Denmark Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Copenhagen.

Geography:

Located south of Norway and southwest of Sweden, Denmark is the smallest Scandinavian country. The country consists of the peninsula of Jutland (which is north of Germany) and over 400 islands of various sizes, some inhabited and linked to the mainland by ferry or bridge. The landscape consists mainly of low-lying, fertile countryside broken by beech woods, small lakes and fjords.

Greenland and the Faroe Islands are also under the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Denmark, although both have home rule. The Faroe Islands is a group of 18 major islands in the North Atlantic inhabited by a population of 51,540 (2019), whose history dates back to the Viking period. Greenland is located between the Arctic and Atlantic oceans and the largest non-continental island in the world. Three quarters of Greenland is covered by a permanent ice sheet and its population of 55,877 (estimate 2018) makes it the least densely populated territory in the world.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

The main carrier is Scandinavian Airlines or SAS (www.flysas.com).

From the UK, British Airways (www.ba.com), easyJet (www.easyjet.com), Norwegian (www.norwegian.com) and Ryanair (www.ryanair.com) offer direct flights to various destinations in Denmark.

The major airports are: Copenhagen Airport, Billund Airport, Aalborg Airport, Aarhus Airport and Vágar Airport.

Departure Tax

None.

Flight Times

From London to Copenhagen - 1 hour 45 minutes; New York to Copenhagen - 7 hours 35 minutes.

Getting There By Water

Denmark is the world's seventh-biggest seafaring nation and with its archipelago geography it comes as no surprise that there are plenty of ports and harbours along the Danish coast. Copenhagen (www.cmport.com), Aarhus (www.aarhushavn.dk), Esbjerg (www.port-of-esbjerg.dk), Frederikshavn (www.frederikshavn.dk), Hanstholm (www.hanstholmhavn.dk) and Hirtshals (www.portofhirtshals.com).

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

Internal flights in Denmark are served by a network of scheduled services from Copenhagen Airport, also known as Kastrup. Other airports well served by domestic airlines include Aalborg, Aarhus, Billund, Bornholm, Midtjyllands and Sønderborg. Domestic airports are generally situated between two or more cities that are within easy reach of each other. Internal flights are usually of no more than 30 minutes' duration. SAS (www.flysas.com) is the main domestic carrier.

Bike

There are cycle lanes along many roads and, in the countryside, many miles of scenic cycle track. It's easy to take bikes on ferries, trains, buses and domestic air services.

Breakdown Services

Dansk Autohjælp A/S (tel: +45 7010 8090; www.dah.dk).

Car Hire

Generally available to drivers over the age of 21. However, many firms apply a surcharge for drivers under the age of 25. All major international firms are represented.

Documentation

A national driving licence is acceptable. EU nationals taking their own cars to Denmark are strongly advised to obtain a Green Card - a document produced by car insurers to prove that a driver has adequate insurance cover for driving abroad. Green cards are widely required throughout mainland Europe.

Getting Around By Rail

The main cities on all islands are connected to the rail network: Aalborg, Aarhus, Copenhagen, Esbjerg, Herning, Horsens, Kolding, Odense and Randers. Danish State Railways (DSB) (www.dsb.dk) operates a number of express trains called Lyntogs which provide long-distance, non-stop travel.

InterCity trains (IC) are faster and more direct. Seat reservations are not required on most InterCity trains but recommended if you want to be sure of a seat. However, seat reservation is required for some international trains (like on the SJ High Speed train between Copenhagen and Stockholm).

DSB passenger fares are based on a zonal system. The cost depends on the distance travelled; the cost per kilometre is reduced on the longer the journey. Accompanied by an adult, up to two children under 12 years old travel free. There are also price reductions for passengers over 65 and groups of eight people or more.

Regulations

The legal driving age in Denmark is 17 with supervision.

The speed limits are as follows:
• Highways 68 mph (110 kmh) to 80 mph (130 kmh)
• Main roads 49 mph (80 kmh) to 55 mph (90 kmh)
• Built-up areas 24 mph (40 kmh) to 31mph (50 kmh)

Traffic drives on the right-hand side. Drivers must keep their headlights switched on at all times, including during the day. Every car must also have a red warning triangle in case of an accident or breakdown. An International Driving Permit is not required.

Getting Around By Road

Denmark has an excellent network of roads connecting all towns and cities. All roads are toll-free except the two big bridges: Storebæltsbroen between Zealandand Funen and Øresundsbron between Copenhagen and Malmö.

