Introduction:
Why Copenhagen is the Ideal Base for Day Trips
Copenhagen is the lively capital of Denmark, and it has a lot more to offer than just culture, history, and new sights.
Furthermore, it’s the ideal starting point for visiting the nearby regions.
It’s easy to go on an unforgettable day trip from Copenhagen, whether you want to see royal buildings, cute towns, or picture-perfect seaside villages.
This guide will show you some of the best day trips you can take from Copenhagen.
Each one is different and only takes a short time to get to from the city.
1. Dragør: A Charming Danish Fishing Town
Dragør is a secret gem close to Copenhagen that is known for its cobblestone streets, cute yellow houses, and maritime history.
The town, which used to be a busy fishing village, is now a quiet place to get away from the noise of the city.
Take a walk along the harbor, eat some fresh seafood, and check out the Dragør Museum to learn about the past of the area.
- How to Get There: A 45-minute bus ride from Copenhagen Central Station or a 20-minute ride from Copenhagen Airport.
- Tip: Visit in the summer for the best weather, and grab some ice cream from Dragør Is.
2. Malmö: Explore Sweden’s Third-Biggest City
Malmö is a great place to spend the day if you want to experience Swedish culture. It’s just across the Øresund Bridge.
A lively mood can be found in Malmö, which has a mix of new and old buildings.
The Turning Torso, which is the biggest building in Scandinavia, stands out against the background.
You can rent bikes or even go on a canal tour to see the city from a different point of view.
- How to Get There: Trains depart regularly from Copenhagen Central Station; the journey takes around 30-60 minutes.
- Tip: Don’t forget your passport for border checks!
3. Helsingør: Discover Kronborg Castle and More
In Helsingør, you can find Kronborg Castle, which is famous for being the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
The castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can take tours of its grand interiors and enjoy stunning views of the Öresund Strait.
After seeing the castle, you can either take a walk through the cute town center of Helsingør or go to the nearby beach to relax.
- How to Get There: A direct train ride from Copenhagen Central Station (50-60 minutes).
- Tip: You can buy the Copenhagen Card for discounted or free entry to Kronborg Castle.
4. Frederiksborg Slot: A Fairytale Castle in Hillerød
Visit Frederiksborg Slot, one of Denmark’s most beautiful Renaissance buildings, to go back in time.
With its well-kept grounds and peaceful lake, this castle is a must-see for history buffs.
The museum of national history is inside the castle, which you can tour, or you can just take a walk through the beautiful grounds.
- How to Get There: Take the S-Train (Route A) from Copenhagen to Hillerød (around 40 minutes).
- Tip: Don’t miss the view of the castle from the shore. It’s perfect for photography!
5. Gilleleje: A Perfect Summer Escape
Get away for the day to Gilleleje, a cute fishing town on the coast of North Zealand.
While away an afternoon, you can enjoy the busy harbor, tasty fish, and beautiful beaches.
Locals also like to go to Gilleleje in the summer, so there are lots of cozy shops and bars there.
- How to Get There: A one-hour drive from Copenhagen or a 90-minute public transport journey (train and local bus).
- Tip: Visit Adamsens Fisk for some of the best fish and chips in Denmark.
6. Hareskoven and Bagsværd Sø: Nature and Wellness Near Copenhagen
Are you looking for a quiet place to get away to nature? Hareskoven forest and Bagsvaerd Sø lake are great choices.
This peaceful area is only 30 minutes from Copenhagen and has beautiful walking and bike trails, making it a great place for a wellness retreat.
Bring lunch and enjoy the peace and quiet.
- How to Get There: Take the S-Train to Farum, then head to the forest via a short walk.
- Tip: Bring some snacks for a picnic by the lake!
7. Fjordstien, Roskilde: A Scenic Hiking Adventure
One of the most beautiful places to walk near Copenhagen is Fjordstien in Roskilde, which is popular with hikers.
Along the fjord, the road goes through lush forests and beautiful farmland.
Along the way, you’ll even see cows! The walk is pretty easy, and there are great views the whole way.
- How to Get There: Trains from Copenhagen to Roskilde (around 30 minutes).
- Tip: If you’re up for it, the entire route takes around 7-8 hours, so pack accordingly.
8. Odense: A Journey Into Hans Christian Andersen’s Hometown
The city of Odense, where Hans Christian Andersen was born, is like being in a fairy tale.
Check out the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, take a walk through the old town, and look around the colorful homes that line the cobblestone streets.
Odense also has lovely parks and a food scene that is growing, so it’s a great place for children and book lovers to spend the day.
- How to Get There: A one-hour train ride from Copenhagen.
- Tip: Make sure to visit the Hans Christian Andersen House for a true literary experience.
Conclusion
Copenhagen’s central location makes it the perfect base for exploring a variety of day trips from Copenhagen.
Whether you’re a history lover, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing day by the water, there’s a destination for you within a short journey from the city.
From charming fishing villages to stunning castles and modern cities, these trips offer a wealth of experiences for every type of traveler.
So, why not plan your next adventure and make the most of your time in Denmark with these incredible day trips from Copenhagen.
