Top Cities to Explore in Denmark

Viking Fjords, Historic Museums, and Fresh Fish

Denmark has many beautiful and historic cities worth visiting at any time of year, though your experience may vary with the seasons. Fortunately, traveling quickly and easily from city to city in Denmark is manageable, thanks to several transportation options available between most of them. Moreover, many Danish cities feature large pedestrian zones in their central districts, making shopping and soaking up the atmosphere an effortless and enjoyable task.

From Copenhagen to Esbjerg, the following cities offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a fan of outdoor adventures, the sights and experiences you’ll find in Denmark are unique and captivating.

Copenhagen

Founded in 1167, Copenhagen is Denmark’s capital, evolving into a modern melting pot of cozy cafes, stunning architecture, and fascinating historical landmarks. The city’s expansive harbor faces Øresund, the 10-mile-wide waterway separating Denmark from Sweden. Consequently, the waterfront views alone make Copenhagen a must-see destination in the region.

Moreover, entertainment options abound, with a plethora of free activities available throughout the year. Whether you’re exploring the King’s Garden at Rosenborg Castle or participating in free events like the Copenhagen Pride Festival or Midsummer’s Eve celebrations, you’re guaranteed an enjoyable experience in this vibrant city.

Aarhus

Aarhus is a delightful city and Denmark’s principal port, making it an excellent location for indulging in some of the world’s freshest seafood. Situated on the east coast of Jutland, about a three-hour drive from Copenhagen, Aarhus offers enjoyable accessibility by bus, boat, or air as well.

Attractions in Aarhus include vibrant nightlife, inviting sidewalk cafes, and significant architectural sites rich in cultural history. After sunset, you can dance the night away in clubs like Train, Glazzhuset, or Musikcafeen, or enjoy a casual drink at local bars such as Herr Bartels or The Römer.

Aalborg

Aalborg is one of the few cities in Denmark that isn’t primarily focused on tourism, allowing it to retain its authentic old-world charm as a quaint university town. With a history dating back to 700 A.D., Aalborg also hosts the largest carnival in Northern Europe and is among the northernmost cities on this list.

Make sure to capture your experience with stunning photos of remarkable sites such as Limfjord, a North Sea fjord well-known to Danes since the Viking era.

Don’t miss a visit to the Aalborg Historical Museum, established in 1863, or the Lindholm Hoje Museum situated at the archaeological dig site that unveiled ancient Viking internment areas.

Esbjerg

If you’re seeking fascinating Danish cities, look no further than Esbjerg, the largest city in the region. This bustling port city in southwest Jutland provides picturesque views, abundant shopping opportunities, diverse entertainment options, and remarkable museums.

From Esbjerg, the island of Fanø is just a ferry ride away, inviting tourists to relish long, sandy beaches and expansive dunes.

Roskilde

With a population of just 50,000 people, Roskilde remains an intriguing destination on your journey through Denmark. Located merely 19 miles west of Copenhagen, Roskilde offers numerous historical sites, including 11th-century Viking vessels and an active boatyard close to the harbor.

Each year in June and July, Roskilde Festival attracts over 130,000 visitors from all over the globe to enjoy eight days of music, art, activism, and events featuring more than 180 acts, delicious food, and engaging entertainment.

During the quieter times of the year, Roskilde retains its charm, providing a variety of great attractions for casual tourists. For a unique experience, consider venturing west to the Land of Legends, where actors reenact Stone Age and Viking life at an interactive open-air museum.

Odense

As Denmark’s third-largest city, Odense is situated over 100 miles southwest of Copenhagen. With a population exceeding 200,000 in 2017, this thriving city boasts numerous attractions year-round. From its award-winning zoo to exceptional museums like Brandts and the home of Hans Christian Andersen, you’ll discover something captivating to engage in during your visit. Additionally, there is a city beach conveniently accessible if you’re exploring during the summer months.

Elsinore (Helsingør)

Recognized as the “Home of Hamlet,” Helsingør (Elsinore in English) is located in eastern Denmark along the shores of the Øresund strait. The city’s most popular attraction, Kronborg Castle, a 15th-century castle, served as the setting for Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.”

However, consider visiting the M/S Maritime Museum of Denmark or the Culture Yard, where you’ll glimpse over 600 years of Danish maritime history. Additionally, the summer residence of the Queen of Denmark, Fredensborg Castle, is also conveniently located near Elsinore, perfect for a day-trip exploring this architectural gem.