Saltholm Island
A low, wind-brushed island sanctuary in the Øresund, where shallow seas, open meadows and protected birdlife create wild coastal nature on Copenhagen’s doorstep.
Saltholm is a low, windswept island in the Øresund Strait east of Copenhagen Airport, Kastrup, and just west of the Danish–Swedish sea border. Almost entirely flat meadows, salt marsh and mudflats, it is a strictly protected nature reserve and one of Denmark’s key bird habitats, with vast shallow waters teeming with mussels and eelgrass that attract thousands of geese and waterfowl. Access is limited and rustic, offering a rare feeling of solitude and wild coastal nature on the capital’s doorstep.
A brief summary to Saltholm
- Kastrup, DK
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Pack as if there are no facilities: bring water, snacks, sun and wind protection, and any birdwatching gear you want—there are no shops or cafés on Saltholm.
- Wear waterproof boots or sturdy shoes that can handle mud, standing water and uneven meadows; much of the terrain is damp or boggy after rain or high tides.
- Check access rules and breeding-season restrictions in advance so your visit fits within permitted zones and dates, especially between spring and mid-summer.
- Carry binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens; many of the most interesting birds feed and nest at a distance and should not be approached closely.
- Plan for changeable coastal weather: layers are essential, as strong wind, sharp sun and sudden showers can all occur on the same day.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Small passenger boat from Copenhagen area
In summer, small passenger boats sometimes run excursions from harbours near central Copenhagen or from the Amager side towards Saltholm, typically as prebooked nature trips. Sailing time is usually around 45–70 minutes each way, depending on departure point and vessel. Expect to pay roughly 250–450 DKK per adult for a half- or full-day excursion including the boat crossing. Services are weather-dependent and may operate only on selected days, so advance booking and confirmation of schedules is essential.
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Chartered boat from Kastrup or nearby marinas
Another option is to charter a small boat from marinas around Kastrup or along Amager’s east coast. Local skippers familiar with the Øresund shoals can arrange custom trips to Saltholm, usually for small groups. Crossing time is often 25–45 minutes each way. Prices vary by size and duration but typically range from about 1,500–3,500 DKK for a short private outing, with higher costs for longer landings on the island. Check in advance about landing permissions, seasonal restrictions and safety equipment.
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Sea kayak for experienced paddlers
Experienced sea kayakers sometimes paddle from the Amager coastline to Saltholm, taking advantage of the relatively shallow waters but also navigating busy shipping lanes and changeable wind. The crossing usually takes 1.5–3 hours each way depending on conditions and starting point. There is no direct cost beyond equipment or rental, but this option is suitable only for skilled paddlers with proper gear, local knowledge and respect for weather forecasts and nature reserve regulations.
Saltholm location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Saltholm
An offshore world of wind, water and sky
Saltholm rises only a couple of metres above the Øresund, a broad, almost table-flat sliver of land just east of Amager and within sight of Copenhagen’s runways and the Øresund Bridge. Despite this urban proximity, the island feels remote and elemental: endless grassland, salt marsh and glistening tidal flats framed by big northern skies. Shallow waters spread far beyond the shoreline, turning the island and its surrounding shoals into one large, gently breathing seascape. The island stretches roughly 7 km long and 3 km across, yet there are almost no trees and very few buildings to interrupt the horizon. On clear days you can trace the silhouettes of Copenhagen and Malmö on opposite shores while standing amid mudflats and meadows where the loudest sounds are wind and birds. It is this stark contrast between modern infrastructure in the distance and near-pristine nature underfoot that makes Saltholm so distinctive.From medieval land grant to modern nature reserve
