Road Trip from Copenhagen: What To See and Do

Are you visiting Copenhagen and looking for the best road trip from the city? With a unique mix of natural, historical, and cultural destinations, the possibilities for an unforgettable journey are endless. Whether you want to explore the quaint Danish village of Humlebæk or experience the wilder side of nature near Helgenæs, or simply see as many of Copenhagen’s must-see sites in one day, there are plenty of places to explore outside of the capital.

We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite places to visit on a road trip from Copenhagen. Although impossible to explore everything in only one day, these destinations offer plenty of exploration opportunities and unique experiences to build an unforgettable, customizable journey.

Roskilde

The city of Roskilde makes for a great destination for travelers looking to explore Copenhagen by car. Just 28 km west of Copenhagen, Roskilde’s Viking Ship Museum is a must-visit destination. The museum boasts five of the best-preserved Viking ships ever uncovered, as well as the chance to visit Viking-era attractions, sights, and havehands-on activities and workshops.

Once you’ve delved back into the Viking era, take in the Gothic architecture at Roskilde Cathedral, which is actually older than any other church in Denmark. Guests can also explore the Royal Danish Naval Museum and discover the Danish government’s 700-year sailing history. Nature-lovers will be pleased to hear that the Bishop’s Park nearby is a great place for picnicking and walking by the harbor with great views!

Humlebæk

Just 12km from Roskilde, Humlebæk is a picturesque Danish fishing village well-known for its attractions regarding the arts and culture. Many flock to visit Louisiana Museum of Modern Art , which overlooks Øresund Bay. The museum dedicates their four storeys to noteworthy works of modern art, making it a great stop for any art enthusiast!

Aside from its artistic attractions, the museum also gifts guests with plenty of opportunities to explore outside. Guests can wander amongst large sculptures and pathways in its garden or stroll by its rose garden. The sheer natural beauty of Humlebæk is enough to make any traveller feel mesmerized by its beauty!

Dragør

Dragør is a municipality located southeast of Copenhagen on the island of Amager. In 2020, Dragør was awarded two stars on the Michelin Guide for its beautiful landscape, tasty restaurants, and ancient houses. One could spend the whole day walking through its cobblestone streets, taking in its picturesque waterfront views, exploring Dragør Fort, visiting its many eateries, or even sailing away in the Baltic Sea!

One thing that travelers cannot miss is Dragør’s picturesque train shared between Amager isles Ærøskøbing and Fynskeringen! Like stepping into a fairytale, anyone taking this mode of transport will be enchanted by the surrounding Nordic nature and blue waters of Øresund ahead. Talk about an unforgettable experience!

Utterslev Mose – Copenhagen’s Hidden Gem

Only 17 km outside of Copenhagen lies Utterslev Mose – one of Copenhagen’s hidden gems. Every summer, locals flock to this Nature Reserve to walk its many trails, pick various edible mushrooms and berries during autumn months, or simply reconnect with nature within its tranquil setting.

Utterslev Mose is not only a great place to connect with nature but also a place to learn more about Denmark’s biodiversity as it is home to plenty of bird species, hedgehogs and other small wildlife creatures – it is truly enchanting!

Helgenæs

Those wanting to experience something more wild should consider Helgenæs. This nature reserve is located 40km west from Odense, located on an isolated peninsula in Northern Europe stretching 30km long and up to 15 km wide at some points! Here one can go on a road trip and explore coves and bays, beaches, castles and Danish fortresses before enjoying a snack at local cafes or feasting on delicious seafood eateries found all around the island! Helgenæs offers plenty of opportunities for pedestrians who wish to explore this wild and unknown side of Denmark or kayakers wanting to kayak across its shallow waters.

If you’ve had your fill of adventure on this island paradise and need to get back to Copenhagen look no further than Funen’s premier ferry line – M/F Fladen – offering round trip transfers almost daily between Kerteminde (the port town on Helgenæs’ northern tip) and Thurø (the port town near Odense).

Copenhagen offers plenty of attractions out of the city limits. From art museums, picturesque villages and beautiful nature reserves; visitors will always find something new and exciting for their unforgettable road trip from Copenhagen. Don’t wait any longer – explore the beauty of Denmark and start your adventure today!