Denmark Safety Guide

Health, security, and travel safety information

Generally Safe

Denmark consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates, excellent infrastructure, and a high standard of living. The country's well-developed social systems, efficient public services, and generally law-abiding population create a secure environment for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and tourists can feel comfortable exploring cities and countryside alike. Despite Denmark's excellent safety record, travelers should still exercise normal precautions, particularly in busy tourist areas and transportation hubs where petty theft can occur. Copenhagen, like any major European capital, experiences pickpocketing and bicycle theft. The Danish weather, particularly in winter months, can pose challenges for unprepared visitors. The Danish healthcare system is world-class, and emergency services are highly efficient and reliable. English is widely spoken, making it easy to communicate in emergencies. Overall, Denmark offers travelers a worry-free destination where common sense precautions are usually sufficient to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Denmark is one of Europe's safest destinations with minimal crime and excellent infrastructure, requiring only standard travel precautions.

Emergency Numbers

Save these numbers before your trip.

Police

112

Single emergency number for all services; operators speak English

Ambulance

112

Same unified emergency number; response times are excellent throughout the country

Fire

112

Same unified emergency number for fire services

Non-Emergency Police

114

For non-urgent matters like reporting theft after the fact; available 24/7

Medical Helpline

1813

24/7 medical advice hotline for Copenhagen region; other regions have similar services

Poison Information

82 12 12 12

For poisoning emergencies and advice

Healthcare

What to know about medical care in Denmark.

Healthcare System

Denmark has a tax-funded universal healthcare system that provides high-quality medical care. EU/EEA citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) can access necessary healthcare at reduced or no cost. Non-EU citizens will need to pay for services, though emergency treatment is provided regardless of ability to pay.

Hospitals

Major hospitals in Copenhagen include Rigshospitalet (national hospital) and Bispebjerg Hospital. All major cities have well-equipped hospitals. Private clinics are also available for faster service. EU citizens should present their EHIC card; others should be prepared to pay upfront and claim from insurance.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies (apotek) are widely available and well-stocked. Many medications requiring prescriptions elsewhere are also prescription-only in Denmark. Pharmacists are knowledgeable and speak English. Some pharmacies offer 24-hour service in major cities (e.g., Steno Apotek in Copenhagen). Common over-the-counter medications are available but can be expensive.

Insurance

Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is highly recommended for non-EU visitors, as healthcare costs can be substantial. EU citizens should carry their EHIC card but may still want supplementary insurance for repatriation and additional coverage.

Healthcare Tips

EU/EEA citizens must bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access public healthcare
Keep all medical receipts and documentation for insurance claims
Prescriptions from other countries are generally not valid; you'll need a Danish doctor to issue new prescriptions
Dental care is not covered under EHIC and can be expensive; ensure your travel insurance includes dental coverage
In Copenhagen, call 1813 for medical advice before going to emergency rooms for non-urgent issues
Bring sufficient supplies of any prescription medications you need, along with a doctor's letter explaining their necessity

Common Risks

Be aware of these potential issues.

Petty Theft and Pickpocketing

Low to Medium Risk

Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur primarily in tourist-heavy areas, though rates are lower than in many European capitals. Thieves target distracted tourists in crowded areas and on public transportation.

Keep valuables secure and out of sight, use anti-theft bags, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, be especially vigilant in crowded areas and when using ATMs. Don't leave belongings unattended in cafes or on bicycles.

Bicycle Theft

High Risk

Denmark has extremely high bicycle usage, and bike theft is the most common crime. Rental bikes and unsecured bicycles are frequently stolen, even in seemingly safe areas.

Always use a quality lock (preferably two different types), lock your bike to a fixed object, never leave valuable bikes unattended for long periods, and use monitored bike parking when available. Consider bike insurance for expensive bikes.

Cycling Accidents

Medium Risk

Denmark's extensive cycling culture means many tourists rent bikes, but unfamiliarity with local cycling rules and infrastructure can lead to accidents. Bike lanes are busy and cyclists move quickly.

Learn Danish cycling rules before riding, always use bike lanes, signal turns clearly, watch for other cyclists, pedestrians and cars, wear a helmet (though not mandatory), and use lights in low visibility. Stay right in bike lanes and don't stop suddenly.

Weather-Related Issues

Low to Medium Risk

Denmark's weather can be unpredictable with sudden rain, cold winds, and in winter, icy conditions. Hypothermia risk exists for unprepared visitors, especially those spending time outdoors or near water.

