ROSKILDE & CENTRAL ZEALAND
This region is the historical heart of Denmark, where the legacy of Viking kings and medieval royalty endures. Roskilde Fjord and the surrounding landscape blend ancient history with vibrant nature.
It is a land of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from the royal tombs in the majestic cathedral to the reconstructed longships of the Vikings. Here, Danish history feels alive and within reach.
Most Popular Attractions
Roskilde City Core & History:
Roskilde Cathedral (Roskilde Domkirke): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this brick-Gothic masterpiece is the official burial church of 40 Danish monarchs.
Viking Ship Museum (Vikingeskibsmuseet): Denmark’s national museum for ships of the prehistoric and medieval period, home to five original, salvaged 11th-century Viking ships.
Roskilde Palace (Roskilde Palæ): An 18th-century Baroque palace complex used by the Danish Royal Family and hosting local art exhibitions.
Roskilde Museum: Focuses on the local history of Roskilde, from the Viking Age to the present day.
Roskilde Harbour: A scenic area on the fjord, perfect for walks and home to the museum’s boatyard where you can watch traditional boat building.
St. Laurentius Church Ruins (Skt. Laurentii Kirkeruin): Ruins of a medieval church located beneath the modern-day pedestrian street, accessible through the local museum.
Lützhøfts Old Grocer’s Shop (Lützhøfts Købmandsgård): A preserved 1920s-era grocer’s shop that offers a glimpse into local life a century ago.
Roskilde Jars (Roskilde-krukkerne): Three colossal ceramic jars at the entrance to the city, symbolizing the region’s historical importance.
Historical and Natural Sites in Lejre:
Land of Legends (Sagnlandet Lejre): An open-air archaeological museum and historical center with reconstructed environments from the Stone, Iron, and Viking Ages.
Ledreborg Palace & Park (Ledreborg Slot): A stunning Baroque mansion with beautiful gardens and parkland, a popular venue for events and concerts.
Skjoldungernes Land National Park: A national park encompassing Roskilde Fjord and the cultural landscapes around Lejre, perfect for hiking and nature observation.
Gammel Lejre: An area of great historical significance, believed to be the royal seat of the legendary Skjoldung kings during the Iron and Viking Ages.
Regional Cities & Coastline:
Køge Old Town: One of Denmark’s best-preserved medieval market towns, featuring the oldest timber-framed house in the country.
Køge Museum (Køge Byhistorisk Arkiv & Museum): Explores the town’s history as a major seaport and market center.
KØS Museum of Art in Public Spaces: Denmark’s specialized museum dedicated to art created for public spaces.
Kalundborg Church of Our Lady (Vor Frue Kirke): A unique five-spired medieval church, a rare example of Byzantine-inspired architecture in Scandinavia.
Kalundborg Museum: Focuses on the history of the Kalundborg region, including its medieval castle ruins.
Dragsholm Castle (Dragsholm Slot): One of Denmark’s oldest castles, dating back to the 13th century, now a hotel and restaurant famous for its ghost stories.
Holbæk Museum: A local history museum comprising several preserved historic buildings, including a farm and a merchant’s house.
Trelleborg Viking Ring Fortress: Located near Slagelse, this is a well-preserved Viking ring fortress built by Harald Bluetooth in the 10th century.
Stevns Klint: A stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site chalk cliff coastline famous for its visible geological layer that marks the extinction of the dinosaurs.
Røsnæs Peninsula: A scenic coastal area near Kalundborg known for its vineyards, lighthouse, and dramatic views of the Great Belt.
Højerup Old Church (Højerup Gamle Kirke): A medieval church perched dramatically on the edge of the Stevns Klint chalk cliff, which has lost part of its structure to the sea.
Activities & Experiences
Visit Roskilde Cathedral (UNESCO World Heritage): Explore this magnificent Gothic cathedral, the final resting place of 39 Danish monarchs. Take a guided tour to learn about the royal history and architecture.
Sail a Viking Ship on the Fjord: Join a crew on a reconstructed Viking ship from the Viking Ship Museum and experience sailing on the Roskilde Fjord, just as the Vikings did a thousand years ago.
