Top 10 of the most fun cities in Denmark, to make you want to shake your booty during your work placement in Denmark! An internship in Scandinavia is first and foremost a chance to discover a new culture – there are many cultural differences between France and Denmark, but that’s another blog! – As a country with a wide range of activities, you can find out more about life in Copenhagen. You won’t be bored! The country has plenty of surprises in store, whether you’re a nature-lover or a city dweller – which I am! – just like the other Nordic countries: Sweden, Norway and Finland!
Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a really fun city! There are lots of things to do and discover there. Here are just a few reasons why Copenhagen is so much fun:
- The relaxed atmosphere: Copenhageners are very welcoming and relaxed, which creates a pleasant and friendly atmosphere.
- Danish design: The city is renowned for its elegant, minimalist design. The streets are full of trendy boutiques, stylish cafés and art galleries.
- Cycling: Copenhagen is one of the most cyclist-friendly cities in the world. Hiring a bike is an excellent way to explore the city and its many sights.
Gastronomy: Danish cuisine is delicious and varied. You can sample traditional dishes and local specialities in many of the city’s restaurants and markets. In fact, we’ve published a little blog on gastronomy in Denmark: check it out before your work placement abroad!
- Tivoli Park: This is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world and offers a magical experience with its rides, shows and fairytale atmosphere.
- The Little Mermaid: This is one of Copenhagen’s most iconic attractions. You can go down to the harbour to admire this famous statue inspired by Andersen’s fairy tale.
- The Nyhavn district: This picturesque district is lined with colourful houses and lively restaurants and bars. It’s an ideal place to relax and enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere.
- Museums and galleries: Copenhagen is home to a number of fascinating museums, including the National Museum of Denmark, the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art and the Ceramics Museum.
- Nightlife: Copenhagen has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of clubs, bars and pubs to keep you entertained until the early hours.
- Parks and gardens: The city is dotted with magnificent parks, such as Rosenborg Park and Kongens Have Park, offering peaceful green spaces in which to relax and recharge your batteries.
In short, Copenhagen has it all: a relaxed atmosphere, elegant design, delicious food, iconic attractions and a vibrant cultural life. You’ll never get bored in this dynamic and charming city! So, when are you planning to go ? Budget? You’re right, it’s a bit expensive.
Aarhus
Cultural life in Aarhus is rich and dynamic. The city is home to many interesting museums, including the Aarhus Art Museum (ARoS), which is one of the largest art museums in Scandinavia. ARoS offers a varied collection of contemporary art and exciting temporary exhibitions. The museum is also famous for its art installation “Your Rainbow Panorama”, which offers an exceptional panoramic view of the city through coloured glass.
Aarhus is also a student city with a young and vibrant population. It is home to the University of Aarhus, one of Denmark’s largest universities, attracting both national and international students. This student atmosphere is reflected in a lively social scene, inviting cafés and bars, as well as cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
The shores of the Aarhus fjord offer superb opportunities to relax and stroll. Along the waterfront, the “Aarhus Ø” district is an interesting example of sustainable urban development, with modern architecture and green spaces that invite you to relax and enjoy.
Aarhus has a charming city centre with cobbled streets and lively squares. The Latin Quarter (Latinerkvarteret) is one of the oldest parts of the city and is full of independent boutiques, art galleries, cafés and restaurants. Strolling through its narrow streets and discovering its little surprises is a real pleasure.
In short, Aarhus is a culturally rich and vibrant city, combining an interesting mix of historical heritage with a dynamic student atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for cultural experiences, a lively nightlife or relaxing moments by the water, Aarhus has a lot to offer. It’s a destination not to be missed on your visit to Denmark!
Roskilde
Roskilde is a charming Danish town around 30 km west of Copenhagen. It is famous for its rich historical and cultural heritage, as well as its iconic music festival.
The highlight of Roskilde is undoubtedly Roskilde Cathedral (Roskilde Domkirke), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This majestic Gothic cathedral is one of the oldest brick cathedrals in Northern Europe. It houses the tombs of many Danish kings and queens, making it the final resting place of Denmark’s royal history.
Apart from the cathedral, the town itself is full of charm. Its cobbled streets, historic buildings and half-timbered houses create a picturesque atmosphere. Walking around Roskilde’s historic centre is a pleasant experience, and there are plenty of cafés, restaurants and shops to explore.
The Roskilde Viking Ship Museum is also a must-see. It houses beautifully restored Viking ships found off the coast of Roskilde, and offers a fascinating insight into the region’s maritime history.
Roskilde is also famous for its music festival, the Roskilde Festival, one of the biggest music festivals in Europe. Every summer, thousands of people flock to the city to attend this eclectic and lively music event, featuring renowned international artists.
As well as culture and history, Roskilde is ideally located on the Roskilde Fjord. The surrounding area offers superb opportunities for waterside walks, water sports and relaxing in nature.
