Organize your stay Denmark
Money Denmark
The official currency is the Danish krone, DKK or Kr. Since 1234, Danish coins have been stamped with a crown, but the name was not officially used until 1600, during the reign of Christian IV. The first banknotes appeared in 1913. It was during a referendum that the choice was made not to use the euro. Nevertheless, the Danish krone is part of the ERM II, so its exchange rate is linked to that of the euro, with a fluctuation margin of 2.25%.
You will handle banknotes of 500, 200, 100 and 50 DKK and coins of 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20 DKK or of 20 and 50 øre The krona is divided into 100 øre.
The exchange rate is fixed: 1 € = 7.44 DKK and 1 DKK = 0.13 €
A commission fee applies to withdrawals or purchases in DKK. Ask your bank for information. ATMs and exchange offices can be found upon arrival at Copenhagen airport, especially after the baggage claim area, near the exit of the airport hall, or at ferry arrivals.
The Faroe Islands have their own banknotes - Faroese krona - issued by the Faroese government, only Danish coins are used. However, Danish banknotes are accepted everywhere. Please note, however, that you will not be able to exchange Faroese banknotes outside the archipelago. You will find several ATMs that accept international credit cards. Banks are open from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm from Monday to Friday. The exchange rate is 100 DKK = 13.40 €.
Budget & Tips Denmark
Life is expensive in Denmark in general and in Copenhagen in particular. As far as accommodation is concerned, youth hostels are the best way to keep your budget in check, costing around €45 for a bed in a dormitory. Otherwise, expect to pay a minimum of €120 for a double room in a hotel. An interesting offer at the hotel: the "breakfast included" package. Breakfast is buffet style. They are very hearty, and offer both savory and sweet dishes. Like our Danish friends, you should opt for this meal, so that a snack is sufficient at lunchtime.
The average restaurant meal costs €40 per person. Water in a carafe is not offered, as is not customary here, and wine is a more expensive beverage than in France.
If you'd like to experience life the Danish way, contact Meet the Danes. Register on their website meetthedanes.com.
Hotel capacity on the Faroe Islands is not as great, so be prepared if you're staying in high season. Camping is a very popular and inexpensive form of accommodation. Another option is to stay in a gîte or with a local. Contact the tourist offices, which have lists (sometimes of members).
Passport and visas Denmark
As a member of the EU, there are no special formalities for EU citizens in Denmark; however, the identity card must be valid, especially if you arrive by plane. Also, your identity papers will be useful in case of a problem in Denmark. Remember to photocopy or scan them, which can be very useful in case of loss or theft.
It is the same for the Faroe Islands even if they are not part of the EU or the Schengen area. Customs controls are supposed to be systematic! On the other hand, you, European tourists, benefit from duty-free shopping. You can benefit from tax-free prices, sometimes up to 25% off, including in the airport area!
Driver's license Denmark
The French national driving license is accepted in Denmark. Before driving, find out about the driving rules on the website of the French Embassy in Denmark. https://dk.ambafrance.org/Permis-de-conduire-au-Danemark
The conditions for renting a car are as follows: the minimum age is 19 years and the driving license must have been issued more than 1 year ago. For the deposit: an international credit card with deferred debit is required in the name of the main driver + passport or ID card. Before any rental, check that you have the necessary limit on the credit card that will be in the name of the driver, in order to secure the deposit to the rental company: from 5 000 DKK depending on the category of vehicle chosen. In addition, you will be asked for a deferred debit credit card imprint in the name of the main driver when you pick up the vehicle (the word "credit" must be noted on your credit card).
In the Faroe Islands, the road network is very developed, but it follows a contrasted landscape, a bit like Corsica! Narrow and winding roads that require great vigilance. They are often single-lane, with crossing areas cut into the rock. The speed limit is 80 km/h. Think about the many animals you might come across!
Health Denmark
In case of illness or accident during your stay, plan to take the European Health Insurance Card with you. You can apply for this card directly with AMELI or on their online website.
It will allow you to be reimbursed for your care and medication. Particularities of Denmark: care is free in Danish hospitals for foreigners visiting Denmark. On the other hand, for a visit to a doctor on duty, you will have to pay cash on the spot.
If you have a Visa or Mastercard, your contract includes health insurance and medical repatriation assistance for any stay of less than 90 days. Check the conditions with your banker.
Mandatory vaccination Denmark
No vaccine is mandatory at this time, neither in Denmark nor in the Faroe Islands. As in most European countries.
Security Denmark
No particular danger. Neither in Copenhagen nor on the Faroe Islands, it is actually very pleasant to feel safe. Denmark has the reputation of being one of the safest countries in the world. There is no such thing as zero risk, so be careful with your belongings. Pickpockets exist, as in all major cities around the world, and they operate in train stations and on public transport. The website of the French embassies and consulates provides a wealth of useful information. https://dk.ambafrance.org/
Driving in the Faroe Islands requires prior information, it is important that you are aware of the sometimes extreme weather conditions, the narrow and windy roads and the different rules of the road before starting your trip. Always bring appropriate equipment for hiking, camping, diving and bird watching. Learn about the different equipment on the websites of each activity. A document has been created to help you during your Travel Safe trip: https://visitfaroeislands.com/en
Time difference Denmark
No time difference. Denmark operates on summer and winter time just like France.
On the other hand, the Faroe Islands have a time difference of + 1 hour, in summer and in winter (like Great Britain).
Spoken languages Denmark
The official language is Danish or Faroese. English is the second language spoken in the whole kingdom of Denmark, and it is compulsory in school. Internet sites are systematically available in the language of Shakespeare, but the language of Molière is not yet well established! So if you speak fluent Danish or Faroese, it's even better!
Communication Denmark
The international code for Denmark is 00 45, for France it is 00 33. You can use your cell phone in complete peace of mind, with no extra cost since 2017. The wifi is everywhere and the 4G passes rather well. The international code for the Faroe Islands is 00 298.
Electricity and measurements Denmark
220 volts and plugs identical to the rest of Europe. Same for the measuring system. It's just like at home!
Luggage Denmark
Bring the basics that will guarantee an unforgettable stay, i.e. an umbrella or a rain hat. Rubber boots are also good, because a little drizzle can always happen, especially in autumn or on the different islands wrapped in mist. Good walking shoes, because the cities can be crossed on foot and the cobblestones are numerous. Clothes adapted to the snow. In winter, don't forget your gloves and a hat. It's better to ride when the temperatures start to cool down. In summer, travel lighter and take along some nice sunglasses because the light is bright! But think about the evenings which can be a bit chilly... So a light sweater is good too.
For your excursions in the Faroes, always have something warm with you! We also recommend that you bring a map, a compass and a GPS, especially when traveling in remote areas.
Please note that in the Faroe Islands, pets are not allowed for stays of less than three months or for transit via the Faroe Islands to another country. Ordinary pets may only be imported if the person has a permanent address in the Faroes or if the person plans to stay for more than three months. As a general rule, it is forbidden to import exotic and dangerous animals into the Faroe Islands. More information and guidelines for the import of cats and dogs are available from the Food, Veterinary and Environmental Agency.
