Dreaming of a perfect Scandinavian escape? Denmark, with its fairytale charm, breathtaking coastlines, and cozy vibes, is calling your name. This 1 week Denmark itinerary is crafted to help you soak up the best Denmark has to offer, from iconic cities like Copenhagen to hidden gems like Ærø Island. Pack your bags and get ready to discover hygge (that’s Danish for coziness) at its finest!
Itinerary Snapshot
- Duration: 7 Days
- Route: Copenhagen → Odense → Aarhus → Ærø → Back to Copenhagen
- Estimated Budget: $1,200–$2,000 (depending on travel style)
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
Essentials to Prepare Before You Go
Planning ahead makes all the difference in Denmark:
- Flights: Book early for deals to Copenhagen. Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) often has great offers.
- Travel Insurance: Denmark is super safe, but never skip insurance. Companies like SafetyWing are reliable and affordable.
- Transportation Pass: Get the Rejsekort for easy train, bus, and metro travel across Denmark.
- Credit Cards: Most places are cashless. Visa and Mastercard work almost everywhere.
- Local SIM: Consider getting a Lebara or Lycamobile SIM for cheap data plans.
- Packing: Bring layers! Danish weather changes quickly, even in summer. Don’t forget comfy shoes for cobblestone streets.
Pro Tip: Download offline maps for Denmark—Google Maps works wonders, but Maps.me can save the day if Wi-Fi is scarce.
Day 1: Arriving in Copenhagen – A Capital of Contrasts
Morning: The Perfect Start
Begin your adventure in Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s colorful waterfront district. Walk along the historic harbor, lined with pastel buildings and docked sailboats. Treat yourself to a Danish pastry (try a kanelsnegl, aka cinnamon roll) at Lagkagehuset—a famous local bakery.
Did You Know? Hans Christian Andersen, the beloved storyteller, lived in several houses along Nyhavn!
Take a stroll to the Little Mermaid statue, one of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks. While it’s a bit smaller than you might expect, its charm makes it worth the visit.
Afternoon: Royal Exploration
Head to Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish royal family. Time your visit around noon to catch the changing of the guard—it’s a unique, crowd-pleasing ceremony.
For lunch, grab a traditional smørrebrød (open-faced sandwich) at Aamanns 1921. Opt for herring or roast beef with a local craft beer.
Highlight: Don’t miss Rosenborg Castle, a fairytale-like palace housing Denmark’s crown jewels.
Evening: Cozy Vibes in Tivoli
As the sun sets, dive into the magic of Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Even if rides aren’t your thing, Tivoli’s gardens, lights, and live music are pure hygge. End the night with a meal at Grøften, a cozy Danish restaurant inside Tivoli.
Extra Tip: Bring a light jacket; even summer evenings can get chilly in Denmark.
Day 2: Castles and Coastlines
Morning: Kronborg Castle
Take a short train ride to Helsingør, home to Kronborg Castle, the legendary setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Explore the grand halls and eerie dungeons while imagining yourself as part of a royal drama.
Afternoon: Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Hop on a train to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, perched by the sea. Even if you’re not a modern art fan, the museum’s architecture and serene views will leave you in awe. Enjoy lunch at their café overlooking the Øresund.
Bonus Tip: Bring your camera—the museum’s sculpture garden offers Instagram-worthy shots!
Evening: Return to Copenhagen
Spend your evening exploring the Meatpacking District (Kødbyen). It’s a foodie haven with everything from Nordic cuisine to street food vibes. Warpigs Brewpub is a great pick for craft beer lovers.
Day 3: Fairy Tales and Fun in Odense
Morning: Dive into Hans Christian Andersen’s World
Catch an early morning train from Copenhagen to Odense, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, and the scenic countryside will set a relaxed tone for the day.
Start at the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, which dives into the life and works of Denmark’s beloved storyteller. The interactive exhibits will make you feel like you’re stepping into a fairytale. Afterward, wander the cobblestone streets of the old town, where half-timbered houses and cozy cafes transport you back in time.
Did You Know? Andersen’s stories, like The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling, were inspired by Danish culture and landscapes.
Afternoon: A Taste of Local Life
For lunch, stop at Café Fleuri, a charming spot with a cozy vibe and hearty Danish dishes. Try their smørrebrød with pickled herring—it’s as authentic as it gets.
Spend the afternoon exploring Odense Zoo, one of Europe’s top-rated zoos. It’s not just for kids—the lush setting and close encounters with animals make it a great experience for all ages.
