Copenhagen is the best-known Danish city but there are many other enjoyable city breaks on offer in ... [+]
There’s no better place to experience the essence of hygge, the Danish concept that encapsulates a warm, cozy atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life, than by spending a few days in one of the country’s cities.
Denmark’s vibrant capital Copenhagen is naturally the first choice of many international visitors to Scandinavia, especially those arriving by plane. From the European cultural legacy of Aarhus to the maritime charm of Esbjerg, Denmark’s other cities offer a window into a different kind of Denmark.
Many Danish cities also point towards the future of our urban spaces. From the dry ski slope built upon a Copenhagen waste management center to the cycling-first layout of new neighborhoods, Denmark’s cities are truly forward-thinking.
Whether you’re searching for the keys to Scandinavian happiness or looking for an under-the-radar city break, these five suggestions for Danish city breaks should offer something for everyone.
Copenhagen
Denmark’s capital conjures up images of modern Scandinavian lifestyle, yet it’s packed with castles and other historic landmarks to satisfy the most curious travelers. Whether you want to dig into Denmark’s status as one of the happiest countries on earth or you’re simply looking for an enjoyable city break full of museums and top restaurant experiences, Copenhagen should be your first port of call.
A week is required to cover all of Copenhagen’s highlights, but a weekend in Copenhagen still gives you enough time for a Scandinavian taster. A visit to the historic Tivoli Gardens amusement park is a must for families, while the ornate Rosenborg Castle houses an intriguing museum filled with royal artifacts and a collection of crown jewels.
The rhythm of the bicycle serves as the heartbeat of Copenhagen, a city that’s perfect to explore on two wheels.
Cycling is the primary mode of transport for many Copenhagen locals.
Even just an hour riding around the compact central streets on a rented bike will be time well spent, serving dual purpose as orientation but also a glimpse into modern Scandinavian culture. Bike Copenhagen offers 2-hour guided tours or full-day rental for those who want to explore on their own.
A bike is also the ideal way to explore the city’s differing districts. The vibrant street art of multicultural hub Nørrebro and the trendy cafes and edgy galleries of Vesterbro are suggested trips.
Michelin stars shine from the kitchens of pioneering restaurants in what is a true culinary destination, but eating out doesn’t have to break the bank. Seek out one of the handful of food markets or enjoy the simple pleasures of the smørrebrød (open-faced sandwich) from a waterfront cafe, something many Danes do on a daily basis.
Aarhus
A former European capital of culture, Aarhus offers much of what you’ll experience in Copenhagen—genuinely unique museums, a thriving dining scene, modern architecture—but with more space to breathe.
Architectural Digest termed the city a “design lover's paradise” thanks to its multitude of architectural attractions.
The old town museum Den Gamle By has brought together historic buildings, relocated from across Denmark, while the city’s Latin Quarter dates back hundreds of years. Modern architectural attractions include the waterfront cultural center Dokk1 and residential building Isbjerget.
The photogenic old town museum 'Den Gamle By' in Aarhus, Denmark.
Aarhus Art Museum (ARoS) features globally-relevant temporary art exhibitions and a fantastic rooftop rainbow-tinted skywalk. Prehistory and anthropology take centre stage at the out-of-town Moesgaard Museum, which dives into Stone Age and Iron Age times through interactive exhibits.
Odense
Denmark’s third biggest city retains a small town feel despite possessing a rich cultural life and more than 1,000 years of history.
Home to just 200,000 people and packed with parkland, Odense makes for a relaxing alternative to Copenhagen. In fact, it’s just an 80-minute train ride from the Danish capital so an ideal choice for a day trip from Denmark’s capital.
Danish author Hans Christian Andersen wrote plays, novels, poems and even travelogues, but is best remembered for his world-famous literary fairy tales. Born into a poor Odense home, Andersen went on to become a famous cultural figure in Copenhagen and around the world. His success has long been celebrated in Odense, and the city now has a smart new museum worthy of his memory.
The new H.C. Andersen House in the historic quarter puts the focus not so much on the man, rather his fairy tales and other stories. The children's cultural center, underground museum and magical garden are a wonderful family attraction.
As one of Denmark’s oldest cities, Odense is a must-visit for history buffs. It was an important site during the Nordic Iron Age and Viking Age, demonstrated by the earth remains of a 10th-century ring fortress at nearby Nonnebakken. Archaeologists have found several artifacts from the Viking Age in the area.
Aalborg
Another city often overshadowed by the capital, Aalborg—the nation's fourth-largest city—is set to charm many American visitors with its enticing mix of history and modern attractions. With the introduction of direct flights from Newark to Aalborg by Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), accessibility to this Nordic gem has never been easier.
A simple stroll through Aalborg reveals its layered narrative. Charming cobbled streets of the old town and the imposing 16th-century Aalborg Castle together with half-timbered mansions echo its prosperous past as a city of merchants.
The modern waterfront of Aalborg, Denmark.
The revitalized waterfront tells the city’s modern story. Against the city’s historic backdrop, the waterfront landmarks including the House of Music and the Utzon Center show this isn't a city stuck in the past.
Attractions like the Aalborg Zoo, family-friendly and home to more than 100 exotic species, and the Lindholm Høje Museum, which offers intriguing insights into the city's Viking history, enrich the city's appeal.
Esbjerg
The colossal Man Meets the Sea sculpture is a true icon of this off-the-beaten-track destination’s relationship with the ocean. The row of four 9-meter-tall white figures gazing out into the North Sea symbolizes Esbjerg’s bond with the surrounding waters.
Esbjerg Art Museum and the Fisheries and Maritime Museum are the two main attractions in the city itself. The former presents the evolution of contemporary art in Denmark, while the latter provides a comprehensive overview of Esbjerg's fishing heritage and marine environment.
For nature-lovers, the trails of Nørreskoven forest or the short ferry ride to the sandy beaches and migrating birds of Fanø island are good ways to spend your time.
Billund
Unlike the cities above, Billund doesn’t feature on any list of Denmark’s biggest cities. This small town is worthy of a break for one simple reason: Legoland. Millions of people descend on Billund every year to visit the original Legoland amusement park.
Open since 1968, bits of the park are starting to show their age, but the addition of the on-site Castle Hotel has freshened up the experience. An absolute must for families, the park is split into several lands including Duploland, ideal for smaller children.
