How (and why) to get off the beaten path in Denmark
When you think about Denmark, you might think about LEGO, Hans Christian Andersen, or the country’s considerable contributions to the world of furniture design.
But if you’ve never given the country much thought as a travel destination, you’re missing out. From Medieval-era cobblestone streets in urban landscapes to natural wonders you have to see to believe, Denmark offers something for everyone—and particularly for travellers looking to get off the beaten path.
Recently, tourism organisation VisitDenmark released an innovative advertising campaign prompting travellers, “Don’t be a tourist—be an explorist!” The campaign utilised generative artificial intelligence (AI) to bring widely recognised tourist landmarks like the Mona Lisa and Statue of Liberty to life with a simple message: “Don’t come see me. Visit Denmark instead.” In the first-of-its-kind campaign, the scripts for the ads were written entirely by AI.
If you’re interested in heeding Mona and Lady Liberty’s message, here are a few ways to immerse yourself into Danish culture.
1. Explore natural splendor to your heart’s content
Boasting seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, Denmark offers a veritable smorgasbord of outdoors adventures. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, an avid bird spotter or stargazer, or simply seeking options for an active holiday, Denmark won’t disappoint.
Visit the stunning white cliffs of Møns Klint, explore towering rock formations and crystallite lakes in Bornholm, or admire the dramatic dunes in North Jutland. Feel the wind in your hair at Thy National Park, wander the enchanted Rold Forest, or watch two seas collide in spectacular fashion at Grenen. Wherever you chose to venture in Denmark, you’ll have a beautiful backdrop to behold every step of the way.
2. Seek out a holiday on the coast
Denmark boasts more than 7,300 kilometers of jaw-dropping coastline just begging to be explored. Regardless of whether you see the country by land or sea, a visit to at least one of Denmark’s pristine beaches is a must—and for those coming for a longer stay, island-hopping is particularly encouraged.
When it comes to where to break out your beach umbrella, you’ve got options. A favourite among Danes, Søndervig Beach in West Jutland offers seaside resorts, rolling dunes, and quaint seaside cafés. Henne Beach, named one of the best places to visit in Europe, is a special place to catch the sunset. On Funen Island, Kerteminde North Beach offers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere—and a great place to practice your beach volleyball serve.
The list of Danish beaches worth visiting goes on, so whatever style of coastal getaway suits, you can find the perfect place for a stroll in the sand.
3. Immerse in cultural experiences
From quaint towns and villages to just about any flavour of urban experience you can dream up, there’s no shortage of ways to get a dose of Danish culture during your visit. (And by the way, it’s about so much more than hygge.)
If you’re looking for city liveliness, be sure to tour “the Danish big four”: Copenhagen, the cosiest capital in Northern Europe; Aarhus, with its captivating architecture and museums; Odense, the birthplace of your childhood fairy tale favourites; and Aalborg, a vibrant locale guaranteed to delight any design enthusiast. From fine-dining to Viking legacy tours to manmade marvels both new and old, Denmark is the place to find the cultural immersion you crave.
Whatever your travel tastes, Denmark has something to sate your palate. This year, listen to Mona’s wise words and don’t plan a holiday to one of the usual suspects—come see all that Denmark has to offer instead.
Learn more about planning your trip to Denmark at VisitDenmark.com.