A relaxed and family-tested 10-day Denmark itinerary for first-time visitors, covering Copenhagen and its day trips, Aarhus and Jutland, fairytale Odense, Legoland in Billund, and the chalk cliffs of Møn and Stevns.
We landed in Copenhagen on a June evening at 6 pm, and the sun was still high in the sky, as if it were the middle of the day. Midnight sun country — we’d read about it, but seeing it for ourselves was something else.
We picked up our rental car at the airport, drove straight to the Marble Church, and stood there a while, watching the green dome glow in that strange, soft, never-setting evening light. Then we walked over to Nyhavn with ice cream in our hands, mini-me, trying to pick her favorite color from the row of painted houses. Denmark was our first stop on a longer Scandinavia trip, and looking back, it set the tone for everything that came after.
This is that trip, the 10-day Denmark itinerary I did with my husband and our daughter, written the way I’d plan it again. We stayed in Copenhagen for most of it, took day trips to the places that turned out to be our favorites, and didn’t spend half the holiday packing and unpacking.
If this is your first trip to Denmark, especially with kids, I think it’ll work for you. We didn’t skip the big stuff, like Tivoli, Nyhavn, Legoland, the castles, the chalk cliffs at Møn. We just didn’t drag our suitcases across the country to see them. With a child in tow, that one decision made the trip something we enjoyed rather than something we survived.
A quick note before we move further: I built this itinerary on the road, not at my desk. We lived it day by day, and once we got home, I went back and changed the parts that didn’t work, kept the parts that did, and have been updating it ever since as readers write in with their questions and as places open, close, or change. So when I say a café is worth the stop or a day trip is worth the drive, it’s because we were actually there.
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who enjoy road trips. That said, you should ideally rent a car to explore Denmark. It’s easy to travel between cities and take day trips if you have your own vehicle. I love Discover Cars for renting a car anywhere in the world.
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10 Days in Denmark Itinerary
We have crafted an itinerary for Denmark for you to enjoy the best of Denmark in 10 days. To plan your Danish vacation, follow this perfect itinerary, which combines the wonders of Jutland, Funen, and Zealand.
Denmark Itinerary Overview
| DAY | PLAN | OVERNIGHT |
| Day 0 | Arrive in Copenhagen | Copenhagen |
| Day 1 | Explore Copenhagen | Copenhagen |
| Day 2 | Explore Copenhagen | Copenhagen |
| Day 3 | Day trip to Dragør via Orsund Bridge | Copenhagen |
| Day 4 | Copenhagen – Roskilde – Aarhus | Aarhus |
| Day 5 | Explore Aarhus | Aarhus |
| Day 6 | Aarhus – Billund (Legoland) – Odense – Copenhagen | Copenhagen |
| Day 7 | Day trip to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art and Frederiksborg Castle | Copenhagen |
| Day 8 | Day trip to Kronborg Castle in Helsingør | Copenhagen |
| Day 9 | Day trip to Møns Klint and Stevns Klint | Copenhagen |
| Day 10 | Fly Back Home |
Why is this itinerary Copenhagen-based?
I know what you might be thinking: eight nights in one city, really?
Here’s why it works. Copenhagen sits right in the middle of everything worth seeing in Denmark. Roskilde is 40 minutes away. Helsingør is an hour. Møns Klint is 90 minutes. Hillerød, Dragør, and the Louisiana Museum are all easy day trips, all doable without checking out of your hotel.
When we did this trip with our daughter, the no-packing-unpacking thing was not small. It was the difference between a trip that felt like a holiday and a trip that felt like a logistics exercise. You come back to the same city every evening, you know where the good bakery is, and you have a favorite walk. It starts to feel like somewhere you actually know, rather than somewhere you’re passing through.
We did break it once: two nights in Aarhus right in the middle, and that was worth it. Aarhus is too good to be a day-trip. But beyond that, Copenhagen as your base isn’t a compromise. It’s a choice I’d make again.
10-Day Denmark Road Trip Itinerary Map
Day 0: Arrive in Copenhagen | Day at Leisure
Day 0 📍 Route: Copenhagen Airport → Your Hotel, Copenhagen
Today, you’ll arrive at my favorite, wonderfully family-friendly, beautiful, and, of course, happiest Scandinavian city: Copenhagen. Ah, you’ll love it.
Head straight to your hotel. Finish the check-in formalities, freshen up, and get out to stroll the streets of Copenhagen and become friends with the city. You can also relax if you feel tired or jet-lagged after a flight.
Where to Stay in Copenhagen: I recommend CopenhagenApartment and CitizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen. Didn’t find the right hotel? Click here to see more accommodation options in Copenhagen!
Day 1: Explore Copenhagen
Day 1 📍 Route: Nyhavn → Marble Church → Amalienborg Palace → Rosenborg Castle → Torvehallerne Market → Round Tower → Strøget → Christiansborg Palace
Get ready to explore the Danish capital of København or Copenhagen. Before you head out to explore the city, buy a Copenhagen Card to save money and time, especially if you plan to visit many attractions.
Morning
You can have your breakfast at your hotel or Airbnb, or head to Bowl Market Copenhagen in Vesterbro. They serve the healthiest and tastiest breakfast in the city.
