In the heart of Northern Europe, Denmark is an enchanting destination. Between nature and the city, discover its picturesque coastlines and castles steeped in history, for a vacation that's sure to get you away from it all. You'll be charmed by its rich culture and friendly people, creating the perfect backdrop for travelers looking for a great European experience. Embark on a Danish adventure with the 17 most beautiful places to visit in Denmark.
1. The wonders of Copenhagen
In Copenhagen, every street corner reveals a new wonder, so take the time to discover the capital from top to bottom. Among the must-sees are the winding paths of Kongens Have, the royal garden where history meets nature. A stone's throw away, the Botanical Garden unfurls its floral treasures, offering a peaceful refuge for botanical lovers... or lovers at all!
When researching Denmark, you're bound to have come across photos of a canal lined with colorful houses. This is the Nyhavn, lined with picturesque houses and lively quays. A must-see if you want to immerse yourself in Danish charm! Want to know something unusual? The city's emblem is the Little Mermaid, whose statue sits comfortably on the shores of the Baltic Sea. Would you like to discover Copenhagen's main sights on land and sea? We recommend booking this multi-stop bus ticket, which will take you to all the city's must-sees.
Good to know copenhagen is one of Europe's top 10 shopping destinations, not least for its inimitable Scandinavian decor.
Want to see more? Round off your visit with the 15 must-sees in Copenhagen during your stay.
2. A complete change of scene at Dyrehaven Forest
Meet the deer in Dyrehaven Forest, a small Danish natural paradise. This former royal hunting reserve, now open to the public, offers much more than just bucolic walks:
- golf,
- amusement park,
- racecourse, etc.
Follow the signposted paths as a family or for a romantic stroll. Along the way, you may well come across some superb stags and other deer! Here, respect for plants and animals reigns supreme. Recognized as the country's hunting heritage, this nature reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A pure marvel for those wishing to visit the "natural" side of the country. If Denmark is one of the happiest countries in which to live, it's thanks to places like this. The Danes have taken hygge, a philosophy based on the small pleasures of life, to a very high level, and they're doing just fine!
3. Møns Klint, Danish splendor
On the island of Møn, you'll find one of Denmark's most beautiful natural wonders. These chalk cliffs are no less than... 70 million years old! As they age, they are gradually collapsing into the Baltic Sea. The result? Pure water below, inviting you to contemplate. Would you like to admire this sublime landscape, about two hours from Copenhagen? There are several ways to get there:
- by boat
- swimming, in summer, at the foot of the cliffs,
- on the back of an Icelandic pony, on trails offering dazzling views of the cliffs,
- mountain biking.
Did you know that the Møns Klint was Scandinavia's first star reserve? Come and enjoy this captivating site as soon as night falls: a magical spectacle awaits you!
Click here to book a day trip from Copenhagen to see the stunning limestone and chalk cliffs of Møns Klint and the Forest Tower, a climbing park in the middle of a forest.
4. Frederiksberg Palace, Denmark's historic treasure
You're about to set foot in Scandinavia's largest castle. The history of Denmark since 1500 is recounted through extraordinary works of art. The atmosphere of yesteryear still floats within the walls of Frederiksberg Palace, offering a complete immersion in Denmark's past. Among the finest works in the Museum of Danish National History, housed in this period building, you'll find:
- The Knights' Hall, once used as a banqueting hall.
- The King's Audience Hall, used to receive nobles and international leaders.
- The ceremonial hall, whose architecture takes you back in time.
- The chapel, a sublime place that will long be remembered.
Round off your visit with the labyrinthine French-style Baroque garden, home to sublime artificial waterfalls in a verdant setting.
Discover Copenhagen and its cultural highlights by booking your Copenhagen Card here : it will give you free access to over 40 attractions in central Copenhagen.
