Denmark is divided into five administrative regions:

• Hovedstaden: Capital Region of Denmark with seat of administration in Hillerød.

• Midtjylland: Central Denmark Region with seat of administration in Viborg.

• Nordjylland: North Denmark Region with seat of administration in Aalborg.

• Sjælland: Region Zealand with seat of administration in Sorø.

• Syddanmark: Region of Southern Denmark with seat of administration in Vejle.

In addition to these, Denmark also encompasses Greenland and the Faroe Islands, but these regions have autonomous status.

Each region offers a diverse range of experiences, from historical sites and natural beauty to vibrant city life. If you plan to visit Denmark, these regions could be a great start for your journey:

COPENHAGEN

While this 1000-year-old harbour town is one of the oldest capital cities in Europe, it has managed to retain much of its historic good looks (think copper spires and cobbled squares) while offering a contemporary, trendy lifestyle with a thriving nightlife scene and great shopping. Denmark’s overachieving capital is home to a thriving design scene, its streets awash with effortlessly hip shops, cafes, and bars; world-class museums and art collections; intelligent new architecture; and no fewer than 15 Michelin-starred restaurants. This is also a royal city, home to the multitalented Queen Margrethe II and her photogenic family.

One of the great things about Copenhagen is its size. Virtually all of Copenhagen's major sightseeing attractions – Tivoli Gardens, Nationalmuseet, Statens Museum for Kunst, Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, Christiansborg, Christiania, Nyhavn, Marmorkirken, Amalienborg and Rosenborg – are in or close to the medieval city centre. Only the perennially disappointing Little Mermaid lies outside of the city proper, on the harbourfront.

• Tivoli Gardens: A historic amusement park that inspired Walt Disney, perfect for enjoying rides and seasonal decorations.

• Nyhavn: The picturesque old harbour is lined with colourful townhouses and is great for a stroll or a canal tour.

• The Little Mermaid Statue: Visit the iconic statue inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale. Love her or loathe her (watch Copenhageners cringe at the very mention of her), this small, underwhelming statue is arguably the most photographed sight in the country, as well as the cause of countless 'is that it?' shrugs from tourists who have trudged the kilometre or so along an often windswept harbourfront to see her.

• Freetown Christiania: Explore this unique community with its homemade houses, art galleries, and organic eateries.

• Strøget: One of Europe's longest pedestrian streets, ideal for shopping and people-watching.

• Rosenborg Castle: Home to Danish crown jewels, this Renaissance castle is a must-see for history enthusiasts.

• Christiansborg Palace: Experience 800 years of royal history and visit the Parliament and Supreme Court.

• The National Museum of Denmark: Delve into Danish history and culture at this comprehensive museum.

• The Round Tower: Climb this 17th-century tower for panoramic views of the city.

• Amalienborg: The residence of the Danish Royal Family, where you can witness the changing of the guard.

• Copenhagen Zoo: With over 4,000 animals, it's one of Denmark's top attractions, especially for families.

• Den Blå Planet: Northern Europe's largest aquarium, offering an underwater experience for all ages.

• SMK - The National Gallery of Denmark: Explore Danish and international art at Denmark's largest art museum.

• Bakken: The world's oldest amusement park, located in a lush forest area just north of Copenhagen.

• Canal Tours: A great way to see the city from the water and learn about its history and architecture.

For a more detailed exploration, consider joining a guided walking tour or renting a bike to navigate the city like a local. Enjoy your visit to Copenhagen!

ZEALAND

Denmark’s largest island offers much more than the dazzle of Copenhagen. North of the city lie some of the country’s finest beaches and most impressive castles. This region is popular for its chalk cliffs, the island of Møn, and its nearby islands of Falster, and Lolland.

Here you’ll find the dazzlingly ornate Frederiksborg Slot in Hillerød and the hulking Kronborg Slot at Helsingør, Shakespeare's Elsinore. Helsingør also features the excellent Maritime Museum of Denmark. West of Copenhagen awaits history-steeped Roskilde, home to a World Heritage-listed cathedral, Scandinavia’s classic rock music festival, and a tremendous Viking Ship Museum. History also comes to life at nearby Sagnlandet Lejre, an engrossing, hands-on archaeology site.

