Things to Do in Helsingør, Denmark

Helsingør, known internationally as Elsinore, is a charming coastal city in northeastern Denmark that serves as the country's gateway to Sweden. This historic maritime town is most famous for being home to Kronborg Castle, the legendary setting of Shakespeare's Hamlet, which majestically overlooks the narrow Øresund strait. The city's strategic location at the narrowest point between Denmark and Sweden has shaped its rich history as a crucial trading port and fortress town for over 600 years. Beyond its royal castle, Helsingør enchants visitors with its well-preserved medieval old town, cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene. The city perfectly balances its historical significance with modern Danish living, offering excellent museums, cozy cafés, and beautiful waterfront areas. With Sweden's Helsingborg just a 20-minute ferry ride away, Helsingør also serves as an ideal base for exploring both sides of the Øresund region.

Top Things to Do in Helsingør

Explore Kronborg Castle

Visit the magnificent Renaissance castle that inspired Shakespeare's Hamlet, featuring royal apartments, underground casemates, and stunning views across the Øresund strait. The castle houses fascinating exhibitions about Denmark's maritime history and the legend of Holger the Dane. Don't miss the grand ballroom, one of the longest in Northern Europe.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 140 DKK for adults with discounts for students and seniors. Book online for slight savings and to skip ticket lines during peak summer months. Consider the combination ticket with other local museums for better value.

Visit the Maritime Museum

Discover Denmark's seafaring heritage at this award-winning underground museum built into the dry docks of the old shipyard. The innovative architecture and interactive exhibits tell the story of Danish maritime culture and trade. The museum offers spectacular views of Kronborg Castle from its unique underground galleries.

Booking Tip: Admission is around 125 DKK for adults, with family tickets available. Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds. The museum often has special exhibitions, so check their website before visiting for current displays.

Stroll Through Helsingør Old Town

Wander the charming cobblestone streets of the medieval old town, lined with colorful half-timbered houses, boutique shops, and traditional Danish architecture. Visit St. Olaf's Church and explore the historic market square. The area comes alive with street performers and local vendors, especially during summer months.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own, but consider joining a guided walking tour for 150-200 DKK to learn about hidden histories and local legends. Tours typically run 1.5-2 hours and are offered in multiple languages during tourist season.

Take a Ferry to Sweden

Experience the short but scenic 20-minute ferry ride across the Øresund strait to Helsingborg, Sweden. The journey offers beautiful views of both coastlines and Kronborg Castle from the water. You can explore Helsingborg for the day or simply enjoy the ferry ride as a mini-cruise experience.

Booking Tip: Ferry tickets cost around 55 DKK for foot passengers, with frequent departures every 15-20 minutes. No advance booking needed for foot passengers, but arrive 15 minutes early during peak times. Remember to bring passport or EU ID card.

Experience Local Food Scene

Sample fresh seafood and traditional Danish cuisine at local restaurants ranging from cozy harbor-side cafés to upscale dining establishments. Try local specialties like pickled herring, smørrebrød (open sandwiches), and fresh fish caught in the Øresund. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with water views during warmer months.

Booking Tip: Lunch costs 100-200 DKK while dinner ranges 250-500 DKK per person. Make reservations for popular waterfront restaurants, especially on weekends. Look for lunch specials and early bird dinner menus for better value.

Getting There

Helsingør is easily accessible from Copenhagen by train, with direct services running every 20 minutes on the Øresundståg line, taking approximately 45 minutes from Copenhagen Central Station. The train journey costs around 100 DKK and offers scenic coastal views for the final stretch. If driving, take the E4/E20 motorway north from Copenhagen, which takes about 45 minutes depending on traffic. The city is also accessible by bus, though trains are generally faster and more convenient for most visitors.

Getting Around

Helsingør is a compact city that's easily explored on foot, with most attractions within walking distance of the train station and city center. The historic old town and waterfront areas are particularly pedestrian-friendly with well-maintained sidewalks and clear signage. Local buses connect outer areas and neighborhoods, with tickets costing around 25 DKK for short journeys. Bicycle rental is popular and practical, with several rental shops near the station offering bikes for 150-200 DKK per day. Taxis are available but generally unnecessary given the city's walkable size.

Where to Stay

City Center near Kronborg Castle

Historic Old Town

Harbor/Waterfront Area

Near Train Station

Residential Neighborhoods

Outskirts with Nature Access

Food & Dining

Helsingør's dining scene celebrates its coastal location with excellent seafood restaurants along the harbor and historic streets. Traditional Danish restaurants serve classics like smørrebrød, fish dishes, and seasonal Nordic cuisine, while international options include Italian, Thai, and Middle Eastern establishments. The city center offers everything from casual café lunches to fine dining experiences, with many restaurants emphasizing locally-sourced ingredients and craft beer from regional breweries. Summer brings outdoor dining opportunities with harbor views, while cozy winter establishments feature traditional Danish hygge atmosphere with candles and warm interiors.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Helsingør is during late spring through early fall (May to September) when weather is mild and most attractions maintain extended hours. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather, longest daylight hours, and liveliest atmosphere, but also bring crowds and higher accommodation prices. Late spring (May) and early fall (September) provide pleasant weather with fewer tourists and better hotel rates. Winter visits can be magical with fewer crowds and cozy indoor attractions, though some seasonal restaurants may have limited hours and weather can be cold and wet.

Insider Tips

Visit Kronborg Castle early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer tour groups, plus potential glimpses of the changing of the guard ceremony

Take the free Culture Harbor walking route that connects multiple museums and attractions with informative plaques and scenic waterfront paths

Check the local event calendar as Helsingør hosts excellent summer festivals, outdoor concerts, and seasonal markets that aren't widely advertised to tourists

Things to Do in Helsingør