Highlight: Don’t miss Munke Mose Park, a serene spot perfect for a short boat ride or a peaceful walk.
Evening: Relax in Odense’s Charming Streets
As the day winds down, grab dinner at Restaurant Under Lindetræet, known for its Nordic-inspired cuisine and intimate atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Odense is best explored on two wheels. Rent a bike to easily get around town and take in the sights.
Day 4: Aarhus – Denmark’s Cultural Gem
Morning: A Stroll Through History
Hop on a train to Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city, known for its blend of history and modernity. Start your day at Den Gamle By (The Old Town), an open-air museum that feels like stepping into a time machine. Wander through reconstructed streets and interact with costumed actors for a glimpse into Denmark’s past.
Fun Fact: Aarhus is nicknamed the “City of Smiles” because of its friendly vibe.
Afternoon: Art and Architecture
Grab lunch at Café Faust along the riverside, where the views are just as good as the food. Afterward, head to the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, famous for its rainbow-colored rooftop walkway, Your Rainbow Panorama. Walk through the installation for stunning views of the city through vibrant, tinted glass.
Highlight: Explore Aarhus Street Food, an eclectic indoor market offering global flavors. Don’t miss the flæskesteg sandwiches!
Evening: Waterfront Bliss
Spend your evening by the Aarhus Ø waterfront, an ultra-modern area with striking architecture like the Iceberg Apartments. Wrap up your day with dinner at Hærværk, a Michelin-recommended spot where the menu changes daily based on local, seasonal ingredients.
Bonus Tip: Aarhus’s nightlife is buzzing—head to Tir Na Nog, an Irish pub with a Danish twist, for drinks and live music.
Day 5: Island Escape to Ærø
Morning: Ferry to Ærø
Take an early train to Svendborg and hop on a ferry to Ærø, a picture-perfect island that feels like a step back in time. The ferry ride itself is a treat, offering stunning views of the sea.
Once on the island, rent a bike (the best way to get around) and head to the town of Ærøskøbing, known for its colorful houses and cobblestone streets.
Pro Tip: Pack snacks for the ferry ride—it’s a relaxing 1-hour journey, and you’ll want something to nibble on while soaking in the views.
Afternoon: Explore Island Charm
Stop by the Ærø Museum to learn about the island’s maritime history, then head to the Ærø Brewery to sample local craft beer. For lunch, grab a table at Restaurant Mumm and enjoy fresh seafood.
Spend the afternoon biking along the coast. The scenery is breathtaking, with rolling hills, golden fields, and picturesque beaches. Don’t miss Voderup Klint, a stunning cliffside viewpoint.
Evening: Sunset Magic
Ærø is famous for its sunsets, and there’s no better spot to catch one than Marstal Harbor. Grab a blanket, sit by the water, and let the golden hues leave you speechless.
For dinner, Den Gamle Købmandsgaard serves traditional Danish dishes in a cozy setting.
Extra Tip: Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during summer months, as spots can fill up quickly.
Day 6: Return to Copenhagen via Funen
Morning: Funen Village Adventure
On your way back to Copenhagen, stop at The Funen Village in Odense. This open-air museum showcases traditional Danish life from centuries ago. Wander through historic farmhouses, meet farm animals, and chat with guides in period clothing.
This or That: If you’d rather skip museums, head straight to Egeskov Castle, a stunning Renaissance-era castle with gorgeous gardens and a treetop walk.
Afternoon: Back to Copenhagen
Arrive back in Copenhagen by early afternoon. Spend some time wandering Strøget, one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets. Shop for Danish design items, souvenirs, or just enjoy some people-watching.
For lunch, stop at Torvehallerne, a food market where you can sample everything from Danish cheeses to artisanal chocolates.
Pro Tip: Try a traditional Danish hotdog from DØP, a beloved street cart right outside the market.
Evening: Canal Cruise
Cap off your trip with an evening canal cruise. Hop on a Netto-Bådene boat tour for a budget-friendly yet magical experience of Copenhagen from the water. End the night with a drink at Ruby, a chic cocktail bar hidden in an old townhouse.
Day 7: Farewell, Denmark
Morning: Hygge Morning
Spend your last morning relaxing in Frederiksberg Gardens, a peaceful park where you can spot swans and unwind.
Afternoon: Final Explorations
If time allows, explore Christianshavn and climb the Church of Our Saviour’s spiral tower for breathtaking city views. For a quirky final stop, visit Christiania, a unique freetown with an eclectic, bohemian vibe.
