Denmark

Overview

• Language: The official languages of Denmark is Danish. However, the vast majority of people fluently speak English as well.
• Useful phrases: Hello (Hej), Thank you (Tak).
• Currency: Danish krone (see current exchange rates here).
• Payment methods: Most restaurants and stores accept major credit cards; however, smaller shops, cafes, or local taxis may only take cash, so I always like to have a few krone on me just in case. ATMs are common and the easiest way to get cash upon arrival.
• Electric plugs: Denmark uses type and type K electrical outlet plugs. Standard voltage is 230V with a standard frequency of 50Hz. This voltage is common in Europe, but if you are coming from the Americas, you will likely need a converter.
• Measurement systems: Like most of the world, Denmark uses the Metric System, measuring distances in kilometers and temperature in Celsius.
• Weather: Denmark has a fairly mild climate, and does not often experience extreme heat or cold. Winter typically has temperatures right around freezing at 32 °F. Summer has pleasant temperatures around 72°F.
• Bonus tip: Denmark is known for ‘hygge,’ which roughly translates to feelings of coziness and contentment. Get ready to adopt this lifestyle when you visit one of the happiest countries in the world!

Logistics

• Visa needs: Denmark is part of Europe’s Schengen zone, a group of 26 European countries who have abolished internal borders between member-Schengen countries. Upon entry to any Schengen country, most citizens from Western countries will not need a formal visa, and will instead get a transit visa at the airport upon entry to the country. These citizens are allowed to stay a maximum of 90 days for every six month period; therefore, you must have at least three month’s validity left in your passport upon entry. For additional details and a full listing of countries requiring formal visas, click here.
• Getting there: The capital city of Copenhagen and the CPH airport is where most international flights will come in. However, Copenhagen is also a major transit hub where you can hop on a train to almost any nearby European country. You can also drive from Germany or across the Øresund bridge from Sweden.
• Getting around: Denmark has very sophisticated public transportation, so it is very easy to travel by train, tram, metro, and bus within the country.
• Driving: Residents of Denmark drive on the right side of the road. Visitors from the United States and Europe typically do not require an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Denmark.

LGBTQ+ Safety

Overall safety ranking: B+

Denmark is known as one of the happiest countries in the world, and this extends to the LGBTQ community! A progressive country on many fronts, there are a wide variety of rights and legal protections for queer folks. Citizens of Denmark are very accepting and you can feel free to be yourself in this welcoming country.

• Are same sex relations illegal? No
• Is same sex marriage legal? Yes
• Are there protections against discrimination? Yes
• Is there the right to change physical gender? Yes