Travel Guide to Denmark

[Velimira Velikova]

Denmark Overview

According to an international survey, the Danes are the happiest bunch of people on earth! Is it the eclectic mix of charming cobble stoned streets and cutting edge modern design, or the right to use the word ‘fairy tale’ freely (and most importantly, regardless of your age), maybe the country’s hundreds cycleways? Whichever you fall in love with, we are certain that you would embrace the egalitarian spirit and relaxed, cozy lifestyle of this maritime nation.

Denmark is also the cradle of world famous culture. The sea and the light in Skagen artists gathered in the 1800s that gave us the paintings we will never forget. Louisiana near Copenhagen is one of the world's foremost museum of modern art. And who has not heard any of Hans Christian Andersen's fantastic tales, such as "Princess and the Pea"?

Denmark is the Scandinavian gateway to Europe. The stereotype of the Dane as a cheerful person that does not turn down a beer or two in the middle of the day begins to be slowly but surely replaced by a more modern individual, with its great international success in music, fashion, design and architecture. But despite this, there is still another, more laid-back attitude in Denmark, which is the Nordic nations gladly describe as "continental".

Top Destinations

Both grown ups and children are attracted by the royal charm of Denmark. Legoland in Jutland, Tivoli Gardens and Zoo in Copenhagen is given a stop on the trip for all still young at heart. And the country's vast, flat nature settings are perfect for those who want to bike on vacation. Once a Viking fishing village, Copenhagen has evolved to become a major city and a very important port in Scandinavia and Europe. Home of the Little Mermaid and the Royal Family, Copenhagen offers numerous museums, galleries, and the world famous Tivoli Gardens.

In Denmark you will find that the distances are short – and this makes it possible to combine all the atmosphere of buzzing city life with the relaxation of the beautiful Danish coastline. Clean beaches and green forests are rarely more than a half hour’s drive away. And your children can roam freely and safely, while you explore all the many cultural and artistic offerings in store.

 

For those of you who admire Hans Christian Andersen, be sure to take a trip to Odense, his birthplace, and don't miss a visit to the Hans Christian Andersen Museum.

Jutland is a great place to visit for a relaxing, country style vacation and Aalborg is a good starting point for your trip - it offers culture and history in contrast to the green and leafy countryside. Aarhus is Jutland's largest and most vibrant city, known for its young nightlife. Be sure to visit the Student Quarter, with its great ambiance, cobbled streets and a number of unique shops.

Home of the original Legoland, Billund features quite countryside populated with some beautiful lakes and forests.

Bornholm is an island full of interesting history, several unique round churches and a romantic connection to the Knights Templar and the search for the Holy Grail. For many northern Europeans, however, Bornholm is considered one of the best holiday havens for cycling and fishing.

When to go

July and August are the best times to visit, as the climate is comfortable and most of the cultural events take place in this period. Also, there are fewer crowds in late August as it is end of the vacations. Winters can be harsh.