Interesting places to visit near Copenhagen, Denmark

Location: Nyhavn Harbor, Copenhagen, Denmark

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, Foodies, Culture Seekers

Nyhavn Harbor is a captivating detour that beautifully blends Copenhagen’s rich Viking heritage with its vibrant modern culture. This picturesque waterfront district offers travelers a unique glimpse into Denmark’s maritime past through its historic wooden ships and colorful 17th-century townhouses, while also serving as a lively hub of contemporary dining, art, and entertainment.

Visitors can stroll along the cobblestone quays, explore the historic vessels that once sailed Viking routes, and enjoy canal tours that reveal the city’s scenic waterways. The area is dotted with family-friendly cafes and restaurants serving traditional Danish cuisine alongside modern culinary delights, making it a perfect stop for food lovers. Children will delight in the open spaces and the chance to see real historic ships up close, while dog owners will appreciate the pet-friendly outdoor seating areas and accessible walking paths.

Whether you’re a history buff eager to connect with Viking roots, a nature lover drawn to the waterfront ambiance, or a family seeking an engaging cultural experience, Nyhavn Harbor offers a colorful and welcoming atmosphere that enriches any Copenhagen itinerary.

Location: Copenhagen, Capital Region, Denmark

Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: Discover the charm of Copenhagen from the water with scenic canal tours that offer a unique perspective on the city's historic architecture and vibrant life. Complement your journey with a visit to the world-famous Little Mermaid statue, a symbol of Danish culture and fairy tale heritage. This detour combines picturesque sightseeing, cultural storytelling, and relaxing outdoor experiences perfect for all traveler types.

Key activities: Enjoy guided boat tours through Copenhagen's extensive canal network, capturing stunning views of landmarks like Nyhavn and Christiansborg Palace. Visit the Little Mermaid statue on Langelinie promenade to learn about Hans Christian Andersen's beloved fairy tale. Explore nearby parks and waterfront cafes, ideal for tasting local Danish cuisine.

Kid-friendly focus: The canal tours are engaging for young children, offering a fun and safe way to explore the city. The Little Mermaid statue provides a magical storytelling moment, though the statue itself is small and best appreciated with some imagination.

Dog-friendly notes: Many canal tour operators welcome well-behaved dogs onboard, and the promenade around the statue is perfect for a leisurely walk with your pet, making this detour suitable for travelers with dogs.

Location: Situated in Frederiksberg, a charming district within Copenhagen, Denmark, Frederiksberg Palace and Park offers a serene escape from the city buzz. Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly Outings, Foodies Why it's a great detour: This historic 18th-century palace, once a royal summer residence, is nestled within expansive, beautifully landscaped gardens that blend baroque and English garden styles. Visitors can immerse themselves in Danish royal history while enjoying peaceful walks around the park’s lakes, fountains, and tree-lined avenues. The park’s tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a perfect spot for a relaxing break during your European road trip. Key activities: Explore the palace’s classical architecture and occasional exhibitions, stroll or picnic in the lush gardens, rent a boat on the palace lake, visit the nearby Frederiksberg Zoo, and enjoy local cafés offering Danish pastries and coffee. The park’s wide paths are ideal for leisurely walks or cycling. Kid-friendly focus: The spacious park and playgrounds make it an excellent destination for families with young children, providing plenty of room for play and exploration in a safe environment. Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome in the park, making it a great stop for travelers with pets. Just be sure to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to maintain the park’s pristine condition.

Location: Dyrehaven Deer Park is located in Klampenborg, just north of Copenhagen, Denmark. This historic woodland retreat offers a peaceful escape from the city within the beautiful North Zealand region. Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Photographers, Outdoor Recreation Why it's a great detour: Dyrehaven is renowned for its expansive, ancient forest where herds of majestic red and fallow deer roam freely, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for nature immersion. The charming 18th-century Eremitage Hunting Lodge adds a fascinating historical dimension, making it a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. This park offers a refreshing break with scenic walking trails, picnic spots, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Key activities: Visitors can enjoy leisurely hikes or bike rides along well-marked paths, deer watching especially during dawn and dusk, exploring the historic Eremitage Hunting Lodge, picnicking in designated areas, and seasonal events such as guided nature walks. Photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration capturing the interplay of wildlife and historic architecture. Kid-friendly focus: The park is ideal for families with young children, offering safe, open spaces to run and explore. Children will delight in spotting deer and learning about the park’s history through interactive signage. The gentle trails are stroller-friendly, making it accessible for all ages. Dog-friendly notes: Dyrehaven warmly welcomes dogs on leashes, allowing pet owners to enjoy the natural surroundings alongside their furry companions. There are ample open spaces for dogs to explore safely, though visitors should keep dogs under control to protect the wildlife.