Evening: Bon Voyage
Before heading to the airport, enjoy a farewell dinner at Noma (if you can snag a reservation!) or its more affordable sibling, Barr, for Nordic-inspired comfort food.
Pro Tip: Arrive at the airport early—Copenhagen Airport has excellent shopping and dining options to enjoy before your flight.
What to Eat in Denmark
Denmark’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of hearty traditional dishes and modern gastronomic trends. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, here’s a guide to the country’s most iconic eats:
- Smørrebrød:
The classic open-faced sandwich is an essential Danish experience. Toppings can range from pickled herring and egg to roast beef with crispy onions. Visit Aamanns 1921 in Copenhagen for some of the best gourmet smørrebrød in town.
Bonus Tip: Enjoy it the Danish way—with a chilled schnapps (aquavit) on the side. - Flæskesteg:
This roast pork dish with crispy crackling is a Danish favorite, typically served with red cabbage and caramelized potatoes. You’ll often find it as part of traditional Christmas meals, but many restaurants like Restaurant Puk in Copenhagen serve it year-round. - Pølser:
These Danish hot dogs are street food royalty! Choose a classic red sausage topped with mustard, ketchup, remoulade, crispy onions, and pickles. DØP, located near Strøget in Copenhagen, is a beloved hot dog stand that offers organic options.
Pro Tip: Ask for “ristet” (toasted) bread for an extra crispy experience. - Frikadeller:
These Danish meatballs, often made with pork or veal, are comfort food at its finest. Served with boiled potatoes, gravy, and pickled cucumbers, it’s a meal that feels like a hug on a plate. - Danish Pastries (Wienerbrød):
While the world knows about Danish pastries, nothing beats trying them fresh in Denmark. Beyond cinnamon rolls, try spandauer (custard-filled), kringle (almond-filled), or drømmekage (dream cake). Stop by Lagkagehuset or Andersen Bakery for the best pastries in town.
Fun Fact: Danes call them “wienerbrød,” or Vienna bread, as their origin traces back to Austrian bakers brought to Denmark in the 19th century. - Rødgrød med Fløde:
A classic Danish dessert made with summer berries (like strawberries, raspberries, and red currants) cooked into a pudding and served with cream. Perfect for a sweet ending to your meal! - Rugbrød (Rye Bread):
Danish rye bread is a staple, especially as the base for smørrebrød. Its dense, slightly sour flavor makes it unique—and it’s packed with nutrients too. - Æbleskiver:
These fluffy, pancake-like balls are traditionally served during Christmas, dusted with powdered sugar and accompanied by jam. You can find them at local Christmas markets or even year-round in some cafes. - Seafood:
Denmark’s coastal location means fresh seafood is abundant. Try skagenrøre (a shrimp and mayo salad) or stegt sild (fried herring). In towns like Helsingør or on Ærø Island, seafood is a way of life—don’t leave without sampling it! - New Nordic Cuisine:
Denmark is home to the New Nordic food movement, emphasizing fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Restaurants like Noma (Copenhagen) have redefined global gastronomy. For a more affordable option, visit Relae or Höst for an authentic taste of this innovative cuisine.
Highlight: Denmark’s culinary culture celebrates both simplicity and innovation. Whether it’s a humble hot dog on the go or a multi-course tasting menu, every bite is a taste of Danish hygge.
Bonus Tip: Don’t leave Denmark without trying a local beer. Breweries like Carlsberg, Mikkeller, and To Øl offer a wide range of craft beers, from lagers to bold IPAs. Pair your meal with a brew for the full Danish experience.
Where to Stay: Recommended Hotels and Areas
Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your trip. Denmark offers a wide range of options for all budgets, from trendy hostels to luxurious historic hotels. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to stay in the cities and towns included in this itinerary:
Copenhagen
- Budget:
Urban House Copenhagen by MEININGER – This trendy and social hostel is located in the hip Vesterbro neighborhood, just a stone’s throw from Tivoli Gardens. The dorms and private rooms are clean and modern, with a lively bar and great common areas for meeting other travelers. - Mid-Range:
Hotel SP34 – Nestled in the Latin Quarter, this boutique hotel is a perfect mix of comfort and chic Scandinavian design. They even offer a complimentary wine hour every evening—how’s that for hygge vibes? - Luxury:
Hotel D’Angleterre – If you’re looking for the ultimate splurge, this 5-star icon has been hosting royalty and celebrities for over 260 years. The elegant rooms, world-class service, and Michelin-starred restaurant, Marchal, make this one of Copenhagen’s finest.
Pro Tip: If you’re staying in Copenhagen for a few days, consider booking near Nørreport Station or Kongens Nytorv for easy access to public transport and top attractions.
