Zealand: Denmark's Island Gem
Explore Zealand: Denmark's largest island offers royal castles, Viking history, stunning coastlines, and vibrant culture, all easily accessible from Copenhagen.
Zealand, Denmark's largest island and home to its capital, Copenhagen, offers a captivating blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Beyond the city, discover rolling landscapes dotted with historic castles, charming villages, and stunning coastlines. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites like Kronborg Castle (Hamlet's Elsinore) and Roskilde Cathedral, delve into Viking history at the Viking Ship Museum, or simply relax on the sandy beaches of the Danish Riviera. With easy access from Copenhagen and a wealth of cultural and outdoor experiences, Zealand provides a diverse and enriching travel experience for every visitor. Whether you're drawn to royal history, modern art, or scenic hikes, Zealand promises an unforgettable Danish adventure. Don't miss the chance to explore this island's unique charm and discover why it's a must-see destination in Denmark.
A brief summary to Zealand
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Local tips
- Purchase a Copenhagen Card for unlimited access to public transport and many attractions throughout Zealand, offering significant savings.
- Visit Kronborg Castle in the off-season (September-May) for fewer crowds and a more intimate experience of Hamlet's Elsinore.
- Take a day trip to the Møns Klint cliffs for breathtaking views and stargazing opportunities in Scandinavia's first Dark Sky Park.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Copenhagen Central Station, frequent trains run directly to major towns on Zealand, including Roskilde (28 minutes, DKK 40-65) and Helsingør (45 minutes, DKK 50-80). Use the DOT Tickets app for easy ticket purchase valid on trains, buses, and metro. For destinations further afield, regional trains connect to local bus services. A 24-hour ticket for 4 zones costs approximately DKK 100.
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Driving
Zealand is easily accessible by car. From Copenhagen, major motorways (E20, E47) connect to various parts of the island. Be aware of potential tolls on the Great Belt Bridge (Storebæltsbroen) if traveling to or from Funen. Tolls cost approximately DKK 270 for a standard car. Parking is available in most towns, with hourly rates ranging from DKK 15-30 in city centers.
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Ferry
Ferries connect Zealand to other Danish islands and Sweden. From Helsingør, Scandlines operates frequent ferries to Helsingborg, Sweden (20 minutes, DKK 78-108). Molslinjen provides ferry services from Zealand (Odden) to Jutland (Aarhus and Ebeltoft). Prices vary depending on the route and time of year.
Discover more about Zealand
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Zealand
0.0 km
Explore Zealand, Denmark's largest island: Discover royal castles, Viking history, modern art, and stunning coastlines just a short trip from Copenhagen.
Køge Å
22.0 km
Explore Skagen’s maritime history with hands-on exhibits and live marine engines at Maskinrummet, an atmospheric museum in the heart of the harbour.
Soldatens Lod
22.7 km
Explore the neoclassical masterpieces of Bertel Thorvaldsen in Copenhagen's historic heart.
Cirkusland
23.9 km
Explore Denmark’s first museum dedicated to a single artist, showcasing Thorvaldsen's neoclassical sculptures in a stunning architectural masterpiece beside Christiansborg Palace.
Councilman Garden / Herlufsholm Forest
24.9 km
Colorful 17th-century harbor in the heart of Copenhagen, famous for its historic ships, pastel houses, vibrant quay cafés, and rich maritime heritage.
Stendysse ved Blæsinge
25.8 km
Explore the evolution of Danish design at Copenhagen's Designmuseum Danmark, housed in the historic Royal Frederik's Hospital.
Næstved Station
26.0 km
Explore the evolution of Danish and international design at Copenhagen's historic Designmuseum Danmark.
NæstvedArkiverne
26.1 km
A postcard-perfect canal lined with colorful houses, sailing ships, and bustling cafés, Nyhavn offers a timeless Copenhagen experience, blending history and vibrant city life.
Visit Sydsjælland & Møn
26.1 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Sydsjælland & Møn, a unique Danish destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Køge Ås
26.5 km
Striking lighthouse at Denmark’s northern edge, offering panoramic views, interactive birdwatching, café, exhibitions, and a window into Skagen’s wild coastal nature.
Rundfart Friheden
26.8 km
Explore the rich heritage of Danish design at Designmuseum Danmark in Copenhagen's historic center.
Hans-Jørgen Færks Plads
28.0 km
Explore the evolution of Danish design at Copenhagen's premier design museum.
Gammel Køgegård
28.1 km
Discover the enchanting world of teddy bears at Skagen Bamsemuseum, a must-visit attraction in Denmark's northernmost town.
Bronzestien - Køge Ås
28.4 km
Stroll through ancient landscapes along Køge Ås, where prehistoric burial mounds and glacial history meet serene Danish woodlands near Køge.
