Christine RogadorIt is located in Northern Europe and is famous for its vibrant history, breathtaking landscapes, and historical landmarks that captivate every traveler visiting this beautiful country.
From medieval castles to stunning architecture, Denmark’s Landmarks gives you a glimpse of the country’s past and present.
Whether you’re into history or architecture enthusiast, Denmark’s famous Landmarks have something to offer.
The Frederiksborg Castle, this 17th-century castle, houses the Museum of National History; it is the most renowned castle in Denmark, and the interiors of this castle are astonishing.
While Roskilde Cathedral, this 13th-century Gothic-style cathedral, houses the tombs of famous Danish kings and queens. This UNESCO World Heritage site is worth a visit.
These were just a few of the famous Landmarks in Denmark. Denmark still has many beautiful destinations; you can explore the fairy tale castles and wander around the vibrant old towns and cities.
On the other hand, Denmark boasts modern architectural wonders; Copenhagen, in particular, offers museums, galleries, and fascinating buildings. Copenhagen’s countryside features enchanting villages and picturesque natural wonders.
These were just a few famous landmarks in Denmark, with many more to discover. So, if you are planning to visit Denmark soon, we have listed some famous landmarks in Denmark for you to explore, from its stunning natural scenery to historic structures.
11 Famous Landmarks In Denmark
1. Kastelsmollen
Rising above the star-shaped fortifications of the Kastellet in central Copenhagen, the Dutch-style Kastelsmollen windmill is a historic gem that’s worth adding to any list of top things to do in Copenhagen.
Though it doesn’t attract huge crowds like some of Copenhagen’s more famous sites, this picturesque windmill rewards those who venture to it with old-world charm and beautiful city views.
Indeed, Kastelsmollen windmill has something for anyone looking to experience a different side of Copenhagen. Built in 1847, the windmill stands imposingly over the Kastellet moat, its red brick and white sails contrasting with the greenery around it.
Venture inside to admire the wooden gears and grinding stones still used to mill grain today. Climb the spiraling stairs to the top for sweeping panoramas over the curved red rooftops of the Kastellet and beyond to the modern Copenhagen skyline.
Afterward, stroll through the grassy Kastellet park and pop into the charming Chapel of Christian IV. Though central Copenhagen can be quite expensive, visiting Kastelsmollen windmill is a budget-friendly addition to any list of top things to do in Copenhagen.
Entry to the windmill itself is free, and you can pick up snacks from nearby food stands without breaking the bank. Getting lost in this historic military area lets you experience Copenhagen like a local. Kastelsmollen windmill proves you don’t need big tourist sites to have an amazing time in Copenhagen.
Contributed by: Billy Read from BRB Gone Somewhere Epic
2. Freetown Christiania, Copenhagen
If you’re heading to Copenhagen, you may have already heard of the city’s self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood, Freetown Christiania (it really just goes by Christiania) — it’s an interesting landmark with a unique history.
In 1971, the neighborhood was established by a group of squatters and activists who took over a former military barracks in the Christianshavn district of the city. At that time, the neighborhood lacked basic necessities like water, electricity, and sewage, making city officials think it would only be a matter of time before the squatters moved out.
Well, that didn’t quite happen. Instead, the activists created a hippie commune founded on the principles of collective ownership, individual freedom, and an anti-capitalist ethos.
In addition to its founding principles, it also developed its own set of nine rules that visitors and residents must follow; some include no violence, no cars, no hard drugs, and no weapons. All of the rules are posted at the main entrance to the neighborhood.
Over the years, the neighborhood has become a popular destination for visitors, and residents welcome them to come and support their art galleries, shops, bars, and one of Copenhagen’s terrific vegetarian cafés, Morgenstedet.
There are official neighborhood tours throughout the week, but regular tour guides from Copenhagen aren’t allowed to bring groups through. If you decide to wander through on your own, you may want to avoid Pusher Street. The street is well known for the sale of cannabis (which is illegal in Denmark) but has also had an increase in other drug-related activity and violence. It’s also important to know that photos and running aren’t allowed on Pusher Street.
Contributed by: Rebecca Gade Sawicki from Veggies Abroad
3. Frederik’s Church in Copenhagen
Frederik’s Church, also known as ‘The Marble Church,’ stands as a shining gem in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark. This magnificent structure, with its grand dome and striking marble facade, is a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the Danish capital. Built in the mid-18th century, this church is an architectural masterpiece, boasting a harmonious blend of simplicity and grandeur.
Its construction took almost 150 years to complete, making it a fascinating symbol of Danish history. The soaring dome, which is the largest in Scandinavia, adds a touch to the skyline of Copenhagen.
The interior of the church is equally impressive, featuring intricate details, impressive statues, and a stunning altar. The atmosphere invites you to contemplate the greatness of Danish design and craftsmanship.
Frederik’s Church is open to the public and there is no entrance fee to explore the church itself. It’s open from 10am to 5pm on Monday to Thursday and Saturday. It’s open from 12pm to 5pm on Friday and 12:30pm to 5pm every Sunday.