• Fascinating Helsingør commands the narrowest point of the Øresund, the sound that separates Denmark from today's Sweden. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the city became immensely wealthy by taxing shipping that had to pass this way between the Baltic Sea and the open ocean. For a sizeable town, Helsingør has done a pretty good job of maintaining mementoes of its medieval character, best appreciated by strolling through the grid of narrow cobbled streets between the harbour and the bustling shopping core. Here, half-timbered back-alley houses lean precariously behind towering hollyhocks and creeping ivy. The main sight, however, is the gigantic Kronborg Slot, made famous as Elsinore Castle in Shakespeare’s Hamlet and today a UNESCO World Heritage site, although the intimate psychological nature of the play is a far cry from the real-life military colossus.

• Pretty Køge (koo-e) is well worth a look if you're taking the ferry to Bornholm or driving via Stevns Klint towards Denmark's southern islands. The one-time medieval trading centre retains a photogenic core of cobbled streets flanked by some well-preserved 17th- and 18th-century buildings. At its heart, Torvet is claimed to be Denmark's largest square. Around 7km south, Vallø's moat-encircled Renaissance castle makes a great destination for a cycle ride along quiet, tree-lined avenues and country lanes. On either side of Køge Bay, there are passable beaches, though the semi-industrial backdrop of the modern commercial harbour detracts a little from some of the coastal scenery. Further beaches at Solrød and Greve (8km and 17km north of Køge respectively) are popular S-train escapes for Copenhagen city-dwellers.

• Most foreigners who have heard of Roskilde know it either as the home of one of northern Europe’s best outdoor music festivals, or the sight of several remarkable Viking ship finds, now housed in an excellent, purpose-built museum. To the Danes, however, it is a city of great royal and religious significance, as it was the capital city long before Copenhagen and is still the burial place of 39 monarchs stretching back several hundred years. Located on the southern tip of Roskilde Fjord, the city was a thriving trading port throughout the Middle Ages. It was also the site of Zealand’s first Christian church, built by Viking king Harald Bluetooth in AD 980.

• Many Møn-bound visitors will need to change transport in Vordingborg. If you're doing that, it's worth stopping at least briefly to visit the site of the town's central, once-formidable castle that played a starring role in early Danish history. Today, all that remains are a few moated bastion ruins plus a single round tower, but the site forms an appealing park with views down across a pretty harbour. Danmarks Borgcenter brings the site's history vividly to life using an imaginative self-led tour guided by a tablet/computer.

• Frederiksborg Castle is a stunning Renaissance castle in Hillerød with beautiful gardens.

MØN

One of Denmark's most magical islands, Møn's best-known drawcard is its sweeping stretch of white cliffs, Møns Klint. Crowned by deep-green forest, they’re a popular inspiration for landscape paintings, possibly explaining the island’s healthy artist headcount. But the inspiration doesn’t end there. Beautiful beaches span sandy expanses and small secret coves, there are haunting Neolithic graves, and several rural churches are adorned with whimsical medieval frescoes. Every year more stargazers come for what are said to be Denmark's darkest night skies, and now they're joined by hikers flooding in to walk the well-organized network of trails known as Camønoen, named with a punning nod to the classic Camino pilgrim trail.

• Møns Klint: Visit the breathtaking chalk cliffs, known as the "White Cliffs of Møn," and enjoy activities like hiking, kayaking, or sailing to experience their beauty from different perspectives.

• GeoCenter Møns Klint: Explore this interactive museum to learn about the geological history of the cliffs and the surrounding area.

• Dark Sky Park: As Scandinavia's first Dark Sky Park, it's an ideal spot for stargazing and experiencing the night sky's majesty.

• Stege: Stroll around this cosy town, explore local shops, and enjoy the culinary offerings.

• Camøno: Engage in a hiking adventure on this trail, playfully named after the famous Camino de Santiago, offering days of exploration.

• Nyord: Experience the small island near Møn, known for its tranquillity and natural beauty.

