Denmark : Safety by City
Denmark, located in Northern Europe, is the southernmost of the Scandinavian countries.
It consists of the Jutland Peninsula (connected to Germany) and over 400 islands, the largest being Zealand, Fyn, and Bornholm.
Copenhagen, the capital, sits on Zealand and is linked to Sweden by the Øresund Bridge.
The country’s geography is flat, with rolling countryside, long coastlines, and a strong maritime heritage.
Denmark has a deep Viking history dating back over a thousand years.
It was once a powerful seafaring kingdom that controlled parts of Norway, Sweden, and England.
Today, it remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark, which also includes Greenland and the Faroe Islands, though both have self-rule.
Visitors come for Copenhagen’s culture, castles, and cutting-edge design, as well as Denmark’s coastal beauty, Viking history, and bike-friendly cities.
Highlights include Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, and Legoland, plus UNESCO sites like Kronborg Castle and the Wadden Sea National Park.
The country’s hygge (enjoying life’s cozy moments and simple pleasures) lifestyle, world-class cuisine (including New Nordic dining), and strong sustainability efforts make it a place that draws up to 30 million tourists a year.
Denmark sounds like an idyllic place to visit, and in many ways it is.
However, there’s one overwhelming safety concern we need to discuss at length.
Warnings & Dangers in Denmark
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Denmark is consistently ranked among the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a strong rule of law. At the same time, terrorism concerns pose a legitimate threat, which has elevated warnings from governments around the world and even Denmark's government agency that tracks terrorism issues. Because of the potential of terrorism, we give this a medium risk, but beyond that, the risk is low.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Public transportation is reliable and safe, with well-maintained trains, buses, and metro systems. Taxis are regulated and use meters, making scams uncommon. Cycling is popular, but visitors should be cautious of bike lanes and traffic rules. Late-night public transport is safe, but always stay aware of your surroundings.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
While Denmark is safe, pickpocketing is a common issue in tourist-heavy areas like Nyhavn, Tivoli, and Central Station in Copenhagen. Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded places. Thieves often work in groups, so stay alert, especially if an overly friendly stranger approaches you. Their team could be working behind you while you're distracted.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Denmark doesn’t experience earthquakes, hurricanes, or other extreme natural disasters. However, coastal flooding and strong winds can occur during winter storms. The country’s emergency response system is efficient, and major disruptions are rare.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Muggings are rare, even in cities. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon, and walking at night is generally safe. However, avoid poorly lit areas and late-night drunken crowds in Copenhagen’s nightlife districts.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
Denmark is a target for Islamist extremists due to past free speech controversies, like the Muhammad cartoons and Quran burnings. While attacks are rare, intelligence agencies consider the risk significant.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Scams aren’t common, but some tourist traps exist. Watch out for fake petitions, overpriced taxis (especially from unlicensed drivers), and overly aggressive street vendors. Check the advisory reports from your home country before visiting to see if new scams are happening.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Denmark is one of the safest places for women to travel alone, with strong gender equality and low rates of harassment. Public spaces are well-lit, and people generally respect personal boundaries. As in any destination, staying aware and using common sense enhances safety.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Denmark’s tap water is among the cleanest in the world and perfectly safe to drink. Locals rarely buy bottled water, as tap water quality meets high safety standards. Travelers can confidently refill bottles at public fountains and restaurants without concern.
Safest Places to Visit in Denmark
The official Denmark tourism website is easy to remember; visitdenmark.com.
The A-Z Trip Planning Guide is filled with all the practical information you’ll need.
To keep in line with the tourism bureau, we’ll go through the regions as detailed on the website.
Zealand and the Danish Riviera
Denmark’s largest island is home to Copenhagen, where you’ll find Tivoli Gardens, the historic amusement park that inspired Disney, and Nyhavn, the city’s iconic canal lined with colorful houses.
The Little Mermaid statue, though small, remains a must-see.
Outside the capital, the Danish Riviera offers sandy beaches and charming coastal towns like Helsingør, where Kronborg Castle (Hamlet’s castle) dominates the shoreline.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, overlooking the Øresund Strait, displays the art of humans and the art of nature.
For Viking history, Roskilde features the Viking Ship Museum, where you can see and even sail replica Viking ships.
Aarhus
Denmark’s second-largest city balances history and innovation.
ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is famous for its rainbow-colored rooftop walkway, while Den Gamle By (The Old Town) is an open-air museum bringing Danish history to life.
