50 Fun Facts About Denmark You Didn’t Know

Fun Facts on Denmark to Learn All About It 

Ready to learn all about Denmark?

Facts are one of the best ways to learn more about something, and I personally love to read them! I’ve put together for you quite a bit of facts on Denmark; I’ve split them into 5 categories:

• Most interesting facts of Denmark
• Interesting facts about Denmark culture
• Fun facts about Denmark for kids
• Weird facts about Denmark
• General facts on Denmark

Let’s dive in straight away with our first category!

Most Interesting Facts of Denmark

In this first part, I’ve gathered the most interesting Denmark facts, all themes combined.

1. Danemark is one of the flattest countries in the world

Denmark isn’t the place to showcase your skiing abilities, as the country has no mountains.

The highest natural point, Møllehøj, stands at a mere 170.86 meters. Instead, the landscape is dominated by lush green plains, sandy beaches, and charming islands, while 13% of the land is covered in forests, including the famous Nordmann fir, known as the quintessential Christmas tree.

2. Denmark is made up of 443 islands!

Denmark has 443 islands, but only 76 of them are inhabited. New islands are sometimes formed by sedimentation, some have been created artificially and others disappeared like the island of Jordsand in 1999.

3. Greenland and the Faroe Islands are autonomous territories attached to Denmark

The 2 regions have been part of Denmark since 1814 when the union with Norway was dissolved by the Treaty of Kiel. However, these 2 emblematic territories of the history of Denmark regularly try to claim their independence.

Sørvágsvatn in the Faroe Islands

4. Denmark ranks third globally for having the longest stretch of maritime coastline

With 52,518 kilometers of coastline, Denmark is in third place, tied with Indonesia and after Canada and Norway.

5. No Dane is more than 50 kilometers from the sea

Indeed, being in Denmark, you’ll never be more than 50 kilometers from the sea, which is about 1-hour drive. This may be one of the reasons why learning to swim is so important in Danish education.

6. Denmark is not as cold as you might think 

Denmark is often believed to be a very cold and icy country, but this isn’t entirely accurate. Snowfall is rare, and winter temperatures typically range between 0 to 5°C (32-41°F), but the wind is strong. While summers are brief, the weather is generally pleasant.

7. The days’ length varies dramatically from one season to another

In summer, the days are very long: you can come home at midnight and still see the sun setting in the distance!

During the height of summer, it never really gets dark. In winter, the days are usually very short and it gets dark as early as 4 or 5 pm.

Copenhagen’s Nyhavn under the midnight sun

8. Danish society places high importance on the youth

Children are highly valued in Danish society, and it’s almost impossible to walk around without coming across a baby carriage or a little blonde head sticking out of a bicycle cart.

The country’s social policies are clearly geared towards supporting children, providing them with ample opportunities for learning and growth. In schools, students are encouraged to learn and develop at their own pace with an emphasis on autonomy. At the age of 16, they can start working and receive financial assistance for the duration of their studies without any income restrictions. 

9. English is almost a second language

People speak very good English everywhere in Denmark, regardless of their social level.

The reason behind this may be the fact that English-language films are rarely dubbed into Danish given the very few Danish speakers in the world. As a result, children hear English from a very young age and learn the language much more easily than in other countries. Of course, education also plays a huge part in this. 

10. The Danish alphabet has 3 additional letters

The Danish language uses a Latin alphabet consisting of 29 letters, which includes 3 extra letters not found in English: Å, Ø, and Æ. These 3 letters appear at the end of the Danish alphabet after the letter Z. 

11. Workdays usually end between 4 and 5 pm

For the Danes, having a work-life balance is essential. Leaving work late and neglecting your personal life is a real sign of imbalance.

The Danish system really promotes fulfillment outside of work, whether through sports, volunteering, or personal life. This doesn’t mean they don’t work, on the contrary: they are among the most efficient workers in Europe.

12. The legal working week is 37 hours

In general, Danes work 37 hours a week and have flexible working hours, which allows them to perform some personal tasks during their working day.

13. Danish employees are entitled to 5 weeks of vacation per year

The paid leave system is the following: each month worked gives the right to 2.08 days of leave, meaning 5 weeks of leave per year (24.96 days).

14. Parents are each allowed 11 weeks of paid leave after the birth of a child

Prior to 2022, Danish parents were granted a total of 48 weeks of parental leave, with the mother taking 14 weeks after giving birth and the father taking 2.

However, as of 2022, both parents can take 11 weeks of birth leave each, and the remaining 26 weeks can be shared equally between them, in compliance with gender equality. 

