Although still associated with the fierce Viking warriors that sailed forth from its lands, Denmark is now just as known for its cool cosmopolitan cities, rich cultural heritage and creative design scene. A very prosperous and peaceful place, Scandinavia’s southernmost nation has lots to see and do with picturesque fishing villages, palaces and castles set alongside its wind-swept shores.
Located in between the cold, uninviting waters of the North and Baltic seas, its peninsula protrudes out from the north of Germany with hundreds of mainly smaller islands lying about it. While many secluded bays and inlets lie along its long, indented coastline, most of its interior consists of rolling plains and fertile farms. The enormous autonomous territory of Greenland in the Arctic Circle and the remote and rugged archipelago of the Faroe Islands also make up part of the country.
Regularly ranked among the most liveable cities in the world, Denmark’s capital Copenhagen has myriad pretty parks and waterways to explore with stylish shops, restaurants and bars dotted here and there. Aside from snapping photos of the colorful buildings lining its harbor and visiting its royal palaces and museums, you can also check out the Little Mermaid statue and the Tivoli Gardens theme park; two of its standout sights.
After delving into its daring culinary scene and delighting at its innovative architecture, most people then head off to explore either Aarhus or Odense. While the former contains lots of well-preserved old buildings and boasts lively arts, culture and nightlife scenes, the latter’s attractive historic centre is studded with superb statues and sculptures from Han Christian Anderson’s famous fairytales.
To top it all off, you can always embrace your inner child at Legoland, enjoy stunning coastal views and pristine beaches at either Bornholm or Skagen or stop by the fascinating Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde that also hosts one of Scandinavia’s biggest and best music festivals.