Head to Nyhavn to enjoy the Copenhagen Canal Tour, a classic way to explore Copenhagen’s most famous attractions from its waters.
Yes! Your Copenhagen itinerary is incomplete without it. This one-hour tour lets you see the Copenhagen Opera House, Amalienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace, the Black Diamond Library, and the Little Mermaid.
Next, walk to the Marble Church, aka Frederik’s Kirke. The church, with its impressive verdigris green dome, looks awe-inspiring. The view over the city is definitely one of the best views in Copenhagen.
Just across the street from the church stands Amalienborg Palace, home to Denmark’s royal family.
A visit to the palace offers a peek into the Danish royal history. The palace complex comprises identical façades—two inhabited by the royal family and two converted into museums.
You can visit the museum. If you reach the palace around noon, you can witness the changing of the Royal Guard (Den Kongelige Livgarde) Ceremony.
Make a mandatory stop at Hansen’s Is & Ice Cream.
After fueling up, it’s time for another must-do in Copenhagen: Rosenborg Castle and Gardens. An imposing Renaissance castle built by Christian IV, Rosenborg is a must-see.
Admire the castle from the outside and stroll the beautiful Rosenborg Castle Gardens (King’s Garden). Then, walk through its stately rooms and halls and admire the Danish Crown Jewels and other symbols of power.
Continue on foot for a few more steps (190m) to reach Statens Naturhistoriske Museum (Museum of Natural History).
The museum also houses the Botanical Garden, the Palm House, and the Zoological Museum. With one ticket, you can experience it all.
Afternoon
There are many amazing eateries in this part of the city; I recommend having lunch at Torvehallerne Street Food Market, a well-known covered marketplace with stalls selling local produce, gourmet foods, beverages, and desserts.
Try traditional Smørrebrød at Hallernes and Oat Porridge at Grød.
How can you not stop for a coffee when you’re in a country that’s one of the top 10 coffee-drinking nations?
On average, every Dane consumes 1.46 cups of coffee per day. There is no better place to experience the Danish coffee culture than the Coffee Collective.
Post lunch, visit the oldest functioning observatory in Europe, the Round Tower (Rundetaarn).
Take the spiral walkway all the way up. The view from the top of the tower is just breathtaking. You can see all of central Copenhagen stretched out before you. As you head back down, make a stop at Trinitatis Church.
Walk through Indre By (Downtown Copenhagen) to Strøget Street ( the oldest and longest pedestrian street in the world).
Along the way, you’ll pass by several essential landmarks – including Copenhagen’s City Hall, Jens Olsen’s World Clock, Dragon Fountain, the statue of Hans Christian Andersen, Vesterport (the West Gate), Stork Fountain (Storkespringvandet), the Church of the holy spirit (Helligåndskirken), and King’s New Square (Kongens Nytorv).
Evening
Now comes the last but not least stop of the day, Christiansborg Palace.
One of the most important buildings (the center of power of Denmark) in Copenhagen, the palace is the seat of the Danish Parliament, the Danish Prime Minister’s Office, and the Supreme Court of Denmark. You can choose to visit the palace on your own or join a guided tour.
For dinner, consider booking a table at Restaurant Tårnet, housed inside the tower of Christiansborg. It serves modern Nordic smørrebrød and a set menu dinner, and the room is unlike anything else in Copenhagen. Reserve in advance and arrive a few minutes early. There’s a security check before the lift takes you up.
For a time-efficient and hassle-free exploration, you can join a guided walking tour of Copenhagen.
Foodies can also consider taking one of Copenhagen’s many fantastic food tours. We love relishing the local cuisine while traveling, as it brings us closer to a place’s culture and traditions. This culinary experience food tour is highly recommended.
Day 2: Explore Copenhagen
Day 2 📍 Route: Sankt Peders Bageri → Tivoli Gardens
The kids are going to have lots of fun today as they plan to visit the city’s iconic amusement park, Tivoli Gardens. Reserve this entire day for them!
You can purchase your entrance tickets in advance to skip the line and save precious time!
Stop by Sankt Peders Bageri, Copenhagen’s beloved bakery, for breakfast on your way to Tivoli Gardens. There can’t be a sweeter and tastier start to your second day in Copenhagen than this!
It’s renowned for its delectable baked goods, from its famous cinnamon rolls and buttery croissants to an assortment of freshly baked traditional pastries (wienerbrød).
Tivoli Gardens is the second-oldest amusement park in the world. With so many amazing rides for kids of all ages, it is a must-visit for families traveling with kids. In fact, Tivoli lets adults unleash their inner child.
Some of our favorite rides remain the Golden Tower, the Demon, the Lighthouse, and the Star Flyer. Don’t miss riding the Ferris Wheel for the best view over Copenhagen.
Tivoli Food Hall is a great place for lunch and dinner, with a variety of delicious options.
PS: If you visit Tivoli on any Saturday from May to September, stay late to enjoy the Fireworks Show at 23:45.
Day 3: Day trip to Dragør via Øresund Bridge
Day 3 📍 Route: Copenhagen → National Aquarium Den Blå Planet → Dragør → Back to Copenhagen
After an exciting day in Copenhagen, it’s time to head out of the city.
