Everything You Need To Know For Denmark
Geographical Position and Climate of Denmark
Denmark is situated in Northern Europe and comprises the Jutland Peninsula and an archipelago of 443 named islands. It lies to the south-west of Sweden and south of Norway and is bordered to the south by Germany.
Denmark experiences a temperate maritime climate. This climate is characterized by mild winters and cool summers, with a moderate but ample amount of rainfall throughout the year. Due to its position near the sea, the weather can be quite changeable with overcast days being common. Winters are not extremely cold, while summers are comfortably warm rather than hot.
Brief History of Denmark
The history of Denmark is long and rich, with the area being inhabited since at least 12,500 BC. The Danish tribes were known as fierce warriors and traders during the Viking Age, which lasted from the 8th to the 10th century. During this time, the Danes established a significant presence in Northern Europe.
In the Middle Ages, Denmark became a unified kingdom and Christianized, which played a crucial role in the nation’s development. The country expanded its territory through the Danish Monarchy, at one point including parts of what are now Sweden, Norway, England, and even areas along the Baltic coast.
The 16th and 17th centuries were marked by internal religious conflicts, but also saw Denmark as a major European power. However, following wars with Sweden and other European nations, Denmark began to lose much of its territory and influence.
The 19th century was a period of cultural revival, despite military defeat to Prussia and Austria in 1864, which resulted in the loss of more territories. Denmark remained neutral during World War I and was occupied by Germany during World War II.
Post-war, Denmark embarked on a path of modernization, joining NATO in 1949 and later becoming a founding member of the European Economic Community (EEC), although it has opted out of certain aspects of the European Union, including the Eurozone.
Today, Denmark is known for its high standard of living, progressive policies, and as a pioneer in renewable energy and sustainability. It is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system and is recognized as one of the most socially and economically developed countries in the world.
Religion of Denmark
The official state church with the country is the Evangelical Lutheran Church. There are also small Orthodox, Roman Catholic and Muslim minorities.
Language of Denmark
The official language is Danish, and many people in the country speak English, German or French.
Denmark, known for its rich Viking history, modern design, and emphasis on sustainability, is a popular tourist destination in Scandinavia. Visitors are drawn to its vibrant capital, Copenhagen, where they can explore the iconic Tivoli Gardens, the historic district of Nyhavn, and the Little Mermaid statue inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale.
Beyond the capital, tourists can discover Denmark’s picturesque countryside, charming coastal towns, and numerous islands, each with their own unique attractions. The country’s flat landscape makes it ideal for cycling, and there are numerous bike paths connecting towns and rural areas.
Places You Must Visit In Denmark
Before You Visit Denmark
Travel to Denmark
Denmark is well-connected and easily accessible from anywhere in the world, primarily through its major international airport, Copenhagen Airport (CPH), which serves as a hub for numerous international and domestic flights. Other airports like Billund Airport (BLL) and Aalborg Airport (AAL) also handle international traffic, offering additional gateways.
For travelers within Europe, there are several options:
- By Air: Multiple airlines operate flights to Denmark from major cities across Europe.
- By Train: The Danish railway network is connected to the rest of Europe, with direct international trains running from Germany and Sweden.
- By Road: Visitors can drive into Denmark via the extensive European motorway network. Notable points of entry include the Øresund Bridge connecting Sweden to Denmark and border crossings from Germany.
- By Ferry: There are numerous ferry routes linking Denmark with Norway, Sweden, Germany, and other Baltic nations, accommodating both passengers and vehicles.
Visas for Denmark
Denmark is part of the Schengen Agreement, which allows for borderless travel between 26 European countries. Here’s what you need to know about visas for Denmark:
- EU/EEA Citizens: If you are an EU or EEA citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Denmark. You have the right to work, study, and live in Denmark without a residence permit.
- Non-EU/EEA Citizens: If you’re from outside the EU/EEA, you may need a visa to enter Denmark for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period). The type of visa required depends on the purpose of your visit, whether it’s for tourism, business, family visits, or cultural events.
- Visa-Free Countries: Citizens of certain countries do not require a visa for short stays.
- Long Stay Visas: For stays longer than 90 days, such as for work or study, a residence permit is typically required. Applications for long-stay visas should be made well in advance of your intended travel date.
- Schengen Visa Application: To apply for a Schengen visa, you will generally need to provide a completed application form, passport photos, a valid passport, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and evidence of financial means, among other documents.
Best time to visit Denmark
The best time to visit Denmark largely depends on your interests and the type of experience you’re looking for:
- Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season, with the warmest weather and longest days, ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and attending festivals. Average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). However, this is also when attractions are most crowded and prices at their highest.
- Spring (April to May) and Early Fall (September to October): These shoulder seasons offer milder weather with fewer tourists. The countryside is particularly beautiful in spring when flowers bloom, and in early fall, you can enjoy the colorful foliage. Temperatures are cooler than in summer, but still pleasant for exploring cities and nature.
- Winter (November to March): If you don’t mind the cold and shorter days, winter can be a magical time to visit, especially around Christmas when markets and festive lights create a cozy atmosphere. It’s also the best time for those interested in winter sports or hoping to experience the Scandinavian “hygge” lifestyle.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Denmark is when it aligns with the activities you’re most interested in and whether you prefer a quieter experience or a lively tourist atmosphere.
Important Information:
Capital – Copenhagen
Territory – 43,094 km2
Currency – Danish krone (DKK)
Time Zone – UTC+1 (CET) / UTC+2 ( CEST)
Population – 5,935,619
Demonym – Danish