Although there is plenty to see in Copenhagen, Denmark has plenty to offer. We hired a guide from Hamlet Tours (who was a super cute, friendly guy who spoke English impeccably!) and went off on their “Grand Day Trip Tour”. The tour included visits to the Kronborg Castle, Frederiksborg Palace, Roskilde Cathedral, and The Viking Ship Museum. We had a marvelous day learning about Danish history and admiring the stunning structures which showcase the lives of centuries of Danish kings and queens. Here are the highlights of what to see outside of Copenhagen:
Roskilde Cathedral:
We started our Hamlet Tours “Grand Day Trip Tour” at Roskilde Cathedral. The cathedral is stunningly beautiful inside and out; it was built in the 12th and 13th centuries and is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is home to 39 Danish kings and queens who are buried inside.
Viking Ship Museum:
Nautical enthusiasts and history buffs: you must add this to your “what to see outside of Copenhagen” list. The museum hosts five reconstructed Viking ships, a film on Viking ships, and a series of Norwegian boats at the harbor. Must do: take a boat tour if you have the time.
Food Highlights:
It wouldn’t be a Dining Traveler piece if we didn’t give you some food advice! During our tour, we stopped at Café Valentin, an adorable café near the Frederiksborg Palace. Savory items like goat cheese toast, fries, onion rings, nachos, and tomato and mozzarella salad are all available at a reasonable price. You will need sustenance to explore the gigantic Frederiksborg Palace so I would stop and eat before you go to the Palace!
Frederiksborg Palace:
This majestic castle is one of the best sites to see in Denmark. Built in the 17th century, it showcases Renaissance architecture at its height. You can take a tour inside the castle in order to see the rooms, portraits, decorative arts, clothing, and furniture of centuries of Danish queens and kings. The grounds are equally impressive and you should make take to take a stroll through the impeccable gardens.
Kronborg Castle:
The final stop on the tour may be the most famous as well. This castle was the setting for Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet. The castle is also built during the Renaissance, and features Renaissance and Baroque architecture and artwork. Most memorable is the grand ballroom where you can envision the epic festivities which must have taken place there. There is also a chapel, and an open air arena where Hamlet is performed every summer.
What to see outside of Copenhagen: The Verdict
Denmark is a magical place, with a history that is unparalleled. Be sure to leave Copenhagen for a few hours to explore the fascinating historical sites in the surrounding areas. Taking an organized tour makes the process easy, especially when you’re traveling with limited time.
Hamlet Tours Practical Information: Tour length: 8.5 hours. Price: 925 Kroner (Around $130).