From impressive historic castles, charming coastal towns, and unique landscapes to iconic cities, you are really spoiled for choice when it comes to day trips from Copenhagen.
A day trip to the tiny fishing town of Dragør from Copenhagen is so, so beautiful. I can’t recommend it enough!
It’s one of those places that made me think that dreams can be real. A beautiful drive from Copenhagen to Dragør via Öresund enhances the overall experience.
PS: On the way, you can make a pit stop at the National Aquarium of Denmark (Den Blå Planet), Northern Europe’s largest aquarium, especially if you are traveling with young kids.
A stone’s throw away (13 km) from the Danish capital, Dragør looks so ethereal and otherworldly that one may feel like they’ve jumped into the pages of a fairy tale.
Apart from immense beauty, the town holds rich cultural and historical value. It played an essential role in the Holocaust during World War II.
The locals did everything they possibly could to rescue Danish Jews from the Nazis.
If you are all in for an utterly charming destination yet remain offbeat, Dragør is for you. The town rightfully deserves a place on the list of Europe’s hidden gems.
Spend some time strolling the cobbled streets and stopping in between to admire the quintessential canary-colored, low, thatched-roof houses dating back to the 1700s.
The houses are adorned with exquisite lilac and lavender florals, which is praiseworthy.
Browse some of the cute boutiques and art galleries around the town, sit with a cup of coffee at one of the cute sidewalk cafes, and soak up the old-world charm of the place.
It only takes two or three hours to explore this teeny-weeny Danish town.
Day 4: Copenhagen – Roskilde – Aarhus
Day 4 📍 Route: Copenhagen → Roskilde Cathedral → Viking Ship Museum → Aarhus (includes ferry crossing)
Morning
Grab a quick English breakfast at your accommodation, as you have a long day today.
You’ll be driving to Denmark’s second-largest city, Aarhus, while making a pit stop in the historic town of Roskilde.
A 40-minute drive from Copenhagen, the fjord town of Roskilde is famous for its Viking heritage.
The two most essential sights or high points of the town are Roskilde Cathedral and the Viking Ship Museum.
Afternoon
Once you’ve explored the cathedral and museum, head to Mumm for an authentic Danish lunch. Try their Free Fall Menu, where you sit back and let the chef decide for you.
If you are a vegetarian like us, I’d suggest you pre-order so they can prepare a vegetarian alternative to the Free Fall Menus.
After a hearty lunch, drive to Aarhus. It takes just under 3 hours from Roskilde, and the route includes a ferry. You are supposed to reach Aarhus by late evening.
Evening
Once in Aarhus, you can visit La Cabra Coffee for a mandatory dose of caffeine or check into your hotel and enjoy a cup of coffee in your room before you head out for dinner.
We recommend Restaurant Frederikshoj for the most impressive and lavish fine-dining experience. This two-MICHELIN-starred restaurant is sure to become the highlight of your trip to Aarhus. Promise.
Where to stay in Aarhus? If you are traveling on a budget (yes, it’s possible to travel on a budget in one of the most expensive nations in the world), I’d recommend staying at Milling Hotel Ritz Aarhus City, a beautiful boutique hotel set in a 1930s building.
This property is just about 50m from the center, so pretty much everything is within walking distance. The hotel is family-friendly, the rooms are comfy and clean, and there is on-site parking. The breakfast buffet is the cherry on the cake.
Hotel Royal is a perfect choice for those who love all things luxurious. Set in a Neoclassical building dating back to 1838, it’s ranked highly for its beautiful interiors, excellent location, and kid-friendly atmosphere.
Didn’t like my recommendations? Click here to explore more hotels in Aarhus!
Day 5: Explore Aarhus
Day 5 📍 Route: Møllestien → Aarhus Cathedral → Aarhus Street Food → Dokk1 Library → ARoS Art Museum → Den Gamle By
As you only have a day to explore the charming city of Aarhus, it’s vital to have an itinerary in place to make the most of your time in the City of Smiles (Smilets By).
Morning
It’s best to start with an early breakfast at Cross Cafe. After breakfast, take on the charming streets of Aarhus.
The city is small enough to be walked around. You can take a self-guided walk or join a guided walking tour to learn about the city’s history and facts.
As you stroll the streets of Aarhus, make sure to stop by the prettiest cobbled street in the town – Møllestien!
Lined with a row of pastel-colored half-timber houses dating back to the 18th century, adorned with colorful flowers, vines, cute paned windows, and traditional picket fences, Møllestien is utterly beautiful.
Make your way towards the city center and walk around the main shopping street, Strøget. Along this pedestrianized high street, you will find a good number of famous restaurants, cafes, small and big shops, museums, and architectural marvels.
You might want to check out the tallest and longest church in Denmark, Aarhus Cathedral. Its interiors are as impressive as its exteriors.
Afternoon
Take a break and grab something nice to eat at Aarhus Street Food. With good music, a nice ambiance, and a variety of international dishes at reasonable prices, it’s a cool place to enjoy a great meal.
After lunch, take a refreshing walk along the harbor. If you like books, you should visit Dokk1. It’s the biggest and most beautiful library in Scandinavia.
Now it’s time to visit the most beloved attraction in Aarhus – ARoS Aarhus Art Museum.