Moesgaard Museum delves into prehistory with the best-preserved bog body, Grauballe Man.
The city’s harbor district, Dokk1, showcases futuristic architecture and waterfront dining.
Nearby, Marselisborg Forests offer hiking trails leading to Marselisborg Palace, the royal family’s summer residence.
A short drive away, the Djurs Sommerland amusement park and Ebeltoft’s Frigate Jylland, the world’s longest wooden warship.
Jutland’s West Coast
Jutland’s rugged west coast is shaped by the North Sea, offering vast beaches, dramatic dunes, and outdoor adventure.
The Wadden Sea National Park, a UNESCO site, is famous for its migrating birdlife and Black Sun phenomenon, where thousands of starlings create mesmerizing formations.
Blåvand has Denmark’s westernmost lighthouse, offering sweeping views.
Legoland Billund, near the birthplace of LEGO, is a must for families.
The Tirpitz Museum, hidden in a WWII bunker, explores coastal defenses and local history.
The strong winds of Hvide Sande make it one of Europe’s best spots for kite surfing and wind sports.
North Jutland
Denmark’s northernmost region is defined by Skagen, where the North Sea and the Baltic Sea meet at Grenen, creating a surreal wave collision.
Skagen’s yellow houses and art museums highlight its rich artistic legacy.
Nearby, Råbjerg Mile, Europe’s largest migrating sand dune, moves several meters each year, reshaping the landscape.
Aalborg, the regional capital, mixes Viking history at Lindholm Høje, a burial site with ancient stone formations, with modern nightlife along its revitalized waterfront.
Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse, slowly being swallowed by shifting sands, offers an eerie but beautiful coastal trek.
Fyn
Often called Denmark’s “Garden Island”, Fyn is best known as the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen.
His childhood home in Odense is now a museum celebrating his literary legacy.
Egeskov Castle, one of Europe’s best-preserved Renaissance water castles, has a stunning moat, gardens, and a vintage car museum.
The South Fyn Archipelago is perfect for island hopping, with picturesque harbors and cycling routes.
In Kerteminde, the Fjord & Bælt Center offers up-close encounters with Denmark’s native sea life, including harbor porpoises.
Places to Avoid in Denmark
While Denmark doesn’t have regions with elevated advisory warnings, it’s important to know where things get wild or risky for first-time visitors.
In Copenhagen, Nørrebro and Nordvest have seen occasional gang-related incidents, though they remain popular areas.
Christiania attracts visitors for its alternative vibe, but the “Green Light District” can have drug-related tensions.
Efforts are being made to reduce drug problems in this area, but that could also mean some of the vendors are closed.
Copenhagen Central Station and nearby Vesterbro attract pickpockets, especially at night.
In Aarhus and Odense, the outskirts of Gellerupparken and Vollsmose have had minor crime issues.
Also, let’s clear up some potential confusion between Greenland and Denmark.
While Greenland is a part of the Kingdom of Denmark, it’s an “autonomous territory.”
That means they make their own laws and entry requirements.
Don’t assume any advice for Denmark plays in Greenland.
Read our article “Is Greenland Safe?
Crime Rates & Safety Report” to learn more about that region.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Denmark
- Danish police (Politi) are professional and generally approachable. In an emergency, dial 112 for immediate help. For non-urgent police matters, call 114. Officers speak English, especially in cities.
- Denmark is safe, but organized crime exists, particularly in Copenhagen’s nightlife areas. If an area feels off, trust your instincts and leave. Police sometimes establish “Search Zones” where they can randomly stop and search people in response to criminal activity. These zones will be clearly marked.
- If you’re a victim of crime in Denmark, you may qualify for compensation, even as a tourist. Crimes must be reported to the police within 72 hours, and compensation claims should be filed through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board. Your home country’s embassy can assist with the process.
- Check the website pet.dk to get information about the current terrorism status or concerns before booking a trip. This is the anti-terrorist agency of Denmark.
- Denmark’s S!RENEN system sends emergency alerts via text and loudspeakers for serious incidents. Travelers can also check politi.dk and download apps like DR News for real-time updates.
- Denmark doesn’t require vaccines for entry, but routine shots like MMR, tetanus, and flu are recommended. Tick-borne encephalitis is a minor risk in rural areas during warmer months.
