Broke Backpacking in Denmark: The Ultimate Guide

Think: Denmark, land of sleek design, vibrant culture, and delectable eats, comes with a rather hefty price tag. But what if you could have the best of Denmark on the budget? A poor backpacker, I went on an unforgettable journey to find out about the country’s most hidden treasures that one can see on a tight budget.
From biking along Copenhagen’s friendly-to-cyclist streets to trying street foods off the various local markets; from uncovering free attractions that rival museums with pricey entrance fees to some insider tips and tricks on how to navigate Denmark on a broke budget-I will share my insider tips and tricks for navigating Denmark on a budget. Get ready to discover a side of Denmark that’s accessible to all, where affordability meets authenticity, and the journey is just as exciting as the destination.

In this blog series, I’ll dive into:

Affordable accommodation options
Budget-friendly dining and nightlife
Free and low-cost attractions
Off-the-beaten-path destinations
Insider hacks for saving money

Join me on this thrilling adventure as we explore Denmark without draining our wallets!

How to get there:

Denmark’s strategic location in Northern Europe makes it easily accessible by public transportation from its neighboring countries. Whether you’re coming from Germany, Sweden, Norway, or the Netherlands, all prices are approximate.

From Germany:

Train: Take the EuroCity or InterCity trains from Hamburg, Berlin, or Munich to Copenhagen Central Station (approx. 4-6 hours, $50-$100).
Bus: FlixBus operates daily services from Hamburg, Berlin, and Munich to Copenhagen (approx. 4-6 hours, $10-$30).

From Sweden:

Train: SJ trains connect Stockholm to Copenhagen (approx. 5 hours, $50-$100).
Bus: FlixBus operates daily services from Stockholm to Copenhagen (approx. 5-7 hours, $10-$30).
Ferry: Take the Øresund Bridge ferry from Malmö to Copenhagen (approx. 30 minutes, $10-$20).

From Norway:

Train: Vy trains connect Oslo to Copenhagen (approx. 7-8 hours, $70-$150).
Bus: FlixBus operates daily services from Oslo to Copenhagen (approx. 7-9 hours, $20-$40).
Ferry: Color Line ferries connect Oslo to Hirtshals, Denmark (approx. 3.5 hours, $30-$60).

From the Netherlands:

Train: Take the NS International train from Amsterdam to Hamburg, then connect to Copenhagen (approx. 8-10 hours, $100-$200).
Bus: FlixBus operates daily services from Amsterdam to Copenhagen (approx. 10-12 hours, $30-$60).

When to go:

Spring (March to May)

Pros:

Mild weather (10-20°C/50-68°F)
Fewer tourists, lower prices
Vibrant festivals like Copenhagen Jazz Festival

Cons:

Occasional rain showers

Summer (June to August)

Pros:

Warm weather (20-25°C/68-77°F)
Long days, midnight sun
Outdoor events like Roskilde Festival

Cons:

Peak tourist season, higher prices
Crowded cities and attractions

Autumn (September to November)

Pros:

Comfortable temperatures (10-15°C/50-59°F)
Harvest festivals like Tønder Festival
Fewer tourists, lower prices

Cons:

Shortening daylight hours

Winter (December to February)

Pros:

Magical winter wonderland atmosphere
Affordable accommodations and tourist attractions
Cozy cafes and hygge culture

Cons:

Cold temperatures (-2 to 4°C/28-39°F)
Limited daylight hours

Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October)

The shoulder season offers the perfect balance of decent weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices, making it ideal for broke backpackers.

Best Events and Festivals:

Christmas markets (December)

Copenhagen Jazz Festival (July)

Roskilde Festival (June-July)

Tønder Festival (August-September)

Copenhagen Pride (August)

Best Itineraries:

Backpacking Denmark on a Budget: Itineraries for the Broke Traveler

Denmark, a country known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and high standard of living, can be a daunting destination for budget-conscious travelers. However, with some planning and insider knowledge, you can explore Denmark’s hidden gems without breaking the bank. Here are four itineraries for backpacking Denmark on a broke budget:

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Copenhagen’s Free Attractions

Explore the Nyhavn harbor and its colorful buildings
Visit the famous Little Mermaid statue
Wander through the Freetown Christiania neighborhood
Enjoy the city’s street food scene

