Things to Do in Roskilde, Denmark

Roskilde, located just 30 kilometers west of Copenhagen, is one of Denmark's most historically significant cities and the former capital of the Viking kingdom. This charming city seamlessly blends ancient history with modern Danish culture, offering visitors a unique glimpse into over 1,000 years of Danish heritage. The city is most famous for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed cathedral, where Danish monarchs have been buried for centuries, and the world-renowned Roskilde Festival, one of Europe's largest music festivals. Beyond its royal connections, Roskilde is home to the fascinating Viking Ship Museum, which houses five original Viking vessels discovered in the nearby fjord. The city's compact size makes it perfect for walking, with cobblestone streets leading to cozy cafes, traditional Danish restaurants, and boutique shops. The picturesque Roskilde Fjord provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities, while the city's rich cultural scene includes galleries, theaters, and year-round events that celebrate both its Viking heritage and contemporary Danish lifestyle.

Top Things to Do in Roskilde

Explore Roskilde Cathedral

Visit this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site, which has served as the burial place for Danish royalty since the 15th century. The Gothic cathedral features stunning architecture, royal tombs, and centuries of Danish history within its walls. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the monarchy and the cathedral's role in Danish culture.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 60 DKK for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Visit during weekday mornings for smaller crowds, and consider booking a guided tour in advance during summer months. Audio guides are available in multiple languages for 20 DKK.

Discover Viking Ships at the Museum

Experience authentic Viking maritime history at the world-famous Viking Ship Museum, home to five original Viking vessels from the 11th century. The museum offers interactive exhibits, boat-building demonstrations, and the chance to see archaeologists at work. During summer, visitors can even sail on reconstructed Viking ships in the fjord.

Booking Tip: Standard admission is 130 DKK for adults, with family packages available. Book Viking ship sailing experiences well in advance (additional 200-300 DKK) as they're very popular. The museum is open year-round, but sailing activities are seasonal from May to September.

Stroll Through Roskilde's Historic Center

Wander the charming cobblestone streets of Roskilde's old town, discovering medieval buildings, traditional Danish architecture, and local shops. The pedestrian-friendly center features the historic Market Square, St. Laurentius Church, and numerous cafes perfect for people-watching. The area comes alive during weekly markets and seasonal festivals.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own, but consider joining a guided walking tour (150-200 DKK) for historical context. Wednesday and Saturday markets (9 AM-2 PM) offer the best atmosphere. Download the free Roskilde city app for self-guided tour routes and historical information.

Enjoy Roskilde Fjord Activities

Take advantage of the beautiful Roskilde Fjord with activities like kayaking, sailing, or simply walking along the scenic waterfront paths. The fjord offers stunning views, wildlife watching opportunities, and several beaches perfect for summer relaxation. Boat tours provide unique perspectives of the city and surrounding countryside.

Booking Tip: Kayak rentals start around 200 DKK for half-day, sailboat charters from 500 DKK per person. Book water activities during warmer months (May-September) for best conditions. Several operators near the harbor offer equipment and guided tours - compare prices and check weather policies.

Experience Local Danish Culture

Immerse yourself in authentic Danish culture through visits to local breweries, traditional restaurants, and cultural venues like the Museum of Contemporary Art. Participate in hygge experiences at cozy cafes, explore local artisan workshops, or attend performances at Roskilde Theatre. The city offers numerous opportunities to experience genuine Danish lifestyle away from tourist crowds.

Booking Tip: Many cultural activities are free or low-cost (50-100 DKK). Restaurant reservations recommended for weekend dinners. Look for combination tickets that include multiple museums and attractions. Local tourist office offers cultural passes (200-300 DKK) providing discounts at participating venues.

Getting There

Roskilde is easily accessible from Copenhagen by train, with regular services departing every 10-20 minutes from Copenhagen Central Station. The journey takes approximately 25-30 minutes and costs around 50 DKK each way. Regional trains (RE) are faster than local trains (S-tog), and tickets can be purchased at stations or via the DSB app. If driving from Copenhagen, take the E20 motorway west for about 35 kilometers. Copenhagen Airport is about 45 minutes away by train (change at Copenhagen Central Station) or 40 minutes by car via the E20.

Getting Around

Roskilde's compact city center is best explored on foot, with most major attractions within easy walking distance of each other. The city has an excellent network of bike paths, and bicycle rentals are available from several shops for around 150-200 DKK per day. Local buses connect the city center with residential areas and the train station, with tickets costing 24 DKK for adults. Taxis are readily available but relatively expensive. Many visitors find that walking combined with occasional bus use is the most practical and economical way to explore the city.

Where to Stay

City Center (near Cathedral)

Harbor Area (near Viking Ship Museum)

Train Station District

Roskilde University Area

Sankt Hans Torv Neighborhood

Fjord Waterfront

Food & Dining

Roskilde's dining scene reflects both traditional Danish cuisine and modern Nordic gastronomy. The city center offers everything from cozy cafes serving smørrebrød (open sandwiches) and pastries to upscale restaurants featuring locally-sourced ingredients and innovative Danish cooking. Popular local specialties include fresh seafood from the fjord, organic produce from nearby farms, and craft beers from local breweries. Many restaurants focus on sustainable, seasonal menus that change throughout the year. For budget-friendly options, try the local bakeries, food trucks near the harbor, or the traditional Danish lunch spots favored by locals. The Wednesday and Saturday markets also offer excellent local food vendors and organic produce.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Roskilde is during late spring through early fall (May to September) when the weather is warmest and most outdoor activities are available. Summer months (June-August) offer the longest days, warmest temperatures (15-22°C), and full access to fjord activities and Viking ship sailing. However, this is also peak tourist season with higher accommodation prices. Late spring (May) and early fall (September) provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds and better hotel rates. Winter visits can be magical with Christmas markets and cozy indoor attractions, though daylight hours are limited and weather can be cold and wet.

Insider Tips

Purchase the Roskilde Museum Pass for 200 DKK to save money if visiting multiple attractions - it includes the Cathedral, Viking Ship Museum, and several smaller museums

Visit during the first weekend of July if you want to experience the famous Roskilde Festival atmosphere, but book accommodation far in advance as the city fills up completely

Take advantage of the free WiFi throughout the city center and download offline maps before exploring, as some historic areas have limited cell coverage

Things to Do in Roskilde