Denmark often tops the lists of the happiest countries on Earth, and it really is a great place, where you will find loads of different activities. This country is full of different kinds of amusement parks, zoos, aquariums, historical landmarks and buildings, and royal palaces.
Its capital city of Copenhagen is one of the oldest capital cities in all of Europe, and offers an authentic Scandinavian culture, however, despite its age; it offers a very trendy lifestyle with a thriving nightlife scene and great shopping opportunities. Visit its major tourist attractions, such as Kronborg Castle, Tivoli Gardens and the Little Mermaid statue.
Places worth visiting:
Copenhagen
Being the country’s largest city and capital, Copenhagen is a vibrant city with much to offer. The former Viking fishing village is now the cultural and financial centre of the country. Enjoy Tivoli Gardens – the most visited theme park in all of Scandinavia. Also, go see the Little Mermaid – a bronze statue based on a Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale. Known for its Dutch Renaissance architecture, Copenhagen has a horizontal landscape containing several old castles and medieval churches.
Aarhus
With a population of around 330.000 people, Aarhus is the second largest city in Denmark. It started out as a Viking settlement in the 8th century, and has now been a trade centre for centuries and is known for its vibrant music scene. The city annually hosts an eight-day long international jazz festival. It is also an interesting city architecturally, containing all styles represented from the Vikings to present day. The oldest best-preserved houses can be found in the inner city. Dominating the cityscape is the 13th century Aarhus Cathedral, the city’s biggest and tallest church.
Odense
This is the birthplace of the famous storyteller Hans Christian Andersen, and therefore, you can spot many statues and sculptures of his characters around town. Denmark’s third largest city also contains several tourist attractions, such as an old Viking castle, now known as Funen Village Museum, Funen’s Abbey, one of Denmark’s oldest art museums, and the 11th century Saint Canute’s Cathedral.
Bornholm
This island is located in the Baltic Sea and is closer to the shores of Poland and Sweden than Denmark, and is reachable by ferry from both Denmark and Sweden. It is known for its arts and crafts items, especially glass and pottery. The island contains several towns with picturesque windmills and several medieval churches, fortresses and temples from the Neolithic age. The island also has an outstanding scenery, consisting of everything from rough sea cliffs and forests to verdant valleys and beaches.
Skagen
Denmark’s northernmost city, Skagen, is the country’s main fishing port as well as one of the most popular places for tourists to visit in Denmark, attracting roughly two million visitors annually. This charming village, with its scenic seascapes, long sandy beaches and fishermen, was very popular for impressionist painters during the 19th century. The northernmost tip of the beach is where the Baltic and North seas meet, which is visible due to the streams going up against each other, which makes for a unique experience. The city also houses one of Denmark’s oldest lighthouses.
Roskilde
Located 30 km. west of Denmark’s current capital, Roskilde was one of the country’s early capitals, and is one of Denmark’s oldest city. Many monarchs are buried here, and their royal tombs can be found at the 12th century Roskilde Cathedral, the first brick Gothic cathedral in Scandinavia. Another key attraction is the Viking Ship Museum, which contains the remains of five different Viking ships that sunk right outside of Roskilde while protecting it from sea invaders. Other sights you might want to see include the royal palace, which is now an art gallery, and the Roskilde Jars, three mammoth vases that commemorate the city’s 1000th anniversary. During late June and early July, a giant rock music event called the Roskilde Festival takes place here.
Aalborg
An ancient city that, over the centuries, has transformed itself into a cultural and industrial centre. It hosts the Aalborg Carnival, the largest festival in Scandinavia that focuses on carnivals. The city is also known for its half-timbered mansions, the former royal residence Aalborghus Castle, and the Budolfi Church, which was built on ruins of an old Viking church.
Elsinore
Elsinore is home to one of the most famous castles in the world, Kronborg Castle, which was the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet, and the play has been performed here annually for more than 80 years. The city was founded in the 15th century, and used to be a medieval fishing village. Its main attractions include the castle and the maritime museum.
Gilleleje
This Danish Riviera is a peaceful and picturesque fishing town. Founded in the 14th century, Gilleleje is pretty and charming with great photo opportunities. Stroll the cozy town, take in the daily morning fish auction and visit the local museum, and Kierkegaard’s monument – the first existential philosopher.
Ribe
Denmark’s oldest town, located in Jutland, was founded in 700 as a Viking marketplace. Its town hall is the oldest in the country, built in 1496, although it did not become the town hall until 1709. Explore Ribe’s Viking heritage, such as its numerous half-timbered medieval buildings, and Ribe Cathedral, the first Christian church in Denmark. Nearby is the ecological treasure Wadden Sea National Park.
