Odense: Day Trip or Longer Stay

A couple of hours by train from Copenhagen and you’ll find yourself in the beautiful city of Odense. Though it holds city status, it’s compact and easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. The cobbled streets give it a fairy tale feel. and there’s a good reason for that. It’s the birthplace of the famous Hans Christian Andersen. You can visit the house where he grew up and spend time in the immersive Hans Christian Andersen Museum. Alongside the history, you’ll find plenty of Danish design shops, cosy cafés, and castles nearby waiting to be explored. Coupled with Copenhagen, this can make for a perfect twin centre trip to get the best of both worlds. If you think island life on Funen could be for you, read more about The Garden Island.

Aarhus: A Longer Stay

Aarhus is a must for those who enjoy Danish getaways. It may be a bit of a stretch for a day trip, with a train journey of roughly three hours, but it’s perfect as part of a tailored triple-city break that includes Odense and Copenhagen. Highlights include the famous ARoS Aarhus Art Museum (pictured below), step back in time at the Den Gamle By open-air museum, and a wealth of activities in both the coastal and countryside surroundings. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with the family, Aarhus offers a diverse experience that blends culture, nature, and modern Danish living.

Bornholm: A Longer Stay

A hidden gem off the coast of Sweden – yet proudly Danish – Bornholm is a stunning island worth the journey. It’s accessible via a short flight or by boat from Ystad, Sweden, meaning this would be a perfect twin centre holiday. Home to just under 40,000 people, Bornholm is a dream for those who love to explore on foot or by bike. Expect a mix of white sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, historical sites, and luxury hotels where you can unwind between adventures. The slower pace of life on Bornholm makes it feel like a world away from the city – ideal for a longer stay or as part of a wider itinerary.

Helsingør: A Day Trip or Longer Stay

Helsingør is a great option for either a day trip or a short overnight stay. Located just under an hour by train from Copenhagen, it also offers the opportunity to stop off at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art – which is absolutely worth a visit. Helsingør’s biggest draw is Kronborg Castle, famously known as ‘Elsinore’ in Shakespeare’s Hamlet. From the harbour, you can even wave across to Sweden or hop on a boat for a quick trip to Helsingborg.

Malmö – A Day Trip or Longer Stay

Okay, Malmö isn’t in Denmark – but it’s incredibly easy to reach. A short train journey over the famous Øresund Bridge takes you from Copenhagen right into the heart of Sweden’s third-largest city. Malmö is perfect for a day trip or a couple of nights across the border. It offers a mix of cultural experiences, from food tours to sunset kayaking. Even the chance to try something a bit quirky like the Disgusting Food Museum. It’s a great way to add an international flavour to your Danish itinerary.

While Copenhagen gets most of the attention, there’s so much more to Denmark (and nearby Sweden) to explore. From Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale hometown to relaxing coast lines, art galleries and off-grid islands, these are all reachable from the capital, whether by train, plane or ferry. Want to discover these Danish gems? Get in touch with our team who will be able to create a personalised and tailored trip to fit your requirements and adventure aspirations.

Capital still calling you? Read the latest issue of Signature Cities: Just One Day in Copenhagen