Denmark Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
🏛️ Logistics & Essentials
Is Denmark expensive? Yes, it is one of the most expensive countries in Europe. Expect to pay more for dining and alcohol.
Do I need cash? Almost never. Denmark is effectively a cashless society. Even hot dog stands take cards or Apple Pay.
What is the local currency? Danish Krone (DKK). Euros are rarely accepted except in some tourist spots at poor rates.
Is English widely spoken? Yes, nearly everyone speaks excellent English, though a “Tak” (thank you) is always appreciated.
What is the best time to visit? May to August for the best weather; December for the Christmas markets and “hygge.”
How is the tap water? Some of the cleanest and best-tasting in the world. Bring a reusable bottle.
Do I need to tip? Service is included in the bill. Tipping 5-10% for exceptional service is okay but not expected.
What’s the deal with “Hygge”? It’s a vibe of coziness and contentment. Think candles, warm blankets, and good coffee.
Is it safe? Denmark is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries globally.
How do I get from the airport to Copenhagen city center? Take the train or metro; it’s only a 13-15 minute ride.
Should I rent a car in Copenhagen? No. Public transit and bikes are far more efficient.
Is public transport reliable? Extremely. Trains, buses, and the metro are punctual and clean.
What is a “Rejsekort”? A reusable travel card for public transport. Tourists should get the “Rejsekort Anonymous.”
Can I use my phone’s data? If you have an EU SIM, you’re good. Otherwise, buy a local LycaMobile or Lebara SIM.
What are the shop hours? Most shops close by 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM on weekdays and earlier on weekends.
Is the weather really that rainy? It’s unpredictable. Layering and a waterproof shell are your best friends.
Can I walk everywhere in Copenhagen? Most major sites are walkable, but your feet will thank you for using the metro occasionally.
What is the “Copenhagen Card”? A pass that covers public transport and entry to 80+ attractions. Worth it if you’re a “museum-heavy” traveler.
How do I find a public restroom? Look for “Toiletter.” They are usually clean and often free in malls or parks.
Is there free Wi-Fi? Yes, in most cafes, trains, and public squares.
🚲 Biking & Transportation
Should I rent a bike? Yes, but only if you are confident. Copenhagen’s bike lanes are serious business.
What are the hand signals? Hand up for “stopping,” hand out left/right for “turning.”
Can I bike on the sidewalk? Absolutely not. Stay in the designated bike lane.
Do I need a helmet? It’s not legally required for adults but highly recommended.
Where do I park my bike? Look for the sea of bikes near stations. Don’t block entrances.
Can I take my bike on the train? Yes, S-trains have designated bike cars (free of charge).
What is “Donkey Republic”? A popular, easy-to-use bike-sharing app.
Is jaywalking okay? No. Danes wait for the green man, even if no cars are coming. You can be fined.
How do I get to Aarhus from Copenhagen? The DSB train takes about 3 hours and is very scenic.
Is there a budget bus option? Yes, FlixBus connects major cities for a fraction of the train price.
What is the “City Pass”? A ticket for unlimited bus, train, and metro use in specific zones.
Can I use Uber? No, Uber is not available. Use the “Viggo” or “Dantaxi” apps instead.
What side of the road do they drive on? The right side.
Are trains expensive? If you book “Orange” tickets in advance on the DSB website, they are significantly cheaper.
How do I get to Malmö, Sweden? Take the Oresund train; it’s a 35-minute trip across the bridge.
Do I need a passport for the Sweden day trip? Yes, carry it for random border checks.
What is the “Harbour Bus”? A yellow commuter ferry. It costs the same as a bus ticket and offers great views.
Are there domestic flights? Yes, between Copenhagen and Aalborg/Aarhus/Billund, but the train is greener and often easier.
Is the metro 24/7? Yes, the Copenhagen Metro runs all night.
Where can I buy train tickets? At machines in stations or via the “DOT Tickets” app.
🍴 Food & Drink
What is a “Smørrebrød”? An open-faced rye bread sandwich with various toppings. A Danish lunch staple.
Where is the best street food? Reffen (Copenhagen Street Food) in summer or Torvehallerne (year-round).
Is eating out expensive? Yes. A mid-range dinner for two often costs 600-800 DKK.
What is “Pølsevogn”? A traditional hot dog stand. Try the “Ristet Pølse” with all the toppings.
What is a “Flæskestegssandwich”? A roast pork sandwich with crackling and pickles. Highly recommended.
Can I drink in public? Yes, it’s legal and common to enjoy a beer in a park or by the canal.
What is the local beer? Carlsberg and Tuborg are the giants, but the craft scene (like Mikkeller) is world-class.
What is “Snaps” (Akvavit)? A strong spirit often served at traditional lunches. Sip it slowly!
Are there vegetarian/vegan options? Yes, Copenhagen is very veg-friendly.
Is the coffee good? Excellent. Danes take their coffee seriously.
What is a “Danish” called in Denmark? “Wienerbrød” (Vienna bread).