The second-oldest public art museum in Aarhus and one of the largest art museums in Northern Europe, ARoS is worth visiting even if you aren’t an ardent art connoisseur because it showcases a unique rainbow panorama.
Yes. A halolike rainbow walkway, Your Rainbow Panorama, by Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson, is the museum’s centerpiece.
Walking the 150-meter-long circular panoramic path, which offers sweeping views of the city, is just beautiful. A visit at sunset enhances the overall experience.
Evening
You can’t visit Aarhus without visiting Den Gamle By, an open-air museum that recreates 1700s Aarhus. It’s a beautiful walk through time.
End your time in Aarhus with an exceptional culinary experience at Domestic.
PS: If you travel to Aarhus from May until October, you must stop at The Infinite Bridge. It’s a circular bridge created by architects Niels Povlsgaard and Johan Gjødes, which the city sets up at Varna Beach/Ballehage Beach every year between May and October.
Day 6: Aarhus – Billund (Legoland) – Odense – Copenhagen
Day 6 📍 Route: Aarhus → Legoland Billund → Odense Old Town → St Canute’s Cathedral → Hans Christian Andersen Museum → Copenhagen
Today is going to be another exciting day for the kids as you’ll be visiting Legoland in Billund. You can purchase tickets in advance here!
You’ll also spend some time exploring Odense on the way from Aarhus to Copenhagen.
Morning
A short (1 hour 15 minutes) drive from Aarhus takes you to Billund. It’s where the world’s favorite toy, LEGO, was born! Ole Kirk Christiansen, a Danish carpenter from Billund, invented Lego blocks around 1930.
This toy prepares kids for life and caters to all age groups. Mini-me has been playing with Legos since she was 2 years old and loves them even as a teenager.
Legoland Billund Resort is a theme park that’s entirely built of Lego. Isn’t it exciting?
It’s fun to look at mini models of famous buildings and sites from around the world. Lego House is another attraction that thrills Lego lovers of all age groups.
If you are done with the theme park (oh, I know you never will be, but the clock is ticking), then drive another 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the fairytale town of Odense.
The most famous fairytale writer in the world, Hans Christian Andersen, called it home.
Afternoon
You must have your lunch before you start exploring Odense. For a unique food experience, head to Storms Pakhus (Odense Street Food).
A restored industrial warehouse houses about 24 food stalls, 12 creative workshops, and 6 bars, making it a perfect place to grab a meal that offers taste, value, and satisfaction. The vibe is fantastic, too.
Now that you’re full, it’s time to start the Odense sightseeing tour! Like any other Danish town, Odense is full of character.
Start with the Old Town and get charmed by the rustic cobbled streets speckled with colorful half-timbered houses.
This painstakingly preserved part of Odense exudes history. Take a stroll down Nedergade and Overgade, the two main streets in the Old Town.
You can join a guided tour of Odense.
As you stroll the streets of Odense, you must stop by one of Denmark’s finest Gothic buildings: St. Canute’s Cathedral, also known as Odense Cathedral.
You are sure to be fascinated by its architectural details, both interior and exterior.
Evening
Next is the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, a series of museums that showcase the life and times of the Danish master of the literary fairy tale.
The buildings comprise H. C. Andersen’s House, H. C. Andersen’s Childhood Home, H. C. Andersen Museum, and Møntergården.
Stop for a cup of coffee and a snack at Nelle’s Overgade. Located at a junction where two of the prettiest streets of Odense – Overgade and Nedergade meet, all hearts to this cozy little cafe <3
Bid adieu to Odense (until next time) and begin your journey (2 hours) to Copenhagen. You are expected to reach Copenhagen by late evening.
Check into your hotel and enjoy dinner at the restaurant, or opt for in-room dining if you’re tired from going out.
For the remaining three days in Denmark, you’ll base yourself in Copenhagen and explore the surrounding area.
Day 7: Day trip to Louisiana Museum of Modern Art and Frederiksborg Castle
Day 7 📍 Route: Copenhagen → Louisiana Museum of Modern Art → Frederiksborg Castle → Hillerød town → Back to Copenhagen
Another fantastic day in Denmark! Day 7 lets you discover the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, a renowned international art museum, and Frederiksborg Castle, the largest Renaissance castle in Scandinavia.
Morning
Before heading out of the city, how about a traditional Danish breakfast at the oldest bakery in Copenhagen, Sankt Peders Bageri?
Their authentic, melt-in-your-mouth pastries and cinnamon rolls will transport you to a world of sweet goodness you won’t want to leave. You’ll be lost in the aroma and flavor for days.
Well, if you manage to return to the real world, it’s time to visit the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
Set in a perfect setting by the Öresund coast, surrounded by beautiful grounds, the museum, in addition to its intriguing art collection, offers great outdoor opportunities.
From its terrace, you can enjoy panoramic views of the sea and Sweden. Sit back and relax at Louisiana Café while savoring cakes and a cup of hot coffee.
Afternoon
Your next destination, Frederiksborg Castle, is only 30 minutes away from the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
The castle, set on three islands encircled by a lake and extensive gardens, looks simply stunning. It was built in the early 1700s by King Christian IV.
The palatial complex houses the Museum of National History. A tour of the museum traces 500 years of Danish history.
