Vestegnen Travel Guide

Discover the cultural, natural, and foodie attractions of Vestegnen in Copenhagen, Denmark. Find out the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in this travel guide.


Introduction to Vestegnen

Located in the capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen, Vestegnen is a suburban area that covers several municipalities and is known for its rich cultural heritage, outdoor activities, and stunning scenery. If you’re planning to visit Denmark, Vestegnen should definitely be on your list. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do, places to visit, and food and drink scene of Vestegnen, as well as practical information on how to get there, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Vestegnen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Arken Museum of Modern Art

Arken Museum of Modern Art is one of the most important cultural institutions in Denmark. Located in Ishøj, in the southern suburbs of Copenhagen, the museum boasts an impressive collection of contemporary art from Denmark and around the world. The building is itself a work of art, designed by Danish architect Søren Robert Lund and resembling a ship anchored in a landscape of sand dunes.

Roskilde Cathedral

Roskilde Cathedral is the burial site of Danish monarchs and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located in the city of Roskilde, it was founded in 1170 by Bishop Absalon and has been the site of many important events in Denmark’s history. You can explore the cathedral and the burial chapels, see the great medieval altarpiece, and climb the tower for stunning views of the city.

Viking Ship Museum

The Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in Viking history and culture. The museum contains the remains of five Viking ships that were excavated from the fjord in the 1960s and 1970s, as well as exhibits on Viking shipbuilding, navigation, and seafaring. You can also take a boat tour on a reconstructed Viking ship and even try your hand at rowing.

Natural Attractions of Vestegnen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Arresø

Arresø is the largest lake in Denmark and is surrounded by forests, meadows, and sandy beaches. The lake is perfect for fishing, swimming, and kayaking, and you can also take a walk or a cycle around the lake on the well-marked trail.

Møns Klint

Møns Klint is a 6 km stretch of chalk cliffs that rise up to 128 meters above the sea. Located on the island of Møn, which is part of Vestegnen, the cliffs offer stunning views of the Baltic Sea and are home to several rare plant and animal species. You can access the cliffs from a staircase that leads down to the beach and explore the area on foot or by bike.

Vestskoven

Vestskoven is a forest that stretches from the outskirts of Copenhagen to Roskilde. The forest contains several lakes, streams, and ancient burial mounds, as well as a network of hiking and cycling trails. You can also visit the ruins of Vridsløselille, a former prison that now houses an art center.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vestegnen

Vestegnen offers a range of hiking and cycling routes that take you through forests, meadows, and coastal landscapes. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The Arresø loop, an 82-km bike ride around the lake
  • The Vestskoven trail, a 15-km circular hike through the forest
  • The Møns Klint trail, a 7-km hike along the cliffs with stunning views of the Baltic Sea

Best Things to Do in Vestegnen: Activities and Tours

Canal tours

Several companies offer canal tours of Copenhagen that take you through the city’s canals and provide you with panoramic views of the city’s landmarks. You can choose from guided or self-guided tours and even book a private tour if you want a more personalized experience.

Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens is the second-oldest amusement park in the world and a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. The park combines traditional rides and attractions with a range of restaurants, cafes, and live performances. You can also visit Tivoli during special events like Halloween and Christmas when the park is decked out in festive decorations.

Carlsberg Brewery

Carlsberg Brewery is one of the most famous breweries in the world and a major part of Denmark’s industrial heritage. You can take a guided tour of the brewery and learn about the history of Carlsberg and the brewing process. The tour also includes a tasting of Carlsberg’s most popular brews.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vestegnen

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Vestegnen:

  • Day 1: Visit Arken Museum of Modern Art and enjoy the beaches of Ishøj
  • Day 2: Explore Roskilde Cathedral and the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde
  • Day 3: Cycle around Arresø and enjoy the scenic views and water sports
  • Day 4: Visit Møns Klint and hike along the cliffs
  • Day 5: Explore Vestskoven and visit the ruins of Vridsløselille
  • Day 6: Take a canal tour of Copenhagen and enjoy the night at Tivoli Gardens
  • Day 7: Visit Carlsberg Brewery and take a guided tour of the brewery

Food and Drink Scene of Vestegnen

Must-Try Dishes

Smørrebrød

Smørrebrød is a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich that consists of rye bread topped with various toppings like smoked fish, meat, and cheese.