You can also ascend to the dome’s viewing platform to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Copenhagen. It opens every Saturday and Sunday at 1pm for 50 DKK for adults and free for children under 12. Make sure to check the updated opening hours, as they can vary, and in the case of services, concerts, and rehearsals, the church will not be accessible.
Contributed by: Karla from Colorful Journeys
4. Fredriksborg
Fredriksborg is located in Hillerød, about 40 kilometers north of Copenhagen. It is one of the must-visit castles in Denmark. The Baroque and Renaissance castle was built in 1620, and it has the cultural significance of being the largest castle in Scandinavia by the lake, therefore, it is also called the “Nordic Versailles”. The reflection of the castle on the lake is truly one-of-a-kind.
Frederiksborg was the royal residence of King Christian IV in the early 17th century. Today, it is an important museum, featuring an impressive collection of portraits, historic paintings, and furniture. The Chronological Collection illustrates Denmark’s history from 1500 until the present day.
The exterior of the castle was restored after a fire in 1859. The rooms in the castle, such as the Chapel, the Knight’s Room, the Audience Chamber, and the Great Hall, are magnificent. The Rose (the Knight’s Room) was used as a dining room for the lords and ladies of the court. The Chapel was designed by architect Lambert van Have, under the commission of Christian V in the 1680s.
It takes about an hour to get to Hillerød from Copenhagen by train. The castle opens daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Entry ticket to the Fredriksborg costs DKK110, and Copenhagen Card offers free access.
Contributed by: Kenny Chow from Knycx Journeying
5. Kronborg Castle, Helsingør
One of Shakespeare’s most famous plays is Hamlet, set in the castle of Elsinore. While a work of fiction, Elsinore is said to be based on Kronborg Castle, a famous landmark in Denmark, both during the time of Shakespeare and the present day.
The Danish royal castle of Kronborg is located north of Copenhagen in the town of Helsingør. Construction commenced on it in 1574. Situated in a strategically important location on the Sound, the castle played a key role in the power of Denmark. Still standing, it has now been added to the World Heritage list.
Renowned for both its strength and beauty, it’s a delight to visit Kronborg Castle and explore its Renaissance buildings. The castle is open daily for much of the year, although it is closed on Mondays over the winter. An all-inclusive ticket allows you to visit its large banqueting hall, explore the ghostly casemates and join the regular tours.
It’s easy to visit Kronborg on a day trip from Copenhagen. It’s a 45 minute trip by train north of the capital, then a 10 minute walk from the train station to the castle entrance. It’s free to wander the surrounding grounds next to the Sound, an option I recommend if you are visiting Denmark with a dog.
Contributed by: Shandos Cleaver from Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel
6. Trolls
Nestled deep in the enchanting Scandinavian forests of Denmark, there exists a whimsical and mysterious attraction that is a must-visit for any traveller regardless of age– the man-made wooden trolls of Thomas Dambo.
These colossal, quirky sculptures, known as the “Trolls of the Forest,” have carved out a special place in the hearts of visitors and locals alike. They are a true testament to Denmark’s rich cultural heritage and the country’s penchant for merging art with nature.
The brief history of these colossal wooden trolls dates back to 1995 when Danish artist Thomas Dambo decided to breathe life into discarded wood. He carefully sculpted these charming giants, each with its unique personality and hidden stories. Today, over 100 of them can be found hidden around the world, waiting to be discovered.
To embark on this extraordinary adventure, you’ll want to make your way to the hushed woodlands of Denmark. A short drive from Copenhagen will take you to locations like the Rebild National Park and Skanderborg, where many of these trolls reside. The experience is not only magical but also incredibly affordable. Most of these encounters are free and you can visit on bikes yourself.
The man-made wooden trolls in Denmark offer a one-of-a-kind experience, where art, nature, and folklore unite in a mesmerizing display. A visit to these gentle giants promises to leave you with a sense of wonder and a deeper appreciation for the harmony between human creativity and the natural world. Don’t miss out on this enchanting journey through the heart of Denmark’s trees.
Contributed by: Emma from Journey of a Nomadic Family
7. Copenhagen City Hall
Copenhagen City Hall is one of the most important landmarks in Denmark. Located in the heart of the capital city, this architectural masterpiece is the embodiment of Denmark’s rich history and love for grandeur. Copenhagen City Hall was built between 1892 and 1905 and was designed by the Danish architect Martin Nyrop. The design was inspired by the City Hall of Siena in Italy and is a beautiful example of the Nordic National Romantic Style.
While it is a beautiful landmark in Denmark to admire from the outside for its rich ornaments and tall clock tower, the City Hall is also worth exploring inside. Inside the city hall, you can witness a marvelous astronomical clock designed by Jens Olsen, the Magistrate Hall, the Celebration Hall where important sports achievements are celebrated, and the Municipal Council’s Hall where the politicians of Copenhagen assemble.
