Denmark

 

 

 

 

A spit of land and islands attached to Germany’s Baltic coast, and reaching northward to its Scandinavian neighbors, Denmark is one of the most comfortable and relaxed places in Europe. And, according to those international quality-of-life polls that come out every decade or so, the Danes are the happiest people in the world, as well. You can’t help but wonder about the connection there.

Denmark is a mash-up of Vikings, Hans Christian Andersen, sleek design, Hamlet and toy soldiers. And its capital of Copenhagen has become a popular spot for international foodies during the past few years. (Michelin led the charge, bestowing more stars on the capital’s restaurants than any other northern European city in 2010). It’s a comfortable city and easy to get around, and there are plenty of museums and shops to keep one busy.

Beyond Copenhagen enjoy a bucolic countryside peppered with quaint villages and ancient Viking ruins. Visit Arhus and Aalborg, and pay homage to Hans Christian Andersen, the creator of “The Little Mermaid”, “The Ugly Duckling” and other childhood favorites in Odense.

When you get back to Copenhagen say hello to its Little Mermaid, and then while away an evening in Tivoli which has been playing its part in helping keep all those Danes happy for 150 years.

Top Experiences

Copenhagen – a great walking city
Roskilde – enjoy the Vikingeskibsmuseet
Odense – home of the Ugly Duckling and Little Mermaid
Arhus – inventive 20th-century architecture

Good to Know

Tips for Copenhagen
Tour part of Copenhagen via the waterbuses that cruise its canals. The hop-on and off-boats provide great views of the city and such sites as the Little Mermaid.

Denmark’s Viking Heritage
If you’re looking for a window into the life of the Vikings, Ribe, Denmark’s oldest town, is a good place to start.

Transportation

Copenhagen’s Kastrup Airport serves North America and many European cities. There is also ferry service from England, Norway and Sweden. Train and bus service is excellent, as is touring by car if you want to put up with the traffic and parking problems in Copenhagen. It’s also a great place to bicycle.

Hotels

Hotels are excellent and range from budget to five-star.

Food

There is a wide range of restaurants throughout the country although evening dining can be expensive.

Quality of Medical Care (Good/Fair/Poor)

Good