Want to escape the city without going far? In this post, I’ll share the fairy-tale castles, seaside villages, and lush forests near Copenhagen—where Danish charm and scenic escapes are just a short journey from the city. These day trips offer royal retreats, seaside charm, and Nordic history just beyond the capital!
If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Unique Day Trips from Copenhagen:
1. National Aquarium Denmark, Den BlaPlanet - Only about 15 minutes from Copenhagen
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Location:
Kastrup, Denmark (Greater Copenhagen Area)Highlights:
If you’re in Copenhagen and want a fun, family-friendly escape that’s easy to reach, we’d definitely recommend the National Aquarium Denmark, Den Blå Planet . It's northern Europe's largest aquarium, and it genuinely feels like stepping into another world—underwater tunnels and all.Recommended For:
Families, ocean lovers, kids, and travelers looking for a rainy-day indoor adventure close to the city.What I Love: ♥
Immersive underwater tunnels, global marine life exhibits, and modern design that makes you feel submerged in the sea.- See the Ocean Tank teeming with sharks and rays, wander through the rainforest of the Amazonas, and explore colorful coral reefs filled with tropical fish.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Oresund Strait and relax at the on-site café or food court with sea-inspired snacks.
- Shop for fun marine-themed gifts and souvenirs at the well-stocked aquarium store.
- Tickets are available online and start at DKK 185 for adults (discounts for children, students, and seniors).
Distance from Copenhagen:
Only about 15 minutes from the city center by metro or car.How to Get to Den Blå Planet:
Take the M2 metro line to Kastrup Station and walk 5–10 minutes to the aquarium, or drive and park onsite at Jacob Fortlingsvej 1, 2770 Kastrup.2. Funen Island - 2 hours by car from Copenhagen
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Location:
Funen Island (Fyn), DenmarkHighlights:
If you're craving castles, gardens, and a road trip that feels like a fairy tale, Funen Island is a must. Just a couple of hours from Copenhagen, it’s packed with history, charm, and natural beauty in every direction.Recommended For:
Garden lovers, history buffs, castle explorers, road trippers, and anyone seeking a scenic countryside escape.What I Love: ♥
Over 120 manors and castles, picturesque gardens, historic towns like Odense, and a network of smaller islands waiting to be discovered.- Stroll through lush landscapes at Sanderumgård Garden, Egeskov Castle, Broholm Park, and Harridslevgaard Castle.
- Explore the vibrant city of Odense, birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, with its museums, cafés, and cultural spots.
- Venture beyond the main island to discover the 50+ smaller isles in the Funen Archipelago—great for hiking, kayaking, or just getting off the grid.
- Tip: Rent a car for the full experience—you’ll want to stop often along the way.
Distance from Copenhagen:
About 2 hours by car, depending on traffic.How to Get to Funen Island:
Drive west from Copenhagen on E20 over the Great Belt Bridge, which connects Zealand to Funen. You can also take a train from Copenhagen Central Station to Odense in around 1 hour 40 minutes.3. Dragor - 45 minutes by public transport
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Location:
Dragør, Amager Island, DenmarkHighlights:
If you want a peaceful, authentic Danish village that feels like stepping back in time, we’d absolutely point you toward Dragør. Just south of Copenhagen, it’s charming, historic, and perfect for a slow, scenic day away from the city.Recommended For:
History lovers, culture seekers, cyclists, photographers, and anyone craving a quiet seaside stroll through cobbled streets.What I Love: ♥
Well-preserved yellow houses, a centuries-old harbor, narrow walking lanes, and a true sense of Denmark’s maritime past.- Wander the old streets and admire 18th–19th century houses, still standing as they did hundreds of years ago.
- Visit local museums clustered around the Old Port to dive into the town’s fishing, seafaring, and merchant history.
- Explore the nearby forts and coastal nature areas, ideal for walking or biking by the sea and meadows.
- Experience small-town Danish life—quaint cafés, artisan shops, and friendly locals all included.
Distance from Copenhagen:
Around 30 minutes by car, or 45–50 minutes by public transport.How to Get to Dragør:
Take bus 250S from Copenhagen Central Station to Dragør Stationsvej or drive south through Amager via the E20. Biking is also a lovely, scenic option if you’re up for it.4. Egeskov Castle - 2 hours 45 minutes by train and taxi
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Location:
Kværndrup, Funen Island, DenmarkHighlights:
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring a real fairy tale castle with moats, hidden staircases, and centuries of stories, then Egeskov Castle should be at the top of your list. It’s one of Europe’s best-preserved moat castles and only a couple of hours from Copenhagen!Recommended For:
Castle lovers, history fans, families, architecture buffs, and anyone into enchanting, storybook-worthy sights.What I Love: ♥
A castle built on oak pilings over water, a Victorian-style interior, secret passageways, and whimsical exhibits like Titania’s Palace.- Tour the Hunting Room, Banquet Hall, and Victorian music and sitting rooms—preserved with stunning detail.