5. Escape to Rubjerg Knude lighthouse
The Rubjek Knude lighthouse has an unusual story to tell: in 2019, this 700-ton giant was moved 70 meters. Threatening to collapse into the sea, it was the subject of a skilfully executed rescue. Although the lighthouse, built in 1899, is no longer in operation, it remains one of the country's major landmarks, photographed thousands of times a year by enchanted visitors.
Located on the coast of Jutland, it can be reached in about an hour's drive fromAalborg. A city you should also visit during your stay.
6. Skagen, between history and serenity
Head for the northern tip of Denmark, and Skagen to be precise. The Skagen coastline itself is already worth a visit, with its bunkers dating back to the Second World War.
Then push on to Grenen Point. This is where the magic happens! The Baltic and North Seas merge. An absolutely unique spectacle, made even more impressive when the waves get involved.
Good to know: Skagen is a mecca for crafts, especially pottery and glass. Good news for art lovers!
7. Odense, Andersen's birthplace
Looking for some magic on your trip to Denmark? Then head for Odense, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, just an hour and a half by train from Copenhagen. As soon as you arrive at the station, let yourself be enchanted by the picturesque streets of the old town, where houses with multicolored facades reveal the story of this famous author of fairy tales. You've been warned: visitors fall back into childhood as they stroll through this unusual place!
The yellow house where Andersen was born is a must-see, offering a glimpse into his modest past. Follow in the writer's footsteps thanks to the footprints scattered along the sidewalks, then explore the town with a one-way ticket giving access to all the sites, including the Andersen Museum. Between the churches, the futuristic bridge offering spectacular views and the Storms Pakkhus, temple of street food, Odense reveals its magic around every corner.
8. Treasures of Fanø Island
Fanø Island is one of Denmark's most beautiful villages. Nordby resembles a little paradise on earth, with its charming colorful thatched cottages, flower-filled streets and surrounding nature. A must-see: a real little nugget!
Nestled in the Vadehavet National Park, this island will dazzle nature lovers and kitesurfing enthusiasts alike. Access is exclusively by boat on the Wadden Sea from Esbjerg, adding a touch of adventure to your trip. On site, you can opt toexplore by bike along the Panoramarute 404. Vast beaches await you, mingling with forest paths and open fields, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking panoramas. Don't you just love it?
9. Ribe, Denmark's oldest town
The town of Ribe is one of Denmark's unspoilt treasures, where every street is steeped in history. With its myriad of superbly preserved buildings, this medieval town invites you to enjoy cultural enrichment in warm surroundings. The country is so welcoming, it's one of the best destinations for stress-free solo travel.
Once a major North Sea port in the Middle Ages, Ribe evolves between urban landscapes, picturesque gardens and meadows. A surprising and absolutely fascinating mosaic!
During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to admire its majestic cathedral, an imposing testimony to the town's medieval architecture. Another surprise: art also thrives in Ribe, with its historic buildings and creative sculptures. We invite you to visit the Kunst Museum in Ribe, housed in a magnificent manor house, to immerse yourself in the golden age of painting.
Denmark also offers the authentic landscapes of Viking lands, to be discovered without moderation. That's right! Ribe is one of the cradles of the Vikings, which is sure to fascinate children. The RibeViking Center, dedicated to this civilization, opens its doors to you for an immersive experience in the Viking world, with workshops and period costumes.
10. The island of Rømø, the Danish coastline in all its splendor
Nestled in the heart of the Wadden Sea, the 129 km² island of Rømø offers a flat landscape inviting you to escape. Plains, beaches and beautiful panoramas will be the highlights of your visit. Accessible by car, the island is subject to daily tides, so be careful! A surfer's paradise, this pretty piece of land also offers horse-riding holidays. Want to enjoy the beach? We recommend the far south-western beach.