- Visitors from the EU, U.S., UK, Canada, and Australia can drive in Denmark with their home country’s valid license for up to 90 days. After that, an exchange or international driving permit may be needed. Driving laws are strict, and speeding fines are high. Speeds are measured in kilometers, not miles per hour.
- Always buy and validate train or metro tickets. Fare inspectors check randomly, and fines are hefty. No excuses!
- If you plan to fish in Denmark’s waters, you’ll need a fishing license, which can be bought online or at local post offices. Boating regulations vary, but motorboats over a certain size require a boating license.
- Danes are friendly but not overly chatty with strangers. Don’t mistake their reserved nature for rudeness—it’s just cultural.
So... How Safe Is Denmark Really?
Denmark is a head-scratcher because, while it ranks consistently as one of the safest countries in the world, the U.S. and Canada recently upgraded the risk level because of terrorism concerns.
Their ratings are Level 2 of four levels, with four being the highest and one being the lowest.
In Denmark, PET stands for Politiets Efterretningstjeneste, which translates to the Danish Security and Intelligence Service.
As of early 2025, PET ranks the risk in Denmark at Level 4: Significant, the second highest of a five-level rating.
The Women’s Peace and Security Index says Denmark comes in at the top of a safe nation study, beating out 177 other countries.
The low crime rate, high quality of life, and general lack of natural disaster risks were given as reasons why.
Where’s the truth in these confusing statements?
They are both true, sort of.
The biggest terrorist threat in Denmark comes from militant Islamist groups, especially after recent Quran burnings and tensions over the Israel-Palestine conflict, which have fueled radicalization.
Right-wing extremism is also a concern, mainly among young people getting radicalized online.
Beyond that (major) concern, there really isn’t a lot to worry about beyond petty theft in Denmark.
To circle back around to the answer—there’s a higher “what if” risk than an imminent risk, as you might find in countries with higher crime rates.
By staying informed, avoiding large gatherings, and watching out for suspicious activity, you can experience Denmark’s beauty in the safest way possible.
How Does Denmark Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Denmark | 94 |
| Morocco | 54 |
| Austria | 92 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Italy | 77 |
| Malaysia | 69 |
| Finland | 86 |
| Spain | 83 |
| Botswana | 77 |
Useful Information
Visas
Denmark is in the Schengen Area, meaning many travelers from Europe, the U.S., Canada, and Australia can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. A valid passport that doesn't expire until at least 90 days after you leave Denmark is also required.
Currency
Denmark uses the Danish krone (DKK), not the euro. However, some tourist areas might accept the euro or even the U.S. Dollar. Check exchange rates at cuex.com. Usually, the rate will favor using DKK. I wouldn't worry too much about cash; Denmark is quickly becoming a cashless place.
Weather
Denmark has a temperate maritime climate, meaning mild summers (15–25°C) and cool winters (0–5°C). It’s often windy and rainy, especially in autumn and winter. Snow is possible but not heavy. Summer offers long daylight hours, while winter days are short and dark.
Airports
Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is Denmark’s main international hub, with flights worldwide. Other airports include Billund (BLL) for Jutland and Aalborg (AAL) for northern Denmark. Smaller airports serve domestic and European routes.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for Denmark. It covers medical emergencies, cancellations, theft, and accidents. EU citizens can use their EHIC/GHIC for healthcare but should still get extra coverage. Non-EU travelers should ensure their insurance covers high medical costs, as healthcare in Denmark can be expensive.
Denmark Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 2 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 18 | 20 | 20 | 16 | 12 | 7 | 4 |
| Low °C | -3 | -4 | -1 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 14 | 14 | 10 | 6 | 3 | -3 |
| High °F | 36 | 37 | 43 | 50 | 57 | 64 | 68 | 68 | 61 | 54 | 45 | 39 |
| Low °F | 27 | 25 | 30 | 39 | 46 | 54 | 57 | 57 | 50 | 43 | 37 | 27 |
Denmark - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Aalborg | 95 |
| Copenhagen | 76 |
Copenhagen fake police in the vicinity of bella sky maririot
3 tall white men who presented police IDs said they are policemen of copenhagen and asked for travel documents. They are looking for drugs distributedd by asian toutist in copenhagen. When we showed our travel documents they asked us to show our wallets if we have drugs in our wallets and poctkets and what currencies we have. They took our wallets and money. They were checking one by one, one after the other they were checking our wallets and after one of us is through they will seperate us from the group. After all were finished we were told not to tell anyone and when we were in the hotel when we check our wallet that is the only time we found out we lost money. It happened in the driveway of bella sky hotel marriot, copenhagen going to the metro station beside the convention center opposite the parking area of bella sky. There were no security of the hotel and police around. A total of $2,000 all in all were taken from us. This gale police thing has been happening since 2016 and they are now very aggresive prying on hotel guests of bella sky.
There is no such thing as acheap glass ofbeer
He one item you seem to have forgotten, is that Denmark is a very EXPENSIVE COUNTRY.
I live in Denmark since 2017 after moving from US and I can say it is the most expensive country that I have been. Get yourself ready when you come to visit 🙂
I was out at 23:30 in the central city, and a tattooed, tall, white man came and pushed me up on a wall. He told me to hand him my money, and I did. I got off easy.
why were you out at 23:30, knowing that tourists are easy targets for locals?
Stop victim blaming, Denmark isn’t generally unsafe at this time at night, any local knows that, it’s not dangerous even for tourists! This thing that happened to this person is an exception to how safe Denmark is.
Fan boy
Sounds more like a fantasy…
Bad
Dont go out in night. Violent out there in Aarhus.
Sjælland ftw
Oh that’s jylland, you can’t really call that denmark
It is an expensive country, but worth to travel to.
Very beautiful country. Just a bit expensive.
Great
Paradise
A bit expensive but totally worth it
Denmark, I am coming!
I planned on going to Denmark before Covid-19 hit, and since then I kind of let it go until today when I finally had enough of covid fears and decided I am going to travel to Denmark! yay!
I started Googling all sorts of information about Denmark to learn more before I visit. I wanted to go there forever since my family roots are there, no living family there now but still, so many stories growing up from my parents, I have to be there at least once in a lifetime and I think now’s finally the time (:
Thanks for publishing this safety review, I enjoyed reading it and am very happy that Denmark is safe to visit, it’s a crazy world out there!
5 stars for safety
Denmark is without doubt one of the safest places to visit. And one of the nicest. Their prices are indeed higher than other spots but it’s worth it I think. What’s not to love about this country and its people?
There is actually murder in this place, not long ago, a Swedish woman named Kim Wall was mudered by a Dane named Peter Madsen. Homicide only got larger and larger.
That was an extraordinary case though… I have been living in Denmark for 15 years and the only violence or anything even remotely close to murder I have witnessed was some douchebag who got in my face at a nightclub.
Perfect destination for sightseers
Great country to travel to! The people are very nice, but hard to make friends with as they usually don’t start conversations with strangers. Not because they are rude, but more because it isn’t expected to start a conversation with someone you don’t know in their culture.
Quite expensive though, but that’s not that big of an issue if you are more into sightseeing than buying stuff, as most landmarks are free to visit. Make sure you visit in the summer! The place becomes 10x more charming during that time of the year.
Good, but still be careful
While it’s true that Denmark is very safe generally, but there has been an terrorist attack in 2015 with an assault rifle (look up: Krudttønden) as well as several thwarted attacks over the years. Also be very vigilant in certain areas – especially – by night, Nørrebro, Central Copenhagen, Aarhus has a larger amount muggings and unprovoked attacks by immigrant gangs, lots of pick pockets in busses as well in those and other areas. While you can safely enjoy your stay in our country, Denmark is not as safe as it was 40 years ago when we did not lock our frontdoors.
Why is everyone saying denmark is unsafe? i have lived here for 12 years and its very safe the only thing that has happend to med was that my car radio was stolen nd nothing else
Danmark is safe. Just use your common sense to get you out of trouble.
Safe but expensive
I have lived in and near Copenhagen all my life. I have never felt unsafe. It’s true that it can be expensive, but if you avoid eating in crowded tourist areas you can definitely find some cheaper places.
If travelling with kids you can find many free playgrounds around Copenhagen and Frederiksberg. I especially recommend Frederiksberg Gardens where you get a free view of the elephants from the Zoo and a nice playground for kids.
It’s the most safe country on Earth I would say. The majority of people gave fewer stars because Denmark is expensive… On a safety rating.
true.. some people can’t read for heck
Denmark seems to be the 2nd safest country in the world to travel
https://www.travelsafe-abroad.com/countries/
Yeah sure. Whatever?
2nd safest place on earth? Ok sure buddy. I’m confused with all these reviews.
The highest reoffending rate
Are you kidding? Denmark has the highest reoffending rate. Arrests must feel like a slap on the wrist to the Criminals within the country.