So, you’ve conquered the canals of Copenhagen, tried all the smørrebrød (buttered bread) you can handle, and maybe even picked up a wool sweater or two. Now what? You hop on a train, of course! Luckily, Denmark (and its stylish Scandinavian neighbors) make day-tripping an absolute breeze.
But listen, not all day trips are created equal. Some are short and sweet; others will have you questioning why you thought going to another country and back in a day was a good idea (spoiler: it always is!). Whether you’re into castles, quaint towns, or crossing international borders for fun, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into the best places you can visit from Copenhagen, because, hey, there’s more to life than the Little Mermaid statue.
Roskilde Cathedral in Roskilde, Denmark. Image Credit: Getty Images, Nick Brundle Photography
Roskilde
Closest station: Roskilde (from 19m)
Roskilde isn’t just another quiet Danish town; it’s Viking central. Head to the Viking Ship Museum to see actual Viking ships (these guys meant business). And don’t miss the towering Roskilde Cathedral, where Danish kings and queens are buried. Think of it as a mix of Game of Thrones and Downton Abbey — less dragons, but plenty of royal intrigue.
Dyrehaven
Closest station: Klampenborg (S-train line C, around 20m)
Dyrehaven (The Deer Park) is a huge, peaceful forest, but it’s got a wild side too. It’s home to Bakken, the world’s oldest amusement park (though it is temporarily closed). Here, you can spend your day biking, deer-watching, or screaming your head off on old-school wooden roller coasters.
Malmö, Sweden
Closest station: Malmö (from 37m)
Oh, did we mention you can hop to another country in just over 30 minutes? Welcome to Malmö, Sweden — Copenhagen’s hip, cool cousin. Stroll through the picturesque old town, hit the trendy cafés and bars, or visit the jaw-dropping Turning Torso, a skyscraper that’s twisted like a pretzel. And hey, you can totally brag to your friends that you popped over to Sweden for the day!
Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød, Denmark. Image Credit: Getty Images, ClarkandCompany
Frederiksborg Castle, Hillerød
Closest station: Hillerød (S-train line A, from 40m)
If your day trip fantasies involve a fairy-tale castle (and who doesn't?), Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød is a dream come true. It’s the largest Renaissance castle in Scandinavia, with perfectly manicured gardens and an interior that will make your jaw drop. Even the walk from the station is charming, so you can start living your best royal life the minute you step off the train.
Humlebæk
Closest station: Humlebæk (from 38m)
Art lovers, this one’s for you. Humlebæk is home to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, which is so much more than just a museum. With its stunning seaside location and impressive collection of modern art, it feels like stepping into a cool Instagram feed — only for real.
Dragør
Closest bus stop: Dragør Stationsplads (from 40m)
Dragør is all about cobblestoned streets, thatched-roof houses, and the smell of salty sea air. The town has a leisurely vibe, so take your time, grab a coffee, and soak it all in. You might even feel like you’ve stepped into a Wes Anderson movie. Expect quirky and quaint vibes in the best possible way.
Exterior of Kronborg Castle in Denmark. Image Credit: Getty Images, carstenbrandt
Kronborg Castle, Helsingør (Elsinore)
Closest station: Helsingør (from 50m)
Ever heard of Hamlet? Kronborg Castle is the one that inspired Shakespeare’s famous play. This place is pure drama (in a good way). Take the train to Helsingør, wander through the moody castle halls, and then ask yourself: “To be or not to be… a day-tripper?” Spoiler: always to be.
See also: Visit Shakespeare’s hometown Stratford-upon-Avon by train
Odense
Closest station: Odense (from 1h 11m)
Odense is the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, and honestly, the whole town feels like it popped right out of one of his stories. Expect charming streets, fairytale museums, and enough whimsy to keep you smiling for days.
Aarhus
Closest station: Aarhus (from 2h 46m)
Aarhus is a bit farther, but totally worth the trip. Denmark’s second-largest city is basically Copenhagen’s younger, artsier sibling. From the ARoS art museum (with a rainbow-colored rooftop) to the Latin Quarter, this place is perfect for the design-obsessed, the foodies, and anyone who likes their cities with a bit of edge.
Colored houses on a street in Ribe, Denmark. Image Credit: Getty Images, Walter Bibikow
Ribe
Closest station: Ribe (from 3h 34m)
If you’ve ever thought of visiting Denmark’s oldest town, here’s your chance. Ribe feels like stepping back in time with its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming vibes for days. Oh, and it’s got a Viking museum, because of course it does.
Aalborg
Closest station: Aalborg (from 4h 35m)
Aalborg may take a little longer to get to, but it’s got a laid-back, student city feel that’s hard to resist. With its waterfront location, cool cafés, and street art galore, Aalborg is like that effortlessly cool friend who’s always up for some fun.
Skagen
Closest station: Skagen (from 6h 40m)
Skagen is where two seas meet — literally. This northernmost tip of Denmark is famous for its white-sand beaches and its unique position where the North Sea and the Baltic Sea clash together. It’s a bit of a trek from Copenhagen, but if you’re up for a full-day adventure with epic scenery, Skagen is calling your name.
Whether you’re in the mood for castles, art, or a quick hop over to Sweden, there’s a day trip for whatever vibe you’re chasing. So, download the Trainline app and get out there — because why stay put when exploring is this easy?
Woman buying flowers at a market stall in Malmö, Sweden. Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Apeloga AB
