Lolland, Denmark Travel Guide

Discover Lolland, Denmark's tranquil island retreat, offering lush landscapes, historic sites, and delightful local cuisine for an unforgettable escape.

Lolland, the fourth largest island in Denmark, is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Known for its lush landscapes, charming villages, and stunning coastline, Lolland is a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. One of the island's highlights is the Knuthenborg Safari Park, the largest safari park in Northern Europe. Here, visitors can take a drive through various animal habitats, getting up close and personal with exotic creatures from around the world. For those interested in history, the Fuglsang Art Museum is a must-visit. This museum houses an impressive collection of Danish art from the 18th century to the present, all set against the backdrop of a beautifully preserved manor house. Lolland's coastline is dotted with quaint fishing villages and pristine beaches, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. The island's flat terrain makes it ideal for cycling, and there are numerous well-marked bike routes that take you through picturesque countryside and along the coast. Don't miss the chance to visit the charming town of Maribo, where you can explore the Maribo Cathedral and the Open-Air Museum, which showcases traditional Danish rural life. Foodies will delight in Lolland's local cuisine, which features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Be sure to try the island's renowned apples and other produce, as well as its delicious seafood. With its rich history, natural beauty, and welcoming atmosphere, Lolland is a destination that promises a memorable and tranquil getaway.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lolland.

Rent a bike to explore the island's flat terrain and scenic routes.
Visit Knuthenborg Safari Park early in the day to avoid crowds.
Don't miss the local farmer's markets for fresh produce and unique souvenirs.
Check out the local events calendar for traditional festivals and cultural activities.
Pack a picnic and enjoy a day at one of Lolland's pristine beaches.

Destinations in Lolland

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Gedser Odde

Explore Lolland: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Lolland

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Bandholm Badehotel

Historic Danish seaside hotel on Lolland’s quiet harbor, blending Nordic-luxury rooms, local-produce fine dining and a small outdoor spa beside the calm Småland Sea.

4.4

BonBon-Land

Outrageous candy-themed coasters, water rides and green picnic lawns combine at BonBon-Land, Denmark’s cheeky countryside amusement park for all ages.

4.0

Dodekalitten

A monumental circle of twelve granite giants overlooking sea, fields and ancient burial mounds, where ever‑changing music turns a Lolland hilltop into a living, outdoor artwork.

4.6

Knuthenborg Safaripark

Drive through open savannahs, meet tigers and rhinos, wander among dinosaurs and stay overnight on the “savannah” at Denmark’s vast Knuthenborg Safaripark.

4.6

Best landmarks in Lolland

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Dodekalitten

Twelve colossal granite faces overlooking the Småland waters, singing in electronic harmony—Denmark's monumental fusion of sculpture, sound, and ancient memory.

4.6

Vallø Castle

Historic red-brick Renaissance castle and landscaped parkland south of Køge, where royal patronage, noble tradition and tranquil protected countryside meet.

4.5

Fuglsang Herregaard - Hotel + Events + Conference

Historic manor house hotel on Lolland, blending art, landscape and refined comfort amid tranquil gardens, coastal meadows and a long tradition of creative retreat.

4.4

Relic of the Castle Revshale

Subtle castle earthworks on a lakeside island where medieval power, dramatic siege history and tranquil Maribo Nature Park scenery quietly meet.

5.0

Best restaurants in Lolland

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Bandholm Badehotel

Historic beachfront luxury where 19th-century charm meets contemporary refinement on Denmark's Smålandshavet coast.

4.4

Brasseriet Søllestedgaard

Farm-to-table dining where biodynamic gardens meet craft brewery in rural Denmark.

4.7

Café Vin og Brød

Maribo's cozy bakery-wine haven: artisan breads, European-inspired bites, and local wines in hygge-filled bliss on the vibrant town square.

4.3

Restaurant Ö

Intimate harbourfront dining in a cosy fisherman’s house, showcasing seasonal Lolland produce and Baltic flavours in a single thoughtfully crafted set menu.

4.8

Best bars in Lolland

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Den Sorte Engel

Moody brick walls, close-up live music and unpretentious Danish pub vibes make Den Sorte Engel the beating heart of Nykøbing Falster’s nightlife.

4.6

FUND BAR

Waterfront cocktails, Nordic design and a smoke-free, sociable atmosphere on Nykøbing Falster’s marina-facing Slotsbryggen promenade.

