“Once we were brutal Vikings. Now we are one of the world’s most peaceful societies. Welcome to Denmark.” —denmark.dk
There couldn’t be a better description for Denmark, which has a thrilling history filled with Vikings, warring kings, and more. Today, it is a prime destination, with countless ways to enjoy Denmark’s charming atmosphere as well as its rich history.
We highly recommend visiting Denmark, especially if you have Danish ancestors. Heritage tourism is an incredible way to experience life as your ancestors knew it and soak in the history of your cultural heritage. Here is a list of 24 things to do in Denmark when you visit!
Asterisks (*) mark UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or locations deemed as having high historical importance.
Cultural Experiences You Won’t Want to Miss
Denmark offers the perfect mix of culture and history, with many of its most popular attractions still in operation after centuries. Visit some of these destinations to get a taste for Danish culture.
Nyhavn
This port is filled with colorful, historic homes and restaurants. It is the perfect place to mingle with locals and enjoy the atmosphere of Copenhagen.
Bakken
Denmark is home to the world’s oldest amusement park still in operation. It is known by locals as Bakken and opened in 1583.Just think of the generations of people who have worked in and visited Bakken.
Copenhagen Opera House
The Copenhagen Opera House is the national opera house of Denmark. It is located in the center of Copenhagen on the Holmen area.
Den Gamle By
Known as the old town of Aarhus, Den Gamle By aims to recreate the last 500 years in Denmark. Staff are dressed in historically accurate clothing, and there are distinct sections for different eras, with shops, museums, gardens, and more.
Impressive Architecture in Denmark
Denmark has no shortage of outstanding castles, cathedrals, and more. Here are some of our top choices.
Rosenborg Castle
Rosenborg is famous for three life-size lion statues that guard the throne. It is also home to a breathtaking collection of venetian glass and Denmark’s crown jewels.
*Kronborg Castle
Known for being Elsinore, the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, this Renaissance castle overlooks the narrow waterway separating Denmark and Sweden, called a sound. Thanks to the strategic location of Kronborg Castle, Denmark controlled the sound, which became a source of income and political power.
*Roskilde Cathedral
With construction beginning in the 12th century,the Roskilde Cathedral is one of the first Gothic cathedrals made of brick. It inspired the spread of the style throughout Europe.
Amalienborg Palace
At the current home of Denmark’s royal family, you will see the royal guard standing watch. Visit the museum for a look into the lives of Danish royalty.
Frederiksborg Castle
Legitimately built in an attempt to show off, Frederiksborg Castle does just that. It is the largest Nordic Renaissance complex, and it is surrounded by intricate gardens.
The Round Tower
This 17th-century observatory tower is the oldest functioning building of its kind in Europe. It is now open to visitors and amateur astronomers.
Danish Museums and Historic Sites
These historic sites in Denmark allow you to catch a glimpse of the past. Take the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the lives your Danish ancestors led.
National Museum of Denmark
The National Museum of Denmark is actually a collection of museums that chronicle the history of Denmark and its people. Visit its website to choose from among all 20 of its locations.
Viking Ship Museum
See five real Viking ships, test your skills with Viking crafts, and even sail on a traditional Nordic boat during the summer months.
*Jelling
The Jelling burial mounds are a relic of pagan Nordic culture. The white church that is also in Jelling provides evidence of the later conversion to Christianity that began in the 10th century.
Lindholm Høje
Lindholm Høje is home to some truly amazing Viking artifacts dating back to the Iron Age,including burial grounds with 682 graves and 150 stone-carved ships, a preserved village, and a museum with relics from the Viking era.
Funen Village
Step into an 18th-century village, complete with a school, inn, watermill, windmill, and masonry. You will also get a taste of traditional Danish farming with gardens, old varieties of fruit trees, and livestock.
Hans Christian Andersen’s House
Hans Christian Andersen is famous worldwide for his fairy tales, which include “The Little Mermaid,” “The Ugly Duckling,” and “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” Visit his home in Copenhagen, and learn about the inspirations for his tales.
Stunning Sceneries in Denmark
Be sure to make time to see some of nature’s wonders in Denmark. Some of these landscapes show signs of the people who have visited.Others display millions of years of history. All are remarkable and worth a stop.
*Par Force Hunting Landscape
The forests Store Dyrehave and Gribskov were used by Danish kings and queens for hunting with hounds. In the enchanting woods, you will find hunting lanes laid out in a star and grid pattern.
*Wadden Sea
The Wadden Sea is the largest undisturbed intertidal system in the world, with a series of sand and mud flats creating a flat wetland. Here, you will find seals, porpoises, sea-grass meadows, and mussel beds, along with other wonders.
Hammerknuden
Shaped by glaciers in the last ice age,Hammerknuden provides incredible scenery. Along with the visible trails of the glaciers are buildings and ruins throughout the area from different ages.
Learn about Your Danish Ancestors
Whatever your reasons for visiting Denmark, you will love the many cultural experiences, historical marvels, and natural landscapes it has to offer. However, if you have Danish ancestors, your trip will hold special significance to you as it provides the opportunity to experience your cultural heritage and learn more about the lives of your ancestors.
Learn More about Your Danish Heritage
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