- Copenhagen
- Aarhus
- Zealand
Christmas markets and sightseeing in Copenhagen and Aarhus and a wonderful castle stay in Zealand
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
What's included
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Luxury accommodation throughout
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Private transfers
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All tours mentioned
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Full support from your travel designer and concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
When it comes to embracing winter, the Danes have got it spot on. Hygge is a Danish and Norwegian word that is used to describe the ultimate feeling of cosiness and contentment. This eight-day trip will show you three very different sides of Denmark and rest assured, there is plenty of hygge throughout.
You’ll start in the capital, Copenhagen, an elegant city filled with beautiful castles and royal palaces. It is also home to Tivoli Gardens, a charming amusement park where you’ll find carousels and ferris wheels. It is particularly magical at Christmas with its twinkling lights and craft markets. You’ll also get the chance to get busy in the kitchen learning how to make deliciously flakey Danish pastries.
You’ll then spend two nights in Aarhus on the east coast of the Jutland peninsula. Wander through the pretty old town, visit the museum of modern art and Marselisborg Castle, the Queen’s favoured private residences. Of course there will also be time to visit the Christmas markets, shopping for stocking fillers and enjoying traditional Danish treats along the way.
The last few nights will be spent at the wonderful Dragsholm Castle in Zealand. Spend your time exploring the surrounding countryside, relaxing at the castle and enjoying its world-class restaurants which specialise in creative Scandinavian cuisine.
Example trip itinerary
Copenhagen
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Copenhagen
Accommodation in Copenhagen
- 54 rooms
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Rooftop terrace
- Courtyard
Immerse yourself in a cocoon of casual luxury in the heart of Copenhagen‘s historic quarter. Hotel Sanders is housed in a carefully restored building, and the focus is on simple elegance.
There are 54 rooms to choose from with a culture of art, design and creativity running through the interiors. Personable service adds to the sense of homeliness. Warm, natural tones and soft fabrics make the rooms and inviting haven away from the busy city streets.
Feel as though you’ve been invited to a private dinner as you settle in for an unfussy yet tasty meal in Sanders Kitchen, where the chef enjoys mingling with the guests. There is the option to have dinner served in other areas of the hotel, including your room. Order a classic cocktail from Tata, which also stocks the hotel’s own beer and an interesting selection of wines.
Head up to the rooftop terrace and enjoy your breakfast with charming views out of the city’s tiled roofs, or order snacks and drinks through the afternoon. There is also a tranquil courtyard to escape to, where you can order something to eat, or simply curl up with a book surrounded by plants. In the colder months, you can relax in front of a crackling fire.

Denmark often tops the polls of the world’s happiest countries and its capital tends to put a smile on the faces of all who visit. What it lacks in size it more than makes up for in character, its compact centre a maze of cobbled streets easily navigated by foot or on the Danes’ favourite mode of transport, the bicycle. Originally a Viking fishing village, Copenhagen has evolved into one of Europe’s most sophisticated cities. Spread across the two islands of Zealand and Amager and separated from Sweden by the Øresund Bridge, it is a city of contrasts, seamlessly blending classic architecture with cutting edge modern design.

Your guide will take you on a tour of the oldest parts of Copenhagen, dating back to the year 1160. You will walk around the inner parts of the city and slowly work your way up through the centuries. First stop will be the King’s Garden, one of the world's first public parks. Next stop will be the Rosenborg Castle, which was built as a private, romantic getaway for the Danish king, Christian IV. Today it is a museum and home to the Danish crown jewels. Finally you will make your way to the Round Tower, the world's oldest still-functioning observatory. The tower offers a great view of the medieval centre of Copenhagen.
Break away from the old town and the traditional sights of the city, as you head to the quarter of Nørrebro, a diverse and multicultural area with lots of life and green spaces. The tour will begin at Dronning Louises Bro, a bridge that connects the inner city and Nørrebro. Thousands of pedestrians and cyclist cross this bridge daily, making it one of the busiest bike lanes in the world. From here you'll move on to the Assistens Cemetery. Though a cemetery, its aesthetic nature and peaceful atmosphere have made it a popular spot for locals. Here lie many of the most famous Danes in history, like writer Hans Christian Anderson and philosopher Søren Kirkegaard. Afterwards, you will continue to Jægersborggade, a lively street, that's filled with independent design shops, vintage boutiques and small restaurants and cafés. Stop for the traditional Danish hygge beer at Mikkeller & Friends, situated at Stefansgade.

