Top 17 Tourist Attractions in Denmark: You Must Visit in 2025

As I began to write this blog post, only one thing came to my mind: Which places would I put in the top seventeen? Denmark is a great place to visit. Denmark, a small yet beautiful Scandinavian country, is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Europe. Modern architecture, historic forts, and natural beauty make it appealing to travelers.

Copenhagen is the capital city of Denmark and a major tourist destination. It is home to one of the world’s most miniature yet most famous sculptures, “The Little Mermaid”, based on the character from Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale. Another of the city’s most striking landmarks is Nyhavn, an area of colorful houses and waterways that is ideal for taking photos. In addition, the ancient town of Odense in Denmark, Andersen’s birthplace, is a unique meeting place for literature and culture. There are numerous beaches, green islands, and cycling routes for nature lovers.

Still, I will mention the names of 17 famous tourist destinations here; they may not match yours. So if so, don’t forget to write to me which ones are your favorites. So let’s get started. Top 17 Tourist Attractions in Denmark: You Must Visit.

1. Tivoli Gardens: Copenhagen’s magical world of entertainment

Tivoli Gardens is a world-famous entertainment park located in Copenhagen. It is known as the second-oldest amusement park in the world. The park is a wonderful center of entertainment, relaxation, and culture, not just for children, but for visitors of all ages. It was opened at 1843.

Tivoli features thrilling rides such as old wooden roller coasters, modern themed rides, and colorful gardens arranged along the lake. Every evening, every corner of the park is lit up with twinkling lights, making it feel like a fairy tale world. In addition, live concerts, ballet, opera and special cultural exhibitions for children are regularly organized here. The traditional theater venue and food court will give you a unique experience with the taste of Danish and international cuisine.

Various seasonal events throughout the year, such as summer festivals, Halloween decorations and winter Christmas markets, add extra charm for visitors.

2. The Little Mermaid Statue

A bronze statue of the Little Mermaid was erected in 1913. It is one of the most famous sights in Copenhagen. The statue is based on the popular fairy tale “The Little Mermaid” by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. It is placed on the seafront at Langelinie Pier, as if gazing out to sea forever.

Although the statue, which is only 1.25 meters tall, is relatively small, its popularity among tourists is huge. Every year, millions of tourists flock to Copenhagen to take pictures of this mermaid. The statue’s position, silence, and perspective seem to tell a sad love story.

There are other nearby attractions, such as Amalienborg Palace and the Gen Fountain, which can be visited together. It is a great place to visit at any time of the day or night. Although small, the statue is one of the most photographed places in Denmark.

3. Kronborg Castle

Kronborg Castle is located in Helsingor. It is one of the most historically and culturally significant castles in Europe. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned worldwide as the inspiration for Elsinore Castle in William Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet”. The castle was built in the 16th century and has long been used as a strategic and military center for the Danish royal family.

Upon entering the castle, visitors can see the royal hall, ballroom, and dark underground chambers. The castle museum displays ancient weapons, paintings, and various artifacts of royal life. Beneath the castle is a stone statue of the legendary soldier Holger the Dane.

Kronborg Castle is located about 45 minutes by train from the Danish capital Copenhagen, making it an ideal day trip. The castle offers beautiful views of the Oresund Strait, and in good weather, the coast of Sweden can be seen.

4. Nyhavn

Nyhavn is one of the most popular areas in Copenhagen. Built in the 17th century, this historic port was once a bustling area for sailors, merchants, and traders. Every colorful house in Nyhavn is a witness to history. This is where the famous Danish fairy tale writer Hans Christian Andersen lived for many years, and the area is the inspiration for many of his stories. As you walk along the streets, you will see traditional wooden ships, restaurants with glass windows, and busy cafes.

From here, you can take a boat trip, which is a great way to see the city of Copenhagen. In the summer, the atmosphere is festive, and in the winter, Nyhavn turns into a magical place surrounded by lights.

5. Christiansborg Palace

When you walk around Copenhagen, you will suddenly see a huge, elegant building—this is Christiansborg Palace. From the outside, it looks quite dramatic, as if it came out of a storybook of kings and queens. But once you enter this palace, you realize that this is not just a place of history—Danish politics still breathes here. The country’s parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister’s office—all are here. Even if you are not a king, you will feel a little royal when you enter here!