15. Hierarchy at work is almost inexistent

There is very little difference between the employer and the employees. The business culture in Denmark is mainly based on the well-being of the employees and teamwork. Most offices are open spaces where everyone can get together more easily in a friendly atmosphere.

16. The cost of living in Denmark is high

Denmark has the highest price level in the European Union, about 37% higher than the average. This is due to 2 factors in particular: the high wage level (higher than the OECD average) and a VAT rate of 25% even on basic necessities.

17. It is the 2nd happiest country in the world

According to the latest World Happiness Report, Denmark is ranked as the second happiest country in the world, just after Finland.

The Danish people stand out for their confidence index: confidence in their surroundings, in administrative institutions such as their government, and in justice.

Danes jumping in the water at Islands Brygge

18. There is an unofficial Danish rule that says “no one is better than another”

Janteloven is a fundamental principle of equality and community collaboration in Danish culture. Due to its significance, gender equality is highly valued and prioritized in daily life.

19. The famous Carlsberg Brewery was founded in Denmark 

Founded in Copenhagen in 1847 by Jacob Christian Jacobsen, Carlsberg Brewery has become one of the world’s largest beer producers. The first brewery of the Danish brand, located in the southeast of the city, can now be visited to discover the production process of beer and enjoy a tasting.

20. The smørrebrød is an iconic dish in the Danish cuisine 

Smørrebrød are these open-faced sandwiches that appeared at the beginning of the 20th century in Denmark when the working class saw its meal break time decrease. The use of rye for bread dates back to before the industrial revolution, when people had to eat modestly in the countryside. Today, these sandwiches are a classic and a must-try food.

Typical Smørrebrød

21. Denmark has a total of 28 Michelin-starred restaurants, 15 of which are in Copenhagen

Denmark is a prime foodie destination thanks to its 28 restaurants that together count no less than 39 stars! The 3-star restaurant Noma is the most famous of them. 

22. Denmark was the first European nation to abolish slavery

Denmark abolished slavery in 1792, setting an example for other countries in the world.

23. Denmark was the first country to legalize same-sex unions

In 1989, Denmark was the first country to allow a form of civil union for same-sex couples, giving them some or all of the rights and responsibilities of marriage. Marriage was finally legalized in 2012.

24. The world’s oldest flag is the Danish flag

Countries regularly change their flags, either to follow a change of regime or by taste. But some have never changed. The Danish flag, which dates back to 1536, is one of these, making it the oldest flag still in use.

25. Denmark is a constitutional monarchy

In Denmark, the political system is a constitutional monarchy, where a hereditary monarch serves as the head of state.

The current royal family is descended from the Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg dynasty, which is more than 1,000 years old, and Queen Margrethe II has been the monarch since 1972.

Changing of the guard at Amalienborg, the royal family’s main residence

26. The Danish monarchy is the oldest in Europe

Denmark has the oldest royal family in Europe, not the United Kingdom as many people think. The monarchy in Denmark dates back to the reign of Gorm the Old, who died in 958.

But in the course of history, various dynasties have succeeded each other at the head of Denmark, and it’s not the current one
that has reigned for the longest time in Europe. 

27. Denmark was invaded by Germany during World War II

While Nazi Germany and Denmark had agreed on a non-aggression pact in 1939, German troops invaded the country on April 9, 1940, in 2 hours, without encountering any resistance. This is how Denmark entered WWII.

28. The Danish resistance saved the majority of the country’s Jews from deportation

While roundups were organized in 1943, the Germans didn’t find many people to deport. With the help of the population and resistance networks, most Danish Jews crossed the Øresund to Sweden on fishing boats. Out of the 7,800 Danish Jews, only 481 (6%) were deported.

29. Denmark and Sweden are connected by the Øresund Bridge

 Connecting the cities of Copenhagen in Denmark and Malmö in Sweden, the Øresund bridge-tunnel stretches over a distance of 16 kilometers, serving as a crucial link between the European continent and Scandinavia. It’s possible to cross the bridge in a mere 36 min by train or 50 min by car. 

Interesting Facts About Denmark Culture

Let’s try to understand the Danish culture with these 8 Denmark fun facts. 

30. There is a 100% Danish concept that has become popular throughout the world: Hygge

The Danish term Hygge has no direct translation in English as it represents a unique concept in the Danish language.

Basically, it’s the feeling of warmth, softness, and deep calm that you get when you feel good. It’s that feeling you get when you’re with people you love, drinking a beer and having fun. The idea of Hygge has gained popularity in the interior design industry.