Stegt Flæsk

Stegt Flæsk is a classic Danish dish that consists of crispy fried pork belly served with boiled potatoes and parsley sauce.

Local Beverages

Gammel Dansk

Gammel Dansk is a traditional Danish bitter liquor that’s made with a blend of herbs and spices. It’s often served as an aperitif or digestif.

Carlsberg Beer

Carlsberg Beer is one of the most popular beers in Denmark and the world. It’s a light lager that’s known for its crisp and refreshing taste.

Where to Stay in Vestegnen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in Vestegnen to suit every budget and preference. Some of the best options are:

  • Zleep Hotel Ishøj
  • Scandic Roskilde
  • Danhostel Ishøj Strand
  • Sinatur Hotel Frederiksdal

What to Buy in Vestegnen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Vestegnen include:

  • Danish ceramics and glassware
  • Delicious chocolate from Summerbird
  • Unique handicrafts from local artisans
  • Scandinavian design items from Illums Bolighus

Local Culture and Customs of Vestegnen

In Vestegnen, as in the rest of Denmark, people value simplicity, honesty, and equality. Danes are famous for their love of hygge, a concept that refers to a sense of coziness, warmth, and togetherness. The best way to experience hygge in Vestegnen is to visit one of the local cafes or taverns and enjoy a cup of coffee or a pint of beer with friends.

Best Time to Visit Vestegnen

The best time to visit Vestegnen is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities and festivals are in full swing. However, if you’re looking for a quieter and more affordable trip, you can also visit in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vestegnen

Do:

  • Do try the local food and drink
  • Do explore the natural and cultural attractions of Vestegnen
  • Do respect the local customs and traditions
  • Do learn a few basic Danish phrases

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment
  • Don’t be rude or disrespectful to locals or other tourists
  • Don’t ignore traffic rules when cycling or hiking
  • Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather and activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Vestegnen

Vestegnen is a safe area to visit, with very low levels of crime. However, as with any destination, you should take basic safety precautions like keeping valuables out of sight, not walking alone at night, and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Vestegnen

Vestegnen has a good healthcare system, and there are several hospitals and medical clinics in the area. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access medical care, while non-EU citizens should have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Vestegnen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Vestegnen is easily accessible from Copenhagen and other parts of Denmark. Here are the transportation options available:

Airports Near Vestegnen

Copenhagen Airport is the closest airport to Vestegnen and is located around 30 minutes away by train or car.

Bus Stations Near Vestegnen

Vestegnen is well-connected by regional bus services that operate from Copenhagen and other parts of Denmark. You can book tickets and check schedules on the official website of Movia, the public transportation company.

Other Options

If you’re traveling from Copenhagen, you can also take the S-Train, a commuter train that connects Copenhagen with various suburbs and municipalities, including Vestegnen.

How to Get Around in Vestegnen

Vestegnen is a relatively small area and is best explored on foot, by bike, or by public transport. You can rent bikes from various stations throughout the area, or use the extensive network of walking and cycling trails that connect the natural and cultural attractions of Vestegnen. There are also frequent bus and train services that operate between cities and towns in Vestegnen.

Where to Go Next from Vestegnen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore Denmark, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you might want to consider:

  • Copenhagen: Denmark’s capital city is just a short train ride away from Vestegnen and is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks and attractions.
  • Zealand: The island of Zealand is home to some beautiful castles, forests, and beaches, including the famous Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
  • Funen: The island of Funen is known as the “garden of Denmark” and is home to charming towns, rolling hills, and historic landmarks like Hans Christian Andersen’s birthplace.

Conclusion

Vestegnen is a hidden gem in Copenhagen, with a rich culture, natural beauty, and friendly locals. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, a cultural experience, or an outdoor adventure, Vestegnen has something to offer. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip, and don’t forget to enjoy all that Vestegnen has to offer!

Arken, Museum of Modern art in Ishøj Arken, Museum of Modern art in Ishøj Old artillery storage on Vestvolden Old artillery storage on Vestvolden