Dress in layers, bring waterproof clothing year-round, wear appropriate footwear for wet/icy conditions, check weather forecasts daily, and be prepared for temperature changes. In winter, watch for icy sidewalks and bike paths.

Alcohol-Related Incidents

Low Risk

Denmark has a liberal drinking culture, and while violent crime is rare, alcohol-related incidents (minor altercations, accidents) can occur, particularly in nightlife areas on weekends.

Drink responsibly, stay aware of your surroundings, don't accept drinks from strangers, keep an eye on your drink, and use licensed taxis or public transport when returning from nightlife areas.

Water Safety

Low Risk

Denmark has many harbors, canals, and coastal areas. Drowning incidents occasionally occur, often involving alcohol or unfamiliarity with cold water temperatures, strong currents, or lack of barriers near water.

Exercise caution near water, especially when drinking; be aware that harbor water is cold even in summer; supervise children closely; only swim in designated areas; and be cautious on boats and near canal edges.

Scams to Avoid

Watch out for these common tourist scams.

Fake Taxi Overcharging

Unlicensed or dishonest taxi drivers, particularly at airports and tourist areas, may overcharge tourists by taking longer routes, claiming the meter is broken, or quoting inflated fixed prices.

Use only licensed taxis with company names and phone numbers displayed, insist on using the meter, use reputable taxi apps (Taxa 4x35, Dantaxi), or use ride-sharing services. Know the approximate fare to your destination beforehand.

Restaurant Bill Padding

Some tourist-oriented restaurants may add extra items to bills, include service charges that are already included, or charge for bread/water that was presented as complimentary.

Always check your bill carefully before paying, ask about any charges you don't recognize, clarify if service is included (it usually is in Denmark), and keep your receipt. Don't feel pressured to pay without reviewing.

Fake Charity Collectors

Individuals claiming to collect for charities approach tourists with clipboards or collection tins, but the money doesn't go to legitimate causes.

Don't give money or personal information to street collectors. Legitimate Danish charities rarely collect this way. If you want to donate, do so directly through official charity websites.

Distraction Theft

One person distracts you (asking for directions, spilling something on you, creating a commotion) while an accomplice steals your belongings.

Be aware of your surroundings, keep bags closed and in front of you, be cautious of overly friendly strangers or unusual situations, and keep valuables in secure pockets or bags.

Overpriced Currency Exchange

Currency exchange offices in tourist areas offer poor exchange rates and high commissions, significantly reducing the value you receive.

Use ATMs to withdraw Danish kroner directly (usually the best rate), avoid airport and tourist area exchange offices, use credit cards where accepted (most places), or exchange money at banks for better rates.

Bicycle Rental Deposit Scams

Unofficial bike rental operations charge large deposits and then claim damage to the bike to keep the deposit, or disappear entirely.

Use only established, reputable bike rental companies, take photos of the bike's condition before and after rental, get written rental agreements, and pay with credit cards that offer dispute resolution.

Safety Tips

Practical advice to stay safe.

General Safety

Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) separate from originals and store digital copies in cloud storage
Register with your embassy if staying for an extended period
Learn basic Danish phrases for emergencies, though English is widely spoken
Denmark uses contactless payment extensively; carry minimal cash and use cards for most transactions
Trust your instincts; if something feels wrong, remove yourself from the situation
Save emergency numbers in your phone and know your accommodation address in Danish

Transportation Safety

Public transportation is very safe, reliable, and punctual; validate tickets to avoid fines
When cycling, follow Danish rules: use hand signals, stay in bike lanes, and yield to pedestrians
Don't drink and cycle; Danish police can issue fines and even arrest for drunk cycling
Use pedestrian crossings and wait for green lights; Danish drivers expect pedestrians to follow rules
Be cautious when crossing bike lanes; cyclists have right of way and move quickly
If renting a car, be aware of cyclist priority, strict speed enforcement, and expensive parking

Accommodation Safety

Use reputable booking platforms and read recent reviews
Verify accommodation addresses and contact details before arrival
Keep valuables in room safes when available
Know the emergency exits in your accommodation
Be cautious with Airbnb scams; verify listings are legitimate before paying
Keep accommodation contact information accessible in case you need to return late