The 3,600km (2237 miles) Marguerite Route covers some of the most beautiful parts of Denmark and makes for epic road trips. It is marked by brown signs with the white Marguerite Daisy flower, hence it is also nicknamed "Daisy".

In Copenhagen, Ring 2 surrounds the most central part of Copenhagen and it is connected to major highways like E47 and E20.

Side Of Road

r

Urban Travel

Copenhagen has an integrated bus and urban train network, known as S-tog (www.dsb.dk/s-tog), as well as a metro (www.m.dk). Taxis are also widely available in cities. It is not customary to tip the driver but rounding up the fare is usual.

Getting Around By Water

There are frequent ferry sailings from Zealand Odde to Ebeltoft and Aarhus, and Rønne to Køge. The larger ferries usually have restaurants or cafés and may have TV, video and cinema lounges, shops, play areas for children and sleeping rooms. Local car ferries link most islands to the road network.

Domestic ferries between Jutland and Zealand are operated by Molslinjen (tel: +45 7010 1418; www.molslinjen.dk). Ferries to Bornholm island are operated by Bornholmslinjen (tel: +45 7090 0100; www.bornholmslinjen.com).

Travel Advice

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Denmark set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Danish Embassy in the UK.

Passport validity requirements

Denmark follows Schengen area rules. Your passport must:

• have a 'date of issue' less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
• have an 'expiry date' at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes Denmark, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

The requirements for working in Denmark are different.

If you're travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day visa-free limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

If you're a visitor, border guards will look at your entry and exit stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area. If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years.

If your passport is missing a stamp, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

At Danish border control, you may also need to:

• show a return or onward ticket
• prove that you have enough money for your stay – the amount varies depending on your accommodation

Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period

To stay longer, you must meet the Danish government's entry requirements.

If you stay in Denmark with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Denmark.

ID for travel from Denmark to Sweden

If you are travelling from Denmark to Sweden, see information on border control requirements.

Visas for Greenland and the Faroe Islands

Greenland and the Faroe Islands are not members of the EU. You do not need a visa to enter for tourism. If you plan to live and work there, you must get a work and residence permit – apply for residence in Greenland or the Faroe Islands.

Border controls at Germany's land borders  

There are temporary border controls in place to travel into Germany. Check the entry requirements for Germany.  

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see:

• TravelHealthPro's Denmark guide
• TravelHealthPro's Faroe Islands guide
• TravelHealthPro's Greenland guide

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Denmark. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

It is illegal to import whale products from Greenland or the Faroe Islands into the UK or EU. You could be fined up to £5,000 or given a prison sentence.

Taking food into Denmark

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons.

Taking money into Denmark

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 10,000 euros or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Denmark

Terrorist attacks in Denmark cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners.

 Crime

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Crime levels are generally low, but pickpockets and bag-snatchers operate in crowded areas, mainly in Copenhagen.

Thieves use a variety of methods to distract you, particularly on crowded public transport. They sometimes also operate in hotel lobbies, cafes and restaurants.

Keep your personal belongings, including passports and money, safe. Keep an eye on luggage, including in the overhead baggage compartment, when travelling on trains to and from the airport.

Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are common in the following areas of Copenhagen:

• the central station
• Nørreport Station
• the main shopping street, Strøget
• other areas popular with tourists such as Christiania, Nyhavn and Kongens Nytorv
• inside Copenhagen Kastrup Airport

Take extra care in Christiania and Nørrebro, particularly late at night. There have been some instances of gang violence in these areas.

Laws and cultural differences

Dress code

It's illegal to wear clothing that conceals your face in a public place in Denmark. There are legal exemptions – for example, face masks for health reasons. If you cover your face in public, you may get a fine of 1,000 krone (around £115). If you do it again, the fine can increase.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Do not get involved with illegal drugs of any kind. Although Denmark is generally a liberal society, drug use is illegal and the Danish authorities enforce the law. You will not be treated more leniently than residents. Drug dealers can receive heavy sentences. If you are found with illegal drugs thought to be for personal consumption, you may get a fine or prison sentence.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relationships and marriage are legal in Denmark.

Read advice for LGBT+ travellers.   

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Denmark, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC's Denmark guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Denmark. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience and a higher minimum age.  

Cyclists often have the right of way. Always check cycle lanes before turning right. Pedestrians also often have right of way to cross ahead of you if you are turning at traffic lights.

Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK.