- Climb up to the attic to discover the toy exhibit, meet the mysterious wooden man, and marvel at Titania’s Palace dollhouse.
- Stroll the vast gardens and admire the impressive exterior reflected in the surrounding moat.
- Learn about 460+ years of Danish nobility, clever castle defenses, and 20th-century restoration efforts.
Distance from Copenhagen:
About 2.5 hours by car or around 2 hours 45 minutes by train and taxi.How to Get to Egeskov Castle:
Drive west on the E20 highway toward Funen, then south to Kværndrup. By public transport, take the train to Odense, then a local train to Kværndrup Station and a short taxi ride to the castle.5. Faxe - 1 hour and 15 minutes by car or train
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Location:
Faxe, Zealand, DenmarkHighlights:
If you’re curious about Danish beer culture and want an easy, off-the-beaten-path day trip, we’d totally suggest checking out Faxe Brewery. Known for its bold Viking branding, this iconic company has been brewing since 1901 and offers a great blend of history and hops.Recommended For:
Beer lovers, brand enthusiasts, design fans, and travelers looking for a laid-back, niche outing.What I Love: ♥
The legendary Viking logo, deep brewing history, and being part of Royal Unibrew—Denmark’s second-largest beer producer.- Learn about the brewery’s roots in Faxe, where it began making beer and soft drinks over a century ago.
- Recognize the famous Viking logo and explore the story behind one of Denmark’s most trusted beverage brands.
- Try a range of beers and soft drinks that showcase the company’s classic and modern styles.
- Visit nearby attractions like the Faxe Limestone Quarry or small-town shops and cafés while you're in the area.
Distance from Copenhagen:
About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car or train.How to Get to Faxe:
Take a direct train from Copenhagen Central Station to Faxe Ladeplads or drive via Route 151 heading south. The brewery is located in the center of town.Romantic Day Trips from Copenhagen:
6. Frederiksborg Castle - 40 minutes by train or car from Copenhagen
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Location:
Hillerød, DenmarkHighlights:
If you’re in the mood for royal grandeur and stunning Renaissance architecture, we’d highly recommend Frederiksborg Castle. Just a short trip from Copenhagen, it’s the largest Renaissance castle in Scandinavia—and it absolutely looks the part.Recommended For:
History buffs, art lovers, architecture fans, and anyone wanting a full castle experience (gardens and all).What I Love: ♥
Ornate interiors, 500+ years of Danish history, a majestic chapel, and formal Baroque gardens perfect for a stroll.- Explore the Museum of National History to view royal portraits, furniture, and decorative arts spanning half a millennium.
- Admire the Castle Chapel, home to original Renaissance-era features like the Comenius organ and golden altarpiece.
- Walk the Baroque Gardens—immaculately landscaped and ideal for photos or a peaceful pause.
- Marvel at Christian IV’s vision: the castle was built to reflect Denmark’s power and cultural prestige.
Distance from Copenhagen:
Around 40 minutes by train or car.How to Get to Frederiksborg Castle:
Take the S-train Line A from Copenhagen Central Station to Hillerød Station, then walk about 15–20 minutes to the castle. Driving is also easy via Route 19 north.7. Hven Island - 1.5 hours including ferry transfer
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Location:
Hven Island, Sweden (accessible from Zealand, Denmark)Highlights:
If you're up for a quick ferry ride to a peaceful Swedish island packed with charm and history, we’d absolutely suggest Hven Island. It’s the kind of laid-back, bike-friendly spot that feels like a secret summer hideaway.Recommended For:
Families, couples, cyclists, science buffs, and travelers seeking a scenic, international escape from Copenhagen.What I Love: ♥
Rolling countryside, small village vibes, the Tycho Brahe Museum, and cozy seaside eateries like island smokehouses and distilleries.- Visit the Tycho Brahe Museum to learn about one of Denmark’s most famous scientists in his former observatory garden.
- Tour the Spirit of Hven whiskey distillery or take a horse-and-buggy ride through the countryside.
- Bike around the island—rental shops make it easy to explore the villages, farms, and coastal paths.
- Stay overnight in a charming villa, cozy B&B, or the relaxed island campground if you want more than a day to unplug.
Distance from Copenhagen:
About 1.5 hours including ferry transfer.How to Get to Hven Island:
Take a seasonal ferry from Havnebyen in Zealand (DK) or Landskrona in Sweden. The ferry ride takes around 50 minutes, and bicycles are welcome onboard.8. Kronborg Castle - Just under 1 hour by train or car
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Location:
Helsingør (Elsinore), DenmarkHighlights:
If you’ve ever wanted to step into a real-life Renaissance fortress—or Shakespeare’s world of *Hamlet*—you’ll love Kronborg Castle. It’s dramatic, steeped in history, and just a quick train ride from Copenhagen.Recommended For:
History lovers, Shakespeare fans, families, and travelers interested in grand architecture and maritime history.What I Love: ♥
The castle’s dramatic seaside setting, towering spires and copper roofs, deep underground tunnels, and engaging exhibits that bring 400+ years of history to life.- Tour the lavish royal chambers, ballrooms, and chapel of this UNESCO-listed Renaissance masterpiece.
