12 Best Day Trips from Copenhagen You Can’t Miss in 2025

Copenhagen has a way of drawing you in with its canals, bicycles, and hygge-filled cafés… but the magic doesn’t stop at the city limits.

In fact, some of the best day trips from Copenhagen in 2025 reveal an entirely different side of Denmark and even its neighbors across the Øresund Strait. I’ve always found that using Copenhagen as a base feels like unlocking a door to castles, cliffs, Viking ships, and even quick cross-border escapes to Sweden.

2025 is a particularly good year to venture beyond the capital. Denmark has doubled down on eco-friendly train travel, which means more frequent departures, smoother connections, and digital passes that save both time and money.

A few attractions have also undergone significant updates—like expanded Viking Ship Museum exhibits in Roskilde and immersive Shakespeare experiences at Kronborg Castle. Travelers looking for easy day trips from Copenhagen this year will find more flexibility and better infrastructure than ever before.

In this guide, I’ll share my personal favorite one-day trips from Copenhagen—tried and tested over countless journeys.

Whether you’re traveling solo with a Copenhagen Card, planning family-friendly day trips with kids, or dreaming of crossing the Øresund Bridge into Sweden, I’ll give you the highlights, travel tips, and cultural insights to make your 2025 adventure richer and smoother.

Quick Travel Tips for Copenhagen Day Trips

One of the reasons I’ve always loved Copenhagen as a travel hub is how easy it is to branch out. Most of the good day trips from Copenhagen start from Copenhagen Central Station, where trains run like clockwork to Roskilde, Helsingør, Hillerød, and even across the border to Malmö.

For more offbeat escapes—like Møns Klint or Stevns Klint—you’ll need to pair a regional train with a local bus, but the connections are straightforward once you get the hang of Denmark’s efficient system.

Budgeting for 2025 is simpler too. Digital rail passes and contactless payments mean you no longer fumble with paper tickets. Families should consider the Copenhagen Card, which often covers not just train lines but also museum entries like the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art or Frederiksborg Castle.

If you’re traveling as a couple, I’d suggest renting bikes for half-day trips near the coast or even joining a day boat trip from Copenhagen for something slower-paced.

For those thinking about day trips from Copenhagen in winter, trains are warm and punctual, but pack gloves and a scarf—Scandinavian wind has a way of sneaking in. And for solo travelers like myself, the safety and reliability of Danish transport make exploring smaller fishing villages like Dragør or seaside towns like Gilleleje stress-free.

1. Malmö, Sweden – A Quick Hop Across the Øresund Bridge

The first time I crossed the Øresund Bridge by train, I remember the moment when Copenhagen’s skyline faded and Sweden came into view—it felt surreal that in just 40 minutes I was in another country. Malmö is one of the easiest and best day trips from Copenhagen, and in 2025, it’s even more appealing with upgraded rail services and contactless border checks.

Malmö blends modern architecture with old-world charm. The iconic Turning Torso skyscraper rises above a compact Old Town where cobbled streets lead to Malmö Castle and leafy squares filled with cafés. If you’re hungry, stop at Malmö Saluhall, a buzzing food hall where I once spent an afternoon sampling Swedish cheeses and cinnamon buns with locals.

Day trips from Copenhagen to Sweden by train are particularly popular with those who want a taste of another culture without much hassle. The return ticket costs less than a nice dinner in Copenhagen, making it one of the most budget-friendly cross-border escapes.

In summer, the city parks are perfect for a bike ride; in winter, Malmö’s Christmas markets feel straight out of a fairytale.

Whether you’re chasing architecture, food, or just the novelty of saying you had lunch in Sweden and dinner back in Denmark, Malmö is a must.

2. Roskilde – Viking Ships & Rock Festival Legacy

If there’s one place that always makes my list of the best day trips from Copenhagen, it’s Roskilde. Just a quick 25-minute ride on the train line from Copenhagen Central Station, this historic town packs a cultural punch far beyond its size.

My first visit to the Viking Ship Museum felt like stepping into Denmark’s soul. Standing beside the original Viking ships pulled from Roskilde Fjord—some more than a thousand years old—I finally understood how these seafarers shaped not just Denmark, but much of Northern Europe.

In 2025, the museum has expanded its interactive exhibits, including full-scale sailing replicas that you can actually board. For kids, it’s hands-on history; for adults, it’s a chance to touch the spirit of adventure that defined the Vikings.

The UNESCO-listed Roskilde Cathedral is another essential stop. Inside, the resting place of Danish kings and queens, I found myself lingering at Christian IV’s ornate tomb—his reign shaped so much of Copenhagen’s architecture.

