Denmark Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore Denmark: Tips on Driving, Safety, and Culture

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Top 10 Most Searched Questions About Denmark

The capital of Denmark is Copenhagen, a vibrant city known for its colorful Nyhavn harbor, Tivoli Gardens, and the Little Mermaid statue.

EU citizens don’t need a visa. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens can visit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa under the Schengen agreement. Other nationalities should check with the Danish Immigration Service.

Denmark uses the Danish Krone (DKK). While part of the EU, Denmark has opted out of the Euro. Cards are widely accepted, but having some DKK is useful for smaller purchases.

Yes, Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rates are low, but petty theft can occur in tourist areas like Copenhagen’s Strøget—keep an eye on your belongings.

The official language is Danish. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and among younger Danes, making communication easy for visitors.

Denmark is known for its Viking history, fairy-tale castles (like Kronborg), modern design (think LEGO and Danish furniture), and its concept of "hygge" (coziness). It’s also famous for pastries like the Danish.

Summer (June to August) is ideal for mild weather and festivals, though it’s the busiest time. Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

Denmark can be pricey, especially in Copenhagen. Dining, accommodations, and transport are costly, but budget options like hostels and street food (e.g., smørrebrød) can help manage expenses.

Yes, tap water in Denmark is clean and safe to drink—some of the best in the world. Bring a reusable bottle to save money and reduce plastic waste.

Top spots include Copenhagen (Nyhavn, Tivoli), Aarhus (ARoS Museum), Odense (Hans Christian Andersen’s hometown), the Cliffs of Møn, and the Faroe Islands for stunning landscapes.

Denmark, a Scandinavian gem, blends rich history with modern innovation. Copenhagen, the capital, enchants with its colorful waterfront at Nyhavn, historic Tivoli Gardens, and the iconic Little Mermaid statue. Beyond the capital, Denmark offers fairy-tale castles like Kronborg (the setting of Shakespeare’s *Hamlet*), charming towns like Odense—birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen—and natural wonders like the white Cliffs of Møn and the windswept Faroe Islands. Known for its Viking heritage, Denmark also shines in modern design, with globally recognized brands like LEGO and minimalist Danish furniture. The concept of "hygge"—a cultural focus on coziness and well-being—defines the Danish lifestyle, evident in candlelit cafes and warm hospitality. Denmark’s cuisine highlights fresh, local ingredients, from smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) to world-class dining at Michelin-starred restaurants like Noma. With its bike-friendly cities, sustainable ethos, and high quality of life, Denmark is perfect for travelers seeking culture, nature, and a taste of Scandinavian charm.

Visa & Passport for Denmark: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay in Denmark (Schengen requirement). Ensure it has at least one blank page for stamps.
  • Visa Requirements: EU citizens don’t need a visa. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa under the Schengen agreement. Other nationalities should check with the Danish Immigration Service.
  • Health Entry Rules: No specific vaccinations are required for entry. Travel insurance covering medical emergencies is recommended, as healthcare can be expensive for non-residents without an EHIC (for EU citizens).

Driving in Denmark: Traffic Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: EU licenses are valid. Non-EU drivers can use their national license for up to 90 days; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU licenses not in English.
  • Traffic Rules: Drive on the right. Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 130 km/h on motorways (e.g., E20). The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%—strictly enforced.
  • Toll Roads: Denmark has few tolls. The Øresund Bridge (connecting Copenhagen to Malmö, Sweden) costs about 400 DKK for a round trip. The Storebælt Bridge toll is around 245 DKK one way. Payment can be made by card or online.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are excellent, with well-maintained motorways like the E45. Cycling is prioritized—watch for bike lanes, especially in Copenhagen. Winter driving (December to February) may require snow tires in rural areas like Jutland.
  • Parking: Parking in Copenhagen is regulated—use paid parking zones or apps like EasyPark. Free parking is rare in the city center but more common in smaller towns like Odense. Follow signs to avoid fines.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Roadside assistance is available via Falck at +45 70 10 20 30.
  • Useful Resource: For more on driving regulations, visit the VisitDenmark website.

Denmark Currency: Using the Krone for Your Trip

  • Danish Krone: Denmark uses the Danish Krone (DKK). Coins come in 50 øre, 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 DKK; banknotes are 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 DKK.
  • Currency Exchange: Euros are rarely accepted—exchange money at banks or Forex offices in cities like Copenhagen. Rates at airports are less favorable. Many places accept cards, even for small amounts.
  • Payment Methods: Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, even in small shops. Contactless payments and mobile apps like MobilePay are popular. Carry some DKK for rural areas or small vendors.
  • ATMs: ATMs are widely available in cities and towns, accepting international cards. Look for “Dankort” or “Kontanten” signs. Banks like Danske Bank and Nordea offer ATMs with low or no fees for withdrawals.

Denmark Legal Guide: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Drug possession is illegal and can lead to fines or imprisonment. Public drinking is allowed in most places but prohibited in some public areas like train stations—check local signs.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Danes value punctuality and privacy—arrive on time and respect personal space. Tipping isn’t mandatory; rounding up the bill is appreciated (e.g., 5-10% in restaurants). Dress casually but neatly when visiting churches like Roskilde Cathedral.
  • Photography Restrictions: Photography is generally allowed, but some museums (e.g., National Museum in Copenhagen) may prohibit flash or tripods. Drone use requires a permit in urban areas or near airports.
  • Public Behavior: Danes are reserved but polite—keep noise levels down in public spaces. Biking is a way of life; follow bike lane rules to avoid conflicts with cyclists.
  • Customs Rules: From outside the EU, you can bring 1 liter of spirits, 2 liters of wine, and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over €10,000 upon entry or exit.
  • Complaints: For travel issues, contact the Danish Consumer Ombudsman or VisitDenmark. Visit their official website for more information.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact the police at 114. Tourist information offices in Copenhagen can assist with minor issues.

Travel Safety in Denmark: Staying Safe on Your Trip

  • Crime in Denmark: Denmark is very safe, with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur in tourist hotspots like Copenhagen’s Strøget or at train stations—keep bags secure.
  • Road Safety: Roads are safe, but cyclists have priority—watch for bike lanes. Pedestrians should use crosswalks. Driving in winter is generally safe, but icy conditions in rural Jutland require caution.
  • Health Risks: Tap water is safe and of high quality. Food hygiene standards are excellent—street food like smørrebrød is safe to eat. No major health risks; tick bites are possible in forests like Rold Skov—check after hikes.
  • Natural Hazards: Denmark has a low risk of natural disasters. Coastal areas may experience strong winds or minor flooding in winter—check weather updates if visiting the Wadden Sea.
  • Medical Facilities: Healthcare is world-class. EU citizens can use their EHIC card; others need travel insurance, as non-emergency care can be costly. Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen is a top hospital for emergencies.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Pharmacies (“Apotek”) are well-stocked and can provide over-the-counter medications and advice.
  • Public Transport Safety: Copenhagen’s metro, buses, and trains are safe and reliable. Pickpocketing is rare but possible during rush hour—keep an eye on your belongings.

Flights to Denmark: Travel Options

Copenhagen Airport (CPH), located in Kastrup, 8 km from the city center, is Denmark’s main international hub, with flights to Europe, North America, and Asia. Other airports like Billund (BLL) and Aarhus (AAR) serve regional and low-cost flights.