Køge Nord
28.7 km
Iconic 19th-century lighthouse near the tip of Denmark, famed for sweeping sea views, dramatic bird migrations, interactive exhibitions, and family-friendly café.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mor Magdas træ
14.4 km
Oplev Peter Skensveds imponerende vægmaleri ved Slagelse Bibliotek, et højdepunkt i byens street art scene.
Gunderslevholm Gods
16.8 km
Step into 14th-century Denmark at Middelaldercentret, an immersive open-air museum in Nykøbing Falster.
Pangea Park
17.5 km
Experience intimate wildlife encounters and conservation efforts at Pangea Park in Bjæverskov, Zealand.
Panzermuseum East
18.6 km
Experience the vibrant Vægmaleri at Stenstuegade 14, a testament to Slagelse's rich cultural heritage and artistic expression.
Skovsgaard Mølle og Bagerimuseum
20.1 km
Experience Slagelse's history and culture through the vibrant Vægmaleri mural at Stenstuegade 14.
Holmegårds Mose
20.3 km
Solgårdsparken is a beloved green oasis in Køge, blending tranquil waterways, historic landscaping, and family-friendly recreation in the heart of South Zealand.
Holmegaard Værk
20.5 km
Experience award-winning organic wines at Vesterhave Vingaard, Denmark's premier coastal vineyard.
Skjoldungestien
20.6 km
Experience royal Denmark at Amalienborg Palace—Copenhagen’s regal heart, known for its rococo architecture, daily Royal Guard ceremony, and living royal history.
Ledreborg Park
21.4 km
Ledreborg Park is a majestic baroque estate near Roskilde, showcasing historic palace grounds, lush formal gardens, woodlands, and vibrant cultural events in Danish countryside.
Ledreborg Castle
21.4 km
Idyllic 19th-century thatched cottage amid Liselund's romantic parklands on Møn, Norske Hus blends Danish charm, historical ambiance, and evocative natural beauty.
Land of Legends | A Land to Explore
21.9 km
A masterful blend of baroque artistry and romantic landscapes, Frederiksborg Castle Gardens offer royal views, tranquil lake walks, and centuries of Danish heritage.
Viking Kings Hall
22.0 km
Experience the Middle Ages firsthand at Middelaldercentret, Denmark's premier medieval open-air museum.
Ladby Kirkeruin
22.5 km
Historic manor estate and vibrant art center where Danish heritage and contemporary creativity unfold across lush parkland near Næstved.
Danish Forsorgshistorisk Museum
23.0 km
Explore the vibrant street art of Slagelse at the captivating mural on Stenstuegade 14.
Shelterplads Hyllinge
23.8 km
An immersive medieval village and living history museum offering hands-on experiences, jousting tournaments, and vibrant medieval life near Nykøbing Falster.
Essential places to dine
The Burger
4.2 km
Savor homemade burgers near Ringsted Outlet, catering to diverse tastes in a welcoming setting.
Malsk by Bratved
20.4 km
Experience authentic rural Danish cuisine and warm hospitality at Malsk by Bratved, a favorite countryside restaurant near Slagelse, set amidst scenic farmland.
Restaurant Holmegaard
20.5 km
Experience Danish culinary artistry amidst the historic ambiance of Holmegaard Værk.
Cafe Mikkel
24.0 km
Discover Café Mikkel in Slagelse: where modern brasserie cuisine meets cozy ambiance, perfect for travelers seeking authentic Danish flavors.
Rib House
24.1 km
Discover Rib House in Slagelse: A delightful restaurant serving mouthwatering ribs and local flavors in a warm atmosphere.
Madtemplet Skovens Restaurant
24.1 km
Experience exquisite Danish cuisine amidst nature's tranquility at Madtemplet Skovens Restaurant in Næstved.
Mexican Chipotle Steak
24.1 km
Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at Mexican Chipotle Steak in Slagelse—where fresh ingredients meet bold flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.
RoastNBeef
24.1 km
Discover the ultimate meat lover's paradise at RoastNBeef in Slagelse, offering delicious American-style dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
La Viva
24.1 km
Relaxed Danish café-restaurant on Slagelse’s Schweizerpladsen, offering creative breakfasts, brunches, and contemporary mains in a stylish, social setting.
Cafe Tidslös
24.1 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Denmark at Cafe Tidslös in Slagelse – where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.
Café Caramel
24.1 km
Lively city-centre café and restaurant in Slagelse, offering classic Danish brunches, inventive burgers, cakes, and cozy terrace seating on bustling Schweizerpladsen.
Uptown
24.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of authentic kebabs at Uptown, a beloved restaurant in Slagelse offering delightful meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Lucky Sushi Slagelse
24.2 km
Experience authentic sushi artistry at Lucky Sushi Slagelse – where fresh ingredients meet exquisite flavors in every bite.
Restaurant Flammen
24.2 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Restaurant Flammen in Slagelse - where grilled meats meet warm hospitality.
Slagelse Lille Køkken
24.2 km
Indulge in flavorful barbecue and chicken delights at Slagelse Lille Køkken - your go-to fast food spot in Slagelse.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ringsted Outlet
4.3 km
Ringsted Outlet offers designer and lifestyle brands at year-round discounts in an open-air, family-friendly setting with free parking and Scandinavian charm.