If you’re visiting in summer, Roskilde is also famous for its music festival, but even outside those dates, the city hums with creative energy. A half-day trip here is easy, affordable, and deeply rewarding.

3. Kronborg Castle, Helsingør – Hamlet’s Castle

Every time I return to Helsingør, the sight of Kronborg Castle towering over the Øresund Strait gives me chills. This UNESCO-listed fortress—immortalized as Elsinore in William Shakespeare’s Hamlet—is one of the most iconic day trips from Copenhagen. It takes about 45 minutes by train, followed by a short walk through Helsingør’s cobbled streets.

The first time I joined a guided tour here, I remember standing in the cold, dim castle cellar where actors performed Hamlet’s soliloquy. The guide even pulled out a replica of Yorick’s skull—William Shakespeare’s words echoing through those stone halls felt hauntingly real.

In 2025, new multimedia installations allow visitors to experience Hamlet’s world in a more immersive way, blending theater and technology.

Beyond the Shakespearean drama, Kronborg is a fortress with centuries of strategic importance, guarding the Øresund Strait between Denmark and Sweden. On a clear day, you can look across the Baltic Sea and spot Helsingborg, making it possible to combine both towns in a single day.

My tip: come early, explore the castle thoroughly, then take the ferry across the water for a true twin-city adventure.

4. Frederiksborg Castle, Hillerød – Denmark’s Versailles

When I first saw Frederiksborg Castle reflected in its lake in Hillerød, it instantly reminded me of France’s Versailles—but with a distinctly Danish character. Known as the “Danish Versailles,” this Renaissance masterpiece houses the National History Museum, and it’s one of the most rewarding day trips from Copenhagen by train (about 40 minutes).

Inside, I wandered through grand halls adorned with tapestries and portraits, each room telling a chapter of Denmark’s past. The story of Christian IV is particularly present here—his ambition and vision reshaped Denmark, and you can feel his legacy in every gilded ceiling and marble column.

Spring 2025 is the perfect time to visit. The castle gardens burst into bloom, and I’ve found the best photography spots are on the far side of the lake, where the view frames the entire castle with vibrant flowers in the foreground.

Families will appreciate the interactive exhibits that bring history to life, while couples often linger in the baroque gardens, tracing pathways lined with fountains and statues.

What I love about Frederiksborg is how it feels like stepping into a living history book, yet it’s never as crowded as Versailles.

For travelers seeking a mix of art, history, and natural beauty, this is one of the best day trips from Copenhagen in 2025.

5. Dragør – A Quaint Fishing Village

Just 12 kilometers south of Copenhagen, Dragør feels like stepping back in time. I still remember my first walk through its 18th-century cobblestone streets—yellow-painted houses, hollyhocks leaning over picket fences, and fishermen’s boats bobbing in the small harbor. It’s one of those good day trips from Copenhagen that offers a slower pace, perfect for travelers who want to breathe rather than rush.

Dragør is an easy 30-minute bus ride from Copenhagen Central Station, making it one of the simplest half-day trips from Copenhagen. Families with kids will enjoy watching the local fishermen at work, while couples often find it a romantic escape from the city.

During summer festivals, the harbor fills with music and food stalls—I once stumbled into a local herring festival here and ended up learning traditional Danish sea shanties with a group of locals.

It’s also a great spot for bike day trips from Copenhagen, with coastal paths offering Baltic Sea views. Stop by the harbor cafés for fresh seafood or take a walk along the beach. Compared to the grandeur of castles or museums, Dragør is humble, but its charm lies in its authenticity.

6. Møns Klint – Denmark’s White Cliffs

Few landscapes in Denmark have left me as awestruck as Møns Klint. Towering white chalk cliffs that plunge dramatically into the turquoise waters of the Baltic Sea—on a clear day, the contrast is almost blinding. At about two hours away by bus or car, this is one of the best nature day trips from Copenhagen, and worth every minute of travel.

I’ve hiked the cliffside trails several times, each offering new perspectives of the coastline. Fossil hunting here is a favorite activity, especially for families with kids—one of my nieces found a 70-million-year-old seashell on our trip, which she proudly kept as her “Denmark treasure.” The GeoCenter Møns Klint adds depth with interactive geology exhibits, explaining how the cliffs were formed by glaciers.

In 2025, sustainability is at the forefront. Eco-trails and carefully maintained viewing platforms protect the fragile environment, making it easier for visitors to experience the cliffs responsibly.

If you’re into photography, sunrise and sunset light up the chalk faces in golden tones. Just pack sturdy shoes—the steps down to the beach are steep but unforgettable. For travelers craving cool day trips from Copenhagen that showcase raw natural beauty, Møns Klint is unbeatable.