Odense
- Budget:
CABINN Odense – Conveniently located near the train station, this hotel offers compact yet comfortable rooms at a great price point. Perfect if you’re just staying a night or two to explore the town. - Mid-Range:
Hotel Odeon – This modern, cozy hotel is a short walk from the Hans Christian Andersen Museum. Its quiet yet central location and warm hospitality make it an excellent base for exploring Odense. - Luxury:
First Hotel Grand – A historic property that exudes old-world charm while offering modern amenities. The hotel’s elegant restaurant and central location make it a fantastic choice for those looking for a more upscale stay.
Fun Fact: Odense has bike-friendly hotels that offer complimentary bike rentals—perfect for exploring this cycling capital of Denmark!
Aarhus
- Budget:
BOOK1 Design Hostel – A fresh, minimalist hostel with dorms, pods, and private rooms. Located near the Aarhus Art Museum, it’s ideal for budget travelers who still want a bit of style and comfort. - Mid-Range:
Hotel Oasia Aarhus – This boutique hotel is a gem in the heart of Aarhus, offering sleek, Scandinavian-style rooms and excellent service. Their organic breakfast spread is a must-try. - Luxury:
Hotel Royal Aarhus – A grand, old-world hotel situated right by the cathedral and Aarhus Theater. The rooms are spacious, with beautiful views of the city, and the historic charm is unmatched.
Highlight: Aarhus is small but vibrant, and staying in the city center means everything is walkable—whether you’re exploring museums or enjoying the nightlife.
Ærø Island
- Budget:
Ærø Bed & Kitchen – A charming, affordable guesthouse located in Marstal. You’ll love the cozy vibe and warm hospitality. The shared kitchen is great for preparing your own meals. - Mid-Range:
Pension Vestergade 44 – This family-run guesthouse in Ærøskøbing feels like a storybook come to life. The individually decorated rooms and garden make it an enchanting place to stay. - Luxury:
Ærø Hotel – Denmark’s only CO2-neutral hotel, located in Marstal. With spacious rooms and a focus on sustainability, it’s perfect for eco-conscious travelers seeking a little luxury.
Bonus Tip: Book well in advance if visiting in the summer, as Ærø’s accommodations fill up quickly due to high demand during peak season.
Near Egeskov Castle (Funen)
- Budget:
Danhostel Faaborg – A simple yet comfortable hostel near the castle, perfect for families and budget travelers. - Mid-Range:
Hotel Faaborg Fjord – Set by the water with beautiful views and a short drive to Egeskov Castle, this hotel offers modern amenities with a tranquil vibe. - Luxury:
Hvedholm Slot Hotel – Stay in a real castle! This fairytale-like property near Egeskov offers beautifully decorated rooms and stunning grounds for a truly unique experience.
Pro Tip: If you love castles, staying near Funen allows you to explore more than just Egeskov—there are several smaller castles and manors in the region.
General Accommodation Tips for Denmark
- Booking Early is Key: Denmark is a popular destination, especially during summer. Secure your accommodation early to get the best rates and availability.
- Check Out Airbnb: For unique stays, like a cozy cabin by the sea or a modern apartment in the city, Airbnb is a fantastic option.
- Hostel Quality: Danish hostels are a step above—most offer private rooms alongside dorms, and the design and cleanliness are top-notch.
- Family-Friendly Stays: If you’re traveling with kids, look for hotels or Airbnbs offering family-sized rooms or apartments with kitchenettes.
Extra Tip: Many hotels in Denmark offer free bike rentals or partner discounts for local attractions. Always ask at the reception to maximize your stay.
Essential Apps for Traveling
Traveling through Denmark becomes so much easier when you have the right apps to assist with navigation, planning, and local insights. Here’s a detailed breakdown of apps you must download before your trip:
- Google Maps/Maps.me
These apps are absolute essentials for getting around Denmark, whether you’re exploring Copenhagen’s bustling streets or navigating the charming countryside of Ærø. Google Maps is perfect for real-time directions, while Maps.me allows you to download maps offline—ideal for areas with limited connectivity.
Pro Tip: Save your favorite attractions, restaurants, and hotels in advance on Google Maps for easy access during your trip. - Rejseplanen
The ultimate public transport app for Denmark. Whether you’re catching a train, metro, bus, or ferry, Rejseplanen provides up-to-date schedules, routes, and ticket prices. It’s a lifesaver for seamless connections between cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense.
