The tiny northern European nation of Denmark was recently ranked the world's happiest country, and its capital, Copenhagen, has been voted as the most liveable city on Earth. Denmark was a Viking civilisation centre before the 10th century, and this small country once contained one of the continent's strongest naval fleets. At least one non-stop 11.5 hour flight travels the 8,632 km between Bangkok and Copenhagen every day.
Don’t MissThe summer season between June and August is the best time of year to visit Denmark because the country is cold and snowy during the long October to March winter. Autumn is Denmark's rainiest season, but the spring months of April and May can be a pleasant and a cheaper time to come to the country. Visitors not bothered by cold weather can ring in the New Year at Copenhagen's Amalienborg Square. Over 300 Copenhagen cultural sites open after hours during the city's October Culture Night, while the summer months see a range of music festivals like Copenhagen Jazz Festival and Roskilde Music Festival.
Copenhagen has the two oldest amusement parks on Earth. Dyrehavsbakken dates back to 1583, while Tivoli Gardens was first established in 1843. Billund is home to Denmark's second busiest airport and also includes two more family-friendly attractions, the original Legoland and the Lalandia water park. Roskilde offers the Viking Ship Museum and northern Europe's first Gothic cathedral.
Restaurants and BarsSmørrebrød is a typical Danish lunch consisting of sandwiches on white or Danish rugbrød rye bread, while frikadeller meatballs and pickled herring are two more signature Danish dishes. Favourite sweets include æbleskiver pancake balls, ris à l'amande pudding, and Superpiratos liquorice. Pizza and kebab shops are some of Denmark's affordable places to eat. Copenhagen and Aalborg contain the most popular nightlife spots.
ActivitiesGudmindrup is one of Denmark's popular white sandy beaches, while Jutland's west coast is a favourite beach getaway for Germans. Bornholm, Denmark ’s easternmost island, is famous for its historic churches, fishing villages and beautiful beaches. Samsø has become a popular eco-tourism destination because this island's electricity is generated entirely from wind.
ShoppingDenmark is one of the world's most expensive shopping spots, but visitors can bargain for cheaper prices at Copenhagen's Nørrebro Flea Market and Ravnsborggade Antique District. The world's longest pedestrian shopping street, Strøget, is located in Copenhagen. However, Denmark's biggest indoor shopping centre, Bruun’s Galleri, is situated near the Aarhus rail station. Lego bricks, Georg Jensen silverware, and Lindberg eyewear are among Denmark's popular and affordable souvenirs.