Day 2: Royal Palaces and Gardens

Discover the stunning Rosenborg Castle gardens
Visit the Amalienborg Palace, the winter residence of the royal family
Relax in the King’s Garden
Experience Copenhagen’s nightlife in the Meatpacking District

Day 3: Coastal Towns

Take a day trip to the charming coastal town of Helsingør (Elsinore)
Visit Kronborg Castle, the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet
Enjoy the town’s quaint atmosphere and seaside views

1-Week Itinerary

Days 1-2: Copenhagen

Explore the city’s neighborhoods, such as Vesterbro and Østerbro
Visit the National Museum of Denmark
Take a harbor tour

Days 3-4: Aarhus

Travel to Denmark’s second-largest city, Aarhus
Visit the Aarhus Cathedral and the National Museum of Denmark’s Aarhus branch
Explore the vibrant Latin Quarter

Days 5-6: Odense

Head to Odense, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen
Visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum
Wander through the charming old town

Day 7: Return to Copenhagen

Return to Copenhagen and spend the day shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions

2-Week Itinerary

Days 1-3: Copenhagen

Explore the city’s many neighborhoods and attractions
Take a day trip to the nearby Møn Island

Days 4-6: Aarhus and the Jutland Peninsula

Travel to Aarhus and explore the city
Visit the breathtaking Mønsted Kalkgruber limestone caves
Explore the charming town of Viborg

Days 7-10: Odense and the Funen Island

Head to Odense and visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum
Explore the Egeskov Castle and its stunning gardens
Visit the picturesque town of Nyborg

Days 11-14: Return to Copenhagen

Return to Copenhagen and spend the last few days exploring any remaining attractions or taking day trips to nearby towns

1-Month Itinerary

Week 1: Copenhagen and Surroundings

Explore the city and its many neighborhoods
Take day trips to Møn Island, Helsingør, and Roskilde

Week 2: Aarhus and the Jutland Peninsula

Travel to Aarhus and explore the city
Visit the breathtaking Mønsted Kalkgruber limestone caves
Explore the charming towns of Viborg and Randers

Week 3: Odense and the Funen Island

Head to Odense and visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum
Explore the Egeskov Castle and its stunning gardens
Visit the picturesque towns of Nyborg and Svendborg

Week 4: Return to Copenhagen and the Zealand Region

Return to Copenhagen and spend the last week exploring any remaining attractions
Take day trips to the stunning Cliffs of Møn and the charming town of Dragør

3-Month Itinerary

Month 1: Exploring Copenhagen and the Zealand Region

Weeks 1-2: Copenhagen

Explore the city’s neighborhoods, such as Vesterbro and Østerbro
Visit the National Museum of Denmark
Take a harbor tour
Discover the stunning Rosenborg Castle gardens
Visit the Amalienborg Palace, the winter residence of the royal family

Weeks 3-4: Zealand Region

Take day trips to:
Møn Island: Explore the stunning Cliffs of Møn and the charming town of Stege
Helsingør (Elsinore): Visit Kronborg Castle, the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet
Roskilde: Explore the Roskilde Cathedral and the Viking Ship Museum

Month 2: Discovering Aarhus, the Jutland Peninsula, and Funen Island

Weeks 5-6: Aarhus

Explore the city’s vibrant Latin Quarter
Visit the Aarhus Cathedral and the National Museum of Denmark’s Aarhus branch
Discover the breathtaking Mønsted Kalkgruber limestone caves

Weeks 7-8: Jutland Peninsula

Visit the charming towns of:
Viborg: Explore the Viborg Cathedral and the picturesque old town
Randers: Discover the Randers Rainforest and the city’s vibrant cultural scene
Aalborg: Explore the Aalborg Castle and the city’s charming waterfront

Weeks 9-10: Funen Island

Head to Odense: Visit the Hans Christian Andersen Museum and explore the charming old town
Explore the Egeskov Castle and its stunning gardens
Visit the picturesque towns of Nyborg and Svendborg