Frederiksborg Castle Chapel is not to be missed. It’s the only part of the complex to survive the 1859 fire and still flaunts the original decoration from the time of King Christian IV.
You must take the little ferry ride around the castle lake.
Evening
If you have time & energy, include a walk through the little town of Hillerød.
Hungry? Head to Cafe Havehuset, a little, cute, baroque garden house café with an absolutely gorgeous setting.
Grab a seat on their lovely outdoor terrace and enjoy a simple yet tasty menu. Pizza lovers can go to Montalbano for authentic Italian pizza.
End your day trip with yummy gelato at Giovanni’s.
A short 35-minute drive from Hillerød brings you back to Copenhagen. It’s time to retire to your hotel room, lounge on the comfy bed, and enjoy the room service while watching your favorite series on Netflix.
Day 8: Day trip to Kronborg Castle in Helsingør
Day 8 📍 Route: Copenhagen → Kronborg Castle, Helsingør → Værftets Food Market → Superkilen Park, Nørrebro
Morning
After a healthy breakfast at Cafe Feel Good or Mad & Kaffe, kick off your day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kronborg Slot in Helsingør, about an hour’s drive from Copenhagen.
Your trip to Denmark is incomplete without a visit to the famous Kronborg Castle, immortalized by Shakespeare in the 16th century! Yes, here’s where Shakespeare’s classic Hamlet was set. Thus, it’s fondly named Hamlet’s Castle.
Shakespeare named the castle Elsinore in Hamlet, and since then, it has become the English name for Helsingør.
Owing to its strategic position at the head of Øresund Sound, Helsingør was considered one of the most important towns in Europe, and this majestic castle would collect sound dues or tolls from all ships passing into the Baltic Sea.
You can explore the castle on one of the three guided tours of different lengths. While making your way through the creepy crypts and catacombs of Kronborg, you are sure to bump into the stone statue of Holger the Dane (Holger Danske), who is cited as a legendary figure in Danish culture.
Legend has it that he’ll wake from his rock throne to defend Helsingør if ever he senses trouble.
Bardolaters are recommended to plan a trip around August, the month when Hamlet’s Castle hosts the Shakespeare Festival.
As you know, the narrow Øresund Strait in Helsingør separates Denmark from Sweden, and it’s easy to see Sweden from the city’s waterfront.
The best way to enjoy Sweden’s views is to climb to the top of Kronborg Castle. In the distance, you can see the city of Helsingborg.
Afternoon
Once you have explored the castle, visit Værftets Food Market for a mouth-watering variety of street food from around the world.
Located in an old shipyard, the food market is a delight to visit for its overwhelming variety of food.
After eating your fill of delicious street food, check out the Øresund Aquarium and the M/S Maritime Museum.
They are located close to Kronborg Castle and are great kid-friendly attractions.
Before you head back to Copenhagen, the last but not least recommended thing is to take in the vibe of Hamlet’s Town.
Stroll the quaint, narrow alleyways of Helsingør, speckled with well-preserved half-timbered houses that exude charm and reveal the historic character of this little town.
Evening
Next, head straight to Nørrebro in Copenhagen. Stop in a small café in Arrebro to fuel up for the rest of your day!
Walk about 200 meters from the cafe to reach Superkilen, a unique urban park.
Designed by Bjarke Ingels Group, Superflex, and Topotek1, it’s a beautiful public space that showcases Nørrebro’s neighborhood’s diversity and aims to bring people of different ethnicities together.
The park features interesting articles from around the world, such as fountains from Morocco, benches from Brazil, swings from Iraq, and a black octopus slide from Japan.
I was quite impressed to see how uniquely and thoughtfully a public space is created that is not just an escape from city life but also a one-of-a-kind attraction in itself.
For a super food experience, eat at Bistro Lupa and give a perfect ending to the day!
Day 9: Day trip to Møns Klint and Stevns Klint
Day 9 📍 Route: Copenhagen → Stevns Klint → Møns Klint → GeoCenter Møns Klint → Back to Copenhagen
Ø12 is one of the best spots in Copenhagen, offering a great breakfast menu to get you going. Serving up hearty breakfast dishes and hot coffee, it’s a small local gem!
Today, you’re going to witness two of the best natural wonders in Denmark – Møns Klint and Stevns Klint.
The cliffs of Stevns, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are about an hour’s drive south of Copenhagen.
It’s the finest place in the world to witness traces of the asteroid that hit the Earth 66 million years ago.
A little further (around 1 hour and 30 minutes) from Stevns, the 70-million-year-old chalk cliffs of Møn stretch.
There are many fun ways to experience Møns Klint. Kids will love discovering ancient fossils with the folks at GeoCenter Møns Klint.
Mons Klint is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Along with Nyord, it’s the first Dark Sky Park in Scandinavia, making it one of the best places to experience the star-studded night sky.
If you are visiting Denmark between September and March, you can book a family cabin at Camp Møns Klint or sleep under the stars in a Dark Sky Camp.
Take a guided tour, and you can witness the Milky Way, star clusters, planets, nebulae, galaxies, and even meteor showers or aurora borealis.
Located atop the cliff, Café Møns Klint is a charming spot to enjoy lunch with family. You can choose to sit inside or outside on a panoramic terrace.
