Kongernes Jelling: Denmark’s Royal Birthplace and Viking Heritage Center
UNESCO-designated Kongernes Jelling unites Viking mounds, rune stones, and a modern museum, tracing Denmark’s earliest kings and the nation’s Christian roots.
Kongernes Jelling is an extraordinary historical site and museum in Jelling, Central Jutland. Famous for its UNESCO-listed Viking Age mounds and rune stones, the site tells the story of the Danish monarchy's origins and the nation's conversion to Christianity. Explore interactive exhibitions, the imposing burial mounds, and the ancient church to immerse yourself in a foundational chapter of Denmark’s history.
A brief summary to Kongernes Jelling
- Gormsgade 23, Jelling, 7300, DK
- +4541206331
- Visit website
Local tips
- Climb both burial mounds for panoramic views and unique perspectives of the Viking-era stone ship outline.
- Don’t miss the interactive rune stone displays inside the visitor center—they bring the carvings’ stories to life digitally.
- Entry is free, but consider checking for temporary exhibitions or special events—these can add extra context and fun.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Jelling village, where charming cafés serve local treats.
- Parking can be busier on weekends; look for overflow lots just a short walk away during peak periods.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Vejle, one of Central Jutland’s larger towns, frequent regional trains connect directly to Jelling Station. The journey takes about 10–15 minutes, and adult fares typically cost 36–52 DKK each way. From the station, Kongernes Jelling is visible nearby—an easy 5-minute walk past local shops and open green spaces.
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Taxi
A taxi from central Vejle to Jelling usually takes 20–25 minutes, costing in the range of 250–350 DKK. Taxis can be found around Vejle’s main square and railway station. The taxi drops you near the visitor center entrance, with the iconic mounds in full view.
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Driving
For those driving, the route from cities like Vejle or Herning leads through pastoral countryside and Jelling’s low-key town center. Parking is conveniently located next to the museum and outdoor site; it is free but can fill up quickly on weekends, particularly during school holidays.
Discover more about Kongernes Jelling
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kongernes Jelling
0.0 km
UNESCO-designated Kongernes Jelling unites Viking mounds, rune stones, and a modern museum, tracing Denmark’s earliest kings and the nation’s Christian roots.
Jelling Mounds, Runic Stones and Church
0.1 km
Explore Denmark's Viking Age roots at Jelling, a UNESCO World Heritage site with royal burial mounds, ancient runic stones, and a historic church, marking the nation's birth.
The Midgård Well
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Anno Dom 1913
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VisitVejle
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Explore Andelstrappen and Fortællegyngestolen in Odense: A fusion of nature's beauty and rich literary heritage.
Vejle Vindmølle
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Deer Park Vejle
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Træskohage fyr
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An awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral at the heart of Odense, steeped in royal history as Denmark’s only sainted king’s final resting place.
Jættestuen grønhøj
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Explore Jættestuen Grønhøj, a remarkably preserved Stone Age passage grave near Horsens, Denmark, offering a unique glimpse into prehistoric burial rituals and ancient craftsmanship.
Slaggård Banke
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Discover Slaggård Banke: Explore ancient burial mounds, enjoy panoramic views, and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Danish countryside near Østbirk.
Horsens Tourist Information Centre
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Bilka Horsens
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Fredericia Vold
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Milling Hotel Saxildhus
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Unmissable attractions to see
Udsigtstårn
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Himmelpind
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Givskud Zoo Zootopia
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Discover Denmark’s iconic wildlife and safari park, where you can drive among lions and herds of exotic animals in the heart of Central Jutland.
Kongens Kær
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Fugletårn Kongens kær
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Biblioteksparken
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Kulturmuseet
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Vejle Art Museum
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Mariaparken
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Brunnen Rathaus
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Experience panoramic views of Vejle's natural beauty from the Udsigtstårn at Østengård.
Pedersholm
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Discover contemporary art, experimental exhibitions, and creative community events at Kunsthal Vejle, the vibrant heart of modern culture in central Vejle.
Kunsthal Vejle
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Vejle Kunstforening
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Mindesmærke for Danmarks befrielse i 1945, centralt beliggende i Vejle.
Ravning Bridge
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Experience contemporary art in a repurposed 1950s vending machine at Kunsthal Vejle, open 24/7 in the heart of Vejle.
Sønderskoven
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Essential places to dine
Vindelev Kro & Galleri
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Restaurant Hviid's Vinstue
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Madkunst v/Jonna Olsen
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Il Teatro
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Cocina Latina - Mexicansk spisested
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Paladspassagen Social Dining
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A buzzing culinary arcade in central Vejle where global street food, artisan drinks, and social fun meet in a lively, creative atmosphere.
ONKEL A
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Experience the vibrant flavors of Danish cuisine at ONKEL A in Vejle – perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.
Restaurant PlanB - Tapas Vin & Cocktails
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Mad Rick
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Restaurant Nögen
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Caféen Den Gamle Arrest
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Meat & Eat Premium
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Casablanca
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No 14 Vinbar
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Discover No 14 Vinbar: A premier wine bar in Vejle offering fine wines, handcrafted cocktails, and delicious tapas in a cozy ambiance.
Restaurant SteakeRiet
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Haughus Gods, Antik & Kræmmermarked
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Oscar Butik
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Fabrikanterne
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Bryggen
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Kolding Storcenter
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Denmark’s premier Jutland shopping mall, Kolding Storcenter features over 120 stores, cafés, events, and family zones in sleek, light-filled Scandinavian style.
Buttercups
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Discover unique handcrafted costume jewelry at Buttercups in Horsens, Denmark.
bytorvHORSENS
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Bryghus Horsens A/S
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Tøjbutikker
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Trapholt Museum for Modern Art and Design
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Kjærs Magasiner
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Red Barnet genbrugsbutik
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Rieskunstgalleri v/Rie Brødsgaard
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Møllehøj
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Møllehjulet
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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danny og mille
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Klodshans Horsens ApS
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Morzybitten
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The Golden Horse
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Værtshuse
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Stalden
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Stalden blends friendly local charm with billiards, darts, and sports broadcasts in the vibrant heart of Horsens, making it a favorite spot for authentic Danish bar culture.
Hemingway's Horsens
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B-A-R 2 Aps
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Zwei Grosse Bier Bar Horsens A/S
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Lively beer bar and disco club in Horsens city center, offering late-night music, diverse drinks, and a welcoming vibe for locals and travelers alike.
Kontoret Øl og Vinstue
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Experience Kolding's historic pub culture at Kontoret Øl og Vinstue, offering a cozy ambiance and a diverse selection of beers and wines since 1977.
