Introducing Denmark, a land of rich history and timeless charm! Denmark is not just one of the happiest countries in the world – it is a kingdom with a long and captivating history that blends with modernity. It is a land of Viking legends, medieval castles, beloved folk tales, and innovative advancements, all packed into a small, picturesque geographic area.
Popular itinerary for exploring Denmark:
Before embarking on your journey through Denmark, there’s one word you must familiarize yourself with: Hygge! Pronounced “hoo-guh,” Hygge is a Danish concept embodying feelings of contentment and well-being derived from life’s simple pleasures. More than just a term, Hygge is deeply ingrained in Danish society, encapsulating the essence of Danish culture by emphasizing the significance of comfort, connection, and cherishing life’s small joys.
Begin and end your Danish adventure in Copenhagen, where you’ll spend five days exploring its vibrant streets. Then, venture to Odense for one night, followed by two nights in Aarhus, and finally, conclude your journey with a night in Ribe.
Day 1: Copenhagen
Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital since the 15th century, has evolved from a small Viking fishing village into the modern, vibrant city it is today. The city serves as the seat of the Danish royal family, government, and parliament, drawing numerous tourists to Scandinavia and welcoming cruise ships to its docks.
Upon arrival at Copenhagen airport and settling into your hotel, start your exploration with a visit to the National Museum of Denmark. Delve into Denmark’s rich history through the museum’s archaeological finds, paintings, and various exhibits. In the evening, savor dinner at a traditional restaurant known for its fresh or pickled fish dishes like herring.
Spend the night in Copenhagen.
Day 2: Copenhagen, continued
Explore all the iconic attractions of Copenhagen. Begin your day with a leisurely stroll from The Little Mermaid statue, passing by the Gefion Fountain and the Amalienborg Royal Palace. The Amalienborg museum offers a glimpse into the palace’s royal treasures and rooms. Don’t miss the Changing of the Guards ceremony, typically held around noon. From the palace, take a short walk to Kongens Nytorv (King’s Square) and Nyhavn, the historic waterfront district where you can embark on a boat tour of the canals. Continue your exploration along Strøget, known as Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping street. In the evening, enjoy the charming atmosphere of Tivoli Gardens, Europe’s oldest amusement park.
Spend the night in Copenhagen.
Day 3: Copenhagen, continued
Start your day by visiting the Home of Carlsberg, Denmark’s most famous brewery. Explore an ultra-modern exhibition showcasing the brewery’s history and beer production process, and savor a taste of Carlsberg beer at the bar. Don’t miss the Jacobsen family art collection and pay tribute to the brewery’s draught horses at the stables.
Experience Denmark’s innovative design and architectural trends at the Designmuseum Danmark, which features art, crafts, and industrial designs from various periods and cultures around the world. In the evening, indulge in a gourmet dinner at one of Copenhagen’s Michelin-starred restaurants, offering modern interpretations of Nordic cuisine.
Spend the night in Copenhagen.
Day 4: The Island of Zealand
Today, journey north from Copenhagen to explore other areas on the island of Zealand.
The first stop is Helsingør, a small port town that controls the Øresund Strait at its narrowest point. Danish kings built the magnificent star-shaped fortress, Kronborg Slot – Kronborg Castle, during the 16th century to control ship passage and levy customs taxes between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. Kronborg Castle is forever linked to Shakespeare’s Hamlet, with performances held in the castle grounds during the summer months. Be sure to explore the crypt, where a statue of the legendary Holger the Dane rests, poised to defend Denmark should the need arise.
Adjacent to the castle, unwind at the Værftets Madmarked street food market, offering an array of culinary delights and beverages.
En route back to Copenhagen, make a stop at Frederiksborg Castle, a 17th-century royal castle built in Renaissance style by King Christian IV to showcase his power and wealth. The castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens, now houses The Museum of Natural History, featuring a vast collection of portraits, paintings, furniture, and other works of art.
Return to Copenhagen for the night.