11. Hammershus Castle, a medieval fort in a magical landscape
The ruins of Hammershus Castle lie to the north of the island of Bornholm, in Allinge to be precise. Originally built as a fortress in the XIIIᵉ century, it positioned itself as Europe's largest castle in the XIVᵉ century. Unused since the XVIIIᵉ century, the fortress gradually fell into disrepair, today offering these ruins appreciated by visitors, witnesses to a bygone era. Although Bornholm has suffered the ravages of war, it has managed to rebuild itself, offering a pleasant stroll on the occasion of a stay in Denmark.
12. The Hans Christian Andersen Museum, back to childhood
Back to Odense, to tell you about a must-see museum in Denmark: the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, designed by architect Kengo Kuma. In this temple to fairytales, which will only open in 2021, you're plunged into an immersive and resolutely magical world, albeit one that's close to our modern concerns. This skilful blend of eras, combined with the artist's inimitable style, results in a captivating museum for young and old alike. And while the interior is magical at every step, the gardens also plunge you into a fairy tale: magical, marvelous, a real favorite!
13. Roskilde and its treasures
During your trip, we invite you to discover Roskilde, the former Danish capital. A charming medieval atmosphere still reigns here, especially around the majestic Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This emblematic monument, built in red brick between the XIIᵉ and XIIIᵉ centuries, is home to an artistic treasure trove and royal tombs. A must-see! But surely the most impressive thing about Roskilde is its Viking Ship Museum, where ancient boats and maritime crafts transport you back in time. Travelling in summer? Then get ready for the Roskilde Festival, Northern Europe's biggest.
Visit the royal castles of Frederiksborg and Kronborg, as well as Roskilde, the former Danish capital, on this 8.5-hour tour from Copenhagen.
14. Lake Filsø, an ornithological paradise
Set course for an unspoilt natural setting: Filsø Lake, a little Danish treasure like so many others in Scandinavia. Restored in 2012 as part of a nature preservation project in Denmark, it offers a pleasant escape. Once drained for agricultural purposes, it has been transformed into a thriving ecosystem that is now home to over 200 species of birds. Birdwatchers, your turn!
Explore this biodiversity paradise by following a dedicated itinerary, starting with a crossing of the central dike. The route then leads you quietly over an oval bridge, offering panoramic views over the expansive waters. Insta'Time over? End your visit at Tejnebjerg, one of the best vantage points on the lake.
15. Fionie Island, pure nature
Explore the wonders of the island of Fionie, where beautiful landscapes mingle with beaches, green hills and mystical forests. Its most emblematic monument is, of course, Egeskov Castle, a true Renaissance gem surrounded by breathtaking gardens. Then set off to discover authentic villages and sample the local cuisine. Between museums, hiking trails and dreamy panoramas, it's impossible to get bored on this island!
16. Egeskov Castle, an architectural marvel
We had to write about this architectural marvel on the island of Fionie. You've got to admit, you can't get enough of castles! And just as well: there are plenty of them in Denmark, both "standing" and in ruins. Egeskov Castle, aRenaissance splendor, was built... on stilts! You wanted to include an unusual visit in your road map? You've found it. Surrounded by a magnificent park with Baroque gardens, this building is a pure marvel. Far from being in ruins, it stands proudly in the landscape. The visit, for which you can allow around 4 hours, will leave you with an unforgettable memory: a must-see during your vacation in Denmark!
17. The wonders of the Wadden Sea National Park
Considered one of the world's most eco-friendly destinations, Denmark is brimming with unspoilt nature. Even its cities, like Copenhagen, are actively committed to cleaner living. We told you: life is good in this Scandinavian country!
The Wadden Sea National Park, the pearl of Schleswig-Holstein and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a little gem that's sure to fill you with wonder. A unique seascape reveals dunes, beaches and exceptional wildlife. In the heart of this biosphere reserve, treat yourself to a successful immersion in northern German nature. Take a bike ride along the coast or embark on a boat trip to the Halligen to see seals and porpoises: it's a magical experience!
What to do in Denmark in winter?