• Liselund Park: Visit this romantic landscaped garden with historical buildings, perfect for a leisurely walk.

• Beaches: Relax at the island's beaches, such as Ulvshale Beach, and enjoy the serene environment.

• Cycling Routes: Take advantage of the numerous cycling routes to see the island's landscapes and coastal views.

• Fanefjord Church: Admire the church's frescoes and architecture, which contribute to the island's rich cultural heritage.

BORNHOLM

The sunniest part of Denmark, Bornholm lies way out in the Baltic Sea, 200km east of Copenhagen (and closer to Sweden and Poland than to mainland Denmark). But it’s not just (relatively) sunny skies that draw the hordes each year. Mother Nature was in a particularly good mood when creating this Baltic beauty, bestowing on its rocky cliffs, leafy forests, bleach-white beaches, and pure, ethereal light that painters do their best to capture. Humankind added the beguiling details, from medieval fortress ruins and thatched fishing villages to the iconic rundekirke (round churches) and contemporary Bornholms Kunstmuseum. The island’s ceramic and glassware artisans are famed throughout Denmark, as are its historic smokehouses and ever-expanding league of food artisans, doing brilliant things with local harvests. Highlights include:

• Hammershus Castle: The largest medieval fortification in Northern Europe.

• Round Churches: Unique, fortified churches such as Østerlars Church.

• Dueodde Beach: Famous for its fine white sand and clear waters.

• Bornholm Art Museum: Showcasing local art inspired by the island’s landscapes.

FUNEN (FYN)

Funen (Fyn in Danish) is Denmark's proverbial middle child. Lacking Zealand's capital-city pull or Jutland's geographic dominance, it's often overlooked by visitors, who rarely do more than make a whistle-stop visit to Hans Christian Andersen's birthplace, Odense.

Certainly, the master of fairy tales makes a worthy favourite son and Odense is a lively cultural and commercial center. But there is much more to Funen. Thatched farmhouses, picture-book coastal towns, and grand Renaissance castles dot the island’s patchwork of fields and woodlands. There's a remarkable Viking-era ship grave near Kerteminde. Rolling southern pastures and orchards grow some of the country's best produce. Curiously minimalist shelters are set up for cyclists and kayakers. And handsome harbour towns give access to a yacht-filled archipelago of idyllic seafaring islands. All in all, if you take the trouble to explore, you'll find Funen is a microcosm of the very best of Denmark.

• Egeskov Castle: One of Europe’s best-preserved Renaissance water castles, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

• Hans Christian Andersen's House (Odense): Discover the life of the famous fairy-tale author.

• Bridge Walking: Enjoy this unique experience, the only place you can do this outside Sydney.

• Odense Zoo: Home to a diverse collection of animals and interactive exhibits, you can easily spend the day here.

• Funen Village: Stroll through this open-air museum to experience Danish life during Hans Christian Andersen's time.

• Heartland Festival: Relax at an event that combines music, art, and food in a scenic setting.

• Cycle: Enjoy over 1,200 km of signposted routes through the South Fyn Archipelago.

• Storms Pakhus: Mingle with locals and enjoy global cuisine at this street food market in Odense.

• Brandts Art Museum (Odense): A mix of classical and contemporary art exhibitions.

• Magic Days Festival: Experience a gathering for fans of fantasy and magic, held each October.

• Faaborg and Svendborg: Quaint coastal towns with charming streets and harbours, perfect for exploring the South Funen Archipelago.

JUTLAND

Denmark doesn't have a north-south divide; culturally, spiritually and to a great extent politically, it is divided into Jutland…and all the rest. You'll find old-fashioned hospitality here and an engaging frankness – Jutlanders stem from hardy fishing and farming stock, and they're proud of their points of difference from big-city Danes. Then there are those picture-book Jutland landscapes, an incredible melange of windswept sand dunes, boat-filled harbours, glittering lakes, and thatch-roofed villages. These are the scenes that have inspired centuries of great Danish art – visit Skagen for a brilliant introduction. Add to this, top-notch museums, ample outdoor adventures, Denmark's oldest town, endless family attractions, and the understated cool of 'second city' Aarhus, and you'll come to understand why Copenhagen isn't the only Danish destination to put on your itinerary.

