A Comprehensive Guide to Local Customs and Etiquette in Denmark
Denmark, a small but charming nation, offers visitors a wealth of cultural experiences and friendly hospitality. Whether you're planning a visit to Copenhagen or exploring the rest of the country, understanding local customs and etiquette is essential for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. This guide provides you with insider tips to help you navigate and appreciate Danish culture.
Getting Around and Key Locations
Taking the Train: Consider using the Copenhagen Card, which offers a pre-paid discount for various attractions and transportation services. If the train from the airport is not included, it’s still a convenient way to get to and from the city. Denmark is particularly reliant on public transportation, so learning to use the metro or trains can significantly enhance your experience.
Tivoli Gardens: This iconic amusement park, where Walt Disney got inspiration for Disneyland, is a must-visit. It’s a charming blend of attractions, food stalls, and entertainment, making it a favorite spot for Danes and tourists alike. The gardens are not just about rides; the architecture and atmosphere are designed to transport visitors to a completely different world.
Exploring Copenhagen
Strget: The invigorating street life of Strget, a bustling pedestrian street, is a highlight for many. It features an array of high-end shops, ranging from local brands like Georg Jensen to international names. The street also boasts wonderful bakeries, ensuring that every visit is punctuated with the aroma of freshly baked goods.
The Little Mermaid: While the statue is iconic, it may not live up to expectations. Instead, consider other attractions like the Resistance Museum, which provides a deeper historical understanding of Danish resistance. The Royal Copenhagen and Carlsberg tours offer unique insights into Danish heritage. Roden’s Thinker is also a notable sculpture located near Tivoli Gardens.
Nyhavn: This historic harbor, reimagined into a picturesque area of restaurants and bars, is a true gem. It's a perfect spot for lunch, a boat tour, or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss out on NyPedder Ox, a reasonably priced restaurant that serves excellent Norwegian-influenced cuisine, with the Wild Boar being a particular highlight.
Eating Out and Local Dishes
Bakery and Bread: Denmark is renowned for its bakery and bread culture. Pastries and bread are an experience in themselves, whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or a leisurely breakfast. Danish sandwiches, or open-faced sandwiches (sm?rrebr?d), are a must-try, as are traditional Danish desserts, available even in hotel restaurants.
CLEANLINESS AND PROFESSIONALISM: Cleanliness and professionalism are highly valued in Denmark. Expect spotless hotels and restaurants. Ordering is done with knives and forks, a quirky but delicious aspect of Danish cuisine. Tipping is not required, as it is included in the bill, but you may leave a small amount if you wish to show appreciation.
Tips for Dining and Tipping
Tipping: Unlike many countries, Denmark already includes gratuities in the bill. However, it's common to leave an additional 5-10% if you are particularly pleased with the service. When in doubt, feel free to ask the staff.
Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in Denmark. Notify your bank before your trip to avoid sudden stops on your card due to suspicious activity. It’s best to use credit cards for most purchases, but being aware of conversion fees can help you to determine if it’s more cost-effective to pay in local currency at certain establishments.
Transportation and Practice
Public Transport: Denmark has an extensive public transport network, including buses, metro, and trains. Familiarizing yourself with the system beforehand can make your stay more convenient. The SN or SJ train services are excellent choices for reaching all parts of Copenhagen smoothly.
Walking: Copenhagen is a pedestrian-friendly city, so getting around on foot is both convenient and enjoyable. Opt for comfortable, supportive shoes as you’ll likely be walking plenty.
Buying Souvenirs and Experiences
Comprehensive Shopping: When you're returning home, take advantage of the airport’s extensive shopping opportunities. Buying vacuum-packed meats, hotdogs, chocolates, cheeses, and licorice can not only make great souvenirs but also some of the best deals on these local delicacies.
VAT Refund: When purchasing items, be sure to keep your receipts. You can get a VAT refund for purchases made before your departure from the VAT refund counter at the airport, where you can reclaim up to 25% of the taxes paid.
A Welcoming Culture
Welcoming of Tourists: Danes are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. English is widely spoken, and the nation’s top-notch English proficiency makes communication easy. Be sure to thank the locals with “thank you” and “please,” as Danes highly value politeness.
Cultural Nuances: Danes can sometimes appear direct, which might seem harsh to visitors, but it is generally a sign of professionalism. Understanding and respecting these nuances can help you navigate Danish social interactions with ease.
A Word of Advice
Using the Airport: Copenhagen Airport, while modern, offers shopping opportunities, dining, and relaxation zones. Plan your shopping with the intention of maximizing use and minimizing the need for cash transactions. Many items, especially food, are cheaper when bought directly at the airport or in the city.
Overall: Copenhagen is a vibrant, fun, and happy place. Visitors often comment on how welcoming and accommodating the locals are. For a truly enriching experience, take the time to explore beyond the famous landmarks and dive into the everyday life of the Danish people.
Recommended Accommodation: Decent hotels in Copenhagen offer excellent dining options and comfortable amenities. Room service may not always be the best option, as it can detract from the overall atmosphere of the hotel. Consider dining in hotel restaurants for a more authentic experience.