Denmark Travel Guide
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Taking a walk through Copenhagen or just about any town in the Scandinavian country of Denmark, and it becomes easy to see why it’s so often referred to as one of the happiest nations on the planet, with some of the best quality of life. This country boasts ample civic spaces of a harmonious nature, juxtaposed by bustling cities whose world-class transportation systems are a perfect complement to the intimate feel of the region as a whole. Here you can dine in some of the most amazing spots Europe has to offer, and delight in the historical architecture awaiting you around each and every corner.
The peak season for a Denmark vacation runs from late June through August, when the weather is magnificent and people pour into the streets. You’ll also do well by finding that most museums and tourist attractions keep longer hours, as well as increased opportunities for discount airfare to Denmark. The obvious downside is the throngs of fellow travelers that will be celebrating the midsummer alongside you. Some balance is to be found, however, when toward the end of August Danish children return to school; the tourist activity doesn’t diminish, but the crowds are smaller nonetheless due to a decreased presence from locals.
Denmark has been a landmark European destination for so long that it’s had a great deal of time to develop a rich and diverse offering of accommodations to its visitors. For those on a budget, there are a wide variety of hostel options to be found in any city of moderate size. Slightly above that price point is a chain of unmanned hotels, such as Zleep, where travelers can get an inexpensive, private room for the night; clean yet no frills accommodations at a reasonable price. Perfect for those looking to have some money left over to spend out in the city. If money isn’t a concern, then you’re certainly not without options to indulge in Danish luxury. At the (Le Méridien) Palace Hotel in Copenhagen’s town hall square, you can be pampered with five-star service and have the best of the Denmark’s capitol right at your doorstep.
Spring through autumn is when Denmark is at its best, as the cities are overtaken with activity and the countryside is at the peak of natural beauty. No matter what part of Denmark you’re in, odds are that it’s extremely bike-friendly, with urban and rural trails for both cycling beginners and enthusiasts alike. The whole family really shouldn’t miss the chance to spend a day at Legoland, a theme park which pays homage to one of the world’s most popular toys, the Lego building block, which was invented in the Danish town of Billund in 1949. Dining is also a top draw for travelers to Denmark, and although many of the top end restaurants can be cost-prohibitive for those on an extreme budget, a great deal of high-quality dishes are readily available from street vendors and smaller family-owned establishments if one knows where to look. To find these it’s best to stay out of the city interior, and don’t be afraid to ask around; Danish locals are well-known for their courtesy and helpful dispositions.
In getting around Denmark, the overwhelming majority of long distance travel is done via the DSB, or Danish State Rail; however, a number of long distance bus companies are also available. Each region throughout Denmark operates its own public transportation company (trains, buses and ferries), making it necessary to inquire locally upon arrival at your destination, or by way of the online travel planner Rejseplanen. Travelling by bike or rental car should pose little challenge, but is really only a requirement if you’re looking to spend some time in the deep country.