Month 3: Northern Denmark, the Baltic Coast, and Return to Copenhagen

Weeks 11-12: Northern Denmark

Visit the stunning:
Skagen: Explore the picturesque fishing village and its iconic lighthouse
Frederikshavn: Discover the Frederikshavn Castle and the city’s charming harbor
Aalborg: Explore the Aalborg Castle and the city’s vibrant cultural scene

Weeks 13-14: Baltic Coast

Explore the charming coastal towns of:
Gilleleje: Discover the town’s picturesque harbor and stunning beaches
Tisvildeleje: Visit the Tisvildeleje Beach and the charming town center
Helsingør: Return to Helsingør and explore the town’s quaint atmosphere

Week 15: Return to Copenhagen

Return to Copenhagen and spend the last week:
Exploring any remaining attractions
Shopping for souvenirs
Reflecting on your incredible 3-month journey

Transportation:

Denmark’s public transportation system is efficient, reliable, and eco-friendly, making it an excellent way to explore the country.

Getting to some of the islands can be expensive so the best option is to hitchhike on a ferry, hitchhiking ferries in Denmark is a breeze, thanks to the country’s “pay-per-vehicle” system, which makes it easy for drivers to pick up hitchhikers.

Types of Public Transportation

1. Trains (DSB)

Denmark’s national railway company, DSB, operates an extensive network of trains
InterCity trains connect major cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense
Regional trains serve smaller towns and rural areas

2. Buses

National bus company, FlixBus, operates affordable routes across Denmark
Regional buses connect smaller towns and rural areas
City buses operate within major cities like Copenhagen and Aarhus

3. Metro (S-trains)

Copenhagen’s metro system consists of four lines, covering the city center and suburbs
Efficient and frequent services, with trains running every 2-4 minutes

4. Ferries

Connect Denmark’s islands, such as Zealand, Funen, and Jutland
Operated by companies like DSB, Færgen, and Molslinjen
And you can easily hitch a ride on a ferry due to the pay per vehicle situation.

Payment Options

1. Rejsekort (Travel Card)

A rechargeable card for buses and trains
Available in different zones (e.g., Copenhagen zone) or nationwide

2. Mobile Tickets

Buy tickets using apps like DSB, FlixBus, or Mobilbilletter
Convenient for occasional travelers

3. Cash

Accepted on buses, but not on trains

Top things to do:

Copenhagen Area

Nyhavn harbor
Little Mermaid statue
Freetown Christiania
King’s Garden
National Museum of Denmark
Tivoli Gardens
Rosenborg Castle
Amalienborg Palace
Copenhagen Street Food
Christiansborg Palace
The Round Tower
Botanical Garden
Copenhagen Zoo
Vesterbro neighborhood
Østerbro neighborhood

Day Trips

Møn Island (Cliffs of Møn, Stege Harbor)
Helsingør (Elsinore, Kronborg Castle)
Roskilde (Roskilde Cathedral, Viking Ship Museum)
Frederiksborg Castle
Hillerød

Eastern Denmark

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Helsingør Beach
Kronborg Castle Gardens
Fredensborg Palace Gardens
Kronborg Castle
Frederiksborg Castle
Helsingør Street Food
Hillerød
Øresund Bridge
Malmö (Sweden)

Aarhus Area

Aarhus Cathedral
National Museum of Denmark (Aarhus branch)
Botanical Garden
Aarhus Harbor
Latin Quarter
Aarhus Art Museum
Moesgaard Museum
Tivoli Friheden
Aarhus Street Food
Den Gamle By (Old Town)
Marselisborg Palace
Aarhus Botanical Gardens

Odense Area

Odense Castle
Hans Christian Andersen Museum
Odense Harbor
Brandts Museum
Funen Village
Egeskov Castle
Odense Zoo
Funen Art Museum
Odense Street Food
Svendborg Harbor
Nyborg Castle
Fionia Park

Northern Denmark

Skagen Harbor
Grenen Beach
Frederikshavn Castle
Løkken Beach
Aalborg Castle
Skagen Museum
Frederikshavn Art Museum
Aalborg Zoo
Løkken Street Food
Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse
Læsø Island
Råbjerg Mile

