Denmark Backpacking and Digital Nomad Travel Tips

Known as the world’s happiest country, Denmark is a Scandinavian country which is located in Northern Europe and borders the Baltic Sea and the North Sea. It is famous for its rich culture, history, and tranquil landscapes. The Danish Archipelago consists of a large landscape and several beautiful islands. You can get a glimpse of the cool Scandinavian lifestyle, tranquility, great culture panorama, stunning landscapes, and flamboyant nightlife during your stay in Denmark.

This backpacking travel guide for Denmark will provide a guideline for your trip and tell you about places to see during your vacation period in the realm of landscapes, islands, castles, and historical places.

My Denmark Story

Denmark at a Glace

Language

Danish

Currency

Danish Krone

Best Money Exchange

ATMs

Local Dishes

Aebleflæsk

Drones Allowed

Yes

Top Phone Providers

TDC | Vectone Mobile | Oister

Is water safe to drink

Yes

Vaccinations

Check CDC

Car Sharing Options

Taxi 4x27

Power Plug Type

E and K

Peak Season

May-August

Country Code

+45

Backpacker Friendly

Yes

Hitch hiker Friendly

Yes

Credit Cards Accepted

Yes

Preferred Payment Method

Cash/Card

Low Season

November to April

Police Number

114

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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Denmark

1.Copenhagen

The capital of Denmark, explore renaissance architecture, interesting historical landmarks, Garden of the King at Rosenborg Castle and attend vibrant festivals.

2. Aarhus

This charming city serves as a principal port of Denmark and is a great spot for the world’s freshest seafood.

3.Aalborg

Aalborg has an old-world charm and is considered a quaint university town. It hosts the largest carnival in Northern Europe

4. Esbjerg

Esbjerg is the largest city in the region offering several picturesque views, take a ferry ride to North Sea Island and enjoy long beaches and gigantic dunes.

5. Roskilde

Roskilde boasts numerous historical sites that include 11th century Viking vessels and boatyard. Nearly 130,000 visitors join the Roskilde festival from all over the globe to enjoy eight days of viking art, music, and food.

Other Things to See and Do in Denmark

1. Odense

It is the 3rd largest city of Denmark brimming with beautiful attractions.. You can visit the home of Hans Christian Anderson, Brandts Museum, and Odense Zoo, known as the best zoo in entire Europe

2. Elsinore (Helsingor)

Also called Home of Hamlet, Helsingor is famous for housing the 15th century old, Kronborg Castle, which served as the setting of Hamlet by Shakespeare and M/S Maritime Museum of Denmark where you can enjoy the glimpse of 600-years-old sea history of Denmark.

3. Bornholm

Bornholm is the most beautiful and popular summer vacation destination of Denmark. It is a small island in the Baltic Sea where you can enjoy a romantic walk on cliffs, beaches, and woodlands. The city also houses Kadeau, a Michelin-starred restaurant, which makes it one of the most frequented food destinations in Denmark.

4. Skagen

It is a port town with the jaw-dropping and mesmerizing natural landscapes. A tourist can stand between the two seas, Kattegat and Skagerrak which is the major attraction of Skagen, because who doesn’t want cool photo. You can also visit Sand-Covered Church, Skagen’s Museum, and Skagen Odde Nature Centre.

5. Ribe

The oldest city of Scandinavia allows you to experience its rich history while walking its quaint alleyways. You can see the orthodox Viking era at The Viking Museum and Viking Center and the 1st Christian church of Denmark, Ribe Cathedral which is almost 100 years old.

6. Litoměřice

Litoměřice is a royal city where the colorful Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque buildings can be found in its center and it boasts a network of underground tunnels which are open to the public for exploration.

7. Frederiksberg

Frederiksberg is an affluent town of Denmark full of parks and green spaces. Its attractions are also considered to be a part of Copenhagen like Copenhagen Zoo which is in Frederiksberg.

8. Sonderborg

It is a historical city with modern vibes. The waterfront of Als Sund is a beautiful place for a walk

Typical Costs

Transportation

Train travel can cost around $85 and bus fare starts around $45. To save money, booking ahead a good option, ticket prices increase closer to the departure date. Local trains and buses can cost $4 for a two-zone ticket. You can also find budget flights to and from Denmark.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Denmark is extremely expensive. Hotels in major cities start from around $66/night. Expect to pay around $130 to book an entire apartment or home. You can also go for shared rooms or Airbnb which cost around $48. The cheapest accommodation in Denmark will be hostel dorms which charge around $29 per night. You can also stay at a campsite which can cost between $8-$14. For that, you’ll need the Camping Key Europe Card that costs around $16.

