Denmark consistently ranks at the top of the “World Happiness Report”, as one of the happiest countries in the world.
A couple of uniquely Danish philosophies may drive this “happiness”. Most Danes embrace the “Hygge” phenomenon – which encourages people to enjoy life’s simple things. Its a sense of bringing light, warmth and friendship together; trying to make things cozy and happy. The second philosophy is “the law of Jante”, which basically means living simply and not showing off material things or wealth. Both of these ways of life help drive a friendly, warm, and polite culture.
Although the smallest of the Scandinavian countries, Denmark one ruled all of Norway and much of southern Sweden. And before that, was the home of fierce Viking Warriors. About six million inhabitants currently live in Denmark, many in and around the capital city of Copenhagen. Anywhere you are in Denmark, you are never more than 30 miles from the Sea. Scenery ranges from rolling green hills, thatched roof farmhouses, beech forests and whitewashed churches, to colorful harbors and impressive towering castles! Today, Danish design, architecture and Nordic cuisine are putting Denmark on the world map.
Danes are easy going, polite and with a great sense of humor
Overall, Danish people are more concerned with the greater good of the group than about their own individual accomplishments. They tend to observe the rules, and are punctual and precise. Typically they are very direct (don’t ‘sugar coat’ things!) and can be quite outspoken and lively. Danes are warm and welcoming to visitors, and enjoy showing off their “Hygge” lifestyle.
Visiting Denmark
Summer is the best time to visit, with 18-20 hour sunlit days and warm temperatures. ‘Shoulder season’ months of May and September can also be very nice weather and with fewer crowds.
The capital city of Copenhagen is a great place to start exploring this wonderful country.
This super cool, cosmopolitan city feels more small town than big city, and is super easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Copenhagen is filled with bold architecture and cutting edge design, as well as some of the best restaurants in the world! Along with some great museums, picturesqe pedestrian areas, and the “Little Mermaid”, Copenhagen has so many fun things to do. Here’s a few of our favorites:
A Canal boat ride is a fantastic way to hear about the history, and see the architecture of this great city. Its a comfortable way to get around and will give you a great overview.
Enjoy the evening at Tivoli Gardens, with all its twinkly lights. You will feel like you are in a fairytale! You will find plenty to do at this ‘2nd oldest amusement park in the world’. And when you’ve worked up an appetite, head to “Gemyse”, a beautiful restaurant in a greenhouse!
Nyhavn, is a 17th-century harbor, and is probably the most iconic landmark in Copenhagen. Lined with wooden ships, modern boats, multicolored townhouses, and seafood restaurants, this port is a must-see.
A great place to relax after a day of sightseeing, is “CopenHot” an al fresco spa! A super cool, outdoor hot tub and sauna Spa. No fancy facilities or massages here, but the cluster of wooden hot tubs and saunas overlook the water. Barrel-wood hot tubs are filled with clean, mineral-rich saltwater and heated from below by a fire. The coveted ‘sailing spas’ fit five people in a floating hot tub that navigate the canals. And panoramic saunas overlook the harbor. Very Danish, very relaxing, unforgettable!
Copenhagen has many great choices of accommodations at all levels. For a beautiful and very Danish feeling option, we love the Admiral Hotel, located on the waterfront and within walking distance to Nyhavn and many top attractions of the city.
Outside the capital city, there are many other great places to go and things to see
Aarhus is another fantastic Danish city that is definitely worth a visit. A smooth and efficient train ride will whisk you from Copenhagen to Aarhus in about 3 hours. Aarhus is an exciting small-ish city that is very walkable and friendly! The Art Museum is one of Aarhus most iconic spots, and has a super cool rooftop sculpture that you can walk inside! Another great place to explore is the Old Town Open Air Museum – one of Denmark;s biggest attractions. You can literally walk through time to learn about the ways of life throughout Denmark’s history.
And if someone in your tribe like Castles, they will be very happy in Denmark. There are many gorgeous castles to explore throughout the country. The Frederiksborg Castle is spectacular and is an easy day trip (by train) from Copenhagen. You can immerse yourself in kings and queens history as you tour the rooms of the castle, and then relax and “smell the flowers” in the beautiful gardens all surrounding it. Kronborg Castle is also a “must see”! Sometimes referred to as “Hamlet’s Castle”, this is a magnificent place (and a UNESCO World Heritage site). And if you are visiting between June and August, the castle will ‘come alive’ with interactive live performances.
There are also many charming and beautiful islands to explore throughout Denmark. The green island of Fyn was named by National Geographic as “one of Europe’s best secret villages”. Only about an hour west of Copenhagen, Fyn is an easy (and highly recommended!) trip. And one of the main towns on the island, Odense, is the birthplace of arguably one of the world’s most famous fairy tale writers, Hans Cristian Andersen. Exploring the cobblestone streets of this town makes you feel like you are in a fairy tale!
These are just a few of our favorite Danish places. There truly is something for everyone here! To get inspired and learn more about this beautiful country, here’s a great place to start: https://www.visitdenmark.com/