The Danish climate is moderated by the warm Gulf Stream and is therefore milder than surrounding Scandinavian countries. Denmark has four distinct seasons. The spring months, April to May, are the mildest, while the summer months of June, July and August are the hottest. Autumn, from September to November, tends to be rainy and more overcast. Winter runs from December to March and is normally cold, with frost and snow. 

Temperatures 

Denmark is located in the North Temperate Zone and has a mean temperature of 7.7˚C (46˚F) . Statistically, February is the coldest month (mean 0.0˚C/32˚F)  and August the warmest (mean 15.7˚C/ 60˚F). 

Winds 

The prevailing wind is westerly, which means that the west coast of Denmark receives more rainfall than the rest of the country. The annual rain fall in Denmark averages 61 cm (24 in) of precipitation. 

Sea temperatures 

Denmark is surrounded by coastline and swimming in the sea is a popular pastime. The seawater temperature around Denmark, from June to August, is between 17˚C (63˚F) and 22˚C (72˚F). In August, this can rise to around 25˚C (77˚F). 

There are no restrictions on the amount of currency you are allowed to import or export, but anything over €10,000 (approximately 75,000kr) must be declared. Read more about the regulations at the Danish Tax Authority’s website.

It couldn’t be easier to cycle in Denmark and cycling holidays are extremely popular. For full details on bike rental in Denmark, inspiration for cycling holidays and much more, read our Cycling in Denmark page.

Denmark uses two-pin continental plugs and 220 volt (50Hz) like most other European countries. Visitors from Ireland or the UK will need adaptors for electrical appliances, while those from North America will need a transformer to use 110/125 volt appliances.

112 is Denmark’s emergency number for life-threatening emergencies. Call (+45) 112 to access police, ambulance and fire brigade services.  

For police, when it’s not an emergency, call (+45) 114. You can also find contact information on the Danish Police’s website. 

In case of injuries or sudden illness, call (+45) 1813 to speak to a nurse or doctor, or to go to a hospital emergency department. 

Note: When calling the emergency numbers, remember to speak slowly and distinctly as well as state your telephone number and the address. 

Denmark is part of the Schengen agreement, which eliminated border passport control between Schengen countries in Europe. This means you no longer need to stop or show your passport when travelling between Denmark and Germany or Denmark and Sweden. You must still have your passport with you, however, when travelling in Schengen countries as a form of identification.

Following Brexit, UK citizens can travel to any country in the Schengen area, including Denmark, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. 

Border openings post-corona are subject to change. You can find out about entry requirements in place on our Safe Travel in Denmark page.

Most Danes have internet at home and/or mobile internet, so internet cafés are not that prevalent in Denmark. It’s very easy, however, to access the free wireless network that covers the country via hotels, cafés, libraries and other places such as trains and some buses. Pre-paid mobile internet services are available from certain telecommunication companies. 

Here is a guide to Internet use in Denmark for the visitor.

Danish people tend to have a very good level of English and it is easy to get around the country, even if you don’t speak Danish. You will find that Danes are happy to stop and help you in English. Foreign language films are always shown in the original version with Danish subtitles, both in cinemas and on television.

Licensed taxis are readily available all over Denmark. It’s possible to hail them on the street, if the taxi light on their roof is on. You can also pick one up at the many taxi ranks in cities and towns, or by booking one in advance. Booking a taxi in advance will be slightly more expensive than hailing one. Like to book a taxi in Denmark ahead of time? Search taxi companies in Denmark here.

How it works 

Tipping is always included in the fare. If you have big luggage that needs to go on an outside rack, you will be charged extra. Most taxi drivers speak English and all will give you a receipt at the end of your ride. Drivers are required to display their licence number and rate cards. Payment can be made with cash or with credit card.

Service charges are included in hotel, restaurant and taxi bills. If you feel you’ve received great service however, feel free to tip. How much you tip is entirely up to you, and there is no set etiquette for this in Denmark.

Find the latest weather forecasts for Denmark at the Danish Meteorological Institute.