Saltholm has been known for centuries; it appears in records from the early 13th century as a royal gift to the Bishop of Roskilde and later became an important source of limestone for Copenhagen’s construction boom. For generations, stone was quarried here and ferried to the city, and cattle from nearby Amager grazed the open pastures, shaping the island’s almost treeless grassland character. In the early 1700s, Saltholm briefly served a very different role as a quarantine island during outbreaks of plague and cholera, isolating travellers before they were allowed to enter Copenhagen. In the 20th century planners even proposed turning Saltholm into a major international airport and transport hub, but the scheme was eventually abandoned in favour of protecting the fragile environment. Today the island is privately owned yet heavily regulated as a nature reserve, with strict rules designed to safeguard its unique landscape and wildlife.Bird sanctuary in the Øresund shallows
The true richness of Saltholm lies in its ecology. Surrounding shallows host extensive mussel beds, eelgrass, snails and crustaceans, forming an abundant buffet for ducks, geese and waders. Vast flocks of barnacle and greylag geese graze the meadows, while eiders and other sea ducks work the offshore feeding grounds. Parts of the island and its southern salt marshes are protected under international conventions, underscoring their importance for nesting and migratory birds. Because of this sensitivity, access is tightly controlled. Large central and southern areas are closed during the spring and early summer breeding season, and some zones remain off limits year-round. Visitors are expected to stay within permitted areas, keep disturbance to an absolute minimum and respect any seasonal markers and local guidance. For nature-minded travellers, this careful management is part of the appeal: a genuine working bird sanctuary rather than a landscaped park.Exploring an island with almost no infrastructure
Facilities on Saltholm are extremely limited, and that is exactly why it feels so special. A small harbour at the northern end functions as the main gateway, and from here informal paths lead across grassland and along low, stony shores. There are no villages, shops or paved roads, only a scattering of farm buildings and shelters tied to the island’s long tradition of grazing livestock. Walking is straightforward but can be soggy; much of the ground is damp or uneven, with tidal pools and muddy sections where waterproof boots are invaluable. In places, the land blurs into the surrounding tidal flats, and you quickly gain a sense of how vulnerable the island is to storms and high water. This lack of conventional attractions means a visit is all about slow observation: watching bird movements, studying coastal plants and feeling the rhythm of weather and tide.Solitude, seasons and subtle details
Because Saltholm has no resident tourist infrastructure and regulated access, visits tend to be occasional and highly seasonal. Spring and early autumn can be spectacular for birdlife and atmospheric light over the Øresund, while summer brings long days, grazing flocks and the hum of insects in the grass. Even at busier times, the island rarely feels crowded; the open landscape and restricted zones disperse people naturally. This is a place for travellers who enjoy detail and quiet: the texture of chalky soil underfoot, the patterns left by receding water on the flats, and the contrast between soft grass meadows and the hard modern line of the Øresund Bridge on the horizon. Saltholm is not about ticking sights off a list; it is about entering a different tempo just a short sea crossing from metropolitan Copenhagen.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Peberholm
3.9 km
A man-made island where nature reclaimed the landscape—Europe's most successful ecological experiment.
Krudhuset
9.4 km
Marvel at St. Alexander Nevsky Church, Copenhagen’s ornate Russian Orthodox landmark crowned by golden onion domes, blending history, artistry, and spiritual serenity.
The Old Execution site in Copenhagen 1946-1950
10.5 km
A hidden concrete foundation marks where post-war Denmark executed Nazi collaborators in secrecy.
Nyholm Central Guardhouse
11.4 km
Discover Aarhus’s Latin Quarter, where historic charm meets a lively cultural scene, bustling cafés, artisan shops, and rich Danish heritage in the city’s oldest district.
Copenhagen By Mie & Friends
11.6 km
Discover Copenhagen’s historic Botanical Garden, a serene oasis with Victorian glasshouses, winding paths, and thousands of rare plant species in the city’s heart.
Havnepromenade
11.6 km
Copenhagen's historic 750-meter waterfront where 19th-century maritime heritage meets vibrant contemporary urban life.
The Kissing Stairs
11.6 km
Copenhagen's beloved waterfront amphitheatre where culture, community, and harbour views converge.
Havnegade Promenaden
11.6 km
Copenhagen's revitalized waterfront promenade blending historic charm with playful modern recreation.
Larsens Pl.
11.7 km
Historic waterfront where Scandinavian dreams embarked for America, now a refined promenade of heritage and harbour views.
