Denmark: Schengen Guide for UK Travellers
Yes, Denmark is a member of the Schengen zone. Every day you spend in Denmark counts toward your 90-day Schengen allowance within any rolling 180-day period. Since Brexit, UK passport holders must include Danish stays in their overall Schengen day count.
Denmark is synonymous with hygge, the Danish concept of cosiness that permeates everything from candlelit cafes to beautifully designed interiors. Copenhagen has become one of Europe's most exciting cities, with world-leading restaurants, cutting-edge architecture, and a cycling culture that puts most cities to shame. Beyond the capital, Denmark offers Viking history in Roskilde, Hans Christian Andersen's Odense, the white cliffs of Mon, and family-friendly attractions like Legoland in Billund. It is a compact, well-organised country that rewards short visits.
Key Facts
- Schengen Member: Yes
- EU Member: Yes
- Year Joined Schengen: 2001
- Capital: Copenhagen
- Currency: Danish Krone (DKK)
- Languages: Danish
Denmark joined the Schengen zone in 2001. Note that the Faroe Islands and Greenland are not part of the Schengen area, despite being territories of the Kingdom of Denmark.
Exploring Denmark?
A Copenhagen city break or a Legoland family trip still uses Schengen days, especially if combined with Sweden or Norway. Track every day with Entorii and keep your allowance in check.
How Long Can You Stay?
UK passport holders can stay in Denmark (and the wider Schengen zone) for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period without a visa. This is a combined limit across all Schengen countries. A long weekend in Copenhagen plus a ski trip to Norway plus a summer holiday in Greece all count from the same pool of days.
Most UK visitors to Denmark stay for 3 to 5 days, typically for a Copenhagen city break or a Legoland family trip. Longer stays of a week or two are common for summer holidays exploring the Danish coastline and countryside. These durations sit comfortably within the 90-day limit, but Denmark's proximity to other Scandinavian Schengen countries (Sweden and Norway) means multi-country trips can accumulate days faster than expected.
Top Destinations in Denmark
Copenhagen (3-4 days)
Nyhavn harbour, Tivoli Gardens, the Little Mermaid, Christiania, and Michelin-starred restaurants.
Aarhus (2-3 days)
Denmark's second city with the ARoS art museum, a Viking museum, and a lively waterfront district.
Billund & Legoland (2-3 days)
The original Legoland theme park and the new LEGO House, a must-visit for families.
Skagen (2-3 days)
The northernmost point of Denmark where two seas meet, known for light, art, and seafood.
Roskilde (1 day)
Viking Ship Museum and the UNESCO-listed cathedral, an easy day trip from Copenhagen.
Getting There from the UK
Direct flights from the UK serve Copenhagen and Billund. Flight times are about one and three-quarter hours to Copenhagen and slightly less to Billund. British Airways, SAS, Norwegian, easyJet, and Ryanair all operate routes. Copenhagen Airport (Kastrup) is Scandinavia's busiest hub and is well connected to the city centre by metro in about fifteen minutes. Billund is served by Ryanair from London Stansted and seasonal services from other UK airports, making it the gateway to Legoland. DFDS also runs an overnight ferry from Copenhagen to Oslo, useful for combining Scandinavian destinations.
Travel Tips
Denmark uses the Danish Krone (DKK), not the Euro. However, Denmark is one of the most cashless societies in Europe. Credit and debit cards, including contactless payments, are accepted almost everywhere, from shops and restaurants to street food stalls and public transport. You rarely need cash in Copenhagen, though it is worth carrying a small amount for rural areas or market stalls.
Copenhagen is expensive by European standards. Budget-conscious travellers should look into the Copenhagen Card, which covers public transport and free entry to over 80 museums and attractions. Street food markets like Reffen and Torvehallerne offer good meals at lower prices than sit-down restaurants. Cycling is the best way to get around Copenhagen; the city has excellent bike infrastructure and rental bikes are available everywhere. Danes speak excellent English, so communication is never an issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Denmark in the Schengen zone?
Yes. Denmark has been a member of the Schengen zone since 2001. All days spent in Denmark count toward the 90-day Schengen limit for UK passport holders.
Are the Faroe Islands and Greenland in the Schengen zone?
No. The Faroe Islands and Greenland are self-governing territories of the Kingdom of Denmark but are not part of the Schengen zone. Days spent in the Faroe Islands or Greenland do not count toward your 90-day Schengen allowance.
How long can a UK citizen stay in Denmark?
UK citizens can stay in Denmark for up to 90 days within any rolling 180-day period under the Schengen rules. This limit is shared across all 29 Schengen countries combined, not specific to Denmark alone.
What currency does Denmark use?
Denmark uses the Danish Krone (DKK). While Denmark is in the EU, it has an opt-out from the Euro. Card payments are accepted almost universally, so you rarely need to carry cash.
Can I combine Denmark with Sweden easily?
Yes. The Oresund Bridge connects Copenhagen to Malmo in Sweden. Trains cross the bridge in about 35 minutes, making day trips between the two countries simple. Both are Schengen members, so there are no border checks, but days in both countries count toward the same 90-day Schengen allowance.