Island Getaways

Møn Island

Cliffs of Møn
Møn Island Beaches
Stege Harbor
Møn Museum

Funen Island

Egeskov Castle
Funen Village
Odense Harbor
Svendborg Harbor

Bornholm Island

Bornholm Castle
Hammershus Castle
Østerlars Church
Gudhjem Harbor

Western Denmark

Fanø Island

Legoland Billund

Billund Airport

Vejle Beach

Kolding Castle

Ribe Cathedral

Ribe Viking Museum

Esbjerg Beach

Food:

Denmark, renowned for its culinary delights, offers a diverse and savory food experience. From traditional dishes to innovative cuisine, Denmark’s food scene is a haven for foodies. The country’s emphasis on local ingredients, seasonal produce and artisanal techniques ensures a rich and authentic culinary journey.
Classic Danish dishes epitomize the country’s love for simplicity with a dash of flavor. Smørrebrød, an open-faced sandwich made up of just rye bread and various meats, cheeses, and vegetables sitting atop, is a basic staple. Flæskesteg, or slow-roasted pork belly served with boiled potatoes and red cabbage, is another iconic dish that epitomizes comfort food as prepared in Denmark.
The street food scene is alive in Denmark, largely at the Torvehallerne in Copenhagen and Aarhus’ Street Food Market. From international flavors to traditional Danish treats like Pølse-sausages served with boiled potatoes and beetroot- or Æbleskiver-crisp, fried dough balls sprinkled with powdered sugar-each sits alongside world food. These markets provide the best opportunity to taste local flavors.
Fresh seafood abounds in Denmark’s coastline, with succulent mussels, crispy fish and chips and some of the world’s best oysters. Dine at seaside restaurants or bustling fish markets for an immersive experience that showcases Denmark’s maritime heritage.
Bakeries are legendary, offering mouthwatering pastries and traditional Danish bread. Rugbrød, a dense and dark rye bread, and Kanelsnurrer, sweet cinnamon swirls, are must-trys. These baked delights are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Mealtimes emphasize community and coziness, embodying “Hygge” (coziness). Experience dinner gatherings or family-run restaurants, where warm hospitality complements delicious food.
Regional flavors differ, with Bornholm Island famous for its seafood and smokehouses, the Funen Island boasting of its apples and very tasty apple strudel, and Northern Denmark making sure to highlight local specialties like seafood on Læsø Island. Each region proudly shows unique flavors.
Modern chefs transform traditional Danish cuisine into more modern and creative dishes, using local ingredients and techniques. The restaurants, such as Noma and Geranium, showcase this food of Denmark and are known to receive international acclaim.
Colorful festivals such as Copenhagen Cooking and Aarhus Food Festival celebrate food. Events featuring food lovers, artisans, and chefs come together.
Experience the gastronomy of Denmark more through local markets, bakeries, and restaurants, trying street food, eating in a traditional way, and tasting regional flavors.
Visit iconic food destinations in Copenhagen, such as the Tivoli Gardens, where traditional Danish cuisine blends with modern twists, and take yourself on an expedition into Aarhus’s Latin Quarter famous for cozy cafes.
Set out on a Danish culinary adventure to explore the deep flavours and roots that make Danish cuisine so unique.

Culture:

Denmark’s culture is a rich tapestry woven from a strong heritage, vibrant traditions and a forward-thinking mindset. This Scandinavian nation’s unique blend of history, design and community spirit makes it a fascinating destination.
Denmark’s concept of “Hygge” (coziness) embodies warmth, comfort and contentment, permeating daily life, from candlelit homes to cozy coffee shops. Hygge fosters community and togetherness, encouraging Danes to prioritize relationships and shared experiences.
Danish design is renowned for minimalist elegance and functionality, shaping the country’s aesthetic. Iconic architects like Arne Jacobsen and Hans Wegner have left lasting impacts. Modern buildings blend seamlessly with historic landmarks, showcasing Denmark’s architectural diversity.
Denmark presents festivals and celebrations. It has Copenhagen’s Jazz Festival and Aarhus’s Food Festival, which attract people around the world with music and mouth-watering cuisines. Traditional festivals like Danish Halloween or Fastelavn and Julefrokost Christmas lunch unite people of a community, which enhances social unity.
Work-life balance is considered an important feature of Denmark since family relations are significant there. Volunteerism and other social programs increase the interaction of people in a community. Street parties and public gatherings are very common, which creates cordial interaction among people of the respective neighborhoods.
Education is considered to be of utmost importance, and universities and vocational training are free. There are innovation hubs like Copenhagen’s Startup Village that help foster entrepreneurship in the development of startups. Companies like LEGO and Maersk have been able to create Danish design and show the world their creativity.
Denmark’s social welfare system guarantees comprehensive health care, unemployment benefits, and free education. Women are in top positions in politics and business, so gender equality is deeply ingrained. This social justice promotes stability.
Iconic authors included Hans Christian Andersen and Søren Kierkegaard, who made Denmark’s literary history, while modern writers like Peter Høeg keep the flag flying. The scenes of art in both cities, Copenhagen and Aarhus, are quite vibrant.
People really treasure traditional folk music and dances, but indie rock and electronic genres are nurtured and find their way onto international stardom to influence global music.
Danish cuisine focuses on local ingredients, seasonal produce, and artisan techniques. Some of the traditional dishes it includes are Smørrebrød and Flæskesteg. Modern chefs create novelty while showing respect for tradition.
Sports interest is strong, and the main activities include football, cycling, and sailing. Hiking and kayaking are both outdoors sports. The greenery of Copenhagen is supported by its cycling-friendly infrastructure.
Simplicity, humility, and equality are values highly considered in Danish culture. Communal harmony and modesty are enshrined in the “Janteloven” or Law of Jante. Happiness is sought through work-life balance.
Denmark’s culture also influences other countries. Architectural designs from Denmark influence architects all over the world. Literature and music exports of Denmark influence global tastes. Humanitarian contributions show that Denmark has a social conscience.
Denmark is a unique culture that brings together tradition and modernity, making it an attraction to cultural enthusiasts. Discover Denmark’s rich heritage, vibrant arts scene, and warm community spirit.
Cultural attractions in Copenhagen include Tivoli Gardens and Nyhavn harbor, which bring out Denmark’s historic charm. Aarhus’s Latin Quarter and Moesgaard Museum provide insight into Denmark’s rich past.
Experience Denmark’s festivals, food scene, and cozy atmosphere. Find out about Denmark’s commitment to sustainability, equality, and community.
Go cultural in Denmark as we find out all about its rich tapestry of traditions, designs, and innovation.

Accommodations:

As a broke backpacker, Denmark may seem daunting, but embracing affordability unlocks unforgettable experiences. Ditch luxury expectations and dive into budget-friendly hostels, where quirky decor, lively communal spaces and eclectic fellow travelers create an electric atmosphere.
Booking the cheapest options often leads to unexpected adventures. You’ll stumble upon abandoned buildings transformed into cozy havens, complete with exposed brick walls and vintage furniture. Every hostel has its own story, from family-run homes to social hubs.
Affordable hostels foster camaraderie among travelers. Shared kitchens spark culinary collaborations, while lounges become impromptu game nights or jam sessions. You’ll find yourself swapping stories, sharing laughter and forging bonds with fellow travelers from around the world.
Staying in lesser-known neighborhoods reveals hidden gems. Wander streets lined with vibrant street art, independent cafes and bustling local markets. Discover neighborhoods like Copenhagen’s Vesterbro or Aarhus’s Latin Quarter, teeming with local culture.
Budget hostels are loose with their check-in and check-out times and very laid back. Take full advantage of the freedom that this freedom provides to tour Denmark’s energetic cities – from the vibrant harbor area of Nyhavn in Copenhagen to the Moesgaard Museum in Aarhus.
Family-run hostels really give a sense of local life in Denmark. There is always homemade food being prepared, and lively dinner conversations with others provide opportunities for making true connections. You’ll have a richer appreciation for local culture and traditions.
Budget hostels sometimes host events like movie nights, potlucks or live music. Join in and create unforgettable memories.
Leave expectations behind and welcome surprises. Every budget hostel stay is unique. Venture beyond tourist hubs and discover hidden hostel gems. Research neighborhoods and reviews.
Book in advance to secure cheapest rates. Pack essentials like earplugs and flip-flops.
Denmark’s hostel scene awaits, promising adventure and connection. By embracing affordability, broke backpackers unlock Denmark’s most unique, crazy and amazing hostel experiences. Dive in, be open-minded and collect unforgettable stories.
Explore Denmark’s vibrant cities, meet fellow travelers and immerse yourself in local culture. From Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens to Aarhus’s Street Food Market, every experience is unforgettable.
Discover hidden hostel gems, tucked away in quaint neighborhoods or bustling city centers. Uncover Denmark’s secrets, one hostel at a time.
With every new hostel comes a fresh tale, a memorable encounter or an unexpected escapade. Collect these stories and cherish Denmark’s affordable, thrilling and unforgettable hostel scene.