I am Queen Mary
11.7 km
A powerful harborfront monument honoring rebel leader Mary Thomas, confronting Copenhagen’s colonial past beside the historic West Indian Warehouse.
Nyhavnsbroen & Nyhavn
11.7 km
Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, famed for its golden onion domes, rich history, and unique architectural style rooted in Danish-Russian royal ties.
Knippelsbro
11.7 km
Copper-topped towers, lifting roadway and harbor breezes make Knippelsbro a compact, characterful bridge linking historic Slotsholmen with canalside Christianshavn.
Nyhavn
11.7 km
Copenhagen's most iconic waterfront: pastel townhouses, maritime history, and lively canal-side dining.
Sankt Annæ Pl.
11.8 km
Historic square blending royal heritage, climate innovation, and urban livability in central Copenhagen.
ZinkGlobal by Kim Michael
11.8 km
Aarhus University Park blends modernist architecture, landscaped gardens, and tranquil lakes to create an inviting oasis at the heart of Denmark’s vibrant student city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Den Blå Planet
6.5 km
Northern Europe's largest aquarium where sharks swim overhead and sea otters steal your heart.
Dragør havn
6.9 km
Historic Dragør Havn blends centuries of maritime heritage with a working waterfront, cosy quayside cafés and wide Øresund views just south of Copenhagen.
Amager Beachpark
7.3 km
Copenhagen's 4.6 km urban beach with lagoons, artificial island, and Øresund Bridge views.
Øresund Bridge
7.8 km
Discover Denmark’s Viking maritime past with authentic ships, reconstructed vessels, hands-on workshops, and stunning fjord views at the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde.
Amager Beach Park
8.1 km
Copenhagen’s long, sandy front porch on the Øresund, where dunes, lagoons and a city promenade turn everyday life into a seaside escape.
St. Anne's Church
9.7 km
Elegant red-brick Catholic church on Amager, blending early 20th-century Art Nouveau architecture with a calm, light-filled interior and living parish life.
Amager
10.0 km
Copenhagen’s all‑in‑one island: wild grasslands, long sandy beaches, bold architecture and easygoing waterfront life, all just minutes from the historic city centre.
Operaen
11.0 km
Innovative cocktails in a historic Copenhagen setting.
DR Koncerthuset
11.0 km
Copenhagen’s bold blue concert house, where world-class acoustics, striking Jean Nouvel architecture and Denmark’s national ensembles meet under one dramatic roof.
Lille Mølle
11.0 km
A compact windmill on Christianshavn’s ramparts, Lille Mølle blends defensive history, domestic interiors and gentle canal‑side views in one atmospheric museum.
Refshaleøen, Copenhagen
11.1 km
Copenhagen's industrial-turned-creative waterfront where shipyard heritage meets cutting-edge culture and world-class cuisine.
Green George af Thomas Dambo - Trold nr. 50
11.1 km
A towering recycled-wood troll at Christiania’s entrance, Green George blends street art, sustainability and playful storytelling in the heart of Copenhagen.
Holmen
11.1 km
Historic naval islands turned calm harbour quarter, where dockyards, academies and the Copenhagen Opera House share wide quays and sweeping city views.
Christiania
11.1 km
A self-governing “freetown” of murals, lakeside paths and experimental living, tucked behind Copenhagen’s old ramparts in the heart of Christianshavn.
Church of Our Saviour
11.2 km
Copenhagen’s Baroque landmark with a daring spiral spire, soaring views over canals and rooftops, and a luminous interior rich in music, symbolism and royal history.
Essential places to dine
Noma
10.8 km
Boundary-pushing New Nordic tasting menus in an understated waterfront warehouse, where radical seasonality, fermentation and Danish warmth shape an immersive dining experience.
Restaurant Lola
11.1 km
Bold, travel-inspired cooking and inventive smørrebrød served in a sunny 17th‑century house with a leafy garden hideaway on Christianshavn’s historic ramparts.
La Banchina
11.2 km
Tiny blue harbour house on Refshaleøen blending seasonal pescatarian cooking, natural wines, sauna culture and swims into one uniquely Copenhagen experience.
