Denmark

Good to know

1. 1Copenhagen, the capital, sits on the island of Zealand, and the country is joined together by bridges, including the long Great Belt and Øresund links, as well as by ferries.
2. 2Denmark has one of the oldest monarchies in the world, and the royal family still lives in Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen.
3. 3Smørrebrød, open sandwiches on dark rye bread with toppings such as pickled herring, roast beef or egg, are the classic lunch. Danish pastry, which Danes call wienerbrød, is a bakery staple.
4. 4The currency is the Danish krone, not the euro, even though Denmark is in the European Union.
5. 5The word hygge describes a cosy, relaxed feeling of being together with friends, candles, and warm food and drink, and Danes take it seriously, especially in winter.
6. 6Greenland and the Faroe Islands are part of the Danish realm, but they govern most of their own affairs and are quite different places to visit.

Tips for a first visit

• Rent a bike or use the bike lanes in the cities, because cycling is the normal way to get around and drivers expect cyclists. Stay out of the bike lanes when you are on foot.
• Cards are accepted almost everywhere, including small cafés and market stalls, so you will need very little cash.
• Try rye bread lunches, fresh fish, and a hot dog from a street stand, which is a simple Danish favourite.
• Be on time, since Danes value punctuality, and queue calmly, taking a number ticket where there is a machine for it.
• Tap water is good to drink, so bring a bottle and fill it up rather than buying water.
• Many Danes speak very good English, but a simple tak for the thanks is always appreciated.

When to go

Summer, from June to August, has long light evenings, outdoor dining and beach weather, and it is the easiest time for cycling and island trips. Spring and early autumn are quieter and mild, with changeable weather, so pack layers. Winter is dark, cold and often damp, but it is the season for Christmas markets, candlelit cafés and cosy evenings.

Getting around

Trains link the main cities, including Copenhagen, Odense, Aarhus and Aalborg, and are the easiest way to cross the country. Buses cover the places trains do not reach, and ferries connect many of the smaller islands. Distances are short, so you can often travel between major cities in a few hours, and you can reserve seats on longer routes.