4.7

Marinestuen

Characterful sailor-style bar in central Nykøbing Falster, serving inexpensive drinks in a cozy, maritime setting filled with ships, memorabilia and local charm.

4.8

Vinoteque Marittima

Floating wine and coffee bar on Nykøbing Falster’s harbor, blending maritime charm, curated drinks and cozy Scandinavian atmosphere on board a moored ship.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Lolland

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Riverside Jazz Club

Intimate riverside jazz nest in Nykøbing Falster, where volunteer passion, live bands and Danish hygge turn winter evenings into warm, swinging nights.

5.0

CLUB ZANZI

Compact waterfront nightclub in Nakskov serving up weekend dance hits, drinks and a laid-back small-town party vibe late into Saturday nights.

3.8

Dr. Emil Laboratory, Marielyst

High‑energy summer nightclub on Marielyst’s main beach strip, blending live music, DJs and bar culture just a short stroll from the Baltic Sea.

3.3

Billy Booze

Compact, loud and late: a no-frills disco bar where Nykøbing Falster keeps dancing long after the rest of town goes quiet.

3.6

Best shops in Lolland

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Antik Borella

Rural Lolland’s 275 m² farmhouse antique gallery, blending Scandinavian design, chandeliers and porcelain with three decades of expert curation at Krusegaard.

4.7

Boline Chokolade

Cosy, owner-run chocolatier in Maribo’s Lollands Centret, specialising in handcrafted pralines, flødeboller and gift-ready chocolate assortments with a Danish twist.

4.8

Fair Trade Lolland

Cosy fair-trade and gift shop on Nakskov’s main street, connecting Lolland’s shoppers with handmade crafts, ethical gifts and global stories from the Global South.

4.2

Kirppu Nykøbing Falster

Bright, weatherproof flea “supermarket” in Guldborgsundcentret, where ever-changing private stands turn everyday browsing into a relaxed hunt for vintage and second-hand treasures.

4.0

Explore Lolland on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Lolland, mapped for you.

Lolland Essentials

Lolland is accessible via several modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Copenhagen Airport, Kastrup (CPH), which is approximately 150 kilometers away. From Copenhagen, you can take a direct train to Lolland, with the journey typically taking around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive, which allows for greater flexibility to explore the scenic countryside along the way. Ferry services are also available from Germany to the southern part of Lolland, providing an alternative route to the island.
Once on Lolland, getting around is relatively easy. The island is serviced by a network of buses and trains that connect the main towns and attractions. Renting a bicycle is a popular option, as the island is flat and has many dedicated cycling paths. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer to travel at their own pace. Taxis are available but can be more expensive and less frequent in rural areas.
The official currency in Denmark is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit cards are widely accepted, especially Visa and MasterCard, in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are readily available in the main towns across Lolland, but it is a good idea to have some cash on hand when exploring more remote areas.
Lolland is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Violent crime is rare, but, as with any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas or tourist hotspots, so keep an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists on Lolland, but always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 to reach emergency services, including police, fire, and medical assistance. The main hospital on the island is located in Nakskov, with smaller medical facilities available in other towns. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in the main towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Lolland has a relaxed dress code, but avoid overly revealing attire when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, it is polite to dress modestly and remain quiet. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hej' (hi) or 'Goddag' (good day). A handshake is common in more formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as 'smørrebrød' (open-faced sandwiches) and 'rugbrød' (rye bread). Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Lolland like a local, visit the local markets and farm shops where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Danish goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and happy to share their knowledge about the area. Don’t miss visiting the Maribo Lakes Nature Park, which offers beautiful scenery and wildlife. For a unique experience, take a tour of the historic sugar beet industry that has shaped much of Lolland’s economy and culture. Also, consider exploring the picturesque village of Bandholm and the medieval city of Nakskov for a taste of local history and charm.