As a tourist, you can visit the Copenhagen City Hall on a guided tour. Tours are held from Monday to Friday at 1 P.M. and on Saturday at 10 A.M. Visiting the main areas of the City Hall costs 60 DKK per person. If you want to visit the tower for a panoramic view of the city, this needs to be done separately. It can be done from Monday to Friday at 10 A.M. and 2 P.M. or on Saturday at noon and costs 40 DKK.
Contributed by: Annelies from Travelers & Dreamers
8. Øresund Bridge
The Øresund Bridge is one of the largest and most impressive landmarks in Denmark. The 10-mile-long link provides a road and railway connection between Copenhagen in Denmark and Malmø in Sweden. Coming from Denmark, both the road and railway go through a 2.5 mile-long tunnel, emerging on an artificial island called Peberholm. From Peberholm, it’s onto the Øresund Bridge itself; a 4.8 mile-long cable-stayed bridge which crosses the Øresund Strait between the two countries.
A link between Denmark and Sweden had been suggested as early as 1910. Building work on the Øresund Bridge began in 1995. It opened in 2000.
While you can cross the bridge by both train and by road, by far the best way to see the Øresund Bridge is to either drive or take the bus. The railway sits underneath the road deck, so you don’t get to see the bridge itself as you cross. The return trip for a car costs 880 Danish Krone ($125), so you may prefer to take the bus instead, which costs between $7 and $15.
If you don’t want to cross over to Malmø, you can get a good view of the bridge from the Kastrup Strandpark, near Copenhagen Airport – if you’re flying into Copenhagen look out for it as you come in to land! You can also see a distant view of it from high points in Copenhagen, including the Rundetaarn.
Contributed by: Helen Rapp from Helen On Her Holidays
9. Rosenborg Castle
Rosenborg Castle is without a doubt one of the most famous landmarks in Denmark. In a country filled with beautiful castles and palaces, Rosenborg Castle in the heart of Copenhagen stands out as one of the most beautiful.
The beautiful browny-red brickwork combined with the greeny-blue of the roof is a stunning combination and really unique too…there are few castles like Rosenborg!
Rosenborg Castle was built during the Renaissance as a country summerhouse, but in today’s world, it’s owned by the Danish Royal Family. In fact, you can see the Danish Crown Jewels in the treasury of the castle.
Inside the castle is just as spectacular as the outside. The rooms of Rosenborg Castle are filled with incredible paintings and artefacts from Danish history. It’s truly a castle straight out of a fairy tale.
What makes the castle even more appealing is that it’s included in the Copenhagen Card, which means you can get in for free providing you have the tourist pass. It’s the best way to save money on a trip to Copenhagen and includes entry to most of the main attractions.
If you don’t have the pass, Rosenborg Castle costs 130 DKK for adults and 84 DKK for stu2dents. Under-18s get free entry, which is great news for families.
The opening days and hours vary throughout the year, so make sure to check before planning your trip. But all in all, it’s a great way to spend a few hours and it’s clear to see why it’s one of the most popular Danish landmarks.
Contributed by: Josh Band from A Backpacker’s World
10. Nyhavn
Nyhavn is one of the most prominent landmarks in Copenhagen in Denmark. The colorful port dates back to 1673 and was first named “Den Nye Havn” which means the new port.
It used to be a bustling commercial port with ships from all across the world docking up. It was a center for parties, entertainment, and prostitutes where sailors hung out. These days, it is a lot more serene, yet it is one of the most popular places in Denmark’s capital city making it the number one tourist attraction to add to your itinerary whether you spend one day in Copenhagen or a whole week.
The old wooden houses are painted in bright colors making it the perfect backdrop for your vacation pictures. Sailboats are still docked up there and you can get on a sightseeing boat to see Copenhagen by sea.
The marina is packed with restaurants and bars where you can go for lunch or just grab a beer in the sun to soak in the incredible atmosphere that still finds place in this hub of Copenhagen. However, the best views of Nyhavn and its houses are from the other side of the canal or from the tourist boat.
Contributed by: Linn Haglund from Brainy Backpackers
11. Christiansborg Palace
Within the heart of Copenhagen, Christiansborg Palace stands to show Denmark’s rich history. It was originally built in the 18th century but the palace you see today was completed in 1947. Since then, it’s served a number of purposes over the years, including as royal residence to the Danish Parliament, so a must-visit for those visiting Copenhagen.
The palace shows a blend of Baroque and Neo-baroque architecture, with intricate details. One of the main highlights of Christiansborg Palace is the stunning tower, which offers panoramic views of Copenhagen if you climb to the top.
You can opt for a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the palace’s history and significance. Many walking tours visit the outside of the building but do not go inside. Consider timing your visit with the changing of the guard ceremony, a tradition that occurs daily.
Before your visit, check opening dates and times – these vary due to events. Most days, the palace Royal Reception Rooms are open 10:00 to 17:00. Ticket required. 105 kr. While most guests will opt to see the reception rooms, you can also see the ruins under the palace, the royal stables, and the royal kitchen.
Christiansborg Palace is conveniently located near other attractions like the Tivoli Gardens and National Museum.
Contributed by: Eleanor Blaire of Elevate Your Escapes
