Sustainable Travel in Denmark: Eco-Friendly Adventures and Green Initiatives

Why Denmark is a Pioneer in Sustainable Travel

Denmark consistently ranks among the world’s most environmentally friendly countries. With a focus on renewable energy, community-led projects, and eco-conscious urban planning, sustainability is deeply woven into daily life—including how the country welcomes travelers.

One standout initiative is CopenPay, where visitors are rewarded with free cultural experiences in exchange for green actions like cycling or picking up litter.

Eco-Friendly Adventures in Denmark

Cycling: The Ultimate Green Transportation

Cycling in Denmark is more than a trend—it’s a way of life.
Boasting an impressive network of over 12,000 km of marked cycle routes, weaving through charming towns and picturesque landscapes, Denmark truly caters to cyclists.

Copenhagen, with 390 km of bike lanes, makes bike rental incredibly easy. E-bikes and cargo bikes are also available, making green travel family-friendly and convenient.

Hiking in Denmark’s National Parks

Denmark’s landscapes are ideal for low-impact hiking. Here are three top national parks to explore:

Thy National Park: Known for its dunes and heather-covered moorlands.

Mols Bjerge National Park: Near Aarhus, famous for its hilly terrain and ancient history.

Wadden Sea National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, great for birdwatching and mudflat safaris.

Kayaking in Copenhagen’s Clean Canals

Once heavily polluted, Copenhagen’s harbor has become one of the cleanest in the world. It’s now a scenic playground for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and even open-water swimming.

One unique way to enjoy the water is through the non-profit initiative GreenKayak, run in partnership with Kayak Republic. Here’s the twist: it’s free to rent a kayak—as long as you pick up trash while paddling. It’s an innovative and active way to experience the canals while helping preserve them.

These eco-friendly kayaks come with a bucket and a grabber, and all collected waste is weighed and tracked to raise awareness about marine pollution. It’s one of the most hands-on sustainable activities in Copenhagen and perfect for eco-conscious travelers.

Even if you opt for a regular rental, Kayak Republic offers low-impact experiences and promotes sustainability throughout their operations, from electric boat rentals to eco-friendly equipment.

Copenhagen’s efforts to become carbon neutral by 2025 are evident all around the harbor—and paddling through it gives you a front-row seat to this transformation.

Sustainable Accommodations in Denmark

Denmark has made it easy to find places to stay that align with eco-friendly values. Look for the Green Key ecolabel, which ensures accommodations meet strict environmental standards.

From stylish hostels to boutique hotels, you’ll find certified options across the country.

For something unique, visit Bornholm, also known as Denmark’s sustainable island. With solar-powered cabins and locally sourced food, it’s ideal for low-impact vacations.

Green Transportation Across Denmark

Getting around Denmark is a breeze, even without a car. Options include:

Electric and hybrid buses

Frequent electric tram services

Eco-friendly ferries to islands like Bornholm and Samsø

Samsø is particularly notable—it generates more renewable energy than it uses and serves as a model for sustainable communities. Visit the Samsø Energy Academy to learn more.

Eating Sustainably in Denmark

Copenhagen is full of restaurants dedicated to sustainability:

Gro Spiseri: Located on a rooftop farm with hyper-local ingredients.

Reffen: A street food market built from recycled materials, with an eco-mission.

Responsible Travel Tips for Visiting Denmark

Want to travel lighter and smarter? Keep these tips in mind:

Travel off-season: It’s better for the environment and your wallet.

Support local: Eat local, stay local, and shop local.

Skip the plastic: Carry a reusable bottle and tote bag.

Leave no trace: Respect nature and wildlife.

Wildlife Watching in Denmark

Denmark’s national parks and coastal areas are teeming with wildlife:

Wadden Sea National Park: Witness the dramatic “Black Sun” starling murmurations.

Thy National Park: Spot red deer, sea eagles, and rare birds.

Bornholm: A haven for cycling, cliffside hikes, and local food experiences

Choose guided wildlife tours for a low-impact way to experience nature.

Aarhus and the Future of Sustainable Tourism

Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city, is setting a strong example for urban sustainability. Through smart city planning, green spaces, and investment in cycling infrastructure, Aarhus is leading the way in eco-friendly urban living.

From cultural festivals to eco-architecture, Aarhus blends tradition with innovation—and it’s fast becoming a hub for sustainable tourism in Denmark.

Sustainable travelling in Denmark

Sustainable travel in Denmark is not about sacrificing comfort—it’s about enriching your journey.
Whether you’re kayaking through Copenhagen’s clean canals, hiking wild coastlines, or savoring farm-to-table meals, you’ll find that eco-friendly travel here feels natural and rewarding.