The interior of the palace is undoubtedly stunning. Wherever you look, there is craftsmanship, huge chandeliers and shiny marble floors. The queen’s reception rooms are like art galleries. And the ruins on the ground floor – when you walk there, you understand how many centuries of stories are stored in the body of this one building. When a Danish guide tells the stories of the various affairs of the royal family on a guided tour, history no longer seems like a book – if you listen carefully, you can even hear the sounds of walking from that time.

6. Legoland Billund

Legoland Billund, located in the small Danish city of Billund, is one of the world’s most popular theme parks, an ideal destination for children and families. Established in 1968, this park was the first Legoland park to be built in the birthplace of Lego. The most exciting part of the park is Miniland, where famous landmarks and cities from around the world are built out of Lego—with miniature trains, floating boats, and even moving traffic!

Legoland Billund is not just a theme park, but an entire resort. Next to the park is the LEGOLAND Hotel and Holiday Village—where you can stay in Lego-themed rooms, cabins, and tents. The park is busiest during the summer, especially from June to August, so it’s wise to book tickets and accommodations well in advance.

Billund has its own international airport (Billund Airport), which can be reached by direct flights from Copenhagen or various European cities. The distance from the airport to the park is only 5-10 minutes, so travel is very easy.

7. The National Museum of Denmark

A must-see destination for those who love history or want to explore the roots of a new place. Founded in 1807, this museum is housed in a royal palace called the ‘Prince’s Mansion’, which is itself a historical landmark. Stone Age, Bronze Age, Viking Age, Medieval Denmark—the artifacts from each period are presented with such care and research that entering each gallery feels like you’re traveling back in time. Especially the Viking weapons, ship parts, and the famous Sun Chariot

The special thing about the museum is that it is not just an exhibition, but an educational experience. There is a section called Children’s Museum. There are also audio guides and guided tours for adults, a great way for those who want to understand the different stages of Danish history.

8. Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle was built in the 17th century by King Christian IV of Denmark. With its red brick walls, green copper roofs, and high towers, this palace looks like something out of a storybook. The surrounding royal gardens (Kongens Have) further enhance its beauty.

Entering the palace, you will see the past history of the Danish royal family, the collection of jewelry and crowns. Here are preserved the royal throne, precious swords, clothing, and the Danish Crown Jewels – which carry historical traces of many centuries. Of particular interest is the ‘Knight’s Hall’, where two thrones, gold jewelry and furniture used by the royal family can be seen.

It is open to tourists all year round and requires a ticket to enter. It is easily accessible by metro or bus from anywhere in Copenhagen. There are many photo opportunities in the castle grounds, but photography is prohibited in some of the rooms inside.

9. Egeskov Castle

Egeskov Castle, located on the island of Funen in southern Denmark, is renowned as one of the most beautiful and well-preserved water castles in Europe. Built in the mid-16th century, this Renaissance-style palace is located in the middle of a lake, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

It is also known as a large amusement park and museum complex. It features the interior royal rooms of the palace, antique furniture, hunting and scripture collections, and even a unique classic car and motorcycle museum. For children, there is a labyrinth garden, tree top walk, and extensive play area.

During the summer, the castle grounds are awash with colorful flowers, vines, and lush green lawns. It is open from April to October, and thousands of visitors come here every day to enjoy a unique blend of heritage, nature, and entertainment.

10. The Round Tower (Rundetarn)

The Round Tower (Rundetårn) is a historical and scientific monument in Denmark, built in the 17th century. It is known as the oldest functioning astronomical observation tower in Europe, inaugurated by the Danish King Christian IV in 1642. The round tower, made of brick, is attractive to tourists not only for its architecture, but also for its scientific and cultural significance.

The tower’s most distinctive feature is its spiral path, which does not climb in steps, but rather in a sloping path. This winding path, about 260 meters long, allows you to easily climb to the top, from where you can see a magnificent view of the city of Copenhagen. From the top, you can see the royal palace, church spires and the city’s modern buildings combined in beauty. It is also an ideal place to watch the sunset in the evening. The Round Tower also houses a small museum, church, and exhibition hall, where cultural and artistic exhibitions are held from time to time.

11. Frederiksborg Castle

Frederiksborg Castle is located in Hillerod. It is the largest Renaissance-style palace in the country and a remarkable historical landmark. Built in the 17th century by King Christian IV, it was once the residence of the Danish royal family. Inside Frederiksborg Castle is the National History Museum, which houses portraits of Danish kings and queens, historical paintings, costumes and weapons. The most striking part of it is the castle’s interior decoration – the chapel, the royal chambers and the Great Hall, which are full of gilded carvings.

