A Solo Traveler's Guide to Denmark

Well, this advice doesn’t only apply to Denmark, but is always a good trick to get to know some people. After all, others travel alone as well. Copenhagen has a wide range of hostels for all styles and in all areas. Those traveling in other cities such as Odense, Aalborg, or Aarhus may have difficulty finding a room as there aren’t many hostels, so make sure to book in advance.

No matter the city, visitors will probably see more cycle routes and bikes than cars. For Danes, biking isn’t just a habit; it is a way of life. So, don’t miss out on the chance to discover the so-called bicycle nation. It’s relaxing and certainly cheaper than a ticket for public transportation. Besides, after meeting some locals, you’ll probably want to avoid that ‘what is wrong with you’ look when they’re all waiting for you to grab your bike in order to head to the next destination and you instead point to your bus ticket.

Those hoping to meet some locals should travel to Denmark during spring or summertime. After a long winter, locals rarely miss the chance to hit the city’s parks and lakes to soak up every moment of sunlight. For those traveling to Copenhagen, the lakes in Nørrebro are one of the most-packed spots with people hanging out in groups or just reading a book while relaxing by the waterfront. In both cases, striking up a conversation isn’t very difficult: just offer them a beer or ask them about Roskilde festival. Other places around the city ‘meet locals’ includes Fælledparken, Frederiksberg Gardens, Ørstedsparken, and The King’s Garden.

Cities all over Denmark offer boat tours, cruises, and even canoe rentals. After all, water surrounds the country and Danes are a nation strongly connected to sailing. Whether tourists want to discover the best sights from the water or just want to have some fun sailing in Scandinavian waters, the numerous boat-tour agencies can assist interesting visitors.

Those traveling to Copenhagen should especially add a boat tour to their to-do list. The city has a strong culture scene and every traveller should visit most of the exhibition spaces and art galleries. However, aside from interesting museums, the city has plenty of other attractions such as baroque or Renaissance-style castles, the Royal Danish Opera, and The Little Mermaid statue are also worth a look. But as time often isn’t enough for roaming around the city alone, striving to get to see everything can become irritating. A boat tour provides the perfect solution.

The boat departs from Nyhavn or Gammel Strand, and sails through the canals of Christianshavn and Frederiksholm. Points of interests the boat passes include Christiansborg Palace, National Bank of Denmark, the Opera, The Little Mermaid statue, Amaliehaven, Our Saviour’s Church, and the Black Diamond. Once the tour is over, grab a beer and relax on the wooden docks on Ved Stranden, another locals’ favorite spot on the sunny days.

Denmark is a quite small country, which means travelers can easily visit the most-interesting places no matter their starting point or interests. Nature lovers should definitely spend a day at Møns Klint, H.C Andersen fans should check out the famous author’s museum in Odense, and culture buffs shouldn’t miss ARoS museum in Aarhus. Those who feel a bit adventurous and active should put a bike trip on their list. The country’s bicycle infrastructure and campsites all over the country will make the trip a pleasant experience.

Dropping by food markets is a great way to meet some people and try some interesting food. Not only will visitors get to taste delicacies from Scandinavia and all over the world without breaking the bank, but sharing a long, wooden table with a bunch of locals offers insider’s advice for trip ideas. Kødbyens Mad og Marked, which takes place in Copenhagen and Aarhus, are among locals’ favorite. Keep an eye out for upcoming events and markets all over Denmark, and make sure to add them to your itinerary.

For those visiting Copenhagen, the city’s communal houses and squats should be on top of the list for solo travelers. At Folketshuset, visitors can enjoy a warm cup of coffee and meet locals and foreigners while Bolsjefabrikken’s parties are known for their skillful DJs, inexpensive beers, and vivid crowds that swing on the dance floor until the early morning hours.