South Zealand Travel Guide

Plan your trip to South Zealand with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in South Zealand, Denmark, including tips on transportation, accommodation, and local culture.


Introduction to South Zealand

Located in Denmark’s easternmost region, South Zealand is a stunning peninsula boasting a phenomenal mix of natural landscapes and cultural attractions. This region is home to picturesque towns and villages with enchanting castles, charming boutiques, and Michelin-starred restaurants. While South Zealand is relatively undiscovered compared to Copenhagen, this hidden gem offers unforgettable experiences for all types of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in South Zealand

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Køge Museum – Explore the history of the Køge region through this museum’s interactive exhibitions and displays.
  • Gavnø Castle – Admire the baroque architecture of this castle and its magnificent art collection, considered one of Denmark’s finest.
  • Roskilde Cathedral – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a significant cultural attraction, with its Gothic architecture and the burial site of Danish kings and queens.
  • Vordingborg Castle – This castle played a vital role in Denmark’s history, and it’s here that king Valdemar the Great founded the Danish monarchy.
  • Møns Klint – This breathtaking cliff formation over the Baltic Sea is South Zealand’s most famous natural attraction.

Natural Attractions of South Zealand: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Stevns Klint – Situated on the eastern coast, this chalk cliff formation is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular spot for hiking and cycling.
  • Faxe Limestone Quarry – This limestone quarry is unique for its fascinating geology, as well as its impressive views and hiking trails.
  • Grib Forest – This forest is a popular destination for mountain biking and hiking, and also offers numerous lakes for swimming and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South Zealand

South Zealand offers various exciting and scenic trails for hikers and cyclists of all levels. The following are some of the most popular routes:

  • Camønoen – An 80-kilometer trail that takes you through forests, beaches, and charming villages.
  • Møns Klint Trail – A 7-kilometer trail that winds through forests to the iconic chalk cliffs of Møn.
  • Grib Forest Trail – This 13-kilometer trail offers twists and turns for mountain bikers, with spectacular views of the surrounding forest.

Best Things to Do in South Zealand: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking – Glide on the calm waters of the Suså River with an expert guide and witness the beauty of the region from a new perspective.
  • Wine Tasting – Visit one of South Zealand’s charming vineyards, taste delicious wines, and learn about winemaking techniques.
  • Fishing – With the region’s rivers, lakes, and fishing grounds, South Zealand is the perfect location for fishing enthusiasts.
  • Historical Tours – Discover the fascinating history of South Zealand through guided tours of castles, museums, and charming towns.

Week-Long Itinerary for South Zealand

Day 1: Explore Køge, visit the Køge Museum and the local harbor. Day 2: Discover the scenic beauty of Stevns Klint and its geological significance. Day 3: Visit Gavnø Castle and its magnificent art collection. Day 4: Hike the Møns Klint trail and witness the stunning chalk cliffs. Day 5: Take a historical tour of Vordingborg Castle and its significance in Danish history. Day 6: Enjoy mountain biking and swimming in Grib Forest. Day 7: Visit the charming towns of Præstø and Faxe, and see the Faxe Limestone Quarry.

Food and Drink Scene of South Zealand

Must-Try Dishes

  • Smørrebrød – A traditional Danish open sandwich, topped with fish, cold cuts, or vegetables. Try it at Café Vivaldi in Køge.
  • Frikadeller – Danish meatballs made with beef and pork. Visit the Michelin-starred restaurant, Frederiksminde, in Præstø for some of the best.
  • Rugbrød – A hearty dark rye bread that’s ubiquitous in Denmark. Get it at any bakery in South Zealand.
  • Sol over Gudhjem – An open sandwich with smoked herring and a sunny-side-up egg, topped with chives and black pepper. Try it at the Gudhjem Smokehouse on Møn.

Local Beverages

  • Beer – South Zealand has a tradition of brewing, with numerous local microbreweries producing top-quality craft beers.
  • Apple Juice – The region is also known for its apple orchards, which produce delicious apple juice and cider.
  • Aquavit – A traditional Scandinavian spirit infused with herbs such as caraway, fennel, and dill. Try it at the Gavnø Castle Winery.