ND122 is another lovely restaurant close to Mons Klint.
Make your way back into the city. Decide if you want to relax for a bit at your hotel before you go out for dinner or have a cozy dinner in your hotel room—it’s your call.
If you plan to dine out, I’d recommend the gem of a place named Alchemist, a Michelin-starred restaurant, for an immersive culinary experience.
If you want to go for quick bites, for a change (since you’ve had many beautifully plated fine-dining experiences), head to Hija de Sanchez for the best tacos in Copenhagen.
Day 10: Fly Back Home
Day 10 📍 Route: Copenhagen city → Copenhagen Airport
It’s your last day in Denmark, so make the most of it.
It’s yours to spend however you want to.
Aimlessly stroll the streets and enjoy chance encounters; relish authentic Danish-style hot dogs at John’s Hotdog Deli; shop for souvenirs to bring home a piece of Denmark; or have a last cup of coffee at The Coffee Collective.
And yes, make it a point to arrive at the airport on time, since you’ll need to drop off your rental car at the airport depot before your return home.
Things to Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit Denmark
The best time to visit Denmark is during the summer months of June, July, and August. The days are long, and the weather is perfect.
The temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C, making it ideal for spending time outdoors for tourists and locals alike (July is the vacation month for Danes).
The coast and countryside in Denmark get super busy during the summer. The downside is high prices and wild tourist crowds.
Autumn (September, October, and November) is also a great time to visit Denmark. The air gets cool and crisp, but the weather is mild enough to enjoy the outdoors.
Also, it’s when you can see the country bathed in a golden glow of falling leaves. The downside is that most sights and attractions are open on reduced hours.
Winter (December, January, and February) has its own perks. The weather is extremely cold (temperatures drop to -2°C), and the days are dark, but the coziness of the world-famous Danish hygge lifestyle makes up for it.
December is a perfect time to celebrate Christmas in Denmark.
Tivoli Christmas Market is one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. However, many of the attractions remain closed.
As Spring (March, April, and May) arrives, the days get warmer (from 5°C in March to 15°C in May) and longer. Plus, the bright pink burst of cherry blossoms during spring fills the senses.
The shoulder season (late spring and early autumn) remains the best time for those seeking quiet, peaceful exploration (low tourist crowds) and low prices (budget travelers), while enjoying mild weather.
How Many Days Should You Spend in Denmark
It depends solely on your travel style and your expectations for the destination.
You might want to take a quick weekend escape to Copenhagen or spend up to two weeks exploring the country at a slower pace.
5 days in Denmark is really a Copenhagen trip with maybe one day trip thrown in. You’ll see Nyhavn, Tivoli, the Marble Church, a castle or two, and you’ll leave happy but knowing you’ve barely scratched the surface. Good if Denmark is a quick stopover on a longer European trip. Not enough if Denmark is the destination.
7 days is the sweet spot for a first trip if you only want to base yourself in Copenhagen. You can do the city properly over three days, take two or three solid day trips: Roskilde, Helsingør, maybe Møns Klint, and still have a day that’s unplanned and easy. This is the length I’d recommend if you’re not hiring a car and prefer to keep things simple.
10 days is what this itinerary is built for, and it’s the length I’d choose again. You get Copenhagen without rushing, a proper two-night stay in Aarhus, a road trip loop through Jutland and Funen, including Legoland, Odense, the whole lot, and still have days left over for the day trips that turn out to be the ones you remember most. The chalk cliffs at Møns Klint on Day 9 were, genuinely, a highlight of our entire Scandinavia trip.
14 days opens up the parts of Denmark that most first-timers never see, like Skagen at the very top of Jutland, where the North Sea and the Baltic Sea meet. The island of Bornholm, with its round churches and smoked herring. The west coast dunes. If you have two weeks, you are in for a treat.
For this trip, we had 10 days and a rental car, and it was the right call.
How Much Does a Trip to Denmark Cost
Denmark is one of the most expensive countries to live in, so traveling there can be pretty expensive. There’s no way around it. However, there are a few ways you can save some dollars.
The budget varies depending on the hotel you choose to stay in, the amount of sightseeing you plan to do, the restaurants you decide to dine in, and the transport options you pick.
If you travel on a low budget, expect to spend $75 to $100 per day if you stay in a hostel, use public transport, visit cheap or free attractions, join free walking tours, and eat at hawker stalls and food markets.
We traveled on a medium budget, spending about $150-$200 per day. We stayed in an Airbnb, purchased all-inclusive city cards to save on sightseeing, opted for public transportation to explore the cities, shopped at grocery stores, and cooked our own food whenever we could.
We also enjoyed eating out at some of the good restaurants in Denmark (the key is to maintain a balance to limit the splurges).
We rented a car to travel between cities, which saved us a lot of time and money.
How? A train ticket from Copenhagen to Aarhus costs about $57 per person, so if you’re a family of 3 like us, you’ll spend $171 for a one-way train journey.
On the other hand, if you rent a car, you’ll pay just about $45 (economy) for a day. The freedom and peace of mind you get with having your own vehicle are a bonus! Hence, renting a car is the perfect way to unlock the magic of Denmark.