In short, Roskilde is a historically rich and charming town, offering an interesting combination of culture, history and musical experiences. Whether you’re interested in Viking heritage, live music or simply a picturesque getaway, Roskilde is a destination to explore on your trip to Denmark, especially if you’re doing a work placement in Copenhagen – it’s an absolute must.
Odense
Odense is another beautiful Danish city well worth a visit. It is Denmark’s third largest city and is located on the island of Fionie (Fyn in Danish). Odense is best known for being the birthplace of the famous writer Hans Christian Andersen.
Literary heritage is at the heart of Odense, and you’ll find many sites linked to Hans Christian Andersen, such as his birthplace, now a museum. This charming town house presents exhibitions on the life and work of the author of fairy tales such as “The Little Mermaid” and “The Ugly Duckling”.
Odense’s city centre is lively, with pleasant pedestrian streets, bustling squares and a friendly atmosphere. The “Brandts Passage” district is a great place for shopping, with fashion boutiques, art galleries and trendy cafés.
In addition to its literary heritage, Odense also has a rich history and many historic sites. Odense Castle (Odense Slot) is a magnificent 16th-century renaissance castle surrounded by beautiful gardens. It is well worth a visit to learn more about Denmark’s royal history.
Odense is a green city, with many parks and green spaces. Munke Mose Park is a popular place to relax, jog or picnic.
In summer, Odense offers a series of events and festivals, such as the “Odense C” music festival featuring local and international artists.
Finally, if you’re interested in art, the Brandts art museum is a must. It houses a collection of modern and contemporary art in an interesting architectural setting.
Aalborg
Aalborg is a town in the north of Denmark, on the coast of the North Sea. Although it is a lively and dynamic city, it also offers great opportunities for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Here are some of the outdoor and nature activities you can enjoy in and around Aalborg:
- Rebild Bakker: This is a picturesque hilly region around 30 km south of Aalborg. It’s a popular spot for hiking, cycling and picnics. The hills offer magnificent views of the rolling countryside of northern Denmark.
- Egholm Island Park: Egholm Island is located just opposite Aalborg town centre and is accessible by ferry. It’s a great place to go hiking or cycling, while enjoying views of the city from the island.
- Lindholm Høje Park: This archaeological site is located around 5km north of Aalborg town centre. It is home to Viking runestones and Iron Age tombs. It’s an interesting place for a walk through history and nature.
- Hiking along the Limfjord: The Limfjord is a large fjord that crosses the region and offers magnificent coastal scenery. You can enjoy beautiful walks along the banks of the fjord and admire the views over the water.
- Aalborg Zoologiske Have: Aalborg Zoo is a great place for a family day out. As well as showcasing animals from all over the world, the zoo is also surrounded by a large park with walking trails.
- Beaches: If you visit Aalborg during the warmer months, you can take advantage of the region’s beaches to relax, enjoy walks on the sand and soak up the sun.
Kolding
Kolding is a charming Danish town in southern Jutland, offering an interesting mix of historic heritage and modernity. Its iconic castle, Koldinghus, is a must-see attraction, offering panoramic views over the town. The cobbled streets of the city centre are an invitation to stroll, with a wealth of shops, cafés and restaurants. The shores of the Kolding fjord are ideal for walks and water sports. The Geografisk Have geological park is ideal for nature lovers, while the Trapholt museum celebrates Danish art and design. Kolding offers a balanced experience of history, culture and relaxation in a picturesque setting.
Silkeborg
Silkeborg is a charming Danish town in the heart of Jutland, surrounded by picturesque countryside and magnificent lakes. Here are some of the lakes and activities you can enjoy in Silkeborg:
- Lake Silkeborg (Silkeborg Søerne): This is a group of lakes located just outside Silkeborg town centre. These lakes offer opportunities for pleasant walks around the shores, fishing, canoeing and kayaking. You can also hire pedal boats to explore the lakes at your own pace.
- Lake Almindsø: This lake is located close to the town centre and is ideal for swimming in summer. There is a sandy beach on its shores, providing a relaxing spot for locals and visitors alike.
- Lake Ørnsø: Situated near Lake Almindsø, Ørnsø is another wonderful place to go for a walk and enjoy nature. You can go hiking or cycling along the picturesque paths that run alongside the lake.
- Lake Julsø: This lake is nestled in the surrounding hills, offering spectacular panoramic views. You can follow hiking trails to reach the hilltops and enjoy breathtaking scenery.
- The Jorn museum: For a cultural touch, the Jorn museum in Silkeborg is dedicated to the Danish artist Asger Jorn. It houses an impressive collection of his work, as well as that of other contemporary artists.
- Silkeborg Forest Park (Silkeborg Skovene): This vast forest park surrounds the town and offers plenty of opportunities for walks, picnics and discovering the local flora and fauna.
