“Once we were brutal vikings. Now we are one of the world’s most peaceful societies. Welcome to Denmark.” – denmark.dk
Not to be overly dramatic, but there’s no better description for Denmark, which has a long intriguing history of Vikings, warlords, and more. Today, it is a top travel destination in Europe with its rich cultural history, World Heritage sites, and natural beauty. If you are planning to visit, here are 8 unmissable things to do in Denmark.
Whether you are a first-time traveler, adventure seeker, or cultural enthusiast, Denmark will keep you in awe. You will also be fascinated by how walkable the city is and the hospitality of the Danish people.
Let’s dive into the 8 unique and unmissable things to do in Denmark.
Best Things to Do in Denmark
As one of the best Scandinavian countries to visit, Denmark is full of cultural sites steep in history, museums, and lots of hiking trails. From Copenhagen’s iconic attractions to the serene landscapes of Mons Klint, here are the 10 best things to do in Denmark.
1. Explore Tivoli Gardens – Unmissable Things to Do in Denmark
Best Things to Do in Denmark – Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. It’s a fun place for both kids and adults.
If you love roller coasters, The Demon and The Golden Tower will get your heart racing. If you just want to chill, try The Ferris Wheel and The Dragon Boat. Just make sure you don’t eat before hopping on the rides.
Beyond the rides, Tivoli is just a beautiful place to wander. The twinkling lights at night, the live music, and the cozy little spots to sit and enjoy the ambiance. It has this romantic, old-school charm that makes it perfect.
Food is a bit pricey, but there are plenty of options, from cute cafés to proper restaurants. Let me also add that the park maps aren’t the best, so just go with the flow and explore.
Mind you, Tivoli Gardens opens during seasons only (Easter, Summer, Halloween, and Christmas). So you can plan your visit around these periods if you want to explore the gardens.
2. Spend a Day at Nyhavn
Unmissable Things to Do in Denmark – Nyhavn
One of the unmissable things in Denmark is to explore the picturesque waterfront harbor, Nyhavn. To be honest, Nyhavn is a top tourist attraction in Denmark.
However, everything is pricey from the restaurants to souvenir shops lining the canal. Plus, pickpockets abound because of the frequent crowds, so keep an eye on your stuff.
But even with all that, something is charming about this place. The colorful buildings, the old wooden boats, and the shops make it a great spot to wander, take beautiful photos, and enjoy Denmark’s ambiance.
I recommend a boat tour here. It’s hands down the best way to see the city from the water. Also, while you’re strolling around, look out for those super cool vacuum-powered trash bins. It’s only in Denmark that even garbage disposal is an experience.
Check out: The Most Expensive Countries to Visit in Europe.
3. Walk along the Historic Streets of Aarhus
Scenic View of Den Gamle By in Aarhus
Aarhus is more of a hidden gem in Denmark compared to Copenhagen. It is the second largest city in Denmark with a rich Viking heritage making it one of the unmissable things to do in Denmark.
Start your day early to beat the crowds and immerse in the experience fully. I recommend a guided tour, which is a great way to learn about the history of the place. You should expect a mix of sculptures, street art (each with a fascinating backstory), and even a rooftop spot you’d never find on your own.
Your tour guide will also take you to iconic landmarks like Den Gamle By (Old Town), The Cathedral, the ARoS Art Museum, and the Viking Museum. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon an art festival for an extra treat.
I’ll advise you not to eat at the department store, though. Wear comfortable shoes if you are going to Aarhus as you will walk a lot on your tour.
4. Experience Natural Beauty at Møns Klint
Møns Klint at Sunset
If you’re up for stunning views and a bit of a workout, Møns Klint is the place to be. Just an hour’s drive south of Copenhagen, these dramatic limestone cliffs can be likened to the White Cliffs of Dover in England.
The 497-step descent from the top to the beach is worth it, but be mindful of the tide as it can get tricky. You need to wear sturdy shoes to enable you to enjoy the walk up and down the cliff. Møns Klint is not well signposted, so I’ll advise you to bring a Google Map.
In addition, you can search for fossils at the shoreline and take incredible photos at the top of the cliffs. Then, end your trip with a coffee at the cozy café at the top.