As a family of three, we spent approximately $4,200 on a 10-day trip to Denmark.
For travelers who love luxury and have money to splurge, there’s no limit. Book your stay in a high-end hotel or upscale Airbnb rental, eat out at Michelin-star restaurants, and join guided tours. In short, enjoy and spend your heart out.
How to Get to Denmark
The travelers mostly arrive in the Danish capital, Copenhagen. Most of them fly into Copenhagen (Kastrup Airport), which is a good starting point for your itinerary in Denmark.
Some (from neighboring European cities) arrive in Copenhagen by train or bus (coach), drive into the city, or travel by ferry.
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Norwegian, and Finnair are the primary carriers connecting Copenhagen Airport (CPH), also known as Kastrup, to other major international destinations.
There are direct flights from the USA, the UK, and almost all European countries.
Located in the heart of the city, Copenhagen Central Station is the hub for all public transportation (regional trains, local S-trains, buses, and taxis) in, out of, and around Copenhagen.
It’s operated by the Danish State Railways (DSB) and is well-connected to other European cities. If you plan to travel extensively by train in Europe, consider buying an InterRail or Eurailpass.
The major coach operators include Eurolines, InfoBus, FlixBus, Vy Bus4You, and Swebus.
There are direct trains from Hamburg (Germany) and Stockholm (Sweden), and direct buses from Berlin and Hamburg (Germany), Oslo (Norway), Prague (Czech Republic), and Amsterdam (Netherlands).
The efficient road network in Denmark makes it super easy to reach the country from its neighboring countries.
Renting a car and driving yourself is an excellent option, as it lets you experience the breathtaking countryside of Europe.
We drove across the Øresund Bridge from Sweden to Denmark, and let me tell you, the experience is something you can’t put into words.
There are regular ferry services to Sweden, Norway, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands (one of the most beautiful islands in Europe). DFDS Seaways, Color Line, Fjord Line, Scandlines, and Stena Lines are the major ferry and cruise operators.
We use and recommend Eurail, RailEurope, Omio, and FlixBus for booking trains and buses in Europe.
How to Get Around Denmark
Getting around Denmark is effortless. The country boasts a well-designed public transportation system involving land, air, and sea travel.
The most beautiful way to get around Denmark is by rental car, there’s no doubt about it.
While driving around the country, you are sure to feel a sense of wonder when the journey seems more beautiful than the destination.
The excellent buttery road network makes it all super easy, comfortable, and fast. Our guide to renting a car in Europe will clear up any confusion you might have as a newbie. I recommend using Discover Cars for car rental needs.
Traveling by bus or coach is also a great option, as Denmark offers extensive short and long-distance bus connections between its cities and towns.
The fastest way to travel around Denmark is by air. Numerous daily domestic flights connect all the major cities.
The country’s well-connected railway network also comes in handy. There are regular trains from Copenhagen to Aarhus, Aalborg, and Odense.
The unique and traditional way to get around Denmark is by boats and ferries. In a country with a large number of islands, you can’t just ignore boat and ferry services.
Where to Stay in Denmark
You’ll spend most of this 10-day trip in two cities: Copenhagen and Aarhus. Below are my picks for each, sorted by budget. Every option has been chosen for location, family-friendliness, value, and positive reviews.
Copenhagen
Budget: Steel House Copenhagen, with clean, modern, and surprisingly restful private rooms, and the on-site pool, gym, and café, feels more like a design hotel than a hostel. Located in Vesterbro, a 10-minute walk to Tivoli and Copenhagen Central Station, this is a great pick if you want central, stylish, and wallet-friendly.
Mid-range: CitizenM Copenhagen Rådhuspladsen is a design-led hotel right at City Hall Square. You can’t get more central than this. CitizenM is known for clever room layouts, good beds, fast Wi-Fi, and a relaxed lobby that’s part lounge, part workspace. Rooms are compact but smart, which is fine for families who plan to be out exploring all day. Plus, an effortless location and fair price.
Luxury: Hotel d’Angleterre is Copenhagen’s most storied hotel, on Kongens Nytorv, just steps from Nyhavn. White-glove service, beautifully restored interiors, a Michelin-starred restaurant downstairs, and the address that makes a trip feel like an occasion. If you’re celebrating something — like an anniversary, a birthday, a milestone, or your kid’s first big trip — this is where you book.
Aarhus
Budget: Wakeup Aarhus is a modern budget hotel right in the city center, a short walk from Aarhus Cathedral and the main shopping street. Rooms are small but well-designed, beds are comfortable, wi-fi is good, check-in is easy, and the price is hard to beat for a city this central. Family rooms are available.
Mid-range: Milling Hotel Ritz Aarhus City is a boutique hotel set in a 1930s building, just 50 meters from the center, which means everything is within walking distance. Family-friendly, with comfortable rooms, on-site parking (rare in Aarhus city center), and a generous breakfast buffet that’s a highlight on its own. This is where we stayed, and we’d happily return.
Luxury: Hotel Royal Aarhus is the most elegant address in Aarhus. Set in a beautiful Neoclassical building from 1838, it’s highly rated for its interiors, central location, fabulous breakfast, and warm welcome to families. If you want to treat yourself to one night of proper luxury on the trip, this is the place.