SOUTH JUTLAND & WEST COAST

The south and west coast of Jutland, Denmark, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical richness. First-time visitors can explore the Wadden Sea National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vast tidal mudflats and the spectacular 'Black Sun' phenomenon of starling murmurations. The region is also home to Ribe, Denmark's oldest town, where history comes alive through its ancient streets and Viking heritage. For those seeking a blend of culture and nature, Jutland's west coast is an unmissable destination.

• Wadden Sea National Park: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage tidal mud flats, hunt for giant oysters, or take a tractor bus across shallow waters.

• The Black Sun: Witness the awe-inspiring phenomenon involving the murmurations of millions of starlings at dusk in the Wadden Sea National Park during spring and autumn.

• Tirpitz Museum: Discover this unique bunker museum hidden in the sand dunes, designed by architect Bjarke Ingels, and learn about the Atlantic Wall and regional history.

• Jelling Viking Stones: Erected by King Harald Bluetooth in the 10th century, include rune stones, barrows, and a church, and are considered Europe’s finest Viking Age monuments. These monuments have been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1994.

• Ribe: Visit Denmark's oldest town to see the Viking Museum and Viking Centre, ancient streets, and a cathedral with views from its tower.

• Men at Sea: Stand beneath Svend Wiig Hansen's impressive 9-metre-high sculpture on the West Coast, near Esbjerg.

• Legoland Billund Resort: Enjoy the original LEGOLAND and the LEGO House, celebrating the iconic brick's Danish origins.

• Henne Kirkeby Kro: Indulge in culinary delights at this thatched inn from 1790, now a renowned restaurant on the West Coast.

NORTH JUTLAND

A region of Denmark where the North Sea meets the Baltic, creating a landscape filled with breathtaking natural beauty and unique cultural experiences. As you step into this northernmost part of Denmark, you'll find yourself surrounded by vast beaches, rolling dunes, and the serene Limfjord that separates the region from the rest of the mainland. The vibrant city of Aalborg offers a mix of modern architecture and historical sites, complemented by a thriving culinary scene that showcases the best of Danish cuisine. Venture further to Skagen, where you can witness the rare spectacle of two seas colliding, or explore the hidden gems of cosy harbour towns and the wild, untamed beauty of the region's national parks. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, North Jutland's diverse offerings ensure a memorable visit for all who wander here. Embrace the opportunity to create your own path in this marvellous corner of Denmark, where every experience is as unique as the shifting sands of its dunes.

• Skagen: Visit the northernmost town in Denmark, known for its picturesque fishing village, colourful houses, sandy beaches, and the unique phenomenon where two seas meet.

• Aalborg: Explore the largest city in North Jutland, which offers a lively atmosphere, a charming old town, and the atmospheric Viking burial grounds. Visit the Aalborg Zoo, the Utzon Center, and the historical Aalborg Monastery.

• Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse: Witness this iconic lighthouse before it's lost to the sea, and climb up to the viewing platform for spectacular views.

• Råbjerg Mile: Experience the largest migrating dunes in Northern Europe and feel like you're walking on a lunar landscape.

• The Sand-Buried Church: See the dramatic 14th-century tower of St. Laurence church, which is all that remains visible after the church was buried in sand over 200 years ago.

• Grenen: Stand at Denmark's northernmost point and dip your toes where the Skagerrak and Kattegat seas meet without mixing.

• Fårup Sommerland: Enjoy one of Denmark's largest amusement parks, perfect for family fun with a variety of rides and attractions.

• Lindholm Høje: Visit the ancient Viking burial site and museum to learn about the Viking age and its cultural impact.

• Voergaard Castle: Explore this beautiful Renaissance castle, known for its impressive art collection and haunting legends.

• Lille Vildmose: Discover one of the largest raised bogs in Northern Europe and observe the diverse wildlife and unique flora.