Explore the Viking Ship Museum: Marvel at the five original 11th-century Viking ships recovered from the fjord. Watch traditional shipbuilding in the adjacent boatyard.
Discover the Land of Legends (Sagnlandet Lejre): Step back in time at this open-air museum and historical playground, featuring reconstructions of Stone Age camps, an Iron Age village, and Viking markets.
Kayak or Paddleboard on Roskilde Fjord: Rent a kayak or SUP and enjoy the tranquil waters and scenic views of the fjord, exploring the coastline and nature from a different perspective.
Experience Ragnarock Museum: Dive into the world of Danish and international pop, rock, and youth culture in this interactive and engaging museum housed in a striking modern building in the Musicon district.
Hike in Boserup Forest: Escape the city bustle and enjoy the serene, hilly beech mixed forest just west of Roskilde, with marked trekking paths and views over the fjord.
Tour Ledreborg Palace & Park: Visit this beautiful 18th-century Baroque palace, still a family residence, and stroll through its meticulously restored historical park and gardens (check seasonal openings).
Stroll and Shop along Algade/Skomagergade: Wander through Roskilde’s vibrant pedestrian street, the heart of the city center, browsing shops and soaking in the local atmosphere.
Attend a Summer Concert in Byparken: Enjoy a free summer concert or simply relax in the beautiful Bypark, situated between the cathedral and the inlet, which also features a playground.
Go back in time at Lützhøfts Købmandsgaard: Visit this well-preserved old grocer’s shop in Roskilde, which looks and operates as it did in the 1920s, offering a glimpse into local trade history.
Experience the Roskilde Festival (Seasonal): If visiting in late June/early July, immerse yourself in one of Europe’s largest and most famous music and cultural festivals, a non-profit event supporting humanitarian causes.
Local Tips & Transport
Train is Primary: The regional train network is excellent. Roskilde is a major hub and easily accessible from Copenhagen (about 25 minutes). For day trips to other parts of Central Zealand, the train is often the fastest and most convenient option.
DSB (Danish Railways): The main train operator. Trains from Copenhagen Central Station (København H) to Roskilde run frequently.
Rejsekort: For regular use, consider purchasing a rechargeable Rejsekort (travel card) for cheaper fares across all public transport (train, bus, metro) in the country. Remember to tap in and tap out at the blue points.
City Passes/Copenhagen Card: If you are combining a visit to Roskilde and Zealand with Copenhagen, a Copenhagen Card can be excellent value as it includes unlimited transport in all zones between Copenhagen and Roskilde, plus free admission to many attractions.
Biking & Walking: Roskilde’s city center and main attractions (Cathedral, Viking Museum) are easily walkable. Denmark is incredibly bike-friendly.
Biking: Consider renting a bicycle. Roskilde is a great starting point for cycling routes along the fjord and into the surrounding countryside. Look for bike rental shops or the Donkey Republic sharing service in some areas.
Local Bus Network: Buses operate in Roskilde and connect to smaller towns in the wider region. Use the “Rejseplanen” app or website for planning all bus and train routes and times across Denmark. The DOT Tickets app is an easy way to purchase mobile tickets.
The Rhythm of “Hygge”: Denmark is famous for Hygge (pronounced ‘hoo-guh’), a concept encompassing cozy comfort, well-being, and contentment. Embrace this by enjoying a relaxed coffee in a local café, taking a calm walk by the fjord, or having a simple, pleasant meal with friends or family.
Dining Times: Danish dining times are earlier than in Southern Europe. Lunch is typically between 12 PM and 2 PM, and dinner often starts between 6 PM and 8 PM. Many restaurant kitchens close earlier than in large European capitals.
The Roskilde Festival Impact: Roskilde is internationally known for its massive summer music festival. If you plan to visit around the time of the festival (usually late June/early July), be aware that accommodation will book out far in advance, and prices will be significantly higher.
Local Currency and Payments: The local currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit cards are widely accepted everywhere, even for small purchases. Contactless payment is standard. Cash is rarely necessary.
Hidden Gems:
Musicon: A creative city district in Roskilde that features the Ragnarock Museum, a skate park (Rabalderparken), artist workshops, and a focus on urban experimentation. It’s a fantastic example of modern Danish culture.
