compass Amazon Storefront

Amazon is one of the most comprehensive online shopping sources in the world. On behalf of their customers, teams worldwide provide lower prices, better selection, and rapid delivery. They offer a vast inventory, and their 1.7 million small and medium businesses worldwide selling on Amazon.com offer extensive options to customers.

We buy most of our travel books, accessories, and luggage from Amazon. We have ordered up to two days before travel and get what we need.

HYDAWAY

This is not your ordinary drinkware company. The HYDAWAY difference is what their products do when you’re not using them. Practical and portable, HYDAWAY doesn’t take up unnecessary space in your already-packed life or pile up in landfills. We all know that trying to pack light while being environmentally conscious can be difficult. Having the right items can make a world of difference. HYDAWAY provides that.

We have used their collapsible water bottle, carrying case for the water bottle, and collapsible insulated drink tumbler. They are all lightweight and durable. A conservation-focused product you can be proud to buy.

Use our Promo Code. WANCOM15, at checkout for 15% off your Hydaway order

Welcome Pick-ups
(Airport and sightseeing service)

A global leader in ground transportation for travelers. They help hundreds of companies worldwide enhance their services and boost their revenue with our 5-star ride experiences and hassle-free automation.

Founded in 2015 in Athens, Greece, Welcome Pick-ups goes above and beyond the standard transfer service as the first company to deliver a holistic, in-destination travel experience. From the moment a traveler arrives at a new destination until they return home, Welcome accommodates all their travel needs (transfers, travel products, things to do, information) as the easiest, friendliest, and most personalized solution.

PhotoAiD

Do you feel like you are wasting time visiting an on-site photographer only to be embarrassed by the photo? Would you like control of the final product? Get the perfect VISA or passport photo online with PhotoAID.

When traveling, you often need to apply for official documents such as a passport, ID, and different kinds of licenses or cards. Those applications require a picture that must meet specific conditions to be accepted, depending on the country. Now, it is possible to take this picture at home without the help of a professional photographer. PhotoAiD allows you to take the perfect biometric photo that will be approved by you without leaving your home.

This article contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

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