Where to Stay in South Zealand: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

South Zealand offers a range of accommodation options catering to all budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels to affordable hostels and cozy guesthouses, the following are some popular choices:

  • Comwell Køge Strand Hotel – A high-end, beachfront hotel with excellent dining options and spa facilities.
  • Villa Gallina – A charming guesthouse in the village of Borre, offering clean and comfortable rooms and excellent breakfast.
  • Danhostel Vordingborg – An affordable hostel in the heart of Vordingborg, offering comfortable beds and basic amenities.

What to Buy in South Zealand: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Smoked Fish – South Zealand is renowned for its smoked fish, especially herring and salmon, which are available in specialty smokehouses throughout the region.
  • Handmade Pottery and Glass – Visit local artisans and purchase unique, handcrafted ceramics and glassware.
  • Apple Juice and Cider – Take home a bottle of delicious apple juice or cider made from the region’s abundant orchards.

Local Culture and Customs of South Zealand

Danish culture is renowned for its concept of ‘hygge,’ or coziness and warmth, and South Zealand is no exception. The region is welcoming and friendly, with locals proud of their heritage and traditions. Visitors should follow the national customs, such as removing shoes when entering someone’s home or keeping an appropriate distance in conversation.

Best Time to Visit South Zealand

South Zealand’s climate is mild and damp, with cool summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is warm, and the daylight lasts for longer. However, it’s worth noting that this is also peak season, so prices may be higher than at other times of the year.

Do’s and Don’ts of South Zealand

Do:

  • Try traditional Danish cuisine, such as smørrebrød and frikadeller.
  • Explore the region’s natural attractions, such as Møns Klint and Grib Forest.
  • Practice ‘hygge’ and take the time to relax and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of South Zealand.

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the weather – be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures, even in summer.
  • Forget to take off your shoes when entering someone’s house – it’s a national custom!
  • Criticize Danish culture or traditions – it’s important to be respectful of local customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in South Zealand

South Zealand is a relatively safe destination, with low crime rates and good quality healthcare. Visitors should take standard precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and keeping valuables safe.

Health in South Zealand

Like the rest of Denmark, South Zealand has a high standard of healthcare. Visitors from the EU can use their European Health Insurance Card for free treatment, while others should have comprehensive travel insurance.

Getting to South Zealand: Transportation Options and Logistics

South Zealand is easily accessible from Copenhagen, with numerous options for transportation.

Airports Near South Zealand

Copenhagen Airport is the most convenient airport for South Zealand, with regular train and bus services connecting the airport to the region.

Bus Stations Near South Zealand

Several bus companies offer services to major towns and attractions in South Zealand, including Movia and Sydtrafik.

Other Options

Traveling by train is a comfortable and scenic option, with direct trains from Copenhagen to major towns in South Zealand, such as Køge, Vordingborg, and Næstved.

How to Get Around in South Zealand

South Zealand is a compact region that’s easy to navigate by public transport, with regular bus and train services between major towns and attractions. Cycling is also a popular and eco-friendly option, with rental services available in most towns.

Where to Go Next from South Zealand: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

South Zealand is an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions, including the following:

  • Copenhagen – Denmark’s cosmopolitan capital is just a short train ride away from South Zealand, offering world-class culture, shopping, and dining.
  • Bornholm – This charming island located in the Baltic Sea is a popular destination for tourists, with its beautiful coastline, medieval ruins, and fantastic biking routes.
  • Swedish Coastline – South Zealand’s location on Denmark’s east coast makes it an excellent starting point for a trip to Sweden’s coastal cities, such as Ystad and Malmö.

Conclusion

South Zealand is a hidden gem that offers an exceptional mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Whether you want to hike through rolling hills, visit historical landmarks, or indulge in world-class cuisine, South Zealand has something for everyone. From the charming towns to the spectacular natural landscapes, South Zealand is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Denmark.

Stevns Cliffs Stevns Cliffs Højerup Old Church Højerup Old Church Underground in Stevnsfort, notice the layers of limestone and flint Underground in Stevnsfort, notice the layers of limestone and flint View from Trampestien View from Trampestien


    Faxe
    Glumsø
    Haslev
    Præstø
    Vordingborg