Take a scenic train tour of Denmark

7 destinations to discover in Denmark

Denmark is a country full of waterways and a cozy atmosphere, known as 'hygge.' The country boasts 444 islands, connected by an excellent railway system. You can bike, hike, and explore small villages as well as bustling cities. Embark on an unforgettable train journey through Denmark and discover its beautiful nature and culture. In this article, we provide tips for the best round trip through Denmark.
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Tip!

Winter Offer: 25% Off Interrail Global Pass and One Country Pass

From 26 November to 17 December 2024, enjoy 25% off an Interrail Global Pass and selected One Country Passes.

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The best way to travel around Denmark: by train and bike

Want to get the most out of Denmark? Consider combining train travel with cycling. Denmark is not only famous for its Viking history, but also for its amazing cycling options. Rent a bike in different places to see more and get around more easily.

Along the way you will discover the rich culture and beautiful scenery of this diverse country. This combination of train and bike will make your tour of Denmark both relaxing and adventurous.

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1. Ribe

Ribe is the oldest town in Denmark, situated in south-west Jutland. In this charming coastal town you can wander through the many narrow streets, admire beautiful medieval houses and visit the cathedral. Ribe has a rich Viking past, which is reflected in many places. There is a Viking museum, a Viking centre, an annual Viking market and an open-air museum where you can learn all about the Vikings. As you travel around Denmark by train, you will notice that the Vikings have played an important role in the country's history. In Ribe you can experience this history in a unique way.
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Esbjerg

Less than an hour by train from Ribe is Esbjerg, Denmark's fifth largest city. Everything in this city revolves around water and fishing, and you can enjoy beautiful nature here. There is also plenty to do for shopping enthusiasts. In the evening you can relax and enjoy a beautiful sunset on the atmospheric market square, surrounded by terraces and restaurants.

2. Aarhus

Aarhus, Denmark's second largest city, is your next destination. You arrive at the central station, which is part of a modern shopping centre. Aarhus was the European Capital of Culture in 2017. In this fascinating port city, most of the sights are within walking distance. The city has a good mix of old culture and modern facilities in the city centre.

Old Aarhus has many entertainment venues and several museums. The Kvindemuseet (Women's Museum), which explores the role of women throughout history, and the ARoS Art Museum (one of the largest museums in Northern Europe) are well worth a visit. On the roof of the famous art museum is the Rainbow Panorama, from where you have a great view over the city. The city's main attraction is Den Gamle By, an open-air museum with almost a hundred traditional Danish half-timbered houses. These historic buildings come from all over the country and give you a unique insight into Danish history.

3. Skagen

Situated on the northernmost tip of Jutland, Skagen is famous for its magical light, which attracted many painters in the 19th and 20th centuries. This small village offers beautiful walks through the sand dunes and along the beach, with fresh sea air and breathtaking views. Skagen is often compared to places like Land's End in Cornwall or the North Cape in Scandinavia, where the world seems to stand still. After a walk, enjoy freshly caught fish in the charming seafood restaurants. Skagen is easily accessible by train on the Nordjyske Jernbaner from Frederikshavn.
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4. Aalborg

Aalborg is a charming port town in northern Jutland, full of hospitality and history. Stroll through the narrow, old streets and discover museums and historic buildings such as the 16th-century Aalborghus Castle and the Gothic Budolfi Church. In the 17th century, the herring trade brought prosperity to the town, which can still be seen in the beautifully preserved merchants' houses. Try the local Akvavit, Denmark's national drink, on Jomfru Ane Gade, a lively street full of restaurants and bars..

The Limfjord

Limfjord, a long bay in northern Jutland, is known as the Danish holiday paradise. Here you will find peaceful nature and impressive cities such as Aalborg and Viborg.

5. Viborg

Viborg is a city that perfectly combines history, culture, and nature, making it an ideal stop during your travels through Denmark. Visit thousand-year-old churches and discover De Fem Halder, a stunning piece of Danish nature. Viborg is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking or biking along Hærvejen. A boat trip on the serene lakes offers another way to explore the area. This city offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern recreation, making it a perfect destination for your train journey.
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6. Odense

Odense, on the island of Funen, is the birthplace of the world-famous fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen. In the city you can visit museums dedicated to his famous stories such as The Little Mermaid and The Ugly Duckling. Although Andersen left the city as a teenager, his legacy can be found throughout Odense.
Finished exploring the city? Then take the train and in half an hour you will be at the impressive Egeskov Castle, a lively castle where young and old can spend a day of fun. Relax in the green surroundings of forests, hills and dunes on Funen.

7. Copenhagen

Located on the island of Seeland, Copenhagen is a vibrant city full of beautiful architecture, cobbled streets and winding canals. There is much more to the city than the iconic statue of the Little Mermaid. In the summer, Copenhagen buzzes with life, with an atmospheric street and nightlife scene that is sometimes reminiscent of a warm evening in Madrid. Visit the famous Tivoli Park, one of Europe's oldest amusement parks, or explore the city by bike, a popular mode of transport here. For a unique experience, take a stroll through Christiania, a quirky, semi-independent hippie enclave.

It will take you 10:46 hours from Copenhagen to return to the Netherlands.

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Travel distances in Denemark

To keep travel distances comfortable, we recommend the following itinerary. This itinerary balances travel time and sightseeing, allowing you to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Route Travel time Change train Header Header
Ribe - Aarhus 4.22 uur 0 Content Content
Aarhus - Skagen 3.22uur 1 Content Content
Skagen - Aalborg 2.07 uur 0 Content Content
Aalborg - Viborg 1.56 uur 1 Content Content
Viborg - Odense 3.11 uur 1 Content Content
Odense - Copenhagen 1.09 uur 0 Content Content
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Best time to travel in Denemark

The best time to visit Denmark is from April to October, with June to August being the warmest months with the least rainfall. These months also coincide with the high season. The whole of May and the end of August are considered low season and are also good times to travel.

To Denemark via Hamburg

To split up your outward or return journey, consider a layover in Hamburg. A 5.10-hour journey from Amsterdam, Hamburg is known for its historic harbour and lively atmosphere. Spend a day exploring sights such as the Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall and Speicherstadt, or take a stroll along the Alster lakes. The next day, you can travel to Ribe in 4.37 hours and start your journey in Denmark. Or, if Hamburg is your last stop, travel home to the Netherlands the next day.

Tips for cheaper international train tickets

Would you like to discover Denmark's vibrant and historic cities on an adventurous train journey? Book your tickets quickly and easily with NS International. All train tickets can be booked separately, making it easy to create your own itinerary.

  • Book as early as possible for the best chance of getting the cheapest tickets.
  • Travelling in the evening is often cheaper.
  • Book starting from the station near you.

    Read more about cheap train tickets

    Interrail: all your European train tickets with 1 pass

    The Interrail Pass is a train ticket that allows you to use almost all trains in Europe, with access to 40 railway and ferry companies in 33 countries. This makes it an ideal choice for a train journey through Europe, including travels through Denmark. Whether you're exploring cities or nature, combining trains and bikes offers a flexible and sustainable way to travel.

    More about Interrail Passes