7. Odense – Home of Hans Christian Andersen

Odense has always felt special to me—not just because it’s the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, but because the city manages to balance its fairytale charm with a vibrant modern vibe. At about 1 hour 45 minutes by train, Odense is on the longer side for one day trips from Copenhagen, but it’s worth the journey, especially for literature lovers and families.

Wandering the old town, I traced cobbled lanes past colorful houses that look like they came straight out of Andersen’s stories. The Hans Christian Andersen Museum has undergone major updates in 2025, with immersive exhibits that bring his tales to life—I found myself surrounded by projections of “The Little Mermaid” as children gasped in wonder.

Beyond Andersen, Odense offers cozy cafés, bike-friendly streets, and a lively harbor area. Families will enjoy the Odense Zoo, consistently ranked among the best in Scandinavia.

On one visit, I joined locals for a picnic in Munke Mose park, and it reminded me how much this city still lives at a relaxed, human pace.

For travelers asking on forums like day trips from Copenhagen reddit whether Odense is “worth it”—my answer is yes. If you want to step into the world of Andersen and feel a more grounded Danish city outside the capital, Odense delivers.

8. Louisiana Museum of Modern Art – World-Class Seaside Art

Just 35 minutes north of Copenhagen by train, the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is one of those easy day trips from Copenhagen that always leaves me inspired. Perched right on the Øresund Strait, the museum combines cutting-edge exhibitions with sweeping sea views that blur the line between nature and art.

I’ve visited Louisiana more than a dozen times, and each trip feels different. I still remember standing in front of a massive Andy Warhol piece here, then stepping outside to see sailboats drifting along the coast—it’s the kind of juxtaposition that makes Louisiana unique.

The museum’s collection spans from Picasso to Bjarke Ingels’ architectural models, and in 2025, it’s hosting new exhibitions that highlight sustainability in art.

Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s wing, where kids can create their own projects, while couples often linger in the sculpture garden overlooking the water.

My advice: go early in the day, then spend time walking along the coast toward Humlebæk. For anyone wondering about half day trips from Copenhagen, this is an ideal choice—you’ll be back in the city in time for dinner at Tivoli Gardens.

9. Aarhus – Denmark’s Cool Second City

Aarhus may be Denmark’s second-largest city, but it’s often overlooked by travelers who stick to Copenhagen. That’s a mistake. Yes, it’s about three hours by train, but with an early start, Aarhus makes for one of the most rewarding long day trips from Copenhagen in 2025.

The Aros Art Museum is always my first stop. Its “Your Rainbow Panorama,” a circular glass walkway by Olafur Eliasson, lets you see the city bathed in every color of the spectrum—an unforgettable experience. The Latin Quarter, with its narrow streets and independent boutiques, reminds me of a younger, funkier Copenhagen. Food lovers should dive into Aarhus’ dining scene, where New Nordic cuisine blends with international flavors.

What makes 2025 special is Aarhus’ expanded green initiatives. I joined a guided bike tour that took us through eco-parks and urban farms, and it felt like a glimpse of Denmark’s future.

If you’re traveling with kids, Den Gamle By (The Old Town open-air museum) is a highlight—I once watched children in period costumes bake bread in a traditional 19th-century kitchen there.

While it requires more planning, Aarhus is one of the best day trips from Copenhagen by train for travelers who want to experience a different side of Denmark.

10. Gilleleje – Seaside Charm & Seafood

If Copenhagen ever feels too busy, Gilleleje is the antidote. Just over an hour by train, this fishing town on the tip of North Zealand is one of my favorite summer escapes. The first time I visited, I joined locals on the pier for smoked fish straight from the harbor smokehouses, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

Gilleleje is perfect for those seeking cool day trips from Copenhagen that blend seaside charm with authentic Danish culture. The beaches here are wide and sandy, ideal for families, while surfers often gather for gentle Baltic Sea breaks nearby. Strolling through town, you’ll see that fishing still defines daily life—boats pull in fresh catches, and restaurants serve them within hours.

One of my most memorable evenings was watching the sunset from Tisvildeleje Strand, just down the coast, where locals gather with picnics and guitars in summer. If you’re into bike day trips from Copenhagen, the coastal route from Helsingør through Gilleleje is breathtaking, passing lighthouses, forests, and tiny harbors.

Gilleleje may not have castles or UNESCO sites, but its laid-back charm makes it one of the best day trips from Copenhagen for travelers craving the Danish seaside.