Stændertorvet Market: Visit the main square near the Cathedral on a Wednesday or Saturday morning for the traditional market, where you can buy fresh local produce, fish, and Danish cheeses—a great spot for picnic supplies.
Roskilde Kloster (Monastery): Take a guided tour of this former medieval monastery, offering a fascinating glimpse into the town’s religious and aristocratic history.
Fjordlandet National Park: The area surrounding Roskilde Fjord is part of this beautiful national park, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching, walking, and sailing.
Top Restaurants
Restaurant Raadhuskælderen [$20-$40] – Dine in an atmospheric cellar beneath Roskilde’s old town hall, savoring classic Danish cuisine like smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) and flæskesteg (roast pork) in historic surroundings.
Bryggergården [$25-$45] – A historic Danish restaurant in central Roskilde, known for serving traditional Danish classics and local specialties, including excellent smørrebrød, in a charming, timber-framed setting.
Pipers Hus [$25-$45] – A cozy and well-loved spot near the Roskilde Fjord and Cathedral, offering authentic Danish cuisine and smørrebrød in a picturesque location, with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Café Korn [$15-$30] – A charming, cozy café in Roskilde perfect for a morning coffee, casual brunch, or lunch, featuring freshly baked pastries and using locally sourced ingredients.
Café Knarr [$20-$40] – Located at the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde, this café offers a modern take on “New Nordic Viking food,” using local and historical ingredients in creative ways.
Restaurant Mumm I/S [$50-$90] – A standout in Roskilde’s historic district, offering inventive and modern Nordic cuisine in a cozy, candlelit setting, a favorite for local flavor with a contemporary flair.
Restaurant Upstairs [$40-$70] – Located in central Roskilde, this restaurant serves modern Danish classics with a creative fusion of international dishes and a scenic view above the historic shopping street.
Restaurant Vigen [$60-$100] – Just outside Roskilde’s historical core, this spot combines award-winning modern Danish cuisine with sweeping Roskilde Fjord views for a refined yet welcoming setting.
Restaurant Store Børs [$60-$100] – An exclusive restaurant at Roskilde’s harbor, offering modern Nordic gastronomy with a strong focus on local and seasonal ingredients in a beautiful, historic setting.
Snekken Trattoria [$35-$60] – While Italian, it’s a popular Roskilde spot by the fjord known for using fresh local produce in its delectable dishes, offering a scenic and relaxed dining experience.
Dragsholm Slot Gourmet (Hørve, Central Zealand) [$150-$250+] – Located in a historic castle on the edge of Central Zealand, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers creative cuisine focusing on local and seasonal ingredients from the estate and surrounding nature.
Restaurant Sletten (Humlebæk, North Zealand, but relatively close) [$80-$140] – Located in the idyllic Sletten harbor, the cuisine is based on French and Nordic traditions with a strong focus on the sea, offering high-quality dining just outside the immediate region.
Tinggården (Smørumnedre, Central Zealand) [$80-$140] – Indulge in gourmet dishes and delicious wines in idyllic surroundings, this restaurant outside Roskilde offers a high-end experience with a focus on seasonal and local produce.
Gusto Giusto [$20-$40] – An authentic Italian restaurant in Roskilde focusing on quality, simple, and often organic ingredients, bringing a taste of Italy to the city with an impressive wine selection.
Rib House [$25-$45] – A popular, family-friendly dining option in Roskilde known for its mouthwatering ribs and American-style barbecue buffet options.
M/S Sagafjord [$40-$70] – Savor panoramic fjord views and refined Danish cuisine on a classic cruise ship, blending maritime heritage with gourmet dining right on the Roskilde Fjord.
La Rustica [$20-$35] – A local favorite in Roskilde’s city center serving authentic Italian pizza and pasta, a great, relaxed alternative to Danish fare.
Restaurant That’s Amore [$30-$50] – Another popular, authentic Italian spot in Roskilde, where the atmosphere and the food make every meal feel like a family gathering.
Roskilde Food Market [$15-$30] – Not a single restaurant, but a market with various food stalls offering street food and quick bites, perfect for a casual and diverse meal.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Liquid KITCHEN (Roskilde): Widely considered the best cocktail bar in Roskilde, this establishment elevates the local scene with inventive, high-quality cocktails. Located centrally on Jernbanegade, it’s a unique spot where the owner draws on Indian heritage for exciting twists on classic drinks.