What should I try at a bakery? A “Kanelsnegl” (cinnamon roll) or a “Hindbærsnitte” (raspberry slice).
Can I get cheap food? Look for “Too Good To Go” (an app started in Denmark) for surplus food at low prices.
Is supermarket food high quality? Yes. Netto, Rema 1000, and Irma (higher end) are great for picnic supplies.
Do I need restaurant reservations? For popular spots, yes. Weekends book up fast.
What is “Lakrids”? Salty liquorice. It’s an acquired taste, but Danes love it.
Can I drink the harbor water? No, but you can swim in designated harbor baths like Islands Brygge!
Where is the “Meatpacking District”? Vesterbro. It’s full of trendy restaurants and bars.
Is breakfast usually included in hotels? Often, and it’s usually a high-quality buffet of bread, cheese, and meats.
What is “Gammel Dansk”? A bitter herbal liqueur often drunk at breakfast by older locals.
🏰 Sightseeing & Culture
Is the Little Mermaid worth it? It’s small and often crowded. See it once, but don’t expect it to be giant.
What is Christiania? A “freetown” commune. It’s unique and safe to walk through, but follow the “no photos” signs on Pusher Street.
Which castle is best? Rosenborg for the crown jewels; Frederiksborg for the “wow” factor.
What is Tivoli Gardens? One of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Even if you don’t like rides, the gardens are magical.
Is Legoland in Copenhagen? No, it’s in Billund (about 3 hours away).
What is the “Round Tower”? A 17th-century observatory with a spiral ramp instead of stairs. Great city views.
Where can I see the Changing of the Guard? At Amalienborg Palace daily at noon.
What is “Nyhavn”? The iconic colorful harbor. It’s touristy but a must-see.
Should I take a canal tour? Yes. It’s the best way to see the city’s architecture for a low price.
What is the Louisiana Museum? A world-renowned modern art museum north of Copenhagen. The setting is stunning.
Is there a Viking museum? Yes, in Roskilde. You can see actual Viking ships that were raised from the fjord.
What is “Møns Klint”? Massive white chalk cliffs south of Zealand. A top nature spot.
Can I go inside the Parliament? Yes, Christiansborg Palace offers tours and a free view from the tower.
What is “Glyptoteket”? An incredible art museum with a beautiful winter garden.
Are museums closed on Mondays? Many are, so check schedules in advance.
What is the “Jelling Stones”? UNESCO-listed rune stones in Jutland, known as Denmark’s “birth certificate.”
Where is the best shopping? Strøget is the main pedestrian street, but explore side streets for local boutiques.
What is “CopenHill”? A power plant with a ski slope and hiking trail on the roof.
Is Hans Christian Andersen from Copenhagen? He lived there, but he was born in Odense (which has a great museum).
Can I see the Northern Lights? Rarely. You’d need to be far north on a very clear, active night.
🌲 Beyond Copenhagen
Is Aarhus worth visiting? Absolutely. It’s “Denmark’s second city” and has a great food and art scene (ARoS).
What is “Den Gamle By”? An open-air town museum in Aarhus where you can walk through history.
Where should I go for nature? Thy National Park or the beaches of Skagen.
What is special about Skagen? It’s where the two seas (North Sea and Baltic) meet. You can stand with a foot in each.
Is Bornholm worth the trip? Yes, it’s a rocky island in the Baltic with round churches and smokehouses.
How do I get to Bornholm? Fly from Copenhagen or take a bus/ferry via Ystad, Sweden.
What is the “Wadden Sea”? A UNESCO site on the west coast famous for its tidal flats and “Black Sun” bird migrations.
Are there any “hidden gems”? Dragør is a preserved fishing village just 15 minutes from the airport.
Where is Egeskov Castle? On the island of Funen. It’s one of Europe’s best-preserved water castles.
Is Jutland different from Zealand? Yes, it’s more rural, with a more laid-back vibe and dramatic west coast scenery.
💡 Local Customs & Random Tips
What is the “Law of Jante”? A cultural concept emphasizing humility—don’t think you’re better than anyone else.
Do I need to dress up? Not really. “Scandi-cool” is functional, minimalist, and stylish.
How do I say “Cheers”? “Skål!” (pronounced like ‘skoal’).
Is it okay to talk to strangers? Danes are private but very helpful if you ask a specific question.
What is the “Pant” system? You pay a small deposit on bottles/cans. Return them to machines in supermarkets to get your money back.
Are there many smokers? Yes, smoking is still quite common in outdoor seating areas.
Can I use my US/UK power plugs? You’ll need a Type K or Type C (Europlug) adapter.
Is the 112 emergency number the same? Yes, 112 for emergencies, 114 for non-emergency police.
What is a “Klippekort”? It’s an old term for multi-trip tickets—now replaced by apps and Rejsekort.
Will I want to move here? According to travelers, after three days of “hygge” and biking, the answer is usually “Yes.”