Travelling to Denmark: documents, seasons, money and practical tips

Denmark is often named one of the happiest countries in the world – and after a few days there you understand why. Bikes instead of cars, cosy neighbourhood cafés, the sea always close by and the philosophy of hygge – enjoying the little things. Travelling to Denmark is easy, but there are a few details worth knowing in advance. For what to see once you are there, read our article Denmark: 7 places to see.

Documents and health insurance

• Visa: not needed for EU citizens. Denmark is in the EU and Schengen, and Bulgarian citizens travel with a valid ID card or passport.
• Carry your ID: Denmark continues temporary checks at its border with Germany – as of November 2026, until May 2027. If you arrive overland or by ferry from Germany, keep your ID with you.
• Longer stays: extra registration rules apply for work or study.
• EHIC: the European Health Insurance Card is valid in Denmark and gives access to necessary public healthcare on the same terms as locals. It does not cover private clinics or repatriation, so travel insurance is a good idea too.

Citizens of non-EU countries should check whether they need a Schengen visa – the rules depend on citizenship, not on where you travel from.

When is the best time to visit Denmark

The climate is mild for Scandinavia, but the weather changes quickly, and wind and rain are common, especially by the sea.

• Spring (April – May): parks turn green and tourists are few – a good time for cities and museums.
• Summer (June – August): the most popular season – long bright days, festivals, cycling and beaches.
• Autumn (September – November): fewer tourists, autumn colours, cooler and windier – time for museums and cafés.
• Winter (December – March): cold and dark early, but Christmas lights and markets create the truest feeling of hygge.

Our recommendation: June or early September – long days and pleasant weather, without the biggest crowds.

How to get to Denmark

• By plane: the easiest option. There are direct flights from Sofia to Copenhagen – about 2 hours 45 minutes. Kastrup Airport is just 15 minutes by metro from the centre.
• By car: possible but long – through Serbia, Hungary, Austria and Germany. Budget for vignettes, tolls, bridges or a ferry.
• Within Denmark: trains link Copenhagen, Odense and Aarhus, buses reach small towns, ferries connect the islands, and cycling is the most Danish way to get around a city.

Money, payments and tipping

• Currency: although it is in the EU, Denmark uses the Danish krone (DKK), not the euro.
• Euros and dollars: some tourist places accept euros, but at a poor rate. Don't count on dollars.
• Cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, and some places don't take cash at all. Carry a card and a few kroner just in case.
• Tipping: not required – service is included in the bill. If you are happy, you can round up.
• Bargaining: prices are fixed in shops and restaurants. The exception is flea markets (loppemarked), where friendly haggling is perfectly normal.

Water and food

Tap water in Denmark is safe to drink, and Copenhagen has public drinking fountains – just carry a bottle. Food safety standards are high and no special precautions are needed. Try:

• Smørrebrød – open sandwiches on rye bread with all kinds of toppings;
• Frikadeller – Danish meatballs;
• Flæskesteg – roast pork with crispy crackling;
• Rød pølse – the famous red hot dog;
• Kanelsnegle – cinnamon swirls, and wienerbrød – the buttery pastries the world simply calls "Danish".

Big cities offer plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

Sun and clothing

Denmark is not a sunny destination, but in summer the UV index reaches around 7, and the sea breeze creates a deceptive feeling of coolness. SPF 30+ sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat make sense even on cloudy days.

The best packing strategy is layers:

• Spring and autumn: a waterproof jacket, jumpers, long trousers, closed shoes and an umbrella.
• Summer: light clothes, but also a thin jacket for cool evenings, and comfortable trainers.
• Winter: a warm jacket, hat, scarf, gloves and shoes with good grip.

Tip: even in July and August bring a jacket. By the sea and on a bike it feels much cooler than the forecast suggests.

Electricity and sockets

The voltage is 230 V, as in the rest of continental Europe. Sockets are types C, K and E. Flat two-pin plugs (type C) fit everywhere, while some earthed Schuko plugs may need an adapter, especially in older buildings.

Frequently asked questions

Can I travel to Denmark with an ID card?

EU citizens can. Always carry it, especially if you cross the German border.

How long is the flight from Sofia to Copenhagen?

A direct flight takes about 2 hours 45 minutes.

Are euros accepted in Denmark?

Sometimes, but at a poor rate. Paying by card in Danish kroner is easiest.

Is tap water safe?

Yes, tap water is of excellent quality and safe to drink.

Need help planning?

The Clio Travel team will help you with flights, hotels and a route around Denmark – from Copenhagen to the small islands. For ideas on what to see, read Denmark: 7 places to see.