Discover the ultimate European Roadtrip
The Marguerite Route
Copenhagen - Copenhagen
The Marguerite Route
Stop 1: Copenhagen 1/16
The recipient of countless ‘world’s best city’ accolades, Copenhagen truly has it all for those who step into its captivating streets. Discover the iconic bronze sculpture of the Little Mermaid on the coast, watch the changing of the guards at the royal Amalienborg Palace, or pay a visit to Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s colorful canal and harbor area. For food-lovers, a hot dog from one of the city’s numerous stands, or a traditional smørrebrød – a delicious open sandwich – is an ideal way to kick-start your road trip.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 2: Odense 2/16
Named after the Norse god Odin, and the birthplace of legendary literary figure Hans Christian Andersen, this characterful city is both culturally rich and deeply historic. Street-corner sculptures of trolls will catch your eye as you the stroll between the Gothic-style Saint Canute's Cathedral, embark on a Hans Christian Andersen guided tour, or visit the open-air Funen Village – which recreates life in the 1800s. Bars and live music provide a vibrant nightlife, while Danish delicacies are on sale at the Farmer’s Market every Wednesday and Saturday morning on Sorte Brødre Torv (or ‘Black Friar’s Square’).
The Marguerite Route
Stop 3: Aarhus 3/16
For a truly uplifting experience, call in at the place that’s been dubbed ‘Denmark’s happiest city’. This former European Capital of Culture has fjords and beaches nearby, an historic Latin Quarter packed full of stores and restaurants, and then there’s the iconic ARoS Art Museum with its famous Rainbow Panorama. Elsewhere you can explore archaeology, history and Vikings at the Moesgaard Museum, enjoy a walk through the grounds of Marselisborg Palace (at least when the royal family is not in residence) and discover exotic plants at the 19th Century Botanical Gardens and Tropical House. Truly enough to put a smile on your face.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 4: Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse 4/16
A perfect picturesque stop, the Rubjerg Knude lighthouse is an historic structure that offers an extraordinary nod to the area’s past. It was once home to a museum that told the tale of Denmark’s nautical heritage, but today the lighthouse is precariously positioned, and is gradually falling victim to erosion and the elements. However, the beauty of the building itself, and its surroundings, makes a visit to marvel at the sight more than worthwhile, as you settle down to enjoy the serenity of the landscape, this fascinating landmark, and its truly remarkable views of the sea.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 5: Spøttrup Castle 5/16
Journey back in time with a visit to Spøttrup Castle, a stronghold that dates back to the Middle Ages and has been painstakingly restored through the years, giving visitors a chance to wander through centuries of Danish history. The rugged walls, drawbridge and ramparts of the castle usher you into a Medieval world that is also vibrantly brought to life by costumed actors and enthusiasts throughout the year. There are also hundreds of fascinating archaeological finds to discover inside.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 6: LEGOLAND® Billund 6/16
For children and ‘big kids’ alike, a trip to LEGOLAND® makes for a thoroughly fun activity on the Marguerite route. And it’s certainly something of a must-see when you’re in the homeland of the famous building bricks. Stay overnight in the LEGOLAND® Castle Hotel and get your adrenaline pumping on its wide range of rides. You can soar to new heights on the high-speed Flying Eagle or explore the DUPLO® Playhouses to discover giant bricks 15 times their original size. Look out too for plenty of impressive LEGO® structures created by true master-builders, from Star Wars characters to dragons and even full-sized cars.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 7: Wadden Sea National Park 7/16
A stunning, sprawling national park, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wadden Sea offers the chance to get up close and personal with nature. Gaze out over the miles of sand and scenery stretching as far as the eye can see, or go in search of some of the millions of migrating birds that flock here every year. Wait for the tide to retreat and look out for crabs and oysters too – or if you’re really lucky, spy the resident seals as they lounge lazily on the mudflats.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 8: Dybbøl Mill 8/16
Dybbøl Mill represents a dash of Dutch tradition in the heart of Denmark, with the windmill cutting a distinctive figure against the crisp landscape. It’s a nod to the past that’s pleasing on the eye, but it also tells a more somber historical tale, which can be found in the memorials and mementos from two violent wars that ravaged the region in the 1800s. During the Second Schleswig Wars, a bloody clash between the forces of Denmark and Prussia – dubbed the ‘Battle of Dybbøl’ – saw hundreds killed, wounded or captured in the vicinity of the unassuming mill. Now you can step inside and unlock the rich history that surrounds this beautiful building, complete with military artifacts from the 19th Century.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 9: Koldinghus Medieval Castle 9/16