31. People display Danish flags all year round

The Danes have a strong sense of patriotism and it’s common to see Danish flags flying everywhere. You can spot them hanging from windows, poles in gardens, and even on birthday cakes! 

32. Alcohol is part of the Danish culture

Drinking alcoholic beverages is common in Denmark, even on weekdays, and public drinking is allowed. It’s also one of the nations with the youngest generation of drinkers in the world, as it’s not surprising to see 13 and 15-year-olds having a drink with their families. 

33. Danes perfectly follow the rules

For the most part, Danes are very disciplined and follow the rules and laws with impressive diligence. This translates into situations where even if there are no cars in sight, Danes won’t cross the street on red lights as it is against the law.

34. Danes are very polite but rarely say “thank you” or “please”

“Please”, “Excuse me”, “Thank you”… Forget all these words if you go to Denmark, they are almost never used!

That’s the paradox because Danes are extremely polite and respectful. Their manner of expressing it, however, may be different – for example, they may order a beer with a simple, direct phrase such as “Give me a beer” at a bar.

35. In Denmark, the bicycle is king! 

Danes have a great passion for cycling: whether they are in a suit and tie, a dress or high heels, with or without kids, going to work or to school, they ride their trusty bicycles through the streets. In Copenhagen, half of the population commutes daily on bicycles, and there are more bikes than people in the city.

36. Parents can leave their babies alone in front of stores or cafes 

Don’t panic if you see a baby sleeping outside in a carriage when visiting Copenhagen or anywhere else. In Denmark, this is normal!

While this may seem strange to you, it’s simply a testament to the great sense of trust and security the Danes have: they aren’t afraid that someone will come and steal their baby because they know that this won’t happen.

37. Privacy and intimacy are very important to Danes

Danes highly value their privacy, hence they may not necessarily initiate a greeting such as “Hello, how are you?” as it may be the norm in other countries. But this doesn’t mean they are unfriendly or disinterested; they simply respect your personal space.

Fun Facts About Denmark for Kids

While the previous facts are suitable for children, this section contains interesting facts about Denmark specifically designed to quench the curiosity of young minds.

38. The famous tale The Little Mermaid is Danish

The Little Mermaid, Den Lille Havfrue in Danish, was written by the poet and novelist Hans Christian Andersen and published in Copenhagen in 1837. The character has become the emblem of the city.

The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen

39. A Danish castle inspired Hamlet to Shakespeare

Although the playwright probably never set foot in Kronborg Castle, the accounts of Danish nobles visiting London and of 3 actors from his troupe who performed at the Danish court will have served as sufficient evidence. As a matter of fact, when William Shakespeare wrote Hamlet between 1598 and 1601, the town of Helsingor and its castle were already renowned worldwide.

This jewel of Renaissance architecture is today one of the most important landmarks in Denmark and a tourists’ favorite day trip from Copenhagen.

40. Denmark has the 2 oldest amusement parks still in operation in the world

Bakken, situated in Klampenborg and established in the 17th century by King Christian V, is the oldest amusement park globally, with some of its attractions being over 80 years old! Tivoli Gardens, which opened in 1843 in the heart of Copenhagen, is the more renowned second one.

41. The Tivoli Gardens heavily inspired Disneyland

Walt Disney is said to have visited Tivoli Gardens for the first time in 1951 and, according to legend, was inspired to create Disneyland, which opened its doors 4 years after his visit to Tivoli. 

42. LEGO was born in Denmark

The world-renowned toy brand that created the iconic colored bricks was born in a modest carpentry workshop in Denmark. Its factory situated in Billund now houses the Legoland theme park, a popular tourist attraction for both children and adults. 

LEGO is in fact the acronym for “Leg Godt”, “Play Well” in Danish.

LEGOLAND at Billund

43. A Danish king inspired the inventors of Bluetooth 

The inspiration for Bluetooth technology comes from the Danish Viking king Harald Blåtand (“blue tooth” in Danish) who ruled from 958 to 985 and also introduced Christianity to Denmark.

The logo directly refers to the monarch as it combines his initials in the Runic alphabet layered together.

44. The pastry was introduced to Denmark by the Austrians

Austrian pastry chefs settled in Denmark in the 1840s and brought their know-how with them. That’s why the Danish word for pastries is wienerbrød, meaning “Vienna bread” in Danish.

Weird Facts About Denmark

This is the section I love the most. Below, you can find 6 very weird facts about Denmark, that can also be funny to know.

45. There are 3 times more pigs than people in Denmark

In fact, the number of pigs is 18.9 million, compared to 5.5 million Danes. As a result, Denmark is the world’s largest exporter of pork, with 90% of its production sold to 140 countries.