Food

Food is also expensive in Denmark. You can enjoy a typical Danish meal at a ‘cheap’ restaurant for about $15-$30. There are also plenty of street food options such as hot dogs for only $5. You can find pizza and kebab shops which will be the cheapest option for eating out. If you plan to cook your own meals, you’ll be spending around $50 per week on groceries.

Activities

You can visit museums on average for about $10. There are numerous full-day activities to try and a beautiful countryside to explore which will cost around $5 or more, via a tour package.

Suggested Budget

How much does it cost to travel around Denmark? This section details the suggested daily budget in Denmark 2020:

Budgeting Tips

Denmark is a super-expensive country but you can save some money on your trip by Following a few tips:

1. Advance Booking

If you book flights and accommodations in advance, especially during the holiday season, it can save you 50%.

2. Smart Packing

Cut the additional cost of carrying excessive luggage by packing light. Just a backpack is all you need for a week long stay.

3. Money Exchange

If you don’t have special cards that have zero international transaction fees, go to a money exchange, or just withdraw straight from the ATM.

4. Tourist Trap Prices

Choose where you eat carefully to avoid tourist trap prices. Eat street food like hot dogs, pizzas, sandwiches, and sausages that cost about $6-$10.

5. Free Things

Denmark is packed with cultural and historical spots like museums, art galleries, centers, landscapes, gardens, and beaches which can be visited for free.

7. Water Bottle

While exploring attractions, riding, or walking, you need to keep yourself hydrated,buying water can be expensive, so keep a refillable water bottle with you.

8. Orange Tickets

The Danish rail system offers cheap tickets via an online system called Orange tickets which cost only 1/3 of what you get on the railway station.

5. Sharing

Ride sharing and staying with locals can also save a lot of money. Blablacar app operates all around Europe and you can find ride-sharing options in Denmark. Accommodation is quite expensive and Couch-surfing can save you a lot of money during your stay in Denmark.

Where To Stay

Here is a list of places I have stayed, I was happy with my stays here!

Copenhagen

Coming Soon

Aarhus

Coming Soon

Aalborg

Coming Soon

Esbjerg

Coming Soon

Roskilde

Coming Soon

Other

Coming Soon

Nomad Coworking And Working Spots

You cant be a digital nomad without wifi. So below are some spots where one can work comfortably. Dont forget to check my nomad lunch break section for places you can still visit and/or work from during lunch. #nomadworkspace

Copenhagen

Coworking Copenhagen: Address

Republikken: Address

Prolog Coffee Bar: Address

Aarhus

DISIE Social Innovators Hub: Address

Fellow Workspace: Address

La Cabra Coffee Roasters: Address

Aalborg

Aalborg Syndikatet: Address

Keibyuti: Address

Cafe Penny Lane: Address

Esbjerg

Kosmopol: Address

Voxeværket Esbjerg: Address

Espresso House: Address

Roskilde

COWORK-Roskilde ApS: Address

Vækstfabrikken Roskilde: Address

Kaffekilden: Address

Other

Coming Soon

Nomad Lunch Breaks

Balancing work and exploring can be tough, here are some activities or places you can visit during a lunch hour. You will see the words hotspot, wifi, or break which indicates what you can use to work there, or if you cant and its time for a work break. #nomadlunchbreak

Copenhagen

Coming Soon

Aarhus

Coming Soon

Aalborg

Coming Soon

Esbjerg

Coming Soon

Roskilde

Coming Soon

Other

Coming Soon

How To Get Around

Denmark has several historic and beautiful cities that you can explore using the different transportation options available. For a convenient traveling experience, you should learn about different modes mentioned below:

Metro

Metro Lines M1 and M2, connect the airport with the city center in Copenhagen, serve 22 stations with 9 stations underground, operating 24/7. You can purchase tickets from the stations and will be heavily fined if traveling without a ticket. With the Copenhagen City Pass, you have unlimited travel on the metro, local trains, buses, and water buses

RideSharing

Taxis are not cheap in Denmark and fares are high, avoid if possible.

Bicycling

Bicycling is a cheap alternative to driving and the most common means of transportation in Denmark

Trains

Train stations serve airport shuttle and intercity trains. Three main types of trains in Denmark include the Regional (Re), InterCity (IC), and InterCity Lyn (ICL). Regional trains connect local networks to the national network and IC and ICL serve the same routes. Trains to other cities run every 30 minutes from Copenhagen Central Station and to the south and west of Sweden every 20 minutes. Purchasing tickets in advance can save a considerable discount.