BOSS Outlet
4.3 km
Discover discounted HUGO BOSS fashion at BOSS Outlet Ringsted, located in the Premier Outlets Center.
Næstved Storcenter
23.6 km
Næstved Storcenter: Southern Zealand’s vibrant retail and social hub, blending diverse shopping, family-friendly dining, and Danish everyday life under one roof.
Galleriet Slagelse
24.0 km
Experience the vibrant local spirit and wide-ranging shopping of Galleriet Slagelse, the essential retail and social destination in the heart of Slagelse, Denmark.
cahécahé
26.7 km
Discover unique Danish fashion at Cahécahé, Næstved's premier boutique for stylish apparel and accessories.
AJ Clothing
27.0 km
Discover contemporary fashion and personalized service at AJ Clothing in Næstved.
Miss O
29.1 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion at Miss O, a boutique gem in Køge's historic center.
Tendens Køge
29.1 km
Discover premium men's fashion at Tendens Køge, featuring top brands and personalized service in the heart of Køge's historic district.
KLUD
29.1 km
Discover KLUD: Køge's premier women's fashion boutique offering curated Danish brands and personalized styling services.
Outlet Køge
29.2 km
Discover unbeatable deals on fashion and lifestyle brands at Outlet Køge, nestled in the charming town of Køge, Denmark.
NORII Roskilde
30.1 km
Discover curated women's fashion and unique home décor at NORII Roskilde, a boutique blending contemporary trends with timeless elegance in the heart of Roskilde.
Vinylfreak
30.2 km
Vinylfreak is Roskilde’s must-visit record store, a vintage retreat for music lovers, collectors, and festival fans seeking rare finds and Danish music gems.
Gliimt
46.4 km
Discover Gliimt: Kalundborg's Premier Children's Clothing Boutique
Thranes Legetøi
46.4 km
Discover the magic of play at Thranes Legetøj, Kalundborg's premier toy store offering a diverse selection for all ages.
Kalundborg Bogbyer
46.6 km
Kalundborg Bogbyer is a welcoming independent bookstore in historic Kalundborg, offering a thoughtfully curated selection of books and hosting vibrant literary events.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Café Sepps
24.0 km
Discover late-night camaraderie at Café Sepps, Slagelse—an unpretentious bar known for affordable drinks, sociable ambience, and the spirit of Danish nightlife.
The Upper Hill
24.1 km
Lively pub and wine bar in the heart of Slagelse, serving craft beers and wines with a warm Danish welcome at bustling Fisketorvet square.
Café Korn - Slagelse
24.1 km
A vibrant café on Slagelse’s historic square, combining Danish tradition with local ingredients, creative brunches, and a warm, contemporary atmosphere.
Caféteket
24.3 km
Caféteket in Slagelse offers locally roasted coffee, artisan baking, and a modern Danish café vibe just steps from town highlights and cultural attractions.
Cafe 23
24.3 km
Experience the heart of Slagelse at Cafe 23, where cozy ambiance meets a diverse selection of beverages in a welcoming setting.
Teater Cafe'en
24.4 km
Atmospheric wine bar and social lounge at the heart of Slagelse’s arts district, perfect for theatre evenings, casual drinks, and soaking up local culture.
Sluk Efter
25.9 km
A friendly cornerstone pub in Næstved, Sluk Efter offers classic Danish hospitality, relaxed vibes, local brews, and genuine town character in a historic setting.
The Old Irish Pub
25.9 km
Classic Irish hospitality, live music, and hearty drinks converge in the heart of Næstved at The Old Irish Pub, your go-to destination for lively evenings out.
Humle Ølbar
25.9 km
Humle Ølbar is Næstved’s signature craft beer bar, offering rotating taps, local brews, and community energy in a welcoming Scandinavian setting in the city centre.
VINBAREN
26.1 km
Stylish wine bar in the center of Næstved featuring curated wines, craft tapas, and Nordic ambiance in a lively, welcoming setting for locals and travelers alike.
Grillen
28.1 km
Experience the cozy charm of Grillen, an inviting bar in Køge, perfect for enjoying local drinks and unwinding after a day of exploration.
RICHTERs Ølstue
28.8 km
Experience old-town Danish pub culture, local beers, and friendly Køge tradition at RICHTERs Ølstue – historic bar, heart of town, warm ambiance.
Den høje stue
28.9 km
Explore Den Høje Stue, a 1527 half-timbered house in Køge, showcasing Denmark's rich architectural history.
Pub Dyssen
29.0 km
Experience Danish 'hygge' at Pub Dyssen in Næstved, offering local drinks and a warm atmosphere.
Vinbaren Køge
29.1 km
Experience Køge's best wine bar, where Danish hygge meets world-class wines in a cozy, historic setting perfect for both locals and travelers.