Bicycles and scooters

Many bicycle accidents happen when pedestrians do not give the right of way to bicycles. There are online guides in English on cycling in Denmark at Visit Copenhagen and the Danish Cyclists' Federation ('Cyklistforbundet').

Electric scooters are subject to road traffic rules. If you hire and use a scooter under the influence of alcohol, you could be prosecuted for drink-driving and you may be fined.

Arctic travel

Greenland is in the Arctic Circle, and most of it is very remote. Emergency medical assistance and search and rescue services are limited in these areas. See Arctic travel safety advice.

Greenland

Travel between towns is by air, sea or dogsled only. Arctic weather can affect travel, and you should be prepared for delays and cancellations.

There is limited tourist accommodation around the international airport in Kangerlussuaq. During busy periods or when there is travel disruption, there may be no beds available unless you have booked ahead.

Supply chains are limited and travel times are long. Make sure you travel with sufficient prescription medication for all of your time in Greenland.

The Faroe Islands

Smaller roads may be unpaved and winding.

The weather can change quickly, and you should prepare appropriately for the activity you are planning.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccinations recommendations for Denmark, Greenland and the Faroe Islands
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what other health risks you'll face in Denmark, Greenland and Faroe Islands.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Greenland. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Denmark does not recognise UK prescriptions. If you need medication, you should speak to a local pharmacist ('Apotek'), who will be able to tell you if you need a prescription from a local GP.

Healthcare in Denmark

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Denmark where some staff will speak English.

Health insurance cards in Denmark

To get medically necessary state healthcare in Denmark, you need a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

The NHS's getting healthcare abroad webpage has details about:

• how to apply for a GHIC
• how to get temporary cover if you lose your card or it does not arrive in time
• who qualifies for a new EHIC instead of a GHIC
• what treatment counts as medically necessary

A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. You may have costs your GHIC or EHIC does not cover, including:

• changes to travel and accommodation bookings
• additional standard costs for treatment
• medical repatriation to the UK
• treatment that is ruled non-urgent
• private healthcare
• private clinics

There is also guidance on healthcare if you're living in Denmark.

Health insurance cards in Greenland

You will not be refused treatment, but an EHIC or GHIC will not cover the costs unless you are resident of a Nordic country, under the reciprocal agreement, or a resident of Denmark. You can find more details about medical assistance available during a temporary stay in Greenland.

You may also have to cover the cost of medical evacuation.

Health insurance cards in Faroe Islands

You cannot use a GHIC or EHIC in the Faroe Islands. The UK has reciprocal agreements with the Faroe Islands, so British nationals can get the same medical treatment they would with a GHIC or EHIC. This arrangement is not a substitute for travel insurance.

If you travel to the Faroe Islands, you should still take your GHIC or EHIC with you. You'll need to provide proof of identity and nationality, such as your UK passport.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Denmark

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police).

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Denmark
• dealing with a death in Denmark
• being arrested in Denmark
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Help abroad

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.

Help in the UK

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Follow and contact FCDO: 

• travel advice on X
• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Denmark on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Vaccinations

Overview:

Travel insurance is advised for all visitors. In some medical cases, if you are European, you might be able to receive free treatment if you can show proof of a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) obtained in your country of origin.

The overall standards of healthcare in Denmark are excellent. Hospitals and surgeries are well equipped and staff are proficient. In pharmacies, over-the-counter advice is given and standard medicines are sold.

Food Drink:

There's nothing to mark out Danish food as particularly risky to general health, in fact food hygiene standards are very high across the country. The tap water is also safe to drink. However, visitors are recommended not to drink from streams or lakes.

Other Risks:

There are few risks associated with travelling to Denmark. Tick-borne encephalitis poses a minor risk in Bornholm Island and vaccination is advisable if you plan to visit. Other than that sunburn is likely to be the main issue. The usual precautions apply: use a generous amount of sunscreen and be sensible about how long you spend in direct sunlight. Be aware that a breezy day can sometimes mask high temperatures.

Currency Information:

Danish Krone (DKK; symbol kr) = 100 øre. Notes are in denominations of kr1,000, 500, 200, 100 and 50. Coins are in denominations of kr20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 and 50 øre.

 

Credit Cards:

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted. There are plenty of ATMs.

ATMs:

There are plenty of ATMs across Denmark, especially in the major towns and cities.

Travellers Cheques:

Travellers cheques can be cashed by banks and hotels, and can be used at most restaurants and shops. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in Euros, Pounds Sterling or US Dollars.