11. Stevns Klint – UNESCO Fossil Cliffs

If you’ve got even the slightest fascination with geology or history, Stevns Klint is a must on your list of Copenhagen day trips in 2025.

This dramatic UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the few places in the world where you can literally see evidence of the asteroid impact that wiped out the dinosaurs. The white chalk cliffs are layered with a thin band of dark clay—scientists call it the “K–Pg boundary”—which tells the story of that catastrophic event 66 million years ago.

Getting here is pretty easy: hop on a train from Copenhagen Central to Køge, then switch to a bus that drops you close to the cliffs. The whole journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, which makes it a manageable adventure even if you’re just squeezing it into a short trip.

Beyond the cliffs, you’ll also find charming fishing villages, a Cold War museum built into an old fortress, and quiet coastal trails that feel worlds away from the city.

It’s best for travelers who like mixing science with sightseeing, or for those who simply want a peaceful spot with spectacular views of the Baltic Sea.

12. Helsingborg, Sweden – Another Cross-Border Escape

If you’ve already made the classic Copenhagen-to-Helsingør trip, why not take it one step further across the water? A short ferry ride whisks you over the Øresund Strait to Helsingborg, Sweden, and suddenly you’ve got another country checked off your travel list.

The vibe here is unmistakably Swedish. Stroll through pedestrian-friendly streets dotted with cafés serving strong coffee and kanelbullar (cinnamon buns), or spend an afternoon wandering the gardens of Sofiero Palace, once a royal summer residence and now one of Europe’s most stunning parks.

What makes Helsingborg such a great Copenhagen day trip in 2025 is the simplicity: the ferry takes just 20 minutes, runs all day, and pairs beautifully with a visit to Helsingør on the Danish side.

In other words, you can experience two countries in a single day without feeling rushed. Perfect if you’re the kind of traveler who likes variety but doesn’t want to juggle long transfers or complicated routes.

Suggested Itineraries for Different Travelers

Not every traveler looks for the same kind of experience, so here are a few easy ways to shape your day trips from Copenhagen in 2025 depending on what matters most to you:

• One-day sampler – If you just want a quick taste of Denmark beyond the capital, pair Roskilde (for Vikings and cathedrals) with a stroll through Dragør, a cozy seaside town close to the airport. You’ll get history in the morning and coastal charm in the afternoon.
• Family-friendly day trip – Head to Odense, the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen, or explore Frederiksborg Castle, which looks straight out of a storybook. Both spots offer hands-on museums and plenty of open space for kids to burn energy.
• Art & culture lovers – Spend your day at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, followed by an afternoon at Kronborg Castle in Helsingør. You’ll get world-class art plus a heavy dose of Shakespearean history.
• Nature seekers – If you’re chasing Denmark’s wild side, choose between the towering chalk cliffs of Møns Klint or the fossil-rich Stevns Klint. Both offer stunning landscapes, quiet hiking paths, and a chance to step outside the usual tourist trail.

Whichever route you pick, these itineraries prove that Copenhagen isn’t just a city—it’s a gateway to a whole world of experiences right at your doorstep.

Practical Tips for Day Trips in 2025

Planning Copenhagen day trips in 2025 is easier than ever if you lean on the right tools. Start by downloading updated transport apps like DOT Tickets or DSB app, which make booking train tickets and city passes straightforward. Many routes, especially the popular ones like Copenhagen to Malmö or Roskilde, can be booked directly on your phone.

When it comes to timing, spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) are hands-down the best months for day trips from Copenhagen. The weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller compared to peak summer, and train schedules run smoothly. Winter has its own charm too—especially if you’re chasing Christmas markets—but do pack a bit heavier.

As for essentials, don’t forget a reusable water bottle, weather-proof jacket (the wind around Øresund Bridge can be intense), and your travel card for easy hop-on, hop-off experiences. Comfortable walking shoes are a must because almost every Copenhagen day trip, whether to castles, coastal towns, or neighboring Sweden, involves some exploring on foot.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, Copenhagen isn’t just a city—it’s the ultimate gateway to Scandinavia. Its location, efficient train connections, and ferry routes make it one of the best bases in Europe for day trips. From Sweden’s Malmö to Denmark’s historic towns and natural wonders, every adventure feels like a new world waiting just beyond the city.

And honestly, 2025 is the perfect time to go. With updated transport passes, smoother connections, and an increased focus on sustainable travel, it feels like the year travelers have been waiting for. If you’ve been craving fresh experiences, you won’t find a better moment to start exploring.

So… which of these Copenhagen day trips will make it into your 2025 itinerary? Start sketching it out now, because the city has a way of pulling you back again and again.

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