You’ll learn the essential skills to create traditional Danish rye bread, perfect sourdough buns and delicious Danish pastries. In this hands-on class, you’ll be taught the techniques for mixing, kneading, proving and shaping the different types of dough. By the end of class, you’ll be equipped with a new set of baking skills and be able to recreate a taste of Denmark back home. Once the baking is finished, you’ll get to reap your reward and enjoy a true Danish breakfast with all freshly baked goodies and tasty toppings served with fresh-pressed juice, tea, coffee and, of course, a schnapps, just like a true Dane.

One of the oldest amusement parks in the world and only the second most popular, Tivoli is a true Copenhagen trademark. Beyond the many fun rides, the park also houses a beautiful pleasure garden and numerous great restaurants and cafés. A visit to Tivoli is always a good idea for an evening out in Copenhagen - for people of all ages.
Transfer
Private transfer to Aarhus
Aarhus
Accommodation in Aarhus
- 66 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Lounge bar
The Hotel Royal is located in the heart of Aarhus in a beautiful neoclassical building that dates from 1838.
Its 66 rooms are traditional in design and have a real warmth to them with burnt orange and cream colours and dark wood furniture. Original artwork hangs on the walls, something that you’ll notice all over the hotel.
Enjoy fine dining at the hotel restaurant and a drink at the bar before heading out to explore the city. You are located close to Aarhus’ main sites, including the ARoS Art Museum which is a 15-minute walk away.

Denmark's second city, Aarhus is located on the east coast of the Jutland peninsula. While often overlooked for the capital, the coastal city has gradually been gaining attention with restaurants here being awarded the first Michelin stars in Denmark outside Copenhagen, a regenerated waterfront, and excellent art galleries.

Aarhus' Old Town consist of 75 historical houses from all over Denmark. They shape the contours of a Danish town as it might have looked in Hans Christian Andersen's days, with streets, shops, yards, homes and workshops, and during winter time the town is true Danish hygge. A guide will meet you at the entrance and take you around the town and to the traditional Christmas market. Finish the day with a traditional hot Christmas drink in a historic setting before enjoying some time to experience the city on your own.

The breathtaking ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is one of the biggest art museums in Northern Europe and hard to miss, due to trademarks like Olafur Eliasson’s ‘Your Rainbow Panorama’ and Ron Mueck’s ‘Boy’. This ambitious museum aims at always upping its game as an internationally acclaimed museum with blockbuster exhibitions.

Marselisborg Castle is one of the Queen’s beloved, private residences. Here you can walk around in the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle and enjoy the view of the ocean.

Ridehuset is Aarhus' centrally located multi-purpose hall. It houses a variety of events from concerts and parties to exhibitions and fairs. Every Christmas, Ridehuset houses a delightful market, where independent designers and small shops sell their homemade Christmas items. You will have time to look around, and if you feel like it, you can try the traditional Danish Christmas snack, æbleskiver.
Transfer
Private transfer to Aarhus harbour
Transfer
Ferry to Zealand
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Zealand
Zealand
Accommodation in Zealand
- 34 rooms
- Two restaurants
- Snack bar on the terrace
In the heart of the beautiful Odsherred peninsula stands the 800-year-old Dragsholm Castle. Although the boroque style of the exterior remains, the interiors have been renovated and reflect a more modern style making it the perfect blend of old and new.
There are 34 elegant rooms, all with signature wallpaper and some featuring wood burning stoves in the corner. Dragsholm is known for its culinary heritage and has two outstanding restaurants. Slotskøkkenet is the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, specialising in innovative Scandinavian cuisine. Expect beautifully presented dishes and wonderful and unique flavours. Spisehuset is the more informal bistro serving meat, fish and shellfish in a bright and contemporary setting. You can also enjoy light bites and snacks on the terrace.
The castle’s herb garden really is something to behold and where you’ll find over 100 varieties of Nordic vegetables and herbs grown for the restaurants. The area surrounding the castle has been designated Denmark’s first and only Geopark by UNESCO and is a wondferful place to explore.

