Denmark is a Scandinavian country with a rich history and culture. Spread across the Jutland peninsula and over 400 islands, Denmark has no shortage of historic landmarks for visitors to explore. From grand royal palaces to ancient Viking ruins, tourists can immerse themselves in the storied past of this Nordic nation. Join us as we embark on a journey through Denmark’s most iconic historic sites.
Table of Contents
Copenhagen’s Iconic Sites
As Denmark’s vibrant capital, Copenhagen is home to many of the country’s most famous landmarks. No trip to Copenhagen is complete without stopping to see the city’s top three attractions.
The Little Mermaid
Perched on a rock at the entrance of Copenhagen’s harbor, the Little Mermaid statue is one of the most photographed sights in the city. Unveiled in 1913, this bronze sculpture depicts a mermaid from Hans Christian Andersen’s famous fairy tale. It has become an iconic symbol of Copenhagen.
Nyhavn
With its colorful 17th-century townhouses and docked vintage ships, the historic canal district of Nyhavn is one of Copenhagen’s most picturesque areas. Today, Nyhavn is lively with restaurants and bars, but it was once full of sailors from across the world.
Tivoli Gardens
Dating back to 1843, Tivoli Gardens is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world. With its whimsical rides, food stalls, concerts, and thousands of fairy lights strung across trees and buildings, Tivoli is a magical oasis in the heart of Copenhagen.
Royal Residences
The Danish royal family has resided in grand palaces and castles for centuries. Three lavish estates stand out for their beauty, history, and significance to past monarchs.
Amalienborg Palace
Comprised of four identical Rococo palaces, Amalienborg has been the royal family’s winter home since 1794. Visitors can tour the palace’s grand halls, and watch the changing of the guard in front.
Frederiksborg Castle
Built in the early 1600s by King Christian IV, Frederiksborg Castle is a stunning Renaissance palace situated on three islets. It now houses the Museum of National History.
Kronborg Castle
Immortalized as Elsinore Castle in Shakespeare’s tragedy Hamlet, majestic Kronborg Castle overlooks the Oresund Sound. Its stately walls and dramatic setting make it one of Denmark’s most imposing castles.
Ancient Monuments
Remnants of Denmark’s ancient past, from the Viking era to early medieval times, can be explored across the country. Three fascinating sites offer a window into centuries gone by.
Jelling Rune Stones
The Jelling Rune Stones date back over 1,000 years to the time of Harald Bluetooth, the Viking king who united Denmark. These elaborately carved stones feature Denmark’s earliest written inscriptions.
Lindholm Høje
The ancient burial ground of Lindholm Høje contains over 700 graves dating back to 400-1100 AD. Walking among the Viking-era graves, stone ships, and monuments is a powerful experience.
Kronborg Castle
In addition to its royal connections, Kronborg Castle is also home to fortifications built 600 years ago. Its medieval walls and bastions are intact, transporting visitors back to the 15th century.
Churches and Cathedrals
With the spread of Christianity in medieval times came the construction of magnificent cathedrals and churches. Three of Denmark’s most iconic still stand today.
Roskilde Cathedral
Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, Roskilde Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the burial site of most Danish royals and an outstanding example of Brick Gothic architecture.
Church of Our Saviour
Famous for its helix spire with an external winding staircase, the 17th-century Church of Our Saviour is one of Copenhagen’s most striking churches. Climbing its spire rewards visitors with amazing city views.
Grundtvig’s Church
With its unusual expressionist design, Grundtvig’s Church is a one-of-a-kind house of worship in Copenhagen. The golden brick walls and steeple seem to reach up to the heavens.
Museums
Denmark has an abundance of world-class museums where visitors can admire Danish art, designs, archeological finds, and more. Three favorites cover thousands of years of culture.
National Museum of Denmark
Founded in 1807, the expansive National Museum of Denmark chronicles Danish history from the Stone Age to modern times. Its child-friendly exhibits make learning about Denmark’s past fun.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Set on the scenic Oresund coast, the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art contains the largest collection of modern art in Scandinavia within a striking, sculpture-filled setting.
ARoS Aarhus Art Museum
The ARoS Aarhus Art Museum boasts one of Europe’s largest permanent art collections. Here visitors can walk on the circular skywalk on the roof and view the city through the Your Rainbow Panorama installation.
Conclusion
From the windswept ramparts of Viking fortresses to the soaring spires of medieval cathedrals, Denmark’s wealth of historic treasures is astounding. When strolling the lively streets of Copenhagen or wandering ancient sites, it’s easy to feel transported through centuries of Danish history and culture. The landmarks featured here only scratch the surface of what visitors can experience. Denmark’s past is waiting to be discovered.
FAQs
What is the most visited attraction in Denmark?
The most visited attraction in Denmark is Tivoli Gardens amusement park in Copenhagen. Opened in 1843, Tivoli draws over 4.5 million visitors per year.
Where are Denmark’s best preserved ruins from the Viking Age?
Some of Denmark’s best preserved Viking ruins can be found at archaeological sites like Lindholm Høje, an ancient burial ground containing over 700 graves dating back to 400-1100 AD.
Which landmark is the most iconic symbol of Copenhagen?
The Little Mermaid statue is considered the most iconic symbol of Copenhagen. Unveiled in 1913 and inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, it has become the definitive landmark of the city.
What is Denmark’s oldest amusement park?
Tivoli Gardens, founded in Copenhagen in 1843, is the oldest still operating amusement park in Denmark and one of the oldest in the world. It predates even the Disney parks.
Where can you see the changing of the guard in Denmark?
Visitors can watch the ceremonial changing of the guard outside Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen. As the Danish royal family’s winter residence since 1794, its Changing of the Guard draws crowds daily.