Alchemist
11.3 km
Six hours of theatrical culinary innovation where haute cuisine meets immersive art installation.
Restaurant Barr
11.3 km
Modern North Sea cuisine, serious beer and warm Nordic design meet in a historic harbor-front warehouse in the heart of Copenhagen’s Christianshavn.
Restaurant Kanalen
11.4 km
Seasonal Danish cooking and relaxed Nordic elegance in a historic canalside house on Christianshavn, where boats glide past your table and the water sets the mood.
Cafe Wilder
11.4 km
A cherished French bistro where Parisian charm meets Copenhagen authenticity on the historic streets of Christianshavn.
Kadeau
11.5 km
Bornholm’s wild pantry, refined in a serene Christianshavn dining room, where a seasonal New Nordic tasting menu and two-star precision define an intimate evening.
Khun Juk
11.6 km
Refined Thai dining tucked into Copenhagen’s iconic Nyhavn, where candlelit tables, fresh flowers and layered flavors turn dinner into an intimate evening event.
No. 2
11.8 km
Relaxed Nordic brasserie by the Copenhagen waterfront, pairing Michelin‑level know‑how with harbour views, seasonal Danish produce and polished yet informal service.
Skipperkroen
11.8 km
Harbourfront smørrebrød and seafood in an 18th‑century Nyhavn house, pairing classic Danish flavours with canal views from cosy rooms and a lively terrace.
Cap Horn
11.8 km
Candlelit Nordic bistro in a historic Nyhavn townhouse, blending classic Danish seafood, canal views and cosy hygge from late morning to late evening.
à terre
11.9 km
à terre brings French fine dining infused with Nordic creativity to central Copenhagen, offering an intimate, innovative tasting menu experience near Copenhagen’s key attractions.
Nyhavns Færgekro
11.9 km
Classic Danish cooking and a famed herring buffet in a cozy canal-side tavern, set within one of Nyhavn’s colorful townhouses overlooking Copenhagen’s historic harbor.
Aoc
12.0 km
Two Michelin stars of bold Nordic flavors in a historic 17th-century cellar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Copenhagenglass
11.7 km
Intimate glassblowing studio and shop near Nyhavn, where Danish maritime-inspired designs and hands-on sessions turn molten glass into memorable Copenhagen souvenirs.
Maritime Antiques &
11.7 km
Atmospheric basement shop near Nyhavn where genuine maritime antiques share space with heritage-inspired clothing and rugged knitwear in a cosy, ship-like setting.
The Crown souvenir
11.9 km
Compact, colorful souvenir stop on elegant Amaliegade, perfect for picking up Danish flags, Little Mermaid trinkets and royal-themed keepsakes near Amalienborg.
Zane
12.0 km
Intimate Copenhagen florist and design boutique on stylish Bredgade, blending seasonal blooms, Nordic homeware and thoughtful gifts in a cosy, lived-in space.
Royal Souvenir Shop
12.0 km
Compact and colourful, Royal Souvenir Shop on Bredgade distils Copenhagen into easy‑to‑pack gifts, from royal guards and Vikings to flags, mugs and playful keepsakes.
Magasin du Nord
12.1 km
Copenhagen’s classic department store: historic architecture, Nordic style, gourmet treats and relaxed cafés gathered under one elegant roof on Kongens Nytorv.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
12.1 km
Central Copenhagen’s cosy hygge boutique for Danish design, classic souvenirs, and easy last-minute gifts just off bustling Kongens Nytorv square.
Viking Souvenirs
12.1 km
Authentic Danish and Viking-themed souvenirs in Copenhagen's historic city center.
The Wilde Shop
12.1 km
A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Danish Souvenirs & luggages
12.1 km
Central Strøget souvenir and luggage shop combining classic Danish mementos with practical travel gear, open long hours for convenient, last‑minute Copenhagen gifts.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design
12.1 km
Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
Urban Outfitters
12.2 km
Trendy multi-level fashion and lifestyle store bringing Urban Outfitters’ eclectic clothing, homeware and vinyl mix to the heart of Copenhagen’s Østergade.
