Interest in Denmark holidays has rocketed in recent years, thanks in part to a new generation of clever chefs, some rather addictive online dramas and a little thing called hygge. The world’s collective imaginations are captivated by the wild landscapes and elegant designs of this southernmost Nordic country.
With its territory split between mainland Europe (the Jutland peninsula, which borders northern Germany) and a collection of islands that shoulder up to Sweden (the largest, Zealand, is where you’ll find the capital city, Copenhagen), this famously cosmopolitan nation is an eclectic mixture of graceful sophistication and down-to-earth enjoyment. Although in the summer you might want to make like the Danes and head straight to the coast for some bracing northern sun and sea, holidays to Denmark will almost certainly include some time in Copenhagen. From its soaring modern opera house and historic palaces, to the sculpture of Hans Christian Andersen’s famed Little Mermaid and the twinkling lights of the Tivoli Gardens amusement park, there’s more than enough to do here to fill several city breaks.
There’s some fantastic shopping and plenty of world-class restaurants – or you can just take a seat along the picturesque harbour and watch the well-dressed world go by. Look further afield and you’ll find the medieval city of Odense and the art museums of Aarhus, not to mention the fantastic sports and relaxation opportunities offered by Denmark’s idyllic beaches and woodlands. Copenhagen is also connected to Malmo in Sweden by the Oresund Bridge – so if you find you’ve got a taste for Scandinavia, there’s plenty more to discover just a ten-minute drive away.
Midsummer
With beach bonfires from 10pm and a jovial night of drinking, eating and singing ahead, the longest day of the year is an unmissable Scandinavian party.
Christmas Eve
For a festive escape when the cities are chocolate-box pretty, book yourself a classic Danish Christmas Eve dinner, featuring roast goose and red cabbage.
Roskilde Festival
Held at the end of June, this festival has grown into a major musical appointment, so far featuring the likes of Eminem and Sir Paul McCartney – and a popular naked run.
Go wild at theme parks
From the historic Tivoli Gardens to the top-rated water slides and rollercoasters of Djurs Sommerland, the Danes love their theme parks. Legoland is just the beginning.
Tour on two wheels
Denmark’s rolling countryside and nationwide network of superbly-maintained bike paths, built according to passionate green principles, make a cycle holiday here an absolute dream.
Prioritise paintings
Danish painters, sculptors and designers are finding new popularity worldwide, so set aside time to explore the extraordinary riches of the country’s museums and galleries.