When is the best time to visit Lolland?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Lolland

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Lolland. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHej
  [hey]
- GoodbyeFarvel
  [far-vel]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNej
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeVenligst
  [ven-list]
- Thank youTak
  [tahk]
- Excuse me/SorryUndskyld
  [oon-skyl]
- How are you?Hvordan har du det?
  [vor-den har do deh]
- Fine. And you?Fint. Og dig?
  [feent. o dahy?]
- Do you speak English?Taler du engelsk?
  [tay-ler doo eng-elsk]
- I don't understandJeg forstår ikke
  [yay for-stor ik-ke]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJeg vil gerne se menuen, venligst
  [yay vil gær-ne say meh-nuen, ven-list]
- I don't eat meatJeg spiser ikke kød
  [yay spee-ser ik-ke kød]
- Cheers!Skål!
  [skol]
- I would like to pay, pleaseJeg vil gerne betale, venligst
  [yay vil gær-ne be-ta-le, ven-list]
- Help!Hjælp!
  [yelp]
- Go away!Gå væk!
  [gaw vek]
- Call the Police!Ring til politiet!
  [ring til po-li-teet]
- Call a doctor!Ring efter en læge!
  [ring ef-ter en lay-eh]
- I'm lostJeg er faret vild
  [yay air far-et vil]
- I'm illJeg er syg
  [yay air syug]
- I'd like to buy...Jeg vil gerne købe...
  [yay vil gær-ne kø-be]
- I'm just lookingJeg kigger bare
  [yay kee-ger bar-e]
- How much is it?Hvor meget koster det?
  [vor mai-hed koster deh]
- That's too expensiveDet er for dyrt
  [deh air for dyurt]
- Can you lower the price?Kan du sænke prisen?
  [kan doo sen-ke pree-sen]
- What time is it?Hvad tid er det?
  [vadh teed air deh]
- It's one o'clockDet er et klokke
  [deh air et klok-ke]
- Half past (10)Halv (10)
  [halv (ten)]
- MorningMorgen
  [mor-ren]
- AfternoonEftermiddag
  [ef-ter-mi-dahg]
- EveningAften
  [af-ten]
- YesterdayI går
  [ee gaw]
- TodayI dag
  [ee day]
- TomorrowI morgen
  [ee mor-ren]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Hvor er en...?
  [vor air en...?]
- What's the address?Hvad er adressen?
  [vadh air ad-res-sen]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan du vise mig (på kortet)?
  [kan doo vee-se my (poh kort-et)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Hvornår er den næste (bus)?
  [vor-nor air den næ-sté (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)En billet (til ....)
  [en bee-let (til ....)]

History of Lolland

The history of Lolland can be traced back to the Neolithic period, around 4000-1700 BCE. Archaeological findings reveal that early inhabitants were engaged in farming and fishing. Numerous megalithic tombs, known as dolmens, dot the landscape, offering a glimpse into the island's ancient past.
During the Viking Age (800-1050 CE), Lolland was a bustling center of trade and maritime activity. The island's strategic location in the Baltic Sea made it an essential stopover for Viking expeditions. Evidence of Viking settlements and burial mounds have been discovered, particularly around the towns of Nakskov and Maribo.
In the medieval era, Lolland was influenced heavily by monastic orders. The establishment of the Maribo Abbey in the early 15th century played a crucial role in the island's religious and cultural life. The abbey became a center for education, agriculture, and spiritual life until the Reformation in the 16th century.
The Protestant Reformation in the early 16th century brought significant changes to Lolland. Monasteries were dissolved, and their lands were confiscated by the Crown. The transition from Catholicism to Lutheranism reshaped the religious landscape of the island and led to the establishment of new parishes and churches.
During the 17th century, Lolland was affected by the numerous wars between Denmark and Sweden. The island suffered from invasions and occupations, particularly during the Dano-Swedish War (1658–1660). These conflicts brought hardship to the local population and left a lasting mark on the island's history.
Lolland's fertile soil made it an ideal location for agricultural innovation. In the 18th and 19th centuries, significant advancements were made in farming techniques, leading to increased productivity. The introduction of sugar beet cultivation in the 19th century transformed the island's economy, making Lolland a major producer of sugar in Denmark.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the rise of industrialization on Lolland. The establishment of railways and factories, particularly in Nakskov, spurred economic growth. The shipbuilding industry also flourished, contributing to the island's modernization and integration into the broader Danish economy.
During World War II, Lolland, like the rest of Denmark, was occupied by Nazi Germany from 1940 to 1945. The island played a role in the resistance movement, with locals participating in acts of sabotage and aiding Jewish refugees. The period of occupation left a significant imprint on the collective memory of the island's inhabitants.
The post-war period brought significant development to Lolland. Infrastructure improvements, such as the construction of the Storstrøm Bridge in 1937 and later the Farø Bridges in 1985, improved connectivity with the rest of Denmark. In recent years, there has been a cultural revival with a focus on preserving the island's rich heritage, promoting tourism, and celebrating local traditions.