Danish Souvenirs
12.3 km
Central Copenhagen souvenir hub on Højbro Plads, packed with Danish icons, practical travel extras and long opening hours just steps from Strøget.
ILLUM
12.3 km
ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Storm - design art fashion
12.4 km
A pioneering Copenhagen concept store where avant-garde fashion, art, design objects and niche fragrances meet in a minimalist, gallery-like space on Store Regnegade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Whammy Bar
9.8 km
Colourful neighbourhood bar on Amager serving generous cocktails, draft beers and American‑style comfort food to a friendly crowd of locals and visitors.
Lassie Bar
10.7 km
A classic Amager brown bar where bottled beer, schnapps and neighborhood chatter create a quietly authentic slice of everyday Copenhagen nightlife.
Eiffel bar
11.4 km
Experience the cozy atmosphere of Eiffel Bar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets affordable drinks in a charming setting.
TATA Cocktail Bar
11.9 km
A velvet-draped, fireplace-warmed cocktail hideaway inside Hotel Sanders, where classic mixology, Danish design and theatre-inspired charm blend seamlessly.
Brønnum
12.0 km
An opulent, multi‑room cocktail bar steps from Kongens Nytorv, where historic townhouse elegance meets contemporary mixology and candlelit late‑night conversation.
Aloha Beach Bar
12.2 km
Island-inspired cocktails, neon glow and late-night party vibes packed into a compact tropical bar just off Gothersgade in central Copenhagen.
Balthazar
12.2 km
A luxurious Champagne bar at Hotel d’Angleterre, pairing an extensive bubbles list and crafted cocktails with velvet-luxe interiors and a lively DJ-backed ambience.
Bar Deco
12.2 km
Intimate Art Deco–inspired cocktail bar near Kongens Nytorv, pairing crafted drinks with moody lighting and a relaxed, grown‑up Copenhagen atmosphere.
Ved Stranden
12.2 km
Canal-side natural wine bar and shop in a historic townhouse, blending Copenhagen charm, thoughtful bottles and relaxed, living-room warmth by Christiansborg Palace.
K-Bar
12.2 km
Intimate harbourfront cocktail den in central Copenhagen, known for monochrome style, inventive infusions and quietly confident classics poured with real care.
1105
12.3 km
Intimate, dimly lit cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s 1105 postcode, pairing dark, elegant interiors with carefully crafted Nordic-inspired drinks and classic mixes.
Pier5 Bar
12.3 km
Waterfront cocktails and harbor views in Copenhagen's contemporary hotel bar.
Black Swan
12.3 km
Craft-forward, cosy and unpretentious, Black Swan is Copenhagen’s inner-city local where rotating taps, serious cider and good conversation flow late into the night.
The Dubliner
12.4 km
Lively Irish pub energy on Copenhagen’s Amagertorv, serving hearty pub classics, well-poured pints, live music and big-screen sport in a cosy, wood-lined setting.
The Bird and The Churchkey
12.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lusso
12.2 km
A compact, high-end Copenhagen nightclub with champagne-forward table service, dim lighting and a stylish late-night crowd just steps from Kongens Nytorv.
Mini Bar
12.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
The Zoo
12.4 km
Intimate late-night nightclub on Sværtegade in Copenhagen’s historic center, blending a compact dance floor, DJ-driven beats and a casual, social bar atmosphere.
Culture Box
12.4 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Club Mambo
12.6 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
Chateau Motel
12.6 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Hive
12.7 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Mirror
12.8 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Rumors
12.8 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Miami Bar
12.8 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Dorsia
12.8 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
La Terraza
12.8 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Cosy Bar
12.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Cosy Bar, a top gay nightclub in Copenhagen offering fantastic music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable nights.
Arch
12.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Module
13.0 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Module Night Club in Copenhagen, where world-class DJs and an electrifying atmosphere await.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Zen
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Wildlife Habitat
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Seasonal Only
- Remote
Location Audience
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