Bus

Travelling by bus is cheaper, compared to trains and there is no need to purchase tickets in advance.

Airlines

Due to broad rail and road networks in Denmark, there is no need to travel by air within the country and therefore, the domestic flights are somewhat limited in Denmark.

Boat

Harbor of Copenhagen operates regular ferry services connecting Copenhagen to other nearby countries. There are 4 lines of service have 10 stops and serve both commuter ferries and leisure trips. Plus, metro and bus tickets are transferable to water buses.

Resources

When To Go

The best time to visit Denmark is in the Summer during June when the days are long and you can make the most of your trip. The warm weather is great for outdoor activities, sightseeing, beaches, and boat tours. The temperature in June is pleasant without the humidity that Denmark experiences in Spring. You can also plan your visit in July and August to enjoy most of the outdoor activities denmark has to offer. However, July and August are the peak months for tourists and the country becomes pretty crowded.

Common Questions About Denmark

What are the must-visit attractions in Denmark?

Some must-visit attractions in Denmark include the historic city of Copenhagen, the fairy-tale-like castles of Kronborg and Frederiksborg, the picturesque Nyhavn Harbor, the iconic Little Mermaid statue, and the ancient Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde.

What is the best time to visit Denmark?

The best time to visit Denmark is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is mild, and the country comes alive with outdoor festivals and events. However, spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) can also be pleasant with fewer crowds.

How is the transportation system in Denmark?

Denmark has an excellent transportation system, including an extensive network of trains, buses, and ferries. The capital city, Copenhagen, has a well-connected metro system, and renting a bike is a popular and convenient way to get around in many cities.

What are some traditional Danish dishes I must try?

Some traditional Danish dishes to try include smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), frikadeller (Danish meatballs), flæskesteg (roast pork), rugbrød (rye bread), and æbleskiver (round pancakes served with jam).

Are there any visa requirements for visiting Denmark?

Denmark is a part of the Schengen Area, which means that visitors from many countries, including the United States, can enter for tourism purposes without a visa and stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, it’s always best to check the latest visa requirements for your specific country of residence.

What are some popular day trips from Copenhagen?

Popular day trips from Copenhagen include visiting the historic city of Roskilde to see the Viking Ship Museum and Roskilde Cathedral, exploring the charming town of Helsingør to visit Kronborg Castle, and taking a trip to the beautiful island of Mon to see the stunning chalk cliffs at Møns Klint.

Is English widely spoken in Denmark?

Yes, English is widely spoken and understood in Denmark, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Danes are generally proficient in English, making it easy for travelers to communicate and get around.

What is the currency used in Denmark?

The currency used in Denmark is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available throughout the country for cash withdrawals.

Are there any unique cultural customs or etiquette in Denmark?

In Denmark, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and say “tak” (thank you) when receiving services. Danes value punctuality and respecting personal space. It’s also common to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.

Are there any specific safety tips for travelers in Denmark?

Denmark is generally a safe country for travelers. However, it’s always recommended to take normal safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, using reputable transportation services, and staying aware of your surroundings, particularly in urban areas.

How To Stay Safe and Aware of Scams

Denmark is said to be one of the best countries in the world when it comes to safety and security. Tourists do not have to worry about scams and crimes here. However, you need to follow basic safety tips to keep safe from petty crimes:

1. Pickpockets

Pickpockets and purse-snatchers have been operating in the busy areas of Denmark like train or bus stations, shopping malls, etc. Keep your valuables hidden while traveling in such areas.

2. Thieves

Thieves are likely to operate in busy lobbies of hotels and in cafes and restaurants. Keep your belongings hidden and safe and also, be extra careful in festivals and events which are extremely crowded.

3. Rural Areas

Rural areas of Denmark are less safe than urban areas and emergency services are slower to reach these areas in case of a medical emergency or car accident. Always keep a flashlight, first aid kit, and supplies including food, water, and blankets in the car for emergencies.

4. Bird poo scam

Victims are usually splashed by a substance and then strangers offer help and one gets away with your valuables.

5. Fake Police

Travelers might be asked for their IDs by some shady police officers who then ask for money. If you offer to go to the local police station, the fake police officers run away immediately.

Packing List

Necessities you should bring while traveling to Denmark can be different depending on the season you are visiting. Here’s the packing list that includes all the things you’ll need to enjoy the trip without any inconveniences: