🐾 Traveling to Denmark with Pets
Pet-Friendly Denmark
Denmark is highly pet-friendly, with dogs commonly seen in parks, beaches, and even some indoor spaces. Copenhagen and coastal areas welcome well-behaved pets, and the country's cycling culture makes it easy to travel with animals. Denmark ranks among Europe's top destinations for pet owners.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
EU Pet Passport
Dogs, cats, and ferrets from EU countries need an EU Pet Passport with microchip identification.
Passport must include rabies vaccination records (at least 21 days before travel) and veterinary health certificate.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination must be current and administered at least 21 days before entry.
Vaccination must be valid for the entire stay; check expiry dates on certificates carefully.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number must match all documentation; bring microchip reader confirmation if possible.
Non-EU Countries
Pets from outside EU need health certificate from official veterinarian and rabies antibody test.
Additional 3-month waiting period may apply; check with Danish embassy in advance.
Restricted Breeds
Denmark bans certain breeds like Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, and others under the Dog Act.
Restricted dogs require special permits, muzzles, and leashes in public; check breed list before travel.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and rodents have different entry rules; check with Danish authorities.
Exotic pets may require CITES permits and additional health certificates for entry.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Denmark on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Copenhagen & Aarhus): Many 3-5 star hotels welcome pets for 100-250 DKK/night, offering dog beds, bowls, and nearby parks. Chains like Scandic and Comfort Hotels are reliably pet-friendly.
- Coastal Cottages & Cabins (Zealand & Jutland): Holiday homes often welcome pets at no extra charge, with direct beach access. Perfect for relaxing seaside holidays with dogs in scenic surroundings.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and Vrbo listings frequently allow pets, especially in rural areas. Entire homes offer more freedom for pets to roam and relax.
- Farmstays (Agritourism): Family farms in Jutland and Funen welcome pets and often have resident animals. Ideal for families with children and pets seeking authentic rural experiences.
- Campsites & RV Parks: Nearly all Danish campsites are pet-friendly, with designated dog areas and nearby trails. Coastal sites in North Jutland are especially popular with pet owners.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end hotels like Hotel d'Angleterre in Copenhagen offer VIP pet services including gourmet pet menus, grooming, and walking services for discerning travelers.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Coastal Walking Trails
Denmark's beaches and dunes are dog heaven with extensive pet-friendly paths along the North Sea and Baltic coasts.
Keep dogs leashed near wildlife and check trail rules at national park entrances.
Beaches & Coastlines
Many Danish beaches like those in Skagen and Møns Klint have designated dog areas and off-leash zones.
Popular spots offer pet-friendly sections; check local signage for seasonal restrictions.
Cities & Parks
Copenhagen's King's Garden and Fælledparken welcome leashed dogs; outdoor cafés commonly allow pets at tables.
Aarhus's old town permits dogs on leash; most outdoor terraces welcome well-behaved pets.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Danish café culture extends to pets; water bowls outside are standard in cities.
Many Copenhagen coffee houses allow dogs inside; ask staff before entering with pets.
City Walking Tours
Most outdoor walking tours in Copenhagen and Aarhus welcome leashed dogs at no extra charge.
Historic centers are pet-friendly; avoid indoor museums and churches with pets.
Cycling Paths
Denmark's extensive bike paths allow dogs on leashes or in trailers; many rentals offer pet carriers.
Check with operators; some require advance booking for pets during peak seasons.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (DSB): Small dogs (carrier-sized) travel free; larger dogs need half-price tickets and must be muzzled or in carriers. Dogs allowed in all classes except dining cars.
- Buses & Trams (Urban): Copenhagen and Aarhus public transport allow small pets free in carriers; larger dogs 25 DKK with muzzle/leash requirement. Avoid peak commute times.
- Taxis: Ask driver before entering with pets; most accept with advance notice. Bolt and Uber rides may require pet-friendly vehicle selection.
- Rental Cars: Many agencies allow pets with advance notice and cleaning fee (200-500 DKK). Consider SUVs for larger dogs and island trips.
- Flights to Denmark: Check airline pet policies; SAS and Norwegian allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review specific carrier requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: SAS, KLM, and Air France accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 300-700 DKK each way. Larger dogs travel in hold with veterinary health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour emergency clinics in Copenhagen (Dyrlaegecentret) and Aarhus provide urgent care.
Keep EHIC/travel insurance covering pet emergencies; vet costs range 400-1500 DKK for consultations.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Fødevare chains and Bilka across Denmark stock food, medicine, and pet accessories.
Danish pharmacies carry basic pet medications; bring prescriptions for specialized drugs.
Grooming & Day Care
Major cities offer pet grooming salons and daycare for 150-400 DKK per session or day.
Book ahead in tourist areas during peak seasons; many hotels recommend local services.
Pet-Sitting Services
Rover and local apps operate in Denmark for pet-sitting during day trips or overnight stays.
Hotels may also offer pet-sitting; ask concierge for trusted local services.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in urban areas, public parks, and protected nature zones. Beaches may allow off-leash if under voice control away from wildlife.
- Muzzle Requirements: Required for restricted breeds on public transport and in some areas. Carry a muzzle even if not always enforced.
- Waste Disposal: Poop bags and disposal bins are ubiquitous; failure to clean up results in fines (500-2000 DKK). Always carry waste bags on walks.
- Beach & Water Rules: Check beach signage for dog-allowed sections; some ban pets during peak summer hours (9am-6pm). Respect swimmers' space.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets welcome at outdoor tables; ask before bringing indoors. Dogs should remain quiet and seated on floor, not chairs or tables.
- National Parks: Some trails restrict dogs during bird nesting season (March-June). Always leash pets near wildlife and stay on marked paths.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Denmark
Denmark for Families
Denmark is a family paradise with safe cities, interactive museums, coastal adventures, and welcoming hygge culture. From amusement parks to beach playgrounds, kids are engaged and parents relaxed. Public facilities cater to families with stroller access, changing rooms, and children's menus everywhere.
Top Family Attractions
Tivoli Gardens (Copenhagen)
Historic amusement park with rides, gardens, and concerts for all ages.
Tickets 150-200 DKK adults, 80-100 DKK kids; open year-round with seasonal events and food stalls.
Copenhagen Zoo
One of Europe's top zoos with polar bears, elephants, and interactive exhibits.
Tickets 200-250 DKK adults, 100-150 DKK kids; combine with aquarium for full-day family outing.
Kronborg Castle (Helsingør)
Shakespeare's Hamlet castle with tours, exhibits, and coastal views kids love.
Family tickets available with child-friendly audio guides and nearby beaches.
Experimentarium (Hellerup)
Interactive science museum with hands-on experiments and planetarium shows.
Perfect for rainy days; tickets 200-250 DKK adults, 150 DKK kids with multilingual exhibits.
Legoland Billund
World's first Legoland with rides, Lego builds, and Miniland displays.
Tickets 400-500 DKK adults, 300-400 DKK kids; magical experience in Jutland with hotels nearby.
National Aquarium Denmark (Kattegatcentret)
Underwater tunnels with sharks, seals, and touch pools across Danish coasts.
Family-friendly activities with safety gear provided; suitable for kids 3+.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Denmark on Viator. From Hans Christian Andersen tours to coastal adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Copenhagen & Aarhus): Hotels like Scandic and Wakeup offer family rooms (2 adults + 2 kids) for 800-1500 DKK/night. Amenities include cribs, high chairs, and kids' play areas.
- Coastal Family Resorts (Zealand): All-inclusive beach resorts with childcare, kids' clubs, and family suites. Properties like Kurhotel Skodsborg cater exclusively to families with entertainment programs.
- Farm Holidays (Bauernhof): Rural farms across Denmark welcome families with animal interactions, fresh produce, and outdoor play. Prices 400-800 DKK/night with breakfast included.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering rentals ideal for families with kitchens and washing machines. Space for kids to play and flexibility for meal times.
- Youth Hostels (Danhostel): Budget-friendly family rooms in hostels like those in Copenhagen and Odense for 500-800 DKK/night. Simple but clean with kitchen access.
- Castle Hotels: Stay in converted castles like Dragsholm Slot for fairytale family experience. Kids love medieval architecture and surrounding gardens.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Copenhagen with Kids
Tivoli Gardens, National Museum's children's wing, canal boat rides, and beach parks.
Bicycle tours and ice cream at traditional spots make Copenhagen magical for children.
Odense with Kids
Hans Christian Andersen Museum, fairy-tale gardens, science center, and river boat rides.
Child-friendly storytelling sessions and Odense Zoo keep families entertained.
Aarhus with Kids
ARoS Art Museum's rainbow panorama, Den Gamle By open-air museum, and beach adventures.
Tivoli Friheden amusement park and wildlife park with Danish animals and family picnics.
Jutland Region (Billund)
Legoland, Lalandia water parks, Viking history sites with interactive exhibits.
Beach days and easy cycling trails suitable for young children with scenic picnic spots.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Children under 6 travel free; ages 6-12 get 50% discount with parent. Family compartments available on DSB trains with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Copenhagen and Aarhus offer family day passes (2 adults + kids) for 100-150 DKK. Buses and metros are stroller-accessible.
- Car Rentals: Book child seats (50-100 DKK/day) in advance; required by law for kids under 135cm. Family cars offer space for gear.
- Stroller-Friendly: Danish cities are highly stroller-accessible with ramps, elevators, and smooth pavements. Most attractions provide stroller parking.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Nearly all restaurants offer børnemenu with smørrebrød, pasta, or fries for 50-100 DKK. High chairs and coloring books commonly provided.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Traditional kysthuse welcome families with outdoor play areas and casual atmosphere. Copenhagen's Torvehallerne has diverse food stalls.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets like Netto and Føtex stock baby food, diapers, and organic options. Markets offer fresh produce for apartment cooking.
- Snacks & Treats: Danish bakeries offer pastries, æbleskiver, and chocolate; perfect for keeping kids energized between meals.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available in shopping centers, museums, and train stations with changing tables and nursing areas.
- Pharmacies (Apotek): Stock baby formula, diapers, and children's medications. Staff speak English and assist with product recommendations.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels in cities arrange English-speaking babysitters for 100-150 DKK/hour. Book through concierge or local services online.
- Medical Care: Pediatric clinics in all major cities; emergency care at hospitals with pediatric departments. EHIC covers EU citizens.
♿ Accessibility in Denmark
Accessible Travel
Denmark excels in accessibility with modern infrastructure, wheelchair-friendly transport, and inclusive attractions. Cities prioritize universal access, and tourism boards provide detailed accessibility information for planning barrier-free trips.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: DSB trains offer wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps. Book assistance 24 hours ahead; staff help with boarding at all stations.
- City Transport: Copenhagen's metro and buses are wheelchair-accessible with elevators and low-floor vehicles. Audio announcements aid visually impaired travelers.
- Taxis: Accessible taxis with wheelchair ramps available in cities; book via phone or apps like DRT. Standard taxis accommodate folding wheelchairs.
- Airports: Copenhagen and Billund airports provide full accessibility with assistance services, accessible toilets, and priority boarding for passengers with disabilities.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Palaces: National Museum and Rosenborg Castle offer wheelchair access, tactile exhibits, and audio guides. Elevators and ramps throughout.
- Historic Sites: Kronborg Castle has ramp access; Copenhagen's old town largely accessible though some cobblestones may challenge wheelchairs.
- Nature & Parks: National parks provide accessible trails and viewpoints; Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen fully wheelchair-friendly with accessible rides.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June-August) for beaches and outdoor activities; winter for hygge and Christmas markets.
Shoulder seasons (May, Sept) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Budget Tips
Family attractions often offer combo tickets; Copenhagen Card includes transport and museum discounts.
Picnics in parks and self-catering apartments save money while accommodating picky eaters.
Language
Danish is official; English widely spoken in tourist areas and with younger generations.
Learn basic phrases; Danes appreciate effort and are patient with children and visitors.
Packing Essentials
Layers for changeable coastal weather, comfortable shoes for walking, and rain gear year-round.
Pet owners: bring favorite food (in case unavailable), leash, muzzle, waste bags, and vet records.
Useful Apps
DSB app for trains, Google Maps for navigation, and Rover for pet care services.
DOT Rejseplanen app provides real-time public transport updates.
Health & Safety
Denmark is very safe; tap water drinkable everywhere. Pharmacies (Apotek) provide medical advice.
Emergency: dial 112 for police, fire, or medical. EHIC covers EU citizens for healthcare.