Banking Hours:

Mon to Wed and Fri 0930-1700, Thurs 0930-1800. Some banks in Copenhagen are open Mon-Fri 0930-1700. Some bureaux de change are open until 2400.

Currency Restrictions:

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. However, amounts exceeding €10,000 or equivalent must be declared if travelling from or to a country outside the European Union.

Currency Exchange:

Personal cheques cannot be used by visitors to Denmark. Some banks may refuse to exchange large foreign bank notes.

Currencies

Exchange Rates

Language

The official language is Danish. Many Danes also speak English, German or French.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

List Of Public Holidays

Overview:

Denmark is within the European Union. If you are travelling from outside of the EU, you are entitled to buy fragrance, skincare, cosmetics, Champagne, wine, selected spirits, fashion accessories, gifts and souvenirs - all at tax-free equivalent prices.

• Please note that the Faroe Islands and Greenland are not part of the EU.

Denmark duty-free allowance for travellers from EU countries:

If you are over 17 years old, you are free to buy and take goods with you when travelling between EU countries, provided that you have paid tax on these goods and they are for your own use (not for sale). However, if you bring in more than the following, customs officials are likely to question you:

• 800 cigarettes or 400 cigarillos or 200 cigars or 1kg of tobacco.
• 90L of still wine of which a maximum of 60L can be sparkling wine.
• 110L of beer.
• 10L of alcoholic beverages stronger than 22% or 20L of fortified or sparkling wine or other liqueurs up to 22%.

Beware that each EU country has different rules for travellers under 17 years old. Please check before you travel.

Denmark duty-free allowance for travellers from non-EU countries:

If you are arriving from a non-EU country, the following goods may be imported into Denmark by travellers with a minimum age of 17 years without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos (max. 3 grams each) or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
• 4L of wine and 16L of beer and 1L of spirits over 22% volume or 2L of alcoholic beverages less than 22% volume.
• Travellers arriving by car must not exceed the petrol allowance of one full tank and an additional 10 litres in a portable container.
• Other goods up to the value of Krr3,250 for air and sea travellers and Krr2,250 for other travellers.
.

Banned Imports:

Prohibited and restricted goods include narcotics, meat and dairy products, medicine, pets, wild animals and plants and their products, weapons and explosives, fireworks and pesticides.

You also cannot bring meat, fish or dairy products from outside the EU to Denmark.

There is a ban on the import of the following goods from the Russian Federation into the EU: diamonds, gold, jewelry, cigarettes, cosmetics, seafood (e.g. caviar), spirits (e.g. vodka), shoes, clothing and smartwatches.

Mobile Telephone:

Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is excellent.

Internet:

Wi-Fi is widely available.

Post

The postal service is known as PostNord which delivers letters to European countries within five working days.

Post Office Hours:

Hours vary but usually Mon-Fri 1000-1730, some are open Sat 1000-1200.

Media:

A free press operates under Danish law and the media, which cover a broad range of political views, are frequently critical of government policy. Danmarks Radio (DR), funded by a licence fee, is Denmark's main public broadcaster, operating six TV networks as well as national and regional radio stations. TV2, a national public-service TV station, is government-owned. Private satellite and cable TV stations also exist. Newspapers are largely regional: the main national papers in the capital include Berlingske Tidende, Dagbladet Information, Ekstrabladet and Politiken. English-language newspapers and magazines are also available.

Aalborg: a cultural hub

Aalborg, also spelt Ålborg, is a cultural hub in North Jutland. Top attractions include Kunsten (Museum of Modern Art Aalborg), Musikkens Hus (music hall), Utzon Center and Lindholm Høje (multiple burial sites from the Germanic Iron Age and the Viking Age). Aalborg is also the city of schnapps, although the production has moved from Aalborg to Norway in 2015, visitors can still buy schnapps and akvavit in every supermarket.

Roskilde: a city of kings and Vikings

Roskilde is a city of kings and Vikings - its Gothic cathedral is the final resting place of about 40 Danish monarchs, and its Viking Ship Museum features five ancient vessels rescued from the harbour. Apart from its immensely rich heritage, Roskilde also hosts an annual rock festival that features a diverse selection of music including rock, metal, hip-hop, dance, house and world music.

Copenhagen: Denmark’s capital

Copenhagen is a popular city-break destination. Most visitors' first port of call is Nyhavn, where colourful buildings loom over the busy waterfront. Beyond it, you'll find a city teeming with fascinating cultural and culinary highlights. Popular attractions include Tivoli Gardens, Amalienborg Palace, Freetown Christiania and SMK – the National Gallery of Denmark to name but a few. Check out the Copenhagen travel guide for more information.