An incredible restored relic of Medieval Denmark, Koldinghus is the last royal castle left standing in Jutland. Construction first began in 1268, but many opulent additions have been made by the royals who resided here through the centuries. Wander the castle walls to see where each royal household left its own stamp on the surroundings. Step back in time and soak up the history – or take a stroll around the gardens and bring a burst of color to your visit. Danish artworks, antiques and exhibitions can also be found inside, with the castle’s jewelry, painting and ceramic collections – not to mention its views of the local landscape – especially satisfying.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 10: The Jelling Monuments 10/16
Vikings and Denmark go hand in hand, but these incredible UNESCO World Heritage structures – dating back to the 10th Century and the reign of King Harald Bluetooth – stand as a cultural symbol of the nation’s transition from Pagan traditions to Christianity. Walk past the white pillars and up the barrow hills to behold the Jelling rune stones. Intricately inscribed with details of bloody battles, and memorials to iconic figures, they carry messages from a time long since passed. Look closely for the engraving of Christ, a symbol you can also spot on Danish passports to this day, showing the importance of King Harald’s famous creations to the identity of the nation.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 11: Svanninge Hills 11/16
Break out your hiking boots and enjoy a stop-off that truly stretches the legs. Svanninge Hills is the perfect walking spot, with a rolling green landscape brimming with flora and fauna to discover. The area covers around three square miles of lush countryside, offering the perfect escape from reality. Make your way along the path to the natural playground, Troldeland, where kids can enjoy themselves and adults can set up a well-earned picnic.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 12: Egeskov Castle 12/16
Egeskov Castle boasts more than just a beautiful, fairy-tale structure and peaceful grounds. This preserved, moated marvel is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, with regular events taking place throughout the year, such as midsummer parties, concerts and exhibitions. There are treetop walks for the brave, as well as a giant maze to lose yourself in. Children will adore Titania’s Palace, meanwhile; a spectacular dolls’ house featuring some 3,000 tiny components that took 15 years to complete.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 13: Lolland-Falster 13/16
For those who like to stay active, park up your car and enjoy all that the islands of Lolland and Falster have to offer. From Hestehoved Beach, offering some of the warmest waters in Denmark, to Knuthenborg Safari Park, where you can get up close and personal with some of the world’s most spectacular creatures. For history lovers, Middelaldercentret is a living village inviting you to spend an afternoon in medieval Denmark, travelling back through 600 years for an authentic experience.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 14: Møns Klint 14/16
Møns Klint in South Zealand is a nature lover’s dream; from the epic views offered by its cliffs, stretching over the Baltic Sea, to its hikes and trails across woodland and clifftops. Walk down the 497 steps to the beach and marvel at the sheer scale of the cliffs from below. Stick around until nightfall and see the stars in all their glory, as Møns Klint has been designated a Dark Sky Area, free of light pollution, giving you an unobstructed look at the twinkling night sky.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 15: Kronborg Castle 15/16
For theater and literature lovers alike, this majestic structure is definitely a destination to add to the schedule. Kronborg Castle in North Zealand is most famous as the setting of Shakespeare’s darkly tragic Hamlet and sits less than an hour’s drive from Copenhagen. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its long history dates back to the 1400s, giving you the chance to enjoy another valuable slice of Denmark’s rich history as you walk around its rooms and halls. A visit to this grand building is a must on your Marguerite tour before heading back to Copenhagen.
The Marguerite Route
Stop 16: Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen 16/16
This stunning 19th-century amusement park is the perfect reason to return to the Danish capital on the final leg of your trip. With a fairy-tale atmosphere that fittingly saw Hans Christian Andersen become a regular visitor, you can expect beautiful gardens and captivating architecture – including the famous Moorish Palace – along with exhilarating rides. Traditional carousels and classic wooden roller coasters are joined by cutting-edge attractions such as VR experience ‘The Demon’ – a Chinese-themed thriller complete with fire-breathing dragons and bombastic fireworks. It all adds up to an enchanting way to end your Marguerite Route road trip.
See what people are sharing about this stop on Instagram