Location: Vestskoven Forest Park is located near Taastrup in the Capital Region of Denmark, offering a peaceful natural escape just west of Copenhagen. Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Family-Friendly, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Outdoor Foodies Why it's a great detour: Vestskoven Forest Park provides a refreshing break from urban life with its extensive network of scenic nature trails weaving through dense woodlands and open meadows. This versatile destination combines opportunities for outdoor exercise, family fun, and historical exploration, making it an ideal stop for travelers seeking both tranquility and engaging activities. Key activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking along well-marked trails, picnicking in designated areas, and exploring small historical sites scattered throughout the park. The forest is also perfect for birdwatching and photography. Food lovers can savor local treats at nearby cafés after a day outdoors. Kid-friendly focus: The park features safe, accessible paths and open spaces where children can play freely, making it perfect for families with young children. Interactive nature spots and playgrounds add to the fun. Dog-friendly notes: Vestskoven warmly welcomes dogs, with ample space for off-leash walks in designated zones, ensuring your furry friends enjoy the adventure alongside you.

Location: Hedeland Nature Park is located near Hedehusene, in the Zealand region of Denmark, offering a peaceful escape just outside Copenhagen.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: Hedeland Nature Park is a versatile destination that combines serene natural beauty with engaging recreational activities. Its scenic lakes and extensive trail network provide a perfect setting for leisurely walks or more vigorous hikes, making it an ideal stop for travelers seeking tranquility and outdoor fun. The park's historical mining sites and local eateries add cultural and culinary interest, appealing to a broad range of visitors.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy walking and hiking along well-marked trails, picnicking by the lakes, exploring remnants of the park's former gravel pits and mining history, birdwatching, and sampling local Danish cuisine at nearby cafés. The park also hosts seasonal events and offers playgrounds for children.

Kid-friendly focus: The park is very family-friendly, with safe, easy trails suitable for young children and playgrounds that encourage active play. Educational signage about the park's history and nature adds an enriching element for curious minds.

Dog-friendly notes: Hedeland Nature Park warmly welcomes dogs, with ample open space for off-leash play in designated areas and plenty of trails for walks, making it a great detour for travelers with pets.

Location: Roskilde Fjord, near Roskilde city in the Zealand region of Denmark.

Best For: History enthusiasts, nature lovers, families with children, dog-friendly travelers, and foodies.

Why It's a Great Detour: Roskilde Fjord offers a unique blend of rich Viking heritage and stunning coastal scenery, making it an enriching stop for travelers interested in history and nature alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in Denmark's Viking past while enjoying peaceful fjord views and outdoor activities, providing a refreshing break from urban exploration.

Key Activities: Explore the Viking Ship Museum to see authentic Viking ships and interactive exhibits; take scenic walks or bike rides along the fjord's shoreline; enjoy birdwatching and kayaking on the calm waters; and sample local Danish cuisine at nearby cafes and restaurants.

Kid-Friendly Focus: The Viking Ship Museum offers engaging, hands-on experiences perfect for young children, including boat-building workshops and guided tours designed to captivate their imagination.

Dog-Friendly Notes: The fjord's walking trails and open spaces are ideal for dogs, making it a welcoming destination for travelers with pets. Just be mindful of museum policies regarding animals, as pets are typically not allowed inside exhibits.

Location: Roskilde, Zealand Region, Denmark Best For: History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Nature Lovers, Dog-Friendly, Foodies Why it's a great detour: The Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde offers a captivating journey into the world of the Vikings through its authentic reconstructed ships and interactive exhibits. Nestled by the fjord, it combines rich history with beautiful natural surroundings, making it an enriching stop for travelers interested in maritime heritage and Viking culture. The museum’s hands-on activities and engaging storytelling make it especially appealing for families and history buffs alike. Key activities: Visitors can explore five original Viking ships reconstructed from archaeological finds, participate in boat-building workshops, and enjoy guided tours that bring Viking history to life. The museum also features a shipyard where traditional craftsmanship is demonstrated, a playground for children, and a café serving local Danish cuisine. Kid-friendly focus: The museum is very family-friendly with interactive exhibits and outdoor play areas designed to engage children of all ages, making it an educational and fun experience for young travelers. Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas and on the museum grounds, though they may not be allowed inside all exhibition buildings. This makes it a suitable stop for travelers with pets who enjoy exploring scenic outdoor spaces.