Quick tip: Book Copenhagen accommodation for nights 1-3 and 6-9 (8 nights total), and Aarhus for nights 4-5 (2 nights). This is the only time you’ll need to switch hotels on the entire trip, and that’s the whole point of this Copenhagen-based plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Denmark
Yes, comfortably. Ten days lets you see Copenhagen properly, take day trips to castles and the chalk cliffs of Møn, drive across to Aarhus, stop at Legoland in Billund, and visit fairytale Odense, without rushing. If you only have 7 days, you can still cover the highlights from a Copenhagen base. With 14 days, you’d add Skagen in the north or the island of Bornholm.
June, July, and August are the warmest and brightest months, with long daylight hours that stretch past 10 pm. We went in June, and the evening light was magical. Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are the sweet spot: mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Winter is cold and dark, but December has the lovely Tivoli Christmas market.
Yes, Denmark is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, but it’s manageable with planning. Budget travelers can do it on $75-$100 a day with hostels and street food. We traveled mid-range as a family of three and spent around $150-$200 a day, mostly on an Airbnb, public transport, and a mix of restaurant meals and home-cooked food. Our 10-day trip cost roughly $4,200.
Not for Copenhagen. The city is walkable and bikeable, and parking is expensive. But for the rest of the country, a car makes a real difference. We rented one and saved both time and money on day trips and the drive to Aarhus. A train from Copenhagen to Aarhus costs around $57 per person; an economy rental car runs about $45 a day for the whole family.
Copenhagen, without question. Copenhagen Airport (Kastrup, code CPH) is the country’s main international hub, with direct flights from the US, UK, and most European cities. It’s also a 15-minute drive or train ride into the city center, and it’s the natural starting point for any Denmark itinerary. Aarhus has a smaller airport, but it’s mostly used for regional and budget European routes.
Wonderfully so. Denmark is one of the most family-friendly countries we’ve traveled in. Kids love Tivoli Gardens, Legoland in Billund, the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde, and the Blue Planet aquarium. The country is safe, clean, beautiful, and easy to get around. Restaurants welcome children, public spaces are designed with them in mind, and most attractions offer family discounts. We traveled with our 10-year-old daughter, and she remembers it as one of her favorite trips.
Yes, and it’s easier than you’d think. The Øresund Bridge connects Copenhagen with Malmö, Sweden, in about 35 minutes by car or train, making a day trip across it easy. You can also drive over and continue into southern Sweden if you have a few extra days. We crossed into Sweden later on the same trip, and the bridge journey itself is one of the most beautiful drives in Europe.
I recommend basing yourself in Copenhagen for most of the trip and spending two nights in Aarhus in the middle. Copenhagen is central enough that you can day-trip to Roskilde, Helsingør, Hillerød, Møn, and Stevns Klint. Aarhus opens up Jutland and Funen: Legoland, Odense, and the west coast. This way, you only pack and unpack once midway through, which makes a real difference with kids.
Yes, almost universally. Denmark consistently ranks among the top countries in the world for English proficiency, and you’ll have no trouble communicating in cities, towns, restaurants, hotels, or train stations. Menus are often printed in both Danish and English. Learning a few Danish words (tak for ‘thank you’ and hej for ‘hi’) is appreciated, but not necessary to get around.
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Hope my itinerary for Denmark helps you plan a memorable trip. If you follow this itinerary, please share it with the world. 🙂
If you have any questions, write them in the comments below, and I’ll be more than happy to answer them.
More Travel Resources to Plan Your Denmark Trip
- Beautiful places in Denmark
- Day Trip to Dragør from Copenhagen
- Copenhagen travel guide
- Free things to do in Copenhagen
- Where to stay in Copenhagen
- Best Day Trips from Copenhagen
- How to spend 3 days in Copenhagen
Save the Denmark Travel Itinerary to Pinterest
-2°C!!! I live in Asia and never experienced this low temperature ever. Want to visit Denmark someday.
Hi, thanks for sharing your 10 day itinerary. I think most of this can work for my wife and I when we go in late April. Did you basically stay 4 nights in Copenhagen, 2 nights in Aarhus, and another 4 nights in Copenhagen?
All the best.
Hi Sherwood,
I’m glad you found our itinerary for Denmark useful. Yes, we stayed in Copenhagen for most of our trip and took day trips. We were able to touch all the regions of Denmark except the northern region.
Thank you for sharing this 10 day itinerary. We are considering a vacation in early June. My question is about the car rental – which location did you rent from? Did you need to park the car in Copenhagen, any advice on that? Thank you.
I’m glad you found the 10-day itinerary helpful for your upcoming vacation in June! Regarding the car rental, we picked up our car directly from Copenhagen Airport. It was quite convenient to start our journey from there.
As for parking in Copenhagen, we mostly left our car at the Airbnb where we stayed, as it offered free parking. My advice would be to avoid using the car for city exploration in Copenhagen because like most European cities, parking can be quite a challenge – it’s either hard to find or pretty expensive. Plus, most parking spots have time limits, so you need to be mindful of that. For getting around the city, public transport or even biking is a more hassle-free option. Hope this helps, and have a great trip!
Thank you for the varied suggestions. I am “stealing” many of your ideas for my upcoming trip.