Money and Valuables

Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible for better security
Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid card blocks
Carry only what you need for the day; leave extra cash and cards in accommodation safe
Be discreet when handling money or using ATMs
Keep emergency cash and a backup card separate from your main wallet
Denmark is largely cashless; many places don't accept cash, so ensure you have working cards

Food and Drink Safety

Tap water is safe to drink throughout Denmark and of excellent quality
Food safety standards are very high; food poisoning is rare
Check bills for included service charges; tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service
Be aware of high alcohol prices; pre-drinking is common among locals but stay responsible
Food allergies are well-understood; staff can usually provide ingredient information in English
Try local specialties but be aware that Danish portions can be large and meals expensive

Communication

English is extremely widely spoken, especially in cities and tourist areas
Free WiFi is available in many cafes, hotels, and public spaces
Consider getting a local SIM card or EU roaming plan for data access
Download offline maps of areas you'll visit in case of connectivity issues
Emergency services operators speak English fluently
Danes appreciate attempts to speak Danish but will readily switch to English

Cultural Awareness

Danes value punctuality, personal space, and directness; respect these cultural norms
Smoking is banned in most indoor public spaces, including restaurants and bars
Nudity is accepted at some beaches; look for signs indicating textile vs. non-textile areas
Danes cycle year-round in all weather; respect the cycling culture and infrastructure
Quiet hours are typically 22:00-07:00; be respectful of noise levels in residential areas
Jaywalking is frowned upon and can result in fines; wait for pedestrian signals

Information for Specific Travelers

Safety considerations for different traveler groups.

Women Travelers

Denmark is one of the safest countries in the world for women travelers. Gender equality is deeply embedded in Danish society, and women traveling alone face minimal specific risks. Harassment is uncommon, and women can safely use public transportation, visit restaurants alone, and explore cities at any time of day. Danish women enjoy high levels of independence and freedom, and female travelers will find this reflected in the welcoming, respectful environment.

Solo female travel is very common and safe in Denmark; you'll see many local women traveling and dining alone
Harassment is rare but can occasionally occur in nightlife areas; respond firmly and seek help from venue staff if needed
Public transportation is safe at all hours, though standard precautions apply late at night
Danish culture is informal and egalitarian; you'll be treated as an equal in all situations
Dress as you wish; Denmark has no dress code restrictions, and women dress casually and comfortably
Solo female travelers can safely stay in hostels, use ride-sharing, and explore independently
Trust your instincts; if you feel uncomfortable, Danish people are generally helpful if you need assistance
Women-only accommodations are available but not necessary for safety
Dating apps are popular in Denmark; use standard online dating safety precautions
Emergency services take any reports of harassment or assault seriously

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Denmark is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in the world. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2012 (registered partnerships since 1989), discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is illegal, and LGBTQ+ individuals have full legal protections. Denmark was the first country to legally recognize same-sex unions.

LGBTQ+ travelers can be open about their identity without safety concerns in Denmark
Copenhagen has numerous LGBTQ+-friendly venues, particularly in the Latin Quarter and Vesterbro
Copenhagen Pride (August) is one of Europe's largest and most welcoming pride celebrations
Same-sex couples can book double beds and show affection publicly without issue
Rainbow flags are commonly displayed, indicating welcoming establishments
Gender-neutral bathrooms are increasingly common in public spaces
Trans travelers can use bathrooms matching their gender identity without legal issues
LGBTQ+ families with children will find Denmark welcoming and family-friendly
Dating apps are widely used and safe to use in Denmark
No specific LGBTQ+ safety precautions are needed beyond standard travel safety
Danish healthcare providers are knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ health issues
If you experience any discrimination, it can be reported to police and is taken seriously

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommended for all visitors to Denmark, even though it's a safe destination. While Denmark has excellent healthcare, non-EU visitors will pay full price for medical treatment, which can be expensive. Insurance also covers trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other travel disruptions. EU citizens with EHIC cards should still consider supplementary insurance for repatriation, additional medical coverage, and non-medical issues.

Comprehensive medical coverage including emergency treatment, hospitalization, and ambulance services Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation coverage Trip cancellation and interruption insurance (Denmark is expensive; cancellations can be costly) Lost, stolen, or delayed baggage coverage Personal liability coverage Dental emergency coverage (not covered by EHIC) Coverage for adventure activities if planning cycling tours, water sports, or winter activities 24/7 emergency assistance hotline with English-speaking operators Coverage for missed connections or travel delays Personal accident and death benefits

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