- Descend into the atmospheric underground passages where soldiers once guarded the fortress.
- Experience live reenactments and workshops that recreate royal life or scenes from *Hamlet*, which was set here in Elsinore.
- View exhibitions highlighting Denmark’s naval history, military power, and artistic treasures.
Distance from Copenhagen:
Just under 1 hour by train or car.How to Get to Kronborg Castle:
Take a direct train from Copenhagen Central Station to Helsingør Station (around 45 minutes), then walk 10 minutes to the castle. Driving north via E47 is also quick and scenic.Family Day Trips from Copenhagen:
9. Legoland - 3.5–4 hours by train and bus
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Location:
Billund, Jutland, DenmarkHighlights:
If you’ve got kids—or just love LEGO—then LEGOLAND® Billund Resort is a must-do. It’s packed with rides, imagination, and colorful adventures perfect for a playful day trip or overnight getaway.Recommended For:
Families with kids, LEGO fans of all ages, amusement park lovers, and creative minds looking for hands-on fun.What I Love: ♥
Nine themed zones, immersive hotels, LEGO-built landscapes, and enough rides and shows to fill a weekend with smiles.- Play your way through zones like KNIGHTS’ KINGDOM, LEGOREDO Town, LEGO NINJAGO World, and Polar Land.
- Stay onsite at themed hotels including the LEGOLAND Castle Hotel or Holiday Village for a fully immersive experience.
- Dine at fun spots like the Burger Kitchen, Knights Castle Restaurant, or Family Buffet—there’s something for every taste.
- Shop for exclusive LEGO sets and souvenirs at the many colorful stores throughout the park.
Distance from Copenhagen:
About 3 hours by car or 3.5–4 hours by train and bus combined.How to Get to LEGOLAND Billund:
Drive west via E20 and Route 18, or take a train from Copenhagen to Vejle, then transfer to a bus directly to Billund. There’s also a small airport in Billund with connections to major cities.10. Lolland - Approximately 1.5–2.5 hours by car
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Location:
Lolland Island, Denmark (Baltic Sea)Highlights:
Want a mix of nature, history, and quirky attractions in a laid-back setting? Then Lolland Island is your kind of place—flat, scenic, and full of unexpected surprises like safari parks and medieval towns.Recommended For:
Families, history lovers, art fans, and travelers looking for a chill, less-touristy Danish island experience.What I Love: ♥
The open-air medieval museum, Northern Europe’s largest safari park, serene art spaces, and sugar beet fields that stretch for miles.- Explore Knuthenborg Safari Park to see exotic animals roam free—perfect for a family adventure.
- Visit the Fuglsang Manor and adjacent Art Museum for a dose of culture in a peaceful countryside setting.
- Make a splash at Lalandia, the massive indoor waterpark that keeps kids and adults entertained year-round.
- Step back in time at the open-air museum, where reenactments bring the island’s medieval roots to life.
Distance from Copenhagen:
Approximately 1.5–2.5 hours by car, depending on your destination on the island.How to Get to Lolland:
Drive south from Copenhagen on Route E47, cross the Storstrøm Bridge to Falster, then continue west to Lolland. Trains and buses also connect from Copenhagen to major towns like Maribo and Nakskov.📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Where is Copenhagen located?
- Copenhagen is Denmark's capital and is found on the island of Zealand on the Strait of Oresund.
- How is Copenhagen connected to Amager?
- A small part of Copenhagen stretches across to Amager, and the Oresund Bridge connects the two cities for train and car access.
- What notable attractions can be found in Copenhagen?
- The city is home to the Copenhagen Stock Exchange, Tivoli Gardens, several castles, is said to be the home of The Little Mermaid, and features a cityscape that showcases parks, museums, restaurants, and promenades.
- Why is Copenhagen a good starting point for travelers?
- Copenhagen also serves as a great starting point for travelers wanting to take day trips to see Denmark.
Best Time for Day Trips from Copenhagen, Denmark:
- April to June – Spring brings blooming parks, castle gardens, and mild weather—perfect for coastal towns and island escapes.
- July to August – Summer is ideal for beach visits, harbor towns, and biking through the countryside under long daylight hours.
- September to October – Crisp air and autumn colors create a cozy backdrop for forests, fishing villages, and cultural sites.
- November – Quieter season great for historic towns, museums, and cozy cafés by the sea.
- December to March – Winter brings festive markets, snow-dusted castles, and hygge-filled getaways just outside the city.
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