AARHUS

Welcome to the Aarhus region of Jutland, Denmark, a place where history and modernity blend seamlessly to create a vibrant cultural tapestry. Nestled on the Jutland Peninsula, Aarhus, often dubbed the "City of Smiles," invites visitors to explore its dynamic culture, medieval architecture, and contemporary art scenes. As Denmark's second-largest city, it offers a more intimate yet equally enriching experience compared to the bustling streets of Copenhagen. Whether you're here to trace the steps of Vikings, enjoy the creative food scene, or simply soak in the laid-back atmosphere, Aarhus is a gem waiting to be explored.

• Den Gamle By: Visit this open-air museum to experience Danish urban history and culture from the 1700s to the 1970s.

• ARoS Aarhus Art Museum: Explore one of Europe's largest art museums and enjoy the panoramic views from the "Your rainbow panorama" installation.

• Moesgaard Museum: Discover this architectural wonder and its exhibitions on human history, including the Grauballe Man bog body.

• Aarhus Cathedral: Admire the architecture and history of this beautiful church, the longest and tallest cathedral in Denmark.

• Viking Museum: Learn about the Viking age and Aarhus's origins as a Viking settlement.

• Aarhus Botanical Gardens: Enjoy the diverse plant species and beautiful landscapes in this expansive garden.

• Tivoli Friheden: Have fun at this amusement park with rides and games for all ages, especially during the Christmas season.

• Marselisborg Palace and Park: Visit the summer residence of the Danish royal family and explore the surrounding park and rose garden.

• The Infinite Bridge: Walk along this circular structure that extends into the sea and offers stunning views of the bay.

• Aarhus Ø and The Iceberg: Check out the modern architecture and vibrant life at the redeveloped harbor area, including the iconic Iceberg buildings.

• Havnebadet: Experience swimming in the harbor baths, designed by renowned architect Bjarke Ingels.

• Latin Quarter: Stroll through the oldest part of Aarhus, filled with charming streets, unique shops, and cozy cafes.

• Dokk1: Visit this cultural center at the harbor, which houses the city library, civic services, and spaces for events and relaxation.

• Salling Rooftop: Enjoy the view of the city from this rooftop terrace and try out the glass skywalk if you dare.

• Aarhus Street Food: Savor a variety of cuisines from around the world at this popular street food market.

CENTRAL JUTLAND

Central Jutland, the heart of Denmark, offers a rich tapestry of experiences. From the vibrant city life of Aarhus, Denmark's second-largest city, to the serene beauty of the Danish Lake District with its tranquil lakes and lush forests, there's something for everyone. Explore the charming old town streets and indulge in the local cuisine at cosy cafes. With its diverse landscapes and cultural offerings, Central Jutland is a captivating destination.

• The Ancient Road Hærvejen: This wonderful hiking and cycling trail runs down the spine of Jutland.

• Viborg: One of the oldest towns in Denmark and for a thousand years, the nation’s epicentre of power, Viborg is known for its exceptional cathedral.

• Viborg Domkirke: Known for its impressive architecture and frescoes.

• Mønsted Limestone Mines: Visit the world's largest limestone mine near Viborg where you can learn about geology and observe the bats.

  
  

• Himmelbjerget: Visit one of Denmark's highest points, offering panoramic views and a historical tower.

• Kongehyldningsmonumentet (Viborg): Explore the monument dedicated to the medieval tradition of Danish kings.

• Viborg Plantage: Discover a natural area perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and bird watching.

• Helligkilden: Experience the sacred spring with historical significance located near Karup.

• Indelukket: Take a leisurely stroll through this scenic riverside park in Silkeborg.

• Adelgade: Walk down this charming cobbled street lined with colourful cafes and shops in Skanderborg.

THE FAROE ISLANDS

Although geographically not near to the rest of Denmark, this remote archipelago with dramatic landscapes, offers an outdoor paradise for hikers, bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts.

• Sørvágsvatn Lake: The famous lake above the ocean.

• Tórshavn: One of the smallest capitals in the world with a charming old town.

• Mykines: An island known for its puffin colonies and stunning hiking trails.

• Gjógv: A picturesque village with a natural harbor and beautiful surroundings.

Download Denmark map waypoints: KML / GPX