Location: Frederiksborg Castle is located in Hillerød, in the scenic North Zealand region of Denmark. Best For: History enthusiasts, nature lovers, families with children, dog-friendly travelers, and foodies. Why It's a Great Detour: This magnificent Renaissance castle offers a captivating glimpse into Denmark’s royal past with its stunning architecture and beautifully preserved interiors. Surrounded by expansive Baroque gardens and a serene lake, it provides a peaceful retreat from city life. The castle’s rich history combined with its picturesque setting makes it a rewarding stop for travelers seeking culture, nature, and relaxation. Key Activities: Visitors can explore the National History Museum housed within the castle, wander through the meticulously landscaped gardens, enjoy boat rides on the castle lake, and savor Danish cuisine at the nearby café. Seasonal events and exhibitions add extra layers of interest throughout the year. Kid-Friendly Focus: The castle and gardens offer plenty of space for children to explore safely, with interactive exhibits in the museum that engage young minds. The outdoor areas are ideal for family picnics and gentle walks. Dog-Friendly Notes: The castle grounds and gardens welcome dogs on leashes, making it a pleasant stop for travelers with pets. However, dogs are not allowed inside the museum buildings.

Location: Køge, Region Zealand, Denmark

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Young Children, Dog-Friendly

Nestled along the scenic coast of Denmark, Køge's Historic Old Town offers travelers a captivating detour filled with medieval charm and tranquil riverside strolls. This beautifully preserved town invites visitors to step back in time with its colorful half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets, while the peaceful riverfront provides a perfect setting for leisurely walks and relaxation.

Visitors can explore the Køge Museum to dive into local history, enjoy riverside cafes serving traditional Danish fare, and browse quaint shops featuring local crafts. Families will appreciate the safe, walkable streets and open spaces ideal for children to explore, while dog owners will find welcoming paths and pet-friendly spots to enjoy together.

Whether you're a history buff eager to immerse yourself in medieval architecture, a nature lover seeking serene waterside views, or a foodie interested in authentic Danish cuisine, Køge's Historic Old Town offers a diverse and enriching experience. Its blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty makes it an ideal stop for travelers looking to enrich their journey through Denmark.

Location: Kronborg Castle is located in Helsingør, in the Capital Region of Denmark, right on the scenic coast of the Øresund Strait.

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: Kronborg Castle, famously known as the setting of Shakespeare's Hamlet, offers a unique blend of rich history and breathtaking coastal views. This UNESCO World Heritage site captivates visitors with its impressive Renaissance architecture and strategic seaside location, making it a memorable stop for travelers seeking culture, nature, and picturesque landscapes.

Key activities: Visitors can explore the castle's grand halls, dungeons, and ramparts, enjoy guided tours that bring the Shakespearean legacy to life, and stroll along the nearby coastal paths with panoramic views of Sweden across the water. The castle grounds also host seasonal events and exhibitions. Food lovers can savor traditional Danish fare at local eateries in Helsingør’s charming town center.

Kid-friendly focus: The castle offers engaging storytelling tours and interactive exhibits that entertain children, making it an educational and fun experience for families. The outdoor spaces provide ample room for kids to explore safely.

Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas and surrounding coastal paths, allowing pet owners to enjoy the scenic environment together, though access inside the castle buildings may be restricted.

Location: Marielyst Seaside Resort, Falster Island, Denmark Best For: Nature Lovers, Family-Friendly, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Foodies Nestled on the southern coast of Falster Island, Marielyst Seaside Resort offers a peaceful coastal escape renowned for its long, sandy beaches and gently rolling dunes. This detour is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, family-friendly activities, and a welcoming atmosphere for pets. Its serene environment and well-maintained facilities make it a standout destination away from busier tourist hubs. Visitors can enjoy swimming, beachcombing, and kite flying along the expansive shoreline, while nature lovers will appreciate nearby walking trails through coastal forests and dunes. History enthusiasts can explore local museums and historic sites in the surrounding Falster region, adding cultural depth to the visit. Foodies will delight in fresh seafood and Danish specialties available at charming seaside cafes and restaurants. Families with young children will find safe, shallow waters and playgrounds ideal for a fun day by the sea. The resort is notably dog-friendly, with ample space for dogs to run freely on the beach and designated pet-friendly accommodations, making it an excellent choice for travelers with furry companions. Whether you're looking to relax by the sea, explore nature trails, indulge in local cuisine, or enjoy quality family time with your pets, Marielyst Seaside Resort offers a versatile and memorable detour on your European road trip.