Geocenter Møns Klint: keep the kids busy

Keep the kids busy by tracing Denmark's geological history at the Geocenter Møns Klint, which opened in 2007 on the island of Møn. The centre has more than 20 activities available – visitors can join the hunt for ferocious dinosaurs or learn about the Quaternary Period with its ginormous ice glaciers, to name but a few.

Billund: the birthplace of Lego

Billund, a town in central Denmark, is the birthplace of Lego and naturally one of the top attractions is the LEGOLAND theme park where adults and children can marvel at the detailed LEGO reconstructions of famous sights from around the world in Miniland. Just 800m (875 yards) away from LEGOLAND is the waterpark resort Lalandia, featuring an Aquadome offering many water-based activities.

Aarhus: the second largest city in Denmark

Offering a mixture of cosmopolitan city and quaint small town charm, Aarhus calls itself the "World's Smallest Big City". Must-see attractions include Den Gamle By (the Old Town Museum), ARoS Aarhus Art Museum and Moesgaard Museum. Marselisborg Palace is a royal residence of the Danish Royal Family in Aarhus – its grounds and rose garden are open to the public when the monarch is not in residence. The Godsbanen centre is a highlight for those after Danish design where pottery, metal, woodwork and laser cutting workshops are available for public.

Esbjerg: the gateway to the Jutland Peninsula

The colossal sculpture "Man meets the sea" of four, 9m (30ft) high men stoically overlook the harbour of Esbjerg is likely to be high on your agenda. Located just outside of Esbjerg, the Fisheries and Maritime Museum (https://fimus.dk) is another must-see. Visitors can immerse themselves in the interesting natural and cultural history of the UNESCO protected Wadden Sea (tidal wetlands), admire colourful fish in the aquarium and take a peek at the four cute seals housed in the Sealarium. Make sure to time your trip to the museum around the seal feeding time which is daily between 1100 – 1430 hours.

Odense: the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen

Relive childhood with a visit to the birthplace of the great fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen in Odense on the island of Funen. Andersen was born in a tiny yellow house on a cobbled street in the centre of Odense in 1805, today it is a poet museum and a great place to start a Hans Christian Andersen tour through Odense’s oldest and prettiest parts.

Overview

Denmark has excellent shopping facilities. Special purchases include Bing & Grøndal and Royal Copenhagen porcelain, Holmegaard glass, Bornholm ceramics, handmade woollens from the Faroe Islands and Lego toys.

In Copenhagen, the main international chains and designer boutiques are located around Strøget. The street Jægersborggade in the Nørrebro neighbourhood has turned from dodgy to hipster-cool with shops selling vintage clothes, ceramics and jewellery.

VAT of 25% is charged on most goods. Nationals of countries outside the EU and Scandinavia can claim this back at the airport, but only if you purchase goods worth at least Dkk 300 in a single shop, or Dkk 1,200 per item if you are Norwegian. Items must be declared and stamped by customs authorities on departure.

Opening Hours

Most shops in cities and holiday resorts open from 1000-1800 (Mon-Thurs), 1000-1900 (Fri), 1000-1600 (Sat) and 1200-1600 (Sun). Shops outside of tourist areas may have shorter hours. The sale of alcohol from retailers is forbidden after 2000 hour.

Overview

Traditional Danish cuisine centres around meat and fish dishes like stegt flæsk med persillesovs og kartoffler (fried pork with parsley sauce and potatoes) and herring. Since the early 2000s, however, the focus has shifted to new Danish cuisine with chefs getting very creative with organic and local produce.

Copenhagen is home to a string of restaurants boasting Michelin stars or 'rising star' status, among the Gastronomic heavyweights are Geranium, Noma, AOC, Kadeau, to name but a few.

Denmark is known for its Carlsberg and Tuborg beers and for its akvavit, but craft breweries also thrive in recent years.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

Hotels and restaurants quote fully inclusive prices and tipping is not necessary.

Drinking Age

18.

Hotels

There are hotels and pensions in all major cities and seaside resorts.
Grading: There is the Hotelstars Union grading system from 1 to 5 stars.

Camping Caravaning

Campers must purchase a camping carnet, available at campsites. Over 400 campsites are officially recognised and graded for facilities and shelter - they carry the sign of a pyramid-shaped tent. Grading is from 1 (lowest) to 5 stars (highest), controlled by the Danish Camping Board. Prices vary greatly. For more information and a list of campsites, contact VisitDenmark.