In short, Silkeborg is an ideal place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its many lakes, parks and hiking trails, the town offers a peaceful and refreshing escape in the heart of Danish nature. Whether relaxing by the lakes or exploring the surrounding forests, Silkeborg has much to offer visitors in search of natural beauty and tranquillity.
Esbjerg
Esbjerg is a port town on the west coast of Denmark, in the region of South Jutland. It is one of the country’s largest cities and a major industrial and maritime centre. Here are some interesting facts about Esbjerg:
- The port of Esbjerg: The port of Esbjerg is one of Denmark’s most important ports. It is mainly focused on fishing and export activities, with a large fleet of fishing boats and merchant ships. The port also offers ferry connections to a number of Danish and German islands.
- The market square (Torvet): This is the heart of Esbjerg town centre and a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Here you’ll find cafés, restaurants and shops, as well as events and open-air markets on various occasions.
- The Aviation and Space Museum (Dansk Luftfartssamling): Located near Esbjerg airport, this museum features a collection of aircraft, gliders and objects linked to the history of aviation in Denmark.
- The beaches: Esbjerg is surrounded by superb beaches on the west coast of Jutland. A visit to one of these beaches is a great way to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery.
- The “Men of the Wind” sculptures: On your way to Sædding beach, you can admire a fascinating artistic installation of monumental sculptures called “The Men of the Wind” (Mennesket ved Havet). These concrete statues represent four human silhouettes facing the sea and have become a symbol of Esbjerg.
- Cultural life: Esbjerg is home to a variety of cultural events, concerts and festivals throughout the year. The Musikhuset Esbjerg cultural centre is one of the venues for many performances and artistic events.
All in all, Esbjerg is a vibrant maritime town with a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a place where you can explore Denmark’s maritime history, enjoy beach life and take part in cultural activities. Whether you’re passionate about the sea, history or culture, Esbjerg has something to offer every visitor.
Horsens
Horsens is a town in the Central Jutland region of Denmark. It is a town rich in history and culture, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Here are some interesting aspects of Horsens:
- Horsens Prison: The former Horsens prison, now a museum, is one of the town’s main attractions. Here you can learn about Denmark’s prison history, visit the cells and find out more about the lives of prisoners in the past.
- The old town: Horsens’ historic centre is full of charming cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and well-preserved old buildings. It’s a pleasure to stroll through these narrow streets full of character.
- Festivals: Horsens is famous for its cultural and musical festivals. The “Fjordfesten” music festival is one of the biggest events of the year, with concerts and entertainment taking place along the Horsens fjord.
- Bygholm Park: This large park is located near the town centre and offers beautiful walks and green spaces in which to relax. You’ll also find Bygholm Castle, a magnificent historic residence.
- Horsens Bay: Horsens Bay is a great place for water sports and coastal walks. The coastal path offers superb views of the sea and surrounding countryside.
- Cultural life: Horsens offers a wide range of cultural events, from theatre performances to art exhibitions and film festivals. The Horsens Ny Teater cultural centre hosts theatrical performances and concerts throughout the year.
Hvide Sande
Hvide Sande is a small port town on the west coast of Denmark, north of the Holmsland Klit peninsula. This charming town is nestled between the North Sea and the Ringkøbing fjord, offering a magnificent setting for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Here are some of Hvide Sande’s highlights:
- Beaches: The vast stretches of sand along the Hvide Sande coast make it a popular beach destination. The beaches are ideal for relaxing, strolling along the sea and enjoying the Danish sun in summer.
- The fishing port: The port of Hvide Sande is a lively place where you can watch fishermen at work and buy fresh fish directly from them. It’s an authentic way to discover the region’s maritime lifestyle.
- Ringkøbing Fjord: Ringkøbing Fjord offers ideal conditions for water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing and canoeing. If you love water sports, this is the place for you.
- Fiskeriets Hus Museum: This museum dedicated to fishing and maritime history is an interesting attraction to visit to learn more about the lives of the region’s fishermen and the importance of fishing to the local economy.
- Holmsland Klit dunes: Close to Hvide Sande, the Holmsland Klit dunes offer superb natural scenery. You can explore the dunes on foot or by bike and enjoy panoramic views of the sea and fjord.
- Seafood restaurants: Hvide Sande has a delicious selection of seafood restaurants where you can sample local specialities based on fresh fish.
In short, Hvide Sande is a destination of choice for lovers of the sea and nature, as well as water sports enthusiasts. Between the beaches, the fjord, the harbour and the coastal scenery, the town offers an authentic and relaxed atmosphere for those looking for a waterside escape. Whether you want to relax on the beach, enjoy water sports or discover Danish maritime life, Hvide Sande is a destination to consider when visiting Denmark.
If you’d like to find out more, don’t hesitate to contact us – we’ll find you the perfect work placement in Denmark to match your plans for an internship abroad!