Venture beyond the cool capital Copenhagen and explore more of Denmark. Historic towns, fairy-tale castles, charming islands, and sandy beaches are among the many places you could visit. With relatively short distances and excellent transport links, that’s easy to do.
Most of Denmark’s cities are compact and walkable, making them great for biking. Not only is it fun and fast, but it’s also a fantastic way to experience a quintessential part of Danish culture. Similarly, public transportation is straightforward to navigate. With options ranging from electrified trams and metro lines to battery-powered boats and buses, getting around is affordable, reliable, and often eco-friendly. Trains are ideal for cross-country travel, supplemented by bus networks and car rentals.
From bikes to buses, here’s our advice for efficiently navigating Denmark.
Ditch the car for pedal power
It’s often joked that Danes are born on the back of a bike. Cycling isn’t just a hobby here; it’s a way of life. Nine out of ten people in Denmark own a bicycle, and the country boasts over 12,000 km (4,456 miles) of cycling routes, with 400 km (250 miles) of bike paths in Copenhagen alone. Denmark ranks among the world’s most bicycle-friendly countries, featuring superb infrastructure such as dedicated cycle superhighways and bike-only bridges. Notably, half of Copenhagen residents commute by bike, making it one of the quickest ways to get around the city.
For visitors, riding a bike is not only enjoyable but also sustainable, and much of the country is pleasantly flat.
Bike rental is widely available
Rental shops are plentiful across Denmark, with most larger cities offering local bike-sharing schemes. Many hotels lend bicycles to guests for free. The rental app Donkey Republic operates in several locations, including Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Roskilde. This app features distinctive orange bikes that can be conveniently picked up and dropped off at various points.
Ride the railways for longer distance journeys
Taking the train is recommended for longer journeys and is an efficient way to travel beyond the capital. Denmark boasts a solid network of regular train services connecting major cities and smaller towns. Early bird discounts or “orange” tickets are often available for those who book ahead. Reservations are required for bikes and strollers; however, Copenhagen’s S-tog (suburban rail) network allows bike transport for free.
Tip: It’s advisable to purchase a seat reservation. Trains are a popular transport option, and carriages can fill up quickly. Paying a small extra fee to guarantee a spot is worthwhile, especially for longer journeys.
Download some travel apps in advance
For the best routes, times, and prices across trains, metros, buses, and ferries, Rejseplanen is essential for travelers. Denmark’s train provider, DSB, features an easy-to-use app for purchasing digital tickets and allows you to tap in and out at stations using your phone, making travel even smoother.
Get a Rejsekort travel card
To save money on fares, consider getting a Rejsekort. This card can be used across all public transport nationwide, making it more economical than purchasing individual paper tickets. Tourists can acquire a Rejsekort Anonymous card for 80 kr (approximately $12 USD), which can be conveniently topped up on the move. Remember to tap in and tap out when using public transport.
There’s a great bus network too
Buses are a convenient option in Denmark’s cities, as even smaller towns and countryside villages are connected by regular services. Use Rejseplanen to find routes, timetables, and fares, and purchase tickets using your Rejsekort travel card.
Car rentals are convenient but pricey
Hiring a car is a flexible and convenient way to explore Denmark, but it can come with a higher price tag. Unlimited mileage might not be included, and costs for fuel and bridge tolls can add up quickly.
Car rental desks are available at all major airports, and downtown offices exist in larger cities. However, the best deals are often found through international or third-party booking sites.
In major cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus, car-sharing apps provide an environmentally friendly option. Moreover, options like GoMore allow you to book and borrow private vehicles directly from their owners, resembling an Airbnb for car rentals.
It is easy to drive an electric car in Denmark
Driving an electric vehicle is an increasingly popular choice in Denmark, especially for shorter distances. Charging stations are growing in number, providing easy access across the country. Most charging points are managed by companies such as Eon and Clever, and downloading their apps is necessary for access.
If you need a taxi in Copenhagen, consider booking with electric car services like Viggo or Drivr, both of which prioritize environmentally friendly transport options.
Explore the Danish coastline by ferry
Denmark’s coastline features over 400 islands, offering numerous charming spots well worth exploring. While larger islands like Zealand, Funen, and Bornholm are popular, many smaller isles provide unique experiences. Ferry connections make exploring these islands convenient, and enjoying the sea breezes from the deck can be a delightful experience.
Significant routes include the fast hydrofoil connecting Jutland with Zealand and express boats sailing to Bornholm from southern Sweden. International ferries also link Denmark with Norway, Sweden, Germany, and the Faroe Islands. If traveling to Ærø, consider the battery-powered ferry Ellen, which uses renewable energy from wind and solar sources.
Tip: If you wish to take a car on the ferry, it’s wise to book well in advance, as spots fill up quickly during summer when travelers flock to the islands.
Accessible travel is good on trains and buses in Denmark
Denmark is becoming increasingly accessible for travelers with mobility needs. Trains and buses are equipped for wheelchair users, and stations are often fitted with ramps and lifts. In urban areas like Copenhagen, metro elevators provide direct access from street level to platforms. However, in more rural areas, older ferries may not be as well-equipped.