History

Inhabited since before the Stone Age, the first tribal Danes arrived during the Iron Age and established trading links with the Roman Empire. From the 9th century, the Danes, or Vikings, were fiercely colonial seafaring explorers who raided, traded and upbraided lands from Iceland to Canada and by the early 1000s they had colonised lands in England, Ireland and France.

Having converted to Christianity, the Vikings were at their most powerful in the early 11th century, when Cnut the Great created a united Anglo-Danish kingdom with Norway that held for nearly 20 years.

Denmark's power peaked in the early 13th century, by which time Cnut's successors had taken control of Scandinavia and parts of modern-day Germany, Estonia and Finland. This empire rapidly disintegrated and although Denmark, Norway and Sweden were reunited in the late 14th century through blood ties between their ruling families, the three nations spent much of the ensuing 350 years in near permanent conflict with one another.

After establishing colonies in India, West Africa and the West Indies during the 17th century, Denmark discovered its libertarian heart and in the wake of the bloody People's Spring democratic revolutions in France, Germany, Austro-Hungary, Italy, Poland and other European countries in 1848, Denmark peacefully became a constitutional monarchy.

Its lost appetite for war resulted in climactic defeat to Prussia and the Austrian Habsburg Empire and the cessation of Schleswig-Holstein in 1864. Afterwards Denmark sought to remain neutral in Europe and signed a non-aggression pact with Nazi Germany in 1939. Months later it was invaded.

In the post-war era, Denmark co-founded NATO and the European Free Trade Association, joined the EEC (now the EU) in 1973 and rejected the Euro in 2000. Since 1953 Denmark's single-chamber parliament has been elected by proportional representation, making coalition administrations a standard feature.

Did you know?
• Denmark's largest island Zealand is home to 2.3 million people, about 45 per cent of the population.
• Denmark's most famous literary figure Hans Christian Andersen was a great admirer of Charles Dickens, but a five-week stay with the author ended when Andersen was asked to leave.
• In 2014 stegt flæsk – crisp fried strips of pork belly served with potatoes and parsley sauce – was voted the national dish.

Religion

Predominantly Evangelical Lutheran with small Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Muslim and other minorities.

Social Conventions

Normal courtesies should be observed. Guests should refrain from drinking until the host toasts his or her health. Casual dress is suitable for most places but formal wear is required at more exclusive dining rooms and social functions. Smoking is banned on public transport and in public buildings. Smoking is only allowed in bars smaller than 40 sq metres (431 sq ft) which do not serve food. Some restaurants and pubs have designated outdoor smoking areas.

Best Time To Visit:

Denmark has a temperate climate marked by relatively cool summers and moderately cold winters. In terms of precipitation, it has about 765mm (30 inches) a year.

Spring (March to May) starts of cold but warms up gradually. This is usually the driest season.

Summer (June to August) is the best season to visit as the weather is pleasant with long daylight – about 17 hours of daylight per day in June and July – thanks to its northerly latitude. In July, the average high in Copenhagen is 21°C (70°F) but temperatures are lower for cities in the north bordering the North Sea. Climate change is affecting every country including Denmark, so from time to time there are hot days which see temperatures climbing to 30°C (75°F) and beyond.

Autumn (September to November) is often windy and rainy; pack a raincoat if you plan to visit during these months.

Winter (December to February) is cold and the days are short (the sun sets between 3.30pm to 4.30pm in December). In January, the average high is 2°C (36°F) while the average low is -2°C (28°F) in Copenhagen, but in January 1987, the city saw the temperature drop to -18°C (-0.5°F).

Weather in the Faroe Islands: The Faroe Islands are under the influence of the warm current of the Gulf Stream, as such they enjoy a very mild climate despite its latitude. Winters are mild, but the islands are often cloudy, windy and cool throughout the year. Summers are cool, but with long hours of daylight.

Weather in Greenland: Greenland has an Arctic climate, with low humidity making temperatures feel warmer than expected. However, average temperatures in summer seldom exceed 10°C (50°F).

You can also follow the link and see the weather in Copenhagen and the best time to visit Copenhagen guide for more information.

Required Clothing

As Denmark borders the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, it means the weather often changes, so pack a jacket and a raincoat if you're visiting in summer. Waterproof gear and extra layers are a must in autumn. Heavyweight for winter months and mediumweight is suitable for spring.

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