Nightlife:

From the snuggest wine bars to pulsating dance clubs, nightlife in Denmark has much to offer for everyone with different tastes and trends. Many cities in Denmark transform at night into places alive with energy-pulsating hearts. Socializing and community make nights out part of Danish culture.
The Danes take very seriously the warmth and comfort of their bars, developing the most intimate atmospheres with candlelit corners, plush furnishings, and crackling fireplaces. These little nooks of coziness bring people together-locals and traveler alike-in rowdy beer gardens or pulsating clubs. Everything from cozy jazz performances to electronic-rhythm dance parties to stylish bars serving craft cocktails-nights out in Denmark have something to suit every taste.
Trendy mixologists, brewers try everything from the hottest cocktails to microbrewery beers. Summer nights mean outdoor parties in the middle of the night, while winter nights are spent in warm bars with hygge-that uniquely Danish cozy feeling. The cities have few crimes and are friendly towards pedestrians, with public transportation connecting all major areas across the towns.
Nightlife in Denmark is unforgettable, an immersion into native culture where friendships and memories are born. Besides the tourist sectors, explore neighborhoods to find the real jewels in the city, asking locals for advice on where to go. Book your accommodations centrally, research neighborhoods you’ll be traveling to for specific packing.
Enjoy the Danish night, where bright cities light up cozy settings and whole worlds of possibility open before your eyes. Feel inimitable when Denmark integrates style with community and adventure to let the energy consume you. Step into the center of the Danish night life – a trip every single night should guarantee eternal memories.
These cities in Denmark are most gorgeously lighted at night: Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense. Vibrant hotbeds of nightlife are located in areas such as Vesterbro, Latin Quarter, and Nyhavn. Enjoy uncovering hidden gems and astonishing yourself with new discoveries.
Let the night owl take over your soul as you venture into Denmark’s pulsating nightlife. Cocktail bars can be slick, while underbelly music venues can be stranger, and each night different. Extend the experiences by connecting with fellow travelers, locals, and craftspeople who make for long-lasting connections.
Nightlife in Denmark speaks volumes of the culture it upholds-community, creativity, and joy are what define it. Dive into this captivating world; find your hidden treasures and remember those moments which are unforgettable.

Backpacking Denmark costs:

Daily Budget

Weekly Budget

Conclusion:

Now, while you close this Danish encounter, keep in mind that traveling on a budget means going into the authenticity, not just saving bucks. The most hidden treasures, exuberant culture, and warm-hearted hospitality of Denmark shine in their best while being explored with an open heart and mind.
Broke backpacking in Denmark demands flexibility, spontaneity, and creativity. Embracing budget-friendly accommodations, cooking your own meals, and discovering free attractions-all these activities will lead you to the real essence of the country.
From the cozy streets of Copenhagen to the lively neighborhoods of Aarhus, every experience is a treasure to be cherished. The people, food, and landscapes of Denmark weave an unforgettable tapestry in your memory.
Need not be constrained by your budgets, for in its simplicity, this country can be quite affordable. So take comfort in its hostels, warmth in local cafes, and beauty in corners unassuming.
I still remember what this local said to me during my stay in Copenhagen: “To really know Denmark, travel outside the tourist maps and into the hearts of its people.” His recommendation brought me to a small family-owned bakery, scented with newly baked kanelsnurrer and warmed by the owners’ smiles, which are forever etched in my mind.
And as you leave, take with you some of Denmark’s important lessons: simplicity, strength, community. That flighty, broke, backpacking adventure becomes the testimony to exploration, connection, and growth.
Take this trip of transformation, and the magic spirit of Denmark will forever capture your heart.