Day 5: Roskilde
Embark on a day trip to Roskilde, a historic city renowned for its Viking Ship Museum. The Vikings, legendary seafarers who roamed the seas for three centuries, crafted ships that dominated both the open waters and the rivers of Europe. At the museum, discover the fascinating world of the Vikings and their epic voyages, marvel at the remarkably preserved ships discovered in Denmark, and explore detailed reconstructions. During the summer months, from May to September, take the opportunity to sail aboard a Viking ship, participating as a crew member by rowing and hoisting sails (an additional fee applies). Enjoy the museum’s exhibitions and admire the authentic Viking vessels.
Wander through the quaint streets of Roskilde, indulging in the charm of local cafes and boutique shops, and pay a visit to Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the final resting place of Danish monarchs.
Return to Copenhagen for the night.
Day 6: Odense
Today, journey to Odense, Denmark’s third-largest city and the largest on the island of Fyn. Odense is renowned as the childhood home of the world’s most famous Dane—author Hans Christian Andersen. Explore his childhood residence and discover how he drew inspiration for his timeless fairy tales from the humble surroundings of the house. Immerse yourself in his stories through a captivating light and sound exhibition.
For history enthusiasts, Odense offers an array of activities: Step back in time at Odin’s Odense, a reconstruction of a Viking-age settlement where the era of the Vikings comes to life. Wander through the historic old town along its two main streets, Overgade and Nedergade, and admire the well-preserved ancient houses. Lastly, don’t miss Storms Pakhus, Odense’s vibrant street food market. Here, you’ll discover a diverse selection of food stalls, craft beer, and much more. The market hosts various events such as tastings, dance parties, live music performances, and other surprises.
Spend the night in Odense.
Day 7: Aarhus
En route to Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city and a cultural hub, make a stop at Naturcenter Hindsgavl for a unique experience: a bridge walk on the Old Little Belt Bridge, which connects the island of Fyn with the Jutland peninsula.
Upon arrival in Aarhus, explore this vibrant city, known as the Danish design capital. Enjoy lunch at Aarhus’ Street Food Market, housed in a converted bus depot. Take a stroll around the port area and admire the innovative new Iceberg neighborhood.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at one of the city’s top-rated restaurants.
Spend the night in Aarhus.
Day 8: Aarhus, continued
Explore Aarhus’s main attractions today, starting with a visit to the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum and Den Gamle By – The Old Town Museum. The ARoS Museum showcases contemporary art and features a stunning rooftop rainbow panorama, while Den Gamle By is an open-air museum that transports you back in time to Danish market towns across four historical periods.
Enjoy a leisurely visit to the Botanical Garden, which is free to enter and provides a peaceful setting for a picnic amidst lush greenery.
In the afternoon, wander through the charming cobbled streets of the Latin Quarter, known for its cozy cafes and unique design shops. Wrap up the day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant featuring authentic dishes.
Spend the night in Aarhus.
Day 9: Billund and Ribe
Depart from Aarhus and journey to Billund, renowned as the birthplace of LEGO. En route, pause at Jelling Mounds, Runic Stones, and Church to marvel at the Viking Age Runic stone adorned with ancient inscriptions.
In Billund, immerse yourself in the world of LEGO at the captivating LEGO House, featuring multiple zones that offer diverse LEGO-themed experiences, and building opportunities. Continue your drive to Ribe, one of Denmark’s oldest towns.
In the afternoon, wander through the quaint, narrow streets of Ribe, visit the country’s oldest cathedral, and join the evening tradition of following the night watchman as he traverses the historic streets, sharing tales, and melodies. The night watchman begins his journey in front of Restaurant Weis Stue at 8 pm (and at 10 pm in June, July, and August) from May through October.
Spend the night in Ribe.
Day 10: Back to Copenhagen
Drive back to Copenhagen and visit any attractions or sites you may have missed during the initial days of your trip. Explore the city at your leisure, ensuring you make the most of your time in Denmark’s vibrant capital.
