Speak of Denmark and what comes to your mind are the reports of the country being the happiest in the world. The country is blessed with the smiling faces of satisfied residents, rich culture, beautiful attractions, and good food. If you are visiting Denmark, you will be interested to know about the things which the country is famous for. Do make sure you experience everything the country has to offer before you go back home. Some of these things include attractions like Tivoli Gardens, castles, and good food like Danish cookies. To know more, continue reading our carefully picked list of top things Denmark is famous for! Before you do visit, also have a look at the best Airbnb and Vrbo vacation rentals in the country.
If it’s going to be your first time in Denmark, check out our video where local expert Nik talks about the most important things first-timers need to know when visiting the country.
1. Carlsberg
Embodying taste and tradition, Carlsberg is a Danish multinational brewer that has perfected the art of crafting exceptional beers. With a heritage dating back to 1847, Carlsberg continues to captivate beer enthusiasts worldwide. It now offers a vast array of brews, with over 40 types and up to 12% alcohol content.
At the heart of Carlsberg’s legacy lies its signature Danish Pilsner, a product born from the craftsmanship of its founder J.C. Jacobsen. This perfectly balanced beverage, wonderfully crisp and refreshing, tantalizes the senses with a full flavour and a distinctive hoppy aroma. This Danish speciality serves as a testament to Carlsberg’s enduring commitment to brewing excellence.
2. Salty Licorice
The intriguing Danish candy called salty licorice captured the curious taste buds of the Nordic region. With a unique flavour profile, salty licorice is crafted from the roots of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant. It not only offers a distinct taste but also carries the medicinal properties associated with its source. But it should be consumed in moderation as it also has negative side effects.
Beneath its sugary sweet exterior lies a bold and salty flavour, sometimes even with a hint of spice. As it is a signature confectionary in the region, it has become available in countless varieties, flavours, and textures over the years. Salty licorice’s one-of-a-kind composition imparts a pleasantly salty touch that sets it apart from conventional sweets.
3. Dannebrog (Danish Flag)
The flag of Denmark, locally called Dannebrog, is a red flag with a white Scandinavian cross that reaches the edges. It is said that since the 14th century, the kings of Denmark have used a banner with a white-on-red cross, which later became the country’s flag. Only during the early days of the 16th century that this particular design has been named the national flag. In 1834, private use of the flag was prohibited, but this law was reversed 2 decades later. Currently, Dannebrog holds the world record of the oldest continuously used national flag.
4. Hygge
Hygge is perhaps the most unique thing on this list. It is the Danish word for a mood that pertains to feeling cozy, content, and comfortable. It is often associated with an intimate environment, like lounging on your bed under the sheets on a chilly night and maybe even lighting candles around to make the space more inviting. The word means “to give comfort, joy, and courage.” There are many iterations of the origin of hygge, with the most notable being its closeness to the word “hug.” In a nutshell, hygge is a psychological state and is a feeling of calm and lightness and all things that are wonderful.
5. Candles
With hygge being a prominent part of Denmark’s culture, the next comes one of the most comforting things on this earth—candles. We often attribute candles to an intimate ambiance and a warm mood, which are two of the most important aspects of the hygge state of mind. In fact, you don’t even have to look as far as Denmark to realize that this holds true for the rest of the world. You come into a spa and what is it that’s lit on the corner? A candle. You see a fancy dinner date at a restaurant, there are for sure candles lit in the background. Candles just give that feeling of warmth and natural beauty that leave us in awe.
6. Royal Copenhagen Porcelain
You may have seen one of these in your grandparents’ home - or maybe even your own! Royal Copenhagen, officially known as Royal Porcelain Factory, is a manufacturer of porcelain items. It was established in the city of Copenhagen in 1775. It is most recognizable by the three wavy lines that represent the straits of Denmark: Øresund, Lillebælt, and Storebælt. The inspiration for the blue and white porcelain came from China, which Europeans made their own version of during the 17th century.
7. Hans Christian Andersen
Our childhood will not be complete without the mention of Hans Christian Andersen, one of the famous Danish people. He was born on April 2, 1805, in Odense on the island of Funen. Andersen is the creative genius behind some of the best fairy tales we’ve heard in our life such as The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, The Nightingale, and Thumbelina.
While he is notable for penning such inspiring fairy tales, he has also written quite a lot of plays, novels, poems, and travelogues.
8. LEGO
Did you know that this childhood staple is one of the things Denmark is known for? It is a popular fact that LEGO group is a Danish manufacturer known for producing LEGO bricks. The birthplace of LEGO is said to be in Billund which is a small Danish town. This is where the original Legoland resort is. Inside this amusement park, guests will have access to amusements, rides and a mainland brimming with famous global landmarks made of LEGO as well as thematic restaurants.
A new LEGO house has now been opened in Billund, featuring 21 giant interlocking Lego bricks which have been stacked on top of each other. These 21 boxes are carried by a steel bridge, providing an open and airy feeling. The centre has attractions in four ‘experience zones’ which guests can enjoy.
LEGO
Address: Nordmarksvej 9, 7190 Billund, Denmark
Website: LEGO
9. The use of bicycles
Riding bicycles is a typical Danish thing to do, which is why Danish bicycle culture is renowned worldwide. The small geographical area of Denmark makes it an ideal country for cycling. The country itself is bike-friendly and people of all ages can engage in this activity. The Danes love cycling around and across the country. It provides cyclists the freedom to travel wherever they want and also explores areas not seen before.
