Practical Information
Payment
Denmark is the most cashless country in the world. Card payment works everywhere — even at hot dog stands, on buses, at flea markets. Many shops no longer accept cash. Bring a credit card (Visa or Mastercard) that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees. Currency exchange is almost never necessary — if it is: Forex or exchange offices at the main train station.
Language
Danish is the official language, but almost all Danes speak excellent English — Denmark has one of the highest English proficiency rates in the world. You can get by everywhere with English without any problems. German is also frequently understood, especially by the older generation and in southern Denmark. Useful in Danish: “Tak" (Thank you), “Skål" (Cheers), “Undskyld" (Sorry).
Tipping
In Denmark, service is included in the price — tipping is not customary and not expected. If you are particularly satisfied, you can round up to the next full amount or give 5–10%, but no one expects it. Service staff in Denmark earn good wages (at least about 130 DKK/hour = 17€).
Weather & Clothing
Copenhagen's weather is unpredictable — "four seasons in one day" is no exaggeration. Always pack:
- Layers: T-shirt + sweater + light jacket — even in summer
- Rain jacket: Wind and waterproof. Essential in any season
- Comfortable shoes: The city is explored on foot (cobblestones!)
- Winter (Nov–Mar): Warm jacket, scarf, hat, gloves. It rarely gets really cold (below -5°C), but the wind from the Øresund feels colder
Safety
Copenhagen is one of the world's safest major cities. Pickpocketing is rare (but possible at tourist hotspots like Nyhavn and Strøget). All neighborhoods are safe at night — Vesterbro's corners around the main train station may seem rough, but are not dangerous. Special rules apply in Christiania (no photography, show respect).
Useful Apps
- DOT Tickets: Buy public transport tickets (Metro, Bus, S-Tog)
- Rejseplanen: Public transport route planner (throughout Denmark)
- Donkey Republic: Rental bikes
- MobilePay: Denmark's Venmo/PayPal — accepted everywhere, but only works with a Danish bank account
- Google Maps / Citymapper: Navigation and public transport
- Too Good To Go: Leftover food from restaurants and bakeries for 30–50% of the price — invented in Denmark!