46. Danes absolutely love licorice!

Danes have all kinds of weird licorice-flavored stuff to eat, salty and sweet. There are of course sweets, but also ice creams or drinks… And much more! If you like it too, you’ll be served: there’s even a whole festival dedicated to licorice.

Danish licorice ice cream

47. The 25 and 30-year-old singles are celebrated in a very special way 

If you are single at the dawn of your 25th birthday, you will be covered in cinnamon by your friends. For new 30-somethings, black pepper replaces cinnamon, which is far less fun.

48. Danes celebrate summer by burning a witch

All over the country, Danes gather around a fire on June 23rd to celebrate the summer solstice. They sing, attend various shows and burn… a doll! In the past though, witches were actually burned to deter them in the Middle Ages.

49. The Danes literally jump into the new year 

On New Year’s Eve, the Danes have a tradition of climbing onto chairs just before midnight and jumping off of them once the 12 strokes of midnight have sounded for good luck.

50. At weddings, Danes kiss the bride and groom… on the mouth 

One of the main traditions is to kiss the groom on the mouth: if the bride or the groom is away, the guests can come and kiss the spouse left without his other half. 

General Facts on Denmark

You’ll find below a few general Denmark facts, to learn more about this European country:

• Name: Denmark (English) / Danmark (Danish)
• Land area: 42,951 km² (without Greenland & The Faroe Islands)
• Population: 5,935,619
• Name of inhabitants: Danish / Dane 
• Currency: Danish crown
• Website: Denmark

Denmark Flag

More Facts! 

If you want to learn more about Denmark, check out this other facts guide:

• Facts about Copenhagen
• Facts about Education in Denmark
• Facts about Animals in Denmark

Or click here to see ALL the facts up on the blog! Spoiler alert: there’s A LOT of them.

The Full List of the 50 Denmark Facts

1. Danemark is one of the flattest countries in the world
2. Denmark is made up of 443 islands!
3. Greenland and the Faroe Islands are autonomous territories attached to Denmark
4. Denmark ranks third globally for having the longest stretch of maritime coastline
5. No Dane is more than 50 kilometers from the sea
6. Denmark is not as cold as you might think
7. The days’ length varies dramatically from one season to another
8. Danish society places high importance on the youth
9. English is almost a second language
10. The Danish alphabet has 3 additional letters
11. Workdays usually end between 4 and 5 pm
12. The legal working week is 37 hours
13. Danish employees are entitled to 5 weeks of vacation per year
14. Parents are each allowed 11 weeks of paid leave after the birth of a child
15. Hierarchy at work is almost inexistent
16. The cost of living in Denmark is high
17. It is the 2nd happiest country in the world
18. There is an unofficial Danish rule that says “no one is better than another”
19. The famous Carlsberg Brewery was founded in Denmark 
20. The smørrebrød is an iconic dish in the Danish cuisine
21. Denmark has a total of 28 Michelin-starred restaurants, 15 of which are in Copenhagen
22. Denmark was the first European nation to abolish slavery
23. Denmark was the first country to legalize same-sex unions
24. The world’s oldest flag is the Danish flag
25. Denmark is a constitutional monarchy
26. The Danish monarchy is the oldest in Europe
27. Denmark was invaded by Germany during World War II
28. The Danish resistance saved the majority of the country’s Jews from deportation
29. Denmark and Sweden are connected by the Øresund Bridge
30. There is a 100% Danish concept that has become popular throughout the world: Hygge
31. People display Danish flags all year round
32. Alcohol is part of the Danish culture
33. Danes perfectly follow the rules
34. Danes are very polite but rarely say “thank you” or “please”
35. In Denmark, the bicycle is king!
36. Parents can leave their babies alone in front of stores or cafes
37. Privacy and intimacy are very important to Danes
38. The famous tale The Little Mermaid is Danish
39. Denmark has the 2 oldest amusement parks still in operation in the world
40. A Danish castle inspired Hamlet to Shakespeare
41. The Tivoli Gardens heavily inspired Disneyland
42. LEGO was born in Denmark
43. The pastry was introduced to Denmark by the Austrians
44. A Danish king inspired the inventors of Bluetooth
45. There are 3 times more pigs than people in Denmark
46. Danes absolutely love licorice!
47. The 25 and 30-year-old singles are celebrated in a very special way 
48. Danes celebrate summer by burning a witch
49. The Danes literally jump into the new year
50. At weddings, Danes kiss the bride and groom… on the mouth

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