How to Travel Denmark in Comfort: A Guide to Hygge, Transport and Easy Touring

Exploring Denmark: How to Travel the Country in Comfort

Denmark and comfort go “hand in glove”. Defined by its concept of hygge (coziness), this Scandinavian gem often ranks among the world’s happiest countries, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re traveling to Denmark soon, expect slow-living, sustainability, and first-class amenities.

Crowds dining outdoors in Copenhagen

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant capital, Copenhagen, or veering slightly off the beaten path to the North Sea beaches of Jutland, you will find comfort at every corner you turn in Denmark. 

That said, there are aspects of travel that are often overlooked in planning, and they can greatly affect your comfort. Here are some tips to ensure your comfort during your visit to Denmark.

Make Connectivity Part of Your Comfort Strategy

One thing you won’t have to worry about when traveling through Denmark is connectivity. The country has world-class digital connectivity, with 99% internet coverage. That’s 4G and 5G.

However, as many travelers would know, switching physical SIM cards to access the internet can be quite daunting. From standing in a long kiosk queue at the airport to figuring out how data rates work in a foreign country, you’re likely to get frustrated as you try to get online.

The WonderConnect Travel eSIM works in 190+ countries and takes two steps to set up: install before you leave, and activate when you land. No roaming fees, and you keep your regular number throughout. 

If you’re traveling from within the EU or EEA, your existing plan may already cover Denmark under “Roam Like at Home” rules - though fair-use limits can apply. Coming from outside the EU, a travel eSIM keeps things straightforward.

Base Yourself in Copenhagen First

Denmark has much to offer, but the best place to start is Copenhagen. It’s a historic city, but modernity permeates throughout. Get a taste of hygge at a cozy café or “lazy bakery.” If you’re looking for something other than caffeine, seek out bars or cellars with low lighting and candles.

View looking east across Copenhagen

Stroll along Nyhavn, taking snaps of the colourful 18th-century houses or simply marveling at the bustle as boats bob on the canal and people socialise. The canal-side eateries are a fantastic spot to people-watch or enjoy a late lunch or sunset drink. Copenhagen is extremely walkable and safe, so explore as you wish, but definitely visit Tivoli Gardens for a piece of nature.

After Copenhagen, make your way to Odense and Aarhus. These are Denmark’s third- and second-largest cities, respectively, so comfort amenities are abundant. It’s advisable to delve into Danish cuisine here; food is cheaper than in the capital and has a strong focus on hygge.

The lighthouse at Aarhus in northern Denmark

Use Denmark’s Transport System to Your Advantage

Developed, efficient, and interconnected, that’s Denmark’s transportation system in three words. Major cities have bus networks that connect smaller towns and metros. Copenhagen provides a metro service, so getting around won’t be a challenge regardless of how you choose to travel.

Get on the front foot by using the integrated ticketing system. Denmark offers the Rejsebillet, Rejsekort, and the DSB app, which you can use to purchase, store, and use transport tickets. Cash purchases are uncommon, so you’d need to load a physical card with cash or use an app.

Cycling is the most common way Danes move around. Tourists are welcome to use this laid-back form of transportation, with plenty of rental bike options available. There are app-based services such as Donkey Republic and Lime that let you easily rent a bike.

Choose Accommodation That Reduces Friction

Accommodation often takes a big chunk of the budget, but that doesn’t mean you should forgo comfort for a lower price, especially in Denmark. It’s not a cheap country to visit, yes, but a central location can cut transport costs and boost convenience by providing access to amenities.

When you’re centrally located, you’re more likely to be within walking distance to a variety of food establishments, from grocery stores to restaurants, bars, cafés, and bakeries. This variety of options allows you to choose what fits your budget and dietary preferences.

Choosing hotels near transport hubs is also recommended, especially if your itinerary includes visits outside the city centre. So, you’ll spend less time on travel and more time on hygge.

Lastly, be sure to book your accommodation early. The summer is Denmark’s peak season, and it fills up quickly. Last-minute options are often more expensive and limit comfort.

Travel at the Danish Pace (Not a Tourist Sprint)

Ever wonder why Denmark is a happy nation? Trust in public institutions, a high-level welfare system, security, and equality? You’d be right, but there is one more thing: The Danish Pace. 

Embracing slow living and a rigid work-life balance, many Danes don’t travel to tick items off the bucket list. They prioritise relaxation and guess what, comfort. Here’s how you can do that. Start your mornings slowly, walk to the nearest café, sit, or keep walking as you sightsee.

Use the afternoon to go to the must-visit spots on your itinerary, then follow up with a long lunch and bakery stop for a sweet treat. When evening sets in, you’re welcome to enjoy sundowners or simply recharge at your hotel. Be it a spa or sauna visit, or a swim in the pool, it’s up to you.

Time Your Visit for Maximum Comfort

June, July, and August are undoubtedly the best months to visit Denmark. The summer brings long daylight hours, warm weather, and plenty of vibrant outdoor festivals. However, this is peak season, which means larger crowds, higher prices, and fully booked hotels and restaurants.

A visit to Denmark during one of the shoulder seasons, late spring (May) and early fall (September), offers milder weather, fewer tourists, and better prices. But if you’re looking for the epitome of coziness or hygge, there is no better time to visit than winter (November–March).

Picture this. You’re strolling through a Christmas market adorned by thousands of festive lights, as the aroma of Danish mulled wine (gløgg) and apple pancakes fills the air. Copenhagen hosts some of the best markets, including Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, Højbro Plads, and Kongens Nytorv.

Eat Well Without Overplanning

Danish cuisine is a refreshing blend of traditional Nordic cooking and modern, seasonal ingredients and techniques known as “New Nordic”. A couple of standard staples you’ll find throughout the country include smørrebrød (open sandwiches) and frikadeller (meatballs).

Each region has its own character. Copenhagen has a cosmopolitan vibe, with a mix of Michelin restaurants and smørrebrød houses. In coastal regions like Kystlandet, seafood takes center stage; freshly caught fish, oysters, mussels, and locally-sourced produce are all on the menu.

So, there’s no need to over-plan your meals when in Denmark. Simply reserve the “fine dining” experiences in advance, and get the rest from markets, harbour cafés, and bakeries.