Bonus Tip: Enable the location feature in the app to get recommendations for the nearest stops and departure times. - Google Translate
While most Danes speak fluent English, there might be moments when you encounter Danish-only menus, street signs, or cultural notes. Google Translate’s camera feature can instantly translate text—especially handy for reading product labels or museum descriptions.
Fun Fact: Danes appreciate even the tiniest effort to speak their language. A simple “tak” (thank you) or “hej” (hi) can go a long way! - XE Currency Converter
Denmark uses the Danish krone (DKK), and XE Currency Converter helps you quickly calculate costs in your home currency. The app works offline, so you can still check exchange rates even when data isn’t available.
Pro Tip: Most places in Denmark accept credit cards, but it’s still good to keep a small amount of cash for local markets or small purchases. - Booking.com or Airbnb
Whether you prefer cozy Airbnbs or reliable hotel chains, these apps are your best bet for finding accommodations on the go. Booking.com is great for last-minute deals, while Airbnb offers unique stays, like countryside cottages or city apartments with Danish design flair.
Bonus Tip: Use filters like “Free Cancellation” or “Self-Check-In” for added flexibility. - Too Good To Go
An app every budget-conscious (and eco-friendly) traveler should know! Too Good To Go connects you with restaurants, bakeries, and grocery stores offering discounted food that would otherwise go to waste. It’s an affordable way to sample local dishes while helping reduce food waste.
Extra Tip: Download it in advance and check for pick-up times to snag the best deals in Copenhagen or Aarhus. - FreeNow (MyTaxi)
FreeNow is Denmark’s leading ride-hailing app, ideal for those late-night trips or when public transport isn’t available. With easy payment options and fast service, it’s a convenient way to get around.
Pro Tip: Taxis in Denmark are quite expensive, so use this app sparingly. Public transport or biking are usually cheaper alternatives. - Cykel DK
Denmark is a cycling paradise, and this app is your guide to over 12,000 km of bike-friendly routes across the country. It’s perfect for planning cycling trips in cities like Copenhagen or scenic areas like Ærø.
Fun Fact: Copenhagen consistently ranks as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. - MinRejseKort
If you’re traveling with a Rejsekort (Denmark’s public transport card), this app is a must-have. It helps you track your card balance, travel history, and top-up options—all in one place. - Visit Denmark App
This app offers curated travel tips, event listings, and detailed guides to attractions across Denmark. It’s like having a virtual guidebook in your pocket.
Bonus Tip: Use the “near me” feature to find hidden gems or lesser-known spots wherever you are. - Foodora
Denmark’s top food delivery app. Whether you’re craving a late-night snack or a sit-down meal at your accommodation, Foodora connects you with restaurants offering local and international cuisine.
Extra Tip: Order from small, family-owned restaurants to get an authentic taste of Danish home cooking. - Copenhagen Card App
If you’re staying in Copenhagen, this app is essential for maximizing the value of the Copenhagen Card. It provides free access to over 80 attractions and includes unlimited use of public transportation within the city. The app even tracks how much you’re saving!
Pro Tip: Purchase your Copenhagen Card online before arriving for instant activation via the app. - TripIt
To keep all your bookings, tickets, and itineraries organized in one place, TripIt is an excellent choice. It syncs with your email and automatically compiles your travel plans. - Weather Apps (Yr or DMI)
Denmark’s weather can be unpredictable. These apps provide accurate and hyper-local forecasts, so you can plan your day and pack accordingly.
Fun Fact: Danes have a saying: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.”
Final Tip: Make sure your phone has an international SIM card or you’ve signed up for a data plan to use these apps effectively. Most places in Denmark have free Wi-Fi, but having access to data on the go is a game changer.
Final Thoughts
Traveling through Denmark isn’t just about seeing—it’s about feeling. The Danish concept of hygge comes alive as you sip coffee in a cozy café, chat with friendly locals, or bike along serene streets lined with colorful houses.
This itinerary isn’t just about landmarks and food; it’s about the connections you’ll make—with the people, the culture, and the unique Danish way of life. Denmark has a special rhythm, one that balances modern innovation with an unwavering respect for tradition and simplicity.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or planning to come back for more, Denmark has a way of calling you home. So, pack your curiosity, a good pair of walking shoes, and an open heart. This adventure will leave you with not just photos and souvenirs but moments you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
As the Danes would say, “Vi ses!” (See you soon!)
Bonus Tip: Already dreaming of your next trip? Consider returning during the Christmas season, when Denmark transforms into a winter wonderland with festive markets, twinkling lights, and cozy traditions.
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