Traveling in Denmark with kids
There's so much for kids to do in Denmark that your biggest challenge will be getting them to bed on long, lovely summer evenings
Capital cities aren’t always the obvious choice for a family vacation, but laid back, walkable, cycle-friendly Copenhagen certainly fits the bill. Green spaces are plentiful, the harbour is so clean you can swim in it – the Harbour Baths at Islands Brygge has no less than two dedicated kids’ pools – and there’s even a beach on the doorstep.
Beyond the city, there’s the fun of exploring Denmark’s patchwork of orchards, woods, meadows and beaches, watching birds and deer. You can island-hop by ferry, train or bike – kids are sure to be intrigued at how many of Denmark’s islands are linked by bridges. Finally, those with a taste for tales of adventure will be gripped by the family-friendly Viking museums at Roskilde and Ribe.
Activities for families in Denmark
Tivoli Gardens
There’s been an amusement park and garden in the heart of Copenhagen since 1843, and its rides, shows and musical events are as popular as ever. Tivoli has robust policies in place to promote recycling and reduce waste. In 2014, it celebrated the centenary of its wooden rollercoaster with a makeover, complete with artificial waterfall.
Hit the beach
The wild Jutland coast has mile after mile of wonderful sandy beaches, with Søndervig among the best. Marielyst on the Baltic in southeast Denmark is pretty good too, with calm water and lifeguards. There’s even a proper beach a short metro ride from central Copenhagen – Amager Strandpark, a 5km stretch of shallow, swimmable shore.
To Legoland and beyond
If your kids are into Lego, they’re sure to pester you for a visit to Legoland. While you’re here, they can let off steam at Lalandia Billund, an environmentally responsible waterpark. After that, you can head to the coast to explore Wadden Sea National Park and learn about Vikings at Ribe.
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Responsible Travel asks the experts
VisitDenmark offers advice on family travel:
Denmark has a number of fascinating Science Centres where children and adults alike can get hands-on science experiences. With live demonstrations and the opportunity to try things for yourself, Science Centres combine learning with great fun for the whole family.
Denmark has a number of fascinating Science Centres where children and adults alike can get hands-on science experiences. With live demonstrations and the opportunity to try things for yourself, Science Centres combine learning with great fun for the whole family.
Kay Cliffe, from our supplier Skedaddle, shares her advice on traveling with kids – in all seasons:
“There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained! It all depends on what you like. I would personally visit the Experimentarium – Denmark’s first science center – if I was in Copenhagen. In Jutland I would go to Legoland in Billund and then Aarhus and visit The Old Town, Den Gamle By and Randers Rainforest in Randers. On Funen I would visit Odense, the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen, and Egeskov Castle. During summer I would definitely go for a swim in the sea!”
“There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained! It all depends on what you like. I would personally visit the Experimentarium – Denmark’s first science center – if I was in Copenhagen. In Jutland I would go to Legoland in Billund and then Aarhus and visit The Old Town, Den Gamle By and Randers Rainforest in Randers. On Funen I would visit Odense, the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen, and Egeskov Castle. During summer I would definitely go for a swim in the sea!”
Responsible Travel would like to thank the Visit Denmark tourist board for their sponsorship of this guide