The Scandinavian country of Denmark has everything you could ever want in a short break, from fascinating art galleries, museums and castles to thrilling theme parks and bustling music festivals. Hire out a bike and cycle around your favourite cities while taking in the different sights, before resting on one of the beautiful beaches.
Here are just a few reasons why we think you should book a trip to Denmark. Whether it be a flying stop or week-long break, there’s plenty of charming towns to explore and exciting things to do.
Denmark’s art exists in many different forms, including Viking artefacts, modern art pieces and unique sculptures dotted around the country. Copenhagen is best-known for having a thriving art scene, with the century-old National Gallery building showcasing pieces from the Golden Age and Copenhagen Contemporary continuing to push artistic boundaries.
Another piece of art to keep an eye out for is the iconic little mermaid statue designed by Edvard Eriksen. Placed on a rock along the Langelinie Promenade, this bronze statue symbolises the story of the little mermaid written by Hans Christian Anderson who was born in Odense.
While enjoying the art and culture of Denmark, you’ll want to stop off for a quick snack, so why not tuck into the country’s national dish, Stegt flæsk? This meal consists of salted, fried pork and boiled potatoes in a white sauce, topped with chopped parsley. Some choose to add a dollop of apple compote on the side to complement the salty flavours.
For dessert, choose aebleskiver, a spherical snack comprised of pancake dough and various flavours of jam. These sweet dough balls resemble miniature jam doughnuts, with a similar dough texture, and accompaniments include either blackcurrant, raspberry or strawberry jam and a light dusting of powdered sugar.
What may come as a surprise to you is that, although Denmark is known for having numerous busy cities, it’s home to several peaceful beaches. When you fancy escaping the crowds and having a quiet afternoon in the sun, travel north of Copenhagen to discover the Danish Riviera, where the beaches have long grass, tall sand dunes and blue waters.
Visit between June and August to enjoy the beautiful Nordic summer weather, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Any other time of the year, expect a windy walk down the promenade while watching sailing boats breeze past on the open water. Climb on board the local train for a scenic route to the other nearby beaches.
Denmark’s architectural roots started with the Vikings and gradually evolved into Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque ideas that still resonate with the buildings seen today. Many refer to Denmark as having a fairytale aspect to it because of its castles and palaces that resemble traditional storybook features.
Frederiksborg Castle is a tourist favourite because of its stunning Renaissance architecture, ideal location on a lake and magnificent Baroque gardens in front. Although it burned down in 1859, it was restored to its original design and opened to the public as the Museum of National History. Just around the corner is the grand Fredensborg Palace, where guided tours help you learn about its rich history.
No matter what time of year you decide to visit Denmark, you’re guaranteed to be surrounded by idyllic scenery. In the spring and summer, the sun shines down over the canals and reflects in the water. In the winter, a thin blanket of snowflakes rests on the ground and crunches as you step in it.
Brightly coloured townhouses sit along the 17th-century Nyhavn and continue to make breathtaking photographs and create the perfect backdrop when sat in the restaurants and cafés below. Yet another picturesque setting is Møns Klint, a six-kilometre-long stretch of white chalk cliffs. Choose to hike or cycle through the vast Klinteskoven Forest to see this natural wonder.
If any of these reasons have inspired you to book a trip to Denmark, contact us via our website or call us on 0800 021 3237 to find out more. Alternatively, you can visit our Woodbridge, Ipswich or Framlingham travel agents to speak to a member of our team.
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