5. Explore the Kronborg Castle – Unmissable Things to Do in Denmark
Kronborg Castle also known as Hamlet’s Castle
The Kronborg Castle is a popular historic landmark in Denmark, hence exploring the castle is an unmissable thing to do in Denmark. It is a World Heritage Site and is said to have inspired Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” Also, the castle is packed with history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views.
Start with the casements which are dark, spooky, and fascinating. Bring a flashlight for a better look. The castle itself is grand, with richly decorated rooms, chandeliers, and a magnificent chapel. The tapestry exhibits and royal apartments offer a glimpse into Danish history.
The castle grounds are just as stunning, perfect for a picnic or a quiet moment in well-tended gardens. There’s a lot of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. You should see the underground caverns too. But watch your steps because the caverns are not well-lit.
Getting to the castle is easy with trains and a short bus ride. It is definitely worth the trip.
6. Take a Day Trip to Frederiksborg Castle
Frederiksborg Castle
If you visit Kronborg Castle, you should also visit its counterpart, Frederiksborg Castle not far from it. This red-brick Renaissance castle is one of the best places to visit in Copenhagen.
First, soak in the exterior, stunning with towers and a lake making it one of Denmark’s most photogenic spots. Then, move inside to explore the beautifully preserved chapel, intricate ceilings, and historic portraits that bring centuries of history to life. You can even see a modern art exhibition on the third floor.
Don’t miss the castle gardens, a perfect place for a peaceful stroll and some Instagram-worthy photos. If you’re lucky, you might hear the bells chime as you wander the grounds.
Finish your exploration with a great meal at Rababgaarden, a nearby cafe.
7. Visit the National Museum of Denmark
The National Museum of Denmark
History buffs and families with kids would love the National Museum of Denmark. It is one of the top things to do when visiting Denmark. This place brings Denmark’s entire history to life, from the Vikings to modern times, with interactive and engaging exhibits. It’s massive, so give yourself at least 3 hours to experience its offerings.
One of the standout exhibits is the Viking section, especially the Viking Sorceress exhibition, which feels like stepping into a horror movie. The videos telling the stories of the Volva (Viking Sorceress) are beautifully done and transport you straight into Norse mythology. There’s also a fun, interactive game about how money works. A great activity for both adults and kids.
I’d say the museum is a perfect rainy-day activity, but honestly, it’s worth seeing no matter the weather. Tickets cost 140 Danish Krone (about €20) for adults, and kids under 17 go free which is great value for how much there is to see. There’s also a café and lockers for your stuff, making the visit easy and comfortable.
If you’re planning your day in Denmark, I’d recommend dedicating a full morning or afternoon here. It’s well worth it.
8. Enjoy a Weekend at LEGOLAND
LEGOLAND Billund
One of the famous places to visit and one of the best things to do in Denmark is having a fun weekend at LEGOLAND with family. This theme park is packed with thrilling rides, interactive attractions, and an extra dose of charm if you visit during the Christmas season.
The park is mostly crowded, so I recommend you get a Q-bot at the entrance to the park. The Q-bot allows you to do other things while you queue because most rides have a 15-20-minute wait. If you don’t get a Q-bot, arrive early and head straight to the big rides.
The SEAT Driving School is a must for kids. They get a mini-driving lesson in Lego cars and even a laminated license. Kids may also love The Temple, a laser-shooting game, and the Polar X-plorer (with its 10-foot drop). Bring a waterproof jacket as some rides will drench you.
Yes, food is pricey here but I found the Tex-Mex nachos and Asian restaurant near Ninjago pretty decent. There are healthy snack options, too. Also, don’t skip the live shows which are incredibly fun for both adults and kids.
Also read: Best Countries to Visit with Infants
Unmissable Things to Do in Denmark – Final Thoughts
Denmark is a country with a rich mix of history, nature, and modern charm. So whether you are exploring the rollercoaster rides at Tivoli Gardens, walking along the historic streets of Aarhus or hiking the stunning cliffs of Møns Klint, there’s something memorable for every traveler.
From Viking history to amazing theme parks, Denmark has a way of making you feel at home while offering you a great adventure. Hence, if you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, add Denmark to your bucket list.
Have you been to Denmark? Share your favorite experiences in the comments!