A stay at Dragsholm Castle is the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge. The surrounding countryside has been designated a Geopark by UNESCO, the only one of its kind in Denmark. Guests can go mountain biking or walking through the surrounds or relax at the castle with a yoga class or a stroll through the herb garden. There are also board games and a billiards table for those with a competative side.

You will be meet by the castle's local nature guide, who will take you on a walk through the beautiful surroundings, and tell you about the wild, edible produce found during the winter season such as herbs, winter plants and mushrooms.
Transfer
Private transfer to Copenhagen Airport
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
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When it comes to embracing winter, the Danes have got it spot on. Hygge is a Danish and Norwegian word that is used to describe the ultimate feeling of cosiness and contentment. This eight-day trip will show you three very different sides of Denmark and rest assured, there is plenty of hygge throughout. You’ll start in the capital, Copenhagen, an elegant city filled with beautiful castles and royal palaces. It is also home to Tivoli Gardens, a charming amusement park where you’ll find carousels and ferris wheels. It is particularly magical at Christmas with its twinkling lights and craft markets. You’ll also get the chance to get busy in the kitchen learning how to make deliciously flakey Danish pastries. You’ll then spend two nights in Aarhus on the east coast of the Jutland peninsula. Wander through the pretty old town, visit the museum of modern art and Marselisborg Castle, the Queen’s favoured private residences. Of course there will also be time to visit the Christmas markets, shopping for stocking fillers and enjoying traditional Danish treats along the way. The last few nights will be spent at the wonderful Dragsholm Castle in Zealand. Spend your time exploring the surrounding countryside, relaxing at the castle and enjoying its world-class restaurants which specialise in creative Scandinavian cuisine. | Whats included?
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Days 1-4 |
Copenhagen |
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Copenhagen |
|
Accommodation in Copenhagen
•
Hotel Sanders - $$$$$
Immerse yourself in a cocoon of casual luxury in the heart of
|
|
Three nights in Copenhagen Denmark often tops the polls of the world’s happiest countries and its capital tends to put a smile on the faces of all who visit. What it lacks in size it more than makes up for in character, its compact centre a maze of cobbled streets easily navigated by foot or on the Danes’ favourite mode of transport, the bicycle. Originally a Viking fishing village, Copenhagen has evolved into one of Europe’s most sophisticated cities. Spread across the two islands of Zealand and Amager and separated from Sweden by the Øresund Bridge, it is a city of contrasts, seamlessly blending classic architecture with cutting edge modern design. |
|
Copenhagen highlights walking tour Your guide will take you on a tour of the oldest parts of Copenhagen, dating back to the year 1160. You will walk around the inner parts of the city and slowly work your way up through the centuries. First stop will be the King’s Garden, one of the world's first public parks. Next stop will be the Rosenborg Castle, which was built as a private, romantic getaway for the Danish king, Christian IV. Today it is a museum and home to the Danish crown jewels. Finally you will make your way to the Round Tower, the world's oldest still-functioning observatory. The tower offers a great view of the medieval centre of Copenhagen. |
|
Norrebro tour Break away from the old town and the traditional sights of the city, as you head to the quarter of Nørrebro, a diverse and multicultural area with lots of life and green spaces. The tour will begin at Dronning Louises Bro, a bridge that connects the inner city and Nørrebro. Thousands of pedestrians and cyclist cross this bridge daily, making it one of the busiest bike lanes in the world. From here you'll move on to the Assistens Cemetery. Though a cemetery, its aesthetic nature and peaceful atmosphere have made it a popular spot for locals. Here lie many of the most famous Danes in history, like writer Hans Christian Anderson and philosopher Søren Kirkegaard. Afterwards, you will continue to Jægersborggade, a lively street, that's filled with independent design shops, vintage boutiques and small restaurants and cafés. Stop for the traditional Danish hygge beer at Mikkeller & Friends, situated at Stefansgade. |
