Introduction
Denmark, by virtue of its proximity and affordability, is arguably the easiest of the Scandinavian countries to visit. A harmonious mix of old and new, ancient castles and Viking forts sit cheek-by-jowl with contemporary cities and slick design.
Made up of Jutland, the peninsula pushing north from Germany, and the two islands Zealand and Funen, the country comprises green, flat farmland and gentle, rolling countryside, dotted with wildlife-filled forests, charming villages and remote viking ruins. It's verdant, pretty and easy to explore.
Most visitors head to Copenhagen, an exciting, atmospheric, atypical Danish city and one of the most forward-thinking in Europe. It has a beautiful historic centre, a good range of cultural offerings, a vibrant cafe culture and a number of excellent museums. The island on which Copenhagen sits, Zealand has fine beaches, lakes and forests to uncover.
Elsewhere a smattering of small rural communities and clean sandy beaches provide the main attractions, although Jutland has a more varied landscape, with a windswept coast, wild heathland and rolling hills; it also boasts the liveliest city after Copenhagen – Arhus.