Tourists can explore the beautiful Baroque-style gardens, lakeside promenades, and museum shops and cafes. This historic destination is easily accessible by train from Copenhagen, taking just 40 minutes.

12. Skagen

Skagen is Denmark’s northernmost town. It is a destination of natural beauty. It is famous for being the meeting point of the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. The most striking feature is Grenen, where the two waves of the two seas collide – a unique geographical sight that captivates visitors. The soft sandy beaches, bright sunshine, and calm breezes make Skagen a perfect seaside holiday destination.

In the late 19th century, Skagen painters formed a famous art movement called the “Skagen Painters.” Today, to see the work of those artists, you have to go to Skagens Museum, where their extraordinary canvases are displayed. In addition, the old lighthouse, historic houses, and galleries also fascinate visitors.

A must-see when visiting Skagen is Denmark’s famous “Buried Church” and “Rabjerg Mile” – a huge dune that is slowly covering the forest and church. The local seafood here, especially Skagen shrimp, is very popular.

13. Amalienborg Palace

Amalienborg Palace is the official residence of the Danish royal family and an important historical landmark. It consists of four elegant palaces, which are arranged around an octagonal courtyard. It is currently used as the residence of the Danish King and Queen.

The most impressive sight here is the Changing of the Guard ceremony every afternoon. A well-dressed group of armed guards marches from the King’s palace to music and hands over the guard’s duties. Hundreds of tourists gather to witness this traditional spectacle, a magnificent display of royal dignity and discipline.

At the museum located at Amalienborg, visitors can explore the history of the royal family, their clothing, jewelry, and royal chambers. In front of the palace is a large bronze statue of King Frederik V on horseback, which is an ideal place for a photo.

14. Aarhus Old Town

“Den Gamle By” or Aarhus Old Town, is located in Aarhus, Denmark’s second largest city. It is the world’s first “open-air museum”, originally built by relocating old Danish buildings. Visitors can walk through a village that recreates Denmark from the 15th to the 19th centuries.

There are traditional bakeries, tailors, grocery shops, schools, theaters, and even old cosmetic and radio shops. The workers, dressed in traditional costumes, behave and act like they did in the era, giving visitors a complete historical experience. There are workshops for children, a small museum, a cafe, and a restaurant, which offer old-fashioned food and experiences.

15. Moens Klint

Moens Klint, located on the southeast coast of Denmark, is a remarkable natural wonder, famous for its massive white limestone cliffs. These white cliffs, some 128 meters high, stand on the shores of the Baltic Sea.

Fossils of millions of years old marine life can be found here, and children and adults can take part in educational activities like Fossil Hunt together. There is also GeoCenter Moens Klint – a modern geology museum with 3D shows, interactive exhibitions and science-based games. This place is very popular for hiking, biking, paragliding and beach-watching during the summer. You have to climb down a lot of stairs to reach the bottom of the cliff, but the beauty of nature when you look up from below is truly mesmerizing.

16. Viking Ship Museum (Roskilde)

The Viking Ship Museum is located in Roskilde. This is a great place to get up close and personal with the history of tradition and seafaring. The museum houses five original Viking warships from the 11th century, which were found in the Skuldelev area. They have been carefully reconstructed and displayed to illustrate the naval technology, trade, and warfare of the Viking Age.

One of the museum’s attractions is its workshop and live demonstrations. Visitors can see the process of building wooden boats. Children can play in Viking costumes and experience life as real Vikings. In the summer, tourists also have the opportunity to sail the Roskilde Fjord on a historic replica Viking boat, You can visit this historical and educational museum in Roskilde, just an hour’s train ride from Copenhagen. Especially those who have a deep interest in Viking heritage.

17. The Blue Planet (National Aquarium Denmark)

Denmark’s largest aquarium, “The Blue Planet” (Den Blå Planet), is a stunning modern museum located near Copenhagen, a living exhibition of marine biodiversity. Opened in 2013, the aquarium is also architecturally remarkable — it is shaped like a bird’s wing, which is striking from a distance.

The aquarium has seven main zones, of which the ‘Ocean Tank’ is the most popular. This huge tank is home to giant sharks, rays, turtles, and countless colorful fish. The ‘Coral Reef’, ‘Amazon Rainforest’, and ‘Nordic Seas’ sections offer a close-up look at aquatic animals from different parts of the world. It is located just a few minutes from Copenhagen Airport, so it is a perfect place to visit even if you are short on time.