Best 7 Unmissable Tourist Attractions in Denmark 2026
Denmark has long been the quiet achiever of Scandinavia, but in 2026, it is roaring. Beyond the “hygge” hype and the pastry-filled streets, this Nordic nation has firmly established itself as a global leader in sustainable tourism, world-class architecture, and living history.
From the bicycle-superhighways of Copenhagen to the wild canopies of South Zealand, Denmark offers a seamless blend of old-world charm and futuristic innovation. Whether you are chasing the ghosts of Vikings, exploring eco-conscious architectural marvels, or simply looking for the world’s best comfort food, the Danish experience is one of effortless quality.
Here are the BEST 7 tourist attractions in Denmark you need to visit this year.
1- Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen:
Tivoli Gardens is the beating heart of Copenhagen—a rare place that feels just as magical in 2026 as it did when it opened in 1843. It is famously the spot that inspired Walt Disney, but Tivoli refuses to be stuck in the past.
Today, it is a masterclass in atmosphere. By day, the gardens are a lush, floral oasis where peacocks roam freely; by night, they transform into a cinematic landscape illuminated by thousands of custom-designed lights.
Why Visit in 2026:
The park has expanded its seasonal offerings. While the summer concerts remain legendary, the “Winter Wonderland” and Halloween seasons now feature immersive light installations that rival any art festival in Europe.
Insider Tip:
Tivoli is seasonal! It is not open year-round. Check the calendar for the specific Spring, Summer, Halloween, and Christmas seasons before you book.
2- H.C. Andersens Hus, Odense:
Newly cemented as a must-visit cultural pilgrimage, the Hans Christian Andersen House in Odense (a short train ride from Copenhagen) is nothing like a traditional dusty museum. Designed by the star Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, this attraction is a stunning fusion of wood, glass, and greenery that dissolves the line between indoors and outdoors.
The experience is an emotional journey rather than a history lesson. Through state-of-the-art audio technology, the exhibits “speak” to you, narrating Andersen’s life through the whimsical, sometimes dark, lens of his own fairytales.
The Highlight:
The underground gardens. Two-thirds of the museum is subterranean, looking up into a magical “fairytale garden” that feels entirely removed from the modern world.
3- The Forest Tower (Camp Adventure), Rønnede
If you see one image of Denmark on Instagram in 2026, it will likely be the spiraling Forest Tower** at Camp Adventure. Located in the lush forests of South Zealand, this 45-meter-tall architectural wonder allows you to walk from the forest floor to above the treetops on a seamless, spiraling ramp.
It captures the essence of Danish design: accessible, beautiful, and deeply connected to nature. On a clear day, the view from the top stretches all the way to Sweden.
Getting There:
It’s about a 50-minute drive from Copenhagen, making it the perfect day trip for those wanting to escape the city asphalt.
4- Christiansborg Palace, Copenhagen
While Amalienborg is where the Queen lives, Christiansborg is where the power lies. Situated on the islet of Slotsholmen, this massive palace houses the Danish Parliament, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Supreme Court.
It is unique in the world for housing all three branches of government under one roof. Visitors can tour the velvet-lined Royal Reception Rooms—still used for state dinners—and see the Queen’s tapestries, which depict 1,000 years of Danish history in vibrant, modern detail.
Don’t Miss:
The Tower at Christiansborg**. It is the highest viewing point in Copenhagen, it is completely free to access, and there is a hidden restaurant at the top serving classic Danish *smørrebrød* (open-faced sandwiches).
5- National Museum of Denmark, Copenhagen
A short walk from Tivoli, the National Museum (Nationalmuseet) is the custodian of Denmark’s soul. In 2026, the museum has revitalized its focus on the Viking Age, capitalizing on the global fascination with Norse mythology.
Here you will find the Sun Chariot, a 3,500-year-old bronze masterpiece that suggests early Danes worshipped the sun long before they sailed the seas. The “Viking” exhibit is gritty and realistic, moving beyond the myths to show the actual lives of these warrior-traders.
Family Friendly:
The “Children’s Museum” inside is widely considered one of the best in Europe, allowing kids to physically interact with history—climbing aboard Viking ships and dressing in period clothing.
6- The Open-Air Museum, Lyngby
Just north of Copenhagen lies Frilandsmuseet, one of the oldest and largest open-air museums in the world. It is a sprawling countryside landscape dotted with over 50 original farms, mills, and houses that have been dismantled and rebuilt here brick by brick.
It offers a peaceful counter-narrative to the city. You can walk through thatched-roof cottages from the 1700s, smell bread baking in wood-fired ovens, and watch historic breeds of livestock graze in the fields.
Why It Works:
It creates a visceral connection to the “agrarian ancestors” of modern Danes, explaining the country’s deep love for nature and simplicity.
7- National Gallery of Denmark (SMK), Copenhagen
The Statens Museum for Kunst (SMK) is the country’s largest art gallery, and it strikes a striking pose: a classical 19th-century building fused with a sharp, modern glass extension.
Inside, the collection spans 700 years, featuring heavy hitters like Rembrandt, Picasso, and Matisse, alongside the “Golden Age” of Danish painters who captured the unique Nordic light. In recent years, the museum has become a cultural hangout, famous for its SMK Fridays—events that blend art, street food, and DJ sets, turning the museum into a vibrant social space.
Practical Travel Tips for Denmark
Go Cashless: Denmark is virtually a cashless society. You can pay for everything, even a hot dog from a street cart, with a card or phone.
Get the “Copenhagen Card”: If you plan to visit more than two of the Copenhagen sites listed above (Tivoli, Christiansborg, National Museum), the card pays for itself and includes free public transport.
Rent a Bike: Do as the locals do. In 2026, Copenhagen’s bike infrastructure is better than ever. It is often the fastest way to get from the National Gallery to Tivoli.
