Most of us associate dishes with LEGO blocks, bicycles and hygge, or a cozy approach to life. But this small kingdom has much more to offer. Here are 15 interesting facts that will show Denmark from a less known side.

1. Hygge, Danish philosophy of everyday comfort and proximity

Hygge simply means “cozy”. It is a deliberate creation of an atmosphere of peace and proximity: a common meal, warm light, no rush and no telephone on the table. The Danes also care for hygge at work, short breaks for coffee and conversation are standard.

2. A kingdom that really still has a king

Denmark is one of the oldest monarchies in the world. The royal family enjoys great sympathy and the state ceremonies are full of tradition, although everyday life remains very pragmatic.

3. Copenhagen – the capital of bicycles

In Copenhagen, more than half of the population commutes to work or school by bicycle. The city has a network of wide roads for cyclists 🙂 Also in winter cycle paths are cleared first.

4. LEGO was born in Billund

The name comes from the Danish “leg godt” (“have fun”). In Billund you will find LEGOLAND Park and “LEGO House”, an interactive creativity center. Interestingly, the company started with wooden toys before switching to plastic blocks.

5. Islands, islands everywhere

Denmark has more than 400 islands, of which about 70 are inhabited. Each has its own character — from the wild landscapes of Bornholm to the idyllic fields of Finland. The Storebælt Bridge and the Oresund Bridge connect the main land parts of the country and are real gems.

6. Danish ‘frikadeller’ and smørrebrød

Danish cuisine is not only pastry. Classics are frikadeller (meatballs), herring marinated in many ways and open sandwiches smørrebrød with appetizably arranged accessories. For this, akvavit is often served.

7. Soft-edged tongueThe Danish language is not the easiest. The word “rødgrød med fløde” is a pronunciation test for foreigners. Despite the difficulties, Danes are keen on speaking fluent English.

8. The highest mountain is 172 meters high

Ejer Bavnehøj is one of the highest natural hills in Denmark. The country is flat, which is why bicycles and windmills are so popular and the exceptionally gentle nature of mountain hiking 😉

9. Wind and renewable energy

Denmark was a pioneer in wind energy. The goal is climate neutrality and further development of green technologies.

10. Julefrokost and long winter traditions

The winter months are filled with traditions: julefrokost (holiday parties with friends and at work), Advent calendars, candles and warm sweaters. This is when hygge is visible everywhere.

11. Happiness as a politician

Danes are regularly at the top of the happiness rankings. They include social trust, equality, a strong welfare system and a work-life balance culture. Long parental leave and flexible work are standard.

12. Nykredit and architecture on a human scale

Danish architecture is famous for its functionality and light. From Arne Jacobsen to the BIG office, the projects are simple, ecological and user-friendly. In Copenhagen we will meet buildings with roofs-parks and climbing walls.

13. The right to the coast

The Danish coastline is public, and walking along the beaches is the right of everyone. Even near private properties, access to the beach lane is allowed, which favors an active lifestyle.

14. Summer version of Hygge: summer camps and cottages

In summer, the Danes flee to the cottages by the sea. It’s time for a barbecue, a bonfire, a bath in the cold Baltic and long evenings with friends.

15. Flag older than many countries

Dannebrog, the Danish flag, is one of the oldest in the world — according to legend, it fell from the sky in the 13th century during the Battle of Lyndanisse. To this day, it is a national pride and part of daily holidays.

Practical tips for visitors:

If you are planning an intensive tour, it is worth buying a Copenhagen Card, which includes transport and entrance to many attractions. Be sure to try smørrebrød in traditional bars, it is a culinary showcase of the country. You do not need cash, because Denmark is almost completely cashless. And when moving on a bicycle, behave like locals and stay on the right side.

To sum up, Denmark is a kingdom of simplicity, closeness to nature and joy of small things. Once you feel the hygge, it will be difficult to forget about it!