|
Baking class You’ll learn the essential skills to create traditional Danish rye bread, perfect sourdough buns and delicious Danish pastries. In this hands-on class, you’ll be taught the techniques for mixing, kneading, proving and shaping the different types of dough. By the end of class, you’ll be equipped with a new set of baking skills and be able to recreate a taste of Denmark back home. Once the baking is finished, you’ll get to reap your reward and enjoy a true Danish breakfast with all freshly baked goodies and tasty toppings served with fresh-pressed juice, tea, coffee and, of course, a schnapps, just like a true Dane. |
|
Tivoli Gardens One of the oldest amusement parks in the world and only the second most popular, Tivoli is a true Copenhagen trademark. Beyond the many fun rides, the park also houses a beautiful pleasure garden and numerous great restaurants and cafés. A visit to Tivoli is always a good idea for an evening out in Copenhagen - for people of all ages. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Aarhus |
|
Days 4-7 |
Aarhus |
Accommodation in Aarhus
•
Hotel Royal - $$$$$
The Hotel Royal is located in the heart of Aarhus in a beautiful neoclassical building that...
|
|
Two nights in Aarhus Denmark's second city, Aarhus is located on the east coast of the Jutland peninsula. While often overlooked for the capital, the coastal city has gradually been gaining attention with restaurants here being awarded the first Michelin stars in Denmark outside Copenhagen, a regenerated waterfront, and excellent art galleries. |
|
Aarhus Old Town walking tour Aarhus' Old Town consist of 75 historical houses from all over Denmark. They shape the contours of a Danish town as it might have looked in Hans Christian Andersen's days, with streets, shops, yards, homes and workshops, and during winter time the town is true Danish hygge. A guide will meet you at the entrance and take you around the town and to the traditional Christmas market. Finish the day with a traditional hot Christmas drink in a historic setting before enjoying some time to experience the city on your own. |
|
ARoS Aarhus Kunstmuseum The breathtaking ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is one of the biggest art museums in Northern Europe and hard to miss, due to trademarks like Olafur Eliasson’s ‘Your Rainbow Panorama’ and Ron Mueck’s ‘Boy’. This ambitious museum aims at always upping its game as an internationally acclaimed museum with blockbuster exhibitions. |
|
Marselisborg Castle Marselisborg Castle is one of the Queen’s beloved, private residences. Here you can walk around in the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle and enjoy the view of the ocean. |
|
Christmas markets Ridehuset is Aarhus' centrally located multi-purpose hall. It houses a variety of events from concerts and parties to exhibitions and fairs. Every Christmas, Ridehuset houses a delightful market, where independent designers and small shops sell their homemade Christmas items. You will have time to look around, and if you feel like it, you can try the traditional Danish Christmas snack, æbleskiver. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Aarhus harbour |
|
Ferry to Zealand | |
Private transfer to your hotel in Zealand | |
Days 6-8 |
Zealand |
Accommodation in Zealand
•
Dragsholm Castle - $$$$$
In the heart of the beautiful Odsherred peninsula stands the 800-year-old Dragsholm Castle....
|
|
Two nights at Dragsholm Castle A stay at Dragsholm Castle is the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge. The surrounding countryside has been designated a Geopark by UNESCO, the only one of its kind in Denmark. Guests can go mountain biking or walking through the surrounds or relax at the castle with a yoga class or a stroll through the herb garden. There are also board games and a billiards table for those with a competative side. |
|
Dragsholm Castle guided walk You will be meet by the castle's local nature guide, who will take you on a walk through the beautiful surroundings, and tell you about the wild, edible produce found during the winter season such as herbs, winter plants and mushrooms. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Copenhagen Airport |