Best accommodation in Denmark

Accommodation is a major expense, although there is a wide network of good-quality hostels. Most have a choice of private rooms, often with en-suite toilets/showers, as well as dorm accommodation; nearly all have cooking facilities. Rates are around 150kr per person for a dorm bed; non-HI members pay an extra 25kr a night (160kr for one-year HI membership, which can be bought at any affiliated hostel); travellers without bed linen will also need to pay to rent this. Danhostel Danmarks Vandrerhjem produces a free hostel guide. For a similar price, sleep-ins (smaller hostels aimed at backpackers) can be found chiefly in major towns, though some are open only in summer. There can be an age restriction (typically 35 or under). Local tourist offices have details.

Rooms at hotels can compare pricewise with private rooms in hostels. Expect to pay at least 550kr for a double room (and 450kr for a single), though note that this nearly always includes an all-you-can-eat breakfast. It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak season (this can also give you big discounts). Tourist offices can also supply details of private rooms, which usually cost 350–450kr for a double, plus a 50–70k booking fee. Farmstays (Bondegårdsferie) have become increasingly popular in recent years – digs can be either in rooms or camping (bring your own tent).

Camping

If you plan to camp, you’ll need an international camping carnet, or a Camping Key Scandinavia (110kr), which is available at official campsites. A Transit Card (35kr) can be used for a single overnight stay. Most campsites are open from April to September, while a few stay open all year. There’s a rigid grading system: one-star sites have toilets and showers; two-stars also have basic cooking facilities and a food shop within 2km; three-stars include a laundry and a TV room; four-stars also have a shop, while five-stars include a cafeteria. Prices are 75–100kr per person. Many campsites also have cabins to rent, usually with cooking facilities, for 2500kr–6000kr per week for a six-berth place, although they are often fully booked in summer months in advance (though occasionally you’ll be able to rent a cabin for just a few days for around 300kr per night). Tourist offices offer a free leaflet listing all sites. Camping rough without permission is illegal, and an on-the-spot fine may be imposed. Good English-language information is available at www.dk-camp.dk.; Danish Campsites is a useful planning resource.