Best Ways to Explore Denmark

Denmark has topped the World Happiness Report multiple times, which may have much to do with hygge (pronounced hoo-ga); a Danish word with Norwegian roots that translates to cosiness, contentment and wellbeing. It refers to the unique way locals have of enjoying life’s little pleasures.

For a city that epitomises Scandinavian cool, it’s hard to go past Copenhagen. It’s suburub of Nørrebro is a dynamic area with great restaurants and shopping. Try the streets of Ravnsborggade, Sankt Hans Torv, Guldbergsgade and Jægersborggade. You’ll find cool new designers and wonderful pop-up restaurants.

Rent a bicycle and ride to Christianshavn, part of the old fortifications of Copenhagen. You’ll discover narrow beautiful streets and old colourful houses along the canal.

There are a number of great day trips you can take if you’re based in Copenhagen. There are castles, museums, parks and beautiful old-world villages waiting to be explored.

The food scene in Denmark is also hot, with everything from fine-dining restaurants to wonderful street food options in most cities and towns. There are some glorious markets too, right in the heart of Copenhagen. Papirøen (The Paper Island) is a big old hangar filled with food trucks.

Best Places to Stay in Denmark

Across Denmark, the accommodation offerings range from the predictably hip to more traditional digs.

A popular place to base yourself is Hotel SP34. Positioned on a quiet street parallel to one of the city’s main roads, its unassuming entrance belies what’s inside. Everything about the place oozes warmth. Timber accents and minimalist lighting set off an inviting space of white walls and polished concrete floors, furnished with soft-cushioned lounges, tan chairs and tulip side tables.

Another great option is the Kong Arthur. Housed in a building dating back to 1882, the hotel is nestled quietly down a cobblestone lane off the main road of Nørre Søgade, which runs alongside the city’s gorgeous lakes.

The lobby, an L-shaped space surrounding a pretty central courtyard, is particularly cosy at night, with softly glowing lamps and a bar proffering the “world’s best G&T" using Geranium gin made by Danish gin maestro Henrik Hammer.