Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: ETIAS Authorization
Most visa-exempt travelers to Denmark now need ETIAS authorization (€7) - a straightforward online application that takes about 10 minutes and is valid for three years. Apply at least 72 hours before your trip to avoid delays at Schengen borders.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure from the Schengen Area, with at least two blank pages for entry stamps and biometric data.
Children and minors require their own passports; always verify with your airline for any additional carrier-specific rules before flying into Copenhagen or other hubs.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of the EU/EEA, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many others can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa for tourism or business.
For stays over 90 days, registration with Danish authorities is mandatory, and you may need to apply for a residence permit if planning extended visits.
Visa Applications
If a visa is required, apply through the Danish embassy or VFS Global for a Schengen visa (€80 fee), providing proof of accommodation, sufficient funds (around €50/day), and comprehensive travel insurance.
Processing times range from 15 to 45 days; start early if traveling during peak summer months to ensure approval before your departure date.
Border Crossings
Denmark's Schengen membership means seamless land borders with Germany and ferry crossings to Sweden, but airports like Copenhagen Kastrup require passport checks and potential ETIAS scans.
Bridge crossings via the Øresund are efficient, though random spot checks occur; ensure your documents are digital-ready for quick verification.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended and often mandatory for visa applicants, covering medical emergencies, trip delays, and activities like cycling tours in Copenhagen or hiking in national parks.
Affordable policies from €4-6 per day include repatriation and COVID-19 coverage; choose providers that align with Schengen minimums of €30,000 in medical expenses.
Extensions Possible
Short-term visa extensions are available for compelling reasons like medical issues or family emergencies by applying at a local police station or immigration office before your stay expires.
Fees range from €20-60, and you'll need supporting evidence; overstay fines can reach €500, so plan accordingly for flexible itineraries.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Denmark uses the Danish Krone (DKK). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Copenhagen by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for routes from major European hubs or transatlantic flights.
Eat Like a Local
Opt for street food like hot dogs from pølsevogns or bakeries for pastries under €10, avoiding upscale restaurants to cut dining costs by up to 40%.
Supermarkets such as Netto or Føtex provide affordable picnic supplies; try rye bread with toppings for an authentic, budget-friendly hygge meal.
Public Transport Passes
Purchase the Copenhagen Card for unlimited transport and free attractions at €80 for 72 hours, drastically reducing costs for multi-day city exploration.
DSB rail passes for intercity travel start at €30/day; combine with regional buses for comprehensive coverage across Jutland and islands.
Free Attractions
Explore Nyhavn harbor, Amalienborg Palace changing of the guard, and coastal paths in Zealand at no cost, immersing in Danish design and scenery without entry fees.
Many national parks like Mols Bjerge offer free hiking trails; check for seasonal free events like Roskilde Festival previews or open-air concerts.
Card vs Cash
Denmark is nearly cashless with cards accepted everywhere, including small vendors; use contactless for speed and avoid exchange fees.
For rural areas or markets, withdraw DKK from bank ATMs like Danske Bank for optimal rates; notify your bank of travel to prevent card blocks.
Museum Passes
The Danish Museum Pass grants access to over 80 sites for €75 annually, ideal for culture lovers visiting ARoS in Aarhus or the National Museum in Copenhagen.
It covers entry fees that add up quickly, often saving 50% or more on group visits; valid for families and includes audio guides.
Smart Packing for Denmark
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Layer with thermal base layers, wool sweaters, and windproof jackets to combat Denmark's cool, windy climate; include quick-dry fabrics for frequent rain.
Pack neutral, minimalist outfits inspired by Danish style for urban outings in Copenhagen, plus swimwear for summer beach dips in the North Sea.
Electronics
Universal adapter for Type C/F/K plugs, portable charger for long bike rides, and apps like Rejseplanen for transport and Google Translate for Danish phrases.
Waterproof phone case for coastal adventures; download offline maps of Funen and Jutland to navigate without constant data usage.
Health & Safety
Travel insurance docs, EU health card if applicable, medications for allergies, and high-SPF sunscreen despite overcast skies.
Include motion sickness remedies for ferry rides to islands like Bornholm, plus a basic kit with plasters for cycling mishaps in flat terrains.
Travel Gear
Compact backpack for day trips to Tivoli or Rosenborg Castle, reusable water bottle for tap-safe hydration, and a neck pillow for overnight trains.
Secure wallet or RFID-blocking pouch for cashless society; pack a lightweight scarf for versatile use against wind or as a picnic blanket.
Footwear Strategy
Waterproof hiking boots for trails in Wadden Sea National Park and comfortable, grippy sneakers for cobblestone streets in Aarhus or Odense.
Biking shoes or sandals for summer; prioritize Gore-Tex materials to handle muddy paths and sudden showers common in the Danish archipelago.
Personal Care
Travel-sized eco-friendly toiletries, moisturizer for dry indoor heating in winter, and a compact rain poncho that packs small.
Include lip balm and hand cream for harsh winds; opt for multi-use items like SPF-infused lotions to lighten your load on multi-stop itineraries.
When to Visit Denmark
Spring (March-May)
Mild weather of 8-15°C brings blooming cherry blossoms in Copenhagen's parks and fewer tourists for relaxed canal tours and market visits.
Ideal for birdwatching in wetlands and early-season cycling; shoulder crowds mean better deals on ferries to the Faroe Islands extensions.
Summer (June-August)
Long daylight hours with 18-22°C temperatures perfect for festivals like Roskilde Music Festival, beach days on Bornholm, and midnight sun hikes.
Peak season brings vibrant outdoor events but higher prices; book ahead for family-friendly attractions like Legoland in Billund.
Autumn (September-November)
Cool 10-15°C days with colorful foliage in Dyrehaven deer park, great for foraging tours and harvest festivals in rural Jutland.
Lower rates on accommodations; enjoy cozy hygge vibes with fewer visitors while exploring Viking sites and amber beaches.
Winter (December-February)
Chilly 0-5°C weather suits Christmas markets in Tivoli Gardens and northern lights chances in Skagen, with magical snowscapes.
Budget-friendly off-season for indoor museums and saunas; short days encourage relaxed pacing, perfect for New Year's hygge traditions.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Danish Krone (DKK). Cards are ubiquitous; exchange at airports or use ATMs for best rates, though Euros are sometimes accepted in border areas.
- Language: Danish is official, but English is fluently spoken by nearly all locals, especially in tourist spots like Copenhagen and Aarhus.
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET), UTC+1; observes daylight saving with +1 hour from late March to late October.
- Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Type C/F/K plugs (Europlug and Danish schuko variants)
- Emergency Number: 112 for police, medical, or fire assistance; 114 for non-emergency police matters
- Tipping: Not customary as service is included; round up bills or add 5-10% for exceptional service at restaurants.
- Water: Tap water is safe, clean, and high-quality throughout Denmark; refill bottles freely at public fountains.
- Pharmacies: Apoteker shops are widespread; look for the red A sign. After-hours service available via emergency pharmacies.