What Tourists Should Know Before Visiting Denmark
Today we’re in Copenhagen, Denmark. The capital of Denmark! It’s a really cool design city, with great architecture, and all kinds of fun things to do. Before you visit Denmark, here are 8 things you should know about Danish culture when visiting from the United States.
Denmark Language
In Denmark, the language spoken is Danish. However, you don’t need to speak Danish to get by in Denmark. Danes speak fantastic English, with barely a hint of an accent. If you are interested in some Danish words, the letters are also slightly different. The “J” makes a “Y” sound. æ makes an “aa” sound, and the ø is like “eu.” If you want to practice, go ahead and try to sound out some Danish words, but most likely everyone will speak English so it’s nothing to worry about.
Spending Money in Denmark
In Denmark, credit cards are king. However, you need to have a PIN number for your credit card. If you don’t have the PIN, you can get declined. Likewise, cash is not common, so the vendor may not be able to provide change for you. For a bit of cash, ATMs are widely available.
In Denmark, including Copenhagen, currency is the Krone. You get around 6.5-7 Krones per U.S. Dollar. Krones come in coins (20, 10, 5, 2, 1, .50) and bills (50, 100, 200, 500, 1000.) They do not use the Euro in Denmark! It’s important to remember the coins have value here, unlike the U.S. A 20 Krone coin is worth around $3, so keep track of them.
Safety in Denmark
Denmark may be one of the safest countries in the world. People leave their babies in carriages outside while they go inside. You really don’t need to worry about being robbed or pickpocketed as in other tourist destinations.
Timeliness in Denmark
Denmark is very punctual. Everything is on time, including trains, buses, etc. Unlike countries like Portugal, with relaxed punctuality, you are expected to arrive before the time of your meeting, reservation, departure, etc. Don’t expect your bus or train to wait for you! As far as time zones, Denmark is in the same time zone as Germany.
Eating in Denmark
As far as eating in Denmark, breakfast is usually served until 10 or 10:30, with lunch from 11:30 – 1:00. Dinners are typically between 5-8:00p.m. If you’re used to Italy, Spain or Portugal you’ll have a hard time to find a late night meal, after 10. On the weekends, or in Copenhagen, you may find more options, but plan to eat earlier.
As far as service in Denmark, it’s not great. I call it Danish Ambivalence. On the plus side, tipping in Denmark is not expected.
In terms of Danish food, you should definitely try a Danish hot dog. Served with a red hot dog with crispy fried onions, pickles and remoulade. Another thing you have to try is Danish pastries. Danish bakeries make the best pastries. Another popular Danish food item is smørrebrød, which is basically an open faced sandwich on rye bread with shrimp cocktail or steak tartare on top. And then you have Akvavit, a Danish schnapps. You don’t sip it, it’s meant to drink all in one go.
In general, Denmark isn’t renowned for their cuisine, but the chefs do a great job of cooking other international cuisines.
Is Denmark Expensive?
The U.S. Embassy says Denmark is 30-40% more expensive than the U.S. but it feels even higher than that sometimes. It’s about $8 to get a pint of beer in a bar here, compared to Portugal where it costs $1. Plan for about $25 per meal for a typical plate.
Electrical Outlets in Denmark
Plugs in Denmark are the same as the rest of Europe. You will need an adapter for charging any electronics. Your laptop or phone will have a converter built in, so you just need the adapter part.
Public Transportation in Denmark
Public transportation in Denmark is very efficient and runs on time. It’s a very quiet experience, so be sure to talk softly. Buses and trains can take you throughout the country, albeit somewhat expensive like everything in Denmark. Bicycles are also very popular in Denmark, and a good way to get around on the bike paths.
To learn more, don’t miss our other Denmark video: Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Copenhagen.
The SHOCKS of Visiting Denmark
5 Things You Will Love & Hate about Copenhagen