If Denmark is a magical place to visit in June and throughout the summer, it has many other surprises in store for you once winter sets in. During the long, dark winters, the Danes pull out their ultimate weapon: hygge ! Candles, convivial family meals, laughter, warmth... These are the watchwords of winter in Denmark, and they'll make your festive season the best ever. All accompanied by delicious Danish cakes to keep the cold at bay: yum!
Now it's time to get out of your comfort zone and try... winter bathing in the sea. A veritable tradition in this country, they are practiced all winter long. Last but not least, winter is a great time to celebrate, and the Danes know how to do it right: from the Tivoli gardens with their Christmas colors, to the illuminations in Copenhagen, you're in for the best winter ever in Denmark!
What to do in Denmark with your family
Would you like to spend your summer vacations in a cool place with your little family? Then head for Denmark! In fact, it's an ideal destination for travelling with children in Europe. Their fondest memory will certainly be the day spent at LEGOLAND. Founded in 1969 in Billund, this extraordinary park is a delight for the whole family. Unusual and unique attractions await you: a moment of pure magic! Then set off to discover the many sites dedicated to the Vikings:
- the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde,
- the Viking Center in Ribe,
- Jelling and its runic alphabet,
- the Viking market at Trelleborg fortress,
- copenhagen National Museum, etc.
Take advantage of your trip to Denmark to visit some of the country's most beautiful castles. They amaze young and old alike! In addition to the Andersen Museum, keep your eyes peeled for mermaids and unicorns, which are an integral part of local folklore and may well surprise you at almost every corner.
How can I visit Denmark in a week?
Located less than 2 hours' flight from France, Denmark is an ideal destination for a European vacation.
Day 1: The capital
Start your journey in Copenhagen, one of the must-see places for a successful city-break, because life here is so easy.
Day 2: Dream cliffs
Head for the island of Møn and its superb cliffs, for a breath of fresh air.
Day 3: A fairy tale
Head for Odense, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, for a visit straight out of a fairy tale.
Day 4: A cultural vacation
Head for Aarhus, the country's second-largest city. Superb museums await you.
Day 5: Unusual nature
Head for Skagen, the northernmost tip of Denmark, where the Baltic and North Seas meet.
Day 6: A touch of magic
It's a bit of a drive, but well worth it: visit the wonders of Roskilde and you'll never regret it!
Day 7: Back home!
Back to Copenhagen, less than an hour from Roskilde, to finish off a few quick visits before flying back to France.
What can you visit in Denmark in a motorhome?
Don't worry, there are plenty of campsites in Denmark that accept motorhomes! They're often huge! Start your tour around Ribe, Denmark's oldest and most medieval town. This colorful town invites you to sample its local specialties. Its location at the end of a narrow canal overlooking the Wadden Sea is an added charm. Next, explore the Wadden Sea National Park by motorhome, a 450 km stretch along the coasts of Denmark, the Netherlands and Germany.
Now it's time to board the ferry between Esbjerg and the island of Fanø. Its colorful thatched-roof houses create a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for a bike ride, with the possibility of renting two-wheelers on the island. Return to the mainland towards Hjerting, a seaside resort with a promenade.
Many surprises await you, such as the sculptures "Men facing the sea" near Esbjerg. Continue on to the Sjelborg and Marbaek reserve, renowned for its ponds, forests and the Blåvand peninsula, marking the geographical end of the Wadden Sea.
Continue the road trip to central Jutland, on the western side of the North Sea, known as Vesterhavet. World War II bunkers add a historic dimension to this captivating region. And that's just one itinerary among many! There are many wonders to discover on a nomadic basis in Denmark.
Looking for the perfect place to retire? With its amenities, welcoming towns, unspoilt nature and friendly people, Denmark is a destination of choice. It's time to share a great vacation plan with you: book one of the world's most beautiful cruises in the Fjords. In addition to a stopover in Copenhagen, you'll have the pleasure of discovering some incredibly beautiful scenery!
