Denmark’s mix of historic charm, cutting-edge design, and scenic coastal beauty makes it an exciting travel destination, where knowing how to handle money ensures a seamless experience. Whether you’re cycling through Copenhagen, exploring Viking history in Roskilde, or dining at world-famous restaurants, this guide covers everything you need to know – what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Denmark (Danish Krone (DKK)), cash safety tips, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid unnecessary fees and make the most of your time in Denmark’s stylish and welcoming atmosphere.
How to pay in Denmark – cash or card?
In Denmark, card payments are the predominant method of transaction, with a significant decline in cash usage over recent years. Most estabishments prefer card payments.
You can use cash for:
Public Transportation: While urban centers may offer card payment options, some buses and local transport services still accept cash.
Local Markets and Street Vendors: Purchases at traditional markets and street stalls may accept cash, though card acceptance is widespread.
Small Businesses: Some small or family-run shops and eateries might accept cash transactions, but this is becoming less common.
Tips and Gratuities: It’s customary to tip in cash for services such as dining, tour guides, and hotel staff.
Rural Areas: In less urbanized regions, while electronic payment facilities are common, carrying some cash can be useful.
You can use card for:
Hotels: Major hotels, especially in urban and tourist areas, accept credit and debit cards.
Restaurants and Cafés: Most dining establishments, particularly in cities, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping malls, branded stores, and supermarkets commonly accept cards.
Car Rentals and Travel Agencies: Established agencies typically offer card payment options.
Online Bookings: Reservations for flights, hotels, and tours can usually be made using cards.
What’s the best currency to take to Denmark
Danish Krone (DKK) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Denmark. Paying or withdrawing cash in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
While some businesses may accept Euros, the exchange rate is often not favorable. Therefore, it’s advisable to pay in DKK to avoid losing money.
US Dollars or British Pounds are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Denmark
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Denmark. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Denmark
POS at establishments in Denmark readily accept Visa and Mastercards. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Denmark
If you’re withdrawing money in Denmark from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus cards. Some of them accept American Express and Diners cards. ATMs usually don’t accept others like JCB, UnionPay, Discover cards.
Should I exchange currency before travelling to Denmark
Bringing a small amount of Danish Krone (DKK) before traveling can be useful for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, and small purchases. However, exchange rates outside Denmark are often poor, and some foreign banks may not stock DKK.
Withdrawing DKK from ATMs in Denmark is the most convenient option, as ATMs are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check with your bank for international withdrawal fees.
It’s best to exchange money in Denmark at banks or authorized exchange bureaus, which offer better rates than airports or hotels. If exchanging at the airport, do so only for a small amount.
Carrying a mix of cash and cards is recommended. Denmark is a highly cashless society, and most places accept credit and debit cards, even for small transactions. However, if bringing EUR, USD, or GBP, they can be exchanged in Denmark at banks or exchange bureaus for fair rates. Paying in DKK ensures the best value, as foreign currency is generally not accepted.
Where to withdraw money in Denmark
You can withdraw money in Denmark at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Denmark are those owned by popular banks such as:
Nordea,
Danske Bank,
Jyske Bank, and
Arbejdernes.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Denmark.
Where to exchange currency in Denmark
You can exchange currency in Denmark at licensed exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: In Denmark, currency exchange offices are commonly referred to as Valutaveksling. These are widely available in tourist areas, shopping centers, and airports. Notable providers include Forex Bank and Tavex.
Banks: Major banks such as Danske Bank, Nordea, and Jyske Bank offer currency exchange services. These banks have branches throughout cities, providing reliable services. Operating hours are typically from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays.
You can find good currency exchanges using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 100+ countries, including Denmark.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: Currency exchange services at airports often have less favorable rates and higher fees. It’s generally better to exchange money in the city for better rates and lower charges.
Is carrying cash in Denmark safe?
Carrying cash in Denmark is generally safe due to the country’s low crime rate. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded areas like train stations, public transportation, and tourist attractions.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Denmark
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