The use of bicycles
Where to find: Bike rental points throughout the country
10. Castles
If you are not already aware, Denmark is famous for its castles which can be found throughout the country. Visit Denmark and take a walk through its history. Visit the homes of the Royal Family, past and present, all of which are stunning. Also, get the chance to go through the Danish crown jewels which can be found at the famous Rosenborg Castle.
To explore these castles, you can join in a tour. For instance, a 65-hour tour can be undertaken, wherein guests will be able to unravel the beauty of the fairytale castles of Copenhagen. Along with your expert guide, visit the Kronborg Castle, a castle that is famous for being featured in Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet.’ Also, stand in awe of the architecture of Fredensborg Palace and the ancient Frederiksborg Castle.
Book Tours : Royal Castle Tour from Copenhagen
11. Tivoli Gardens
An attraction for people of all ages, Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens is known to be the second oldest amusement park in the world and is one of the best places to visit in Denmark. Be part of the park’s fairytale-like atmosphere from the time you enter through the gates. With hordes of rides set to enthral you, have the time of your life. Inside the park, you will also be able to find a wide range of restaurants and quaint stalls along with thrilling rides. Tivoli Gardens is also known to host big international events. If you visit during Christmas, be part of the transformation when Tivoli Gardens becomes a magical Christmas wonderland.
Tivoli Gardens
Address: Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 København V, Denmark
Website: Tivoli Gardens
12. Danish butter cookies
If you’re wondering what food is Denmark famous for, Danish butter cookies often come on top of the list. These cookies are deliciously rich and melt in the mouth. This famous thing from Denmark is sold in a tin which is a keeper in itself.
One of the famous brands of butter cookies is Danisa Butter Cookies, which are famous due to their high quality and irresistible taste. Danisa Butter Cookies come in five flavors, traditional butter cookies, choco cashew butter cookies, currant butter cookies, choco-filled butter cookies, and pineapple butter cookies. Danisa Butter Cookies are sold in several shops around the country, especially in Copenhagen.
Magasin du Nord
Address: Kongens Nytorv 13, 1095 København, Denmark
Website: Magasin du Nord
13. Happy vibes
Unarguably Denmark is known to be the happiest country on earth. This happiness is evident everywhere that it will rub off on you. Would you believe that the electrical sockets in Denmark have smiley faces as well? In fact, Danes walk past these cheerful sockets every day, even at home. Danes enjoy a stable government, low levels of corruption as well as easy access to high-quality education and healthcare. If you are in Denmark, you might want to visit the happiest city, Aarhus.
Happiest city, Aarhus
What to do: Art galleries, Latin Quarter, Jelling Rune Stones
14. Love for Pork
For over 100 years, Denmark has got a major source of its income from the production of pigs and pig meat. Denmark is also known to be one of the biggest exporters of pork. A famous pork dish that Danes savour is the stegt flæsk med persillesovs, which is known as crispy pork with parsley sauce and potatoes. This dish is made from thick cuts of pork belly which is fried till crispy. Another item, Flæskesteg is a Danish speciality which is cut Danish pork roast cooked with the crackling. These dishes can be found in many restaurants around Copenhagen.
Hija de Sánchez
Address: Frederiksborggade 21 (Torvehallerne), Copenhagen, Capital Region
Website: Hija de Sánchez
15. An old monarchy
It is interesting to learn more about the Danish monarchy which has the reputation of being a popular institution. The Danish monarchy is one of the oldest ones in the world. The Danish Monarchy was established around 935AD by Gorm the Old wherein he ruled a unified Denmark untill his death. Denmark’s current monarch, Queen Margrethe II, ascended the throne in 1972 after her father died. She is known to be the first female monarch to rule since the reign of Margrethe I in 1375. Denmark is a great country to experience royal traditions and its architecture. If you have to visit one palace belonging to the monarch, then make it the Fredensborg Palace.
Fredensborg Palace
Address: Slottet 1B, 3480 Fredensborg, Denmark
Website: Fredensborg Palace
16. Faroe Islands
Although a small one, Faroe Islands is packed with lots of adventure and activities designed to keep travellers busy. It is tucked between Iceland and Norway and politically part of Denmark. This is a group of 18 volcanic islands which travellers will enjoy throughout the year. The Faroe Islands is well known for their vibrant festival scene with live music festivals held throughout the year. There are many outdoor activities such as hiking trails. Enjoy the invigorating sea breeze and charming harbour villages. Explore the islands by foot, car or boat and have a great day out. There are many tours which offer day trips to the islands, making for a great getaway.
Book Tours : Golden Circle Classic | Saksun, Tjornuvik & Gjogv
17. Viking history
The Viking Age in Scandinavia lasted from 793 to 1066, wherein the Scandinavian seafarers originating from Denmark, Norway and Sweden entered Europe by sea and river for purposes of trade and conquest. The Vikings were said to have left an indelible mark on several parts of Europe and Denmark, their homeland. As such, you will be able to find many places and monuments reminiscent of the Viking culture. If you are interested in delving deeper into the traditions of the Viking culture, then maybe you might want to join a tour that departs from Copenhagen. This seven-hour tour takes you into the history of the Vikings as well as allow you the chance to visit some famous monuments like the Roskilde Viking Ship Museum, Roskilde Cathedral and an option to visit Viking fortifications.
Book Tours : Viking Tour
The happiest country in the world
Visit the happiest country in the world and partake in their happiness. While doing so, enjoy what Denmark is famous for.
Frequently asked questions about the top things Denmark is famous for
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