Chase Cocktailbar (Roskilde): Found in the heart of Roskilde, this bar offers a vibrant setting for enjoying both classic and house cocktails. It’s part of a combined space with a sushi restaurant, making it a great pre-dinner or late-night spot on Algade.
Pincho Nation – Restaurant and Bar (Roskilde): This popular international concept, located centrally in Roskilde, is known for its tapas-style food menu and a fun, circus-themed environment, serving a variety of classic cocktails and drinks.
Skippers Dreng (Køge): Offering a cozy bar and lounge area that stays open late, this establishment in Køge is a great place for a drink, alongside their full menu offerings.
Tørshavn (Køge): This bar in the heart of Køge specializes in craft cocktails, focusing on creations made with local Danish ingredients, providing a unique taste of the region.
Bar Bælt (Køge): Located on the waterfront in Køge, this bar offers a relaxed atmosphere and a mix of classic and innovative cocktails, perfect for enjoying a drink with a view of the water.
Nøstet (Køge): Known for its contemporary design and modern, urban vibes, this Køge bar offers innovative cocktails for those looking for a cutting-edge drinking experience.
Bistro Køge (Køge): With a charming interior and a creative cocktail menu, this is a great spot in Køge to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
The Whisky Bar Køge (Køge): Located in Køge, this spot is known for its extensive whisky collection but also offers an array of drinks, often featuring live jazz performances.
Krybbalet (Køge): This modern bar in Køge features a sleek interior, an urban experience, and hosts regular events, often partnering with local food vendors.
Gimle Musikcafe (Roskilde): A consistently popular venue, found on Ringstedgade, that combines the ambiance of a battered English pub with music, serving endless steins of Danish and international beer and a full bar selection.
Klosterkælderen (Roskilde): This is a fantastic, dark basement bar near the Roskilde Cathedral known for its love of craft beer, but also offering other selections for a cozy atmosphere.
Gustav Wieds – Byens Ølbar (Roskilde): A neighborhood bar in Roskilde with a hygge atmosphere and a full bar, known for its friendly regulars and an additional focus on craft beer.
Skänk Beer & Wine Bar (Roskilde): A cozy bar near the Roskilde Jars that offers wine and a smaller selection of beer, but maintains a full-bar feel with an intimate setting ideal for a date.
PROP Vin og Tapasbar (Roskilde): A wine and tapas bar located on Gullandsstræde, offering a relaxed environment for a glass of wine or a drink.
SOHO (Roskilde): A major nightclub destination in Roskilde, featuring a lively dance floor and experienced DJs spinning commercial and popular music. Located on Algade, it offers both classic and house cocktails from a long, well-stocked bar.
Bar z (Næstved): Næstved’s contemporary nightclub destination in the city center on Ramsherred street. It is renowned for its lively dance floor, energetic DJs playing pop and electronic dance, and a welcoming crowd, serving a full range of drinks and cocktails.
Paramount DIY (Roskilde): Located on Eriksvej, this is a destination for lovers of alternative music like hard core rock, reggae, electronica, and punk, offering a more underground club experience in Roskilde.
GullAnden Roskilde (Roskilde): Described as a meeting place for everyone, this venue on Borchsgade in Roskilde functions as a lively bar with a great atmosphere, often turning into a party spot.
Musicon Mikrobryggeri (Roskilde): While primarily a microbrewery located in the Musicon area, this spot with 14 rotating taps frequently hosts events like concerts, stand-up comedy, and quizzes, becoming a vibrant nightlife venue, especially popular for its music scene.
Richters Pub (Køge): Located in historic settings in Køge, while primarily an oasis for beer, it provides a lively pub atmosphere that extends into the late hours, attracting a good crowd.
Hugo’s Basement (Køge): Found in a beautifully restored medieval cellar, this spot is known as Zealand’s best beer place but has the space and atmosphere to be a lively late-night venue in Køge.
Ibsen Pub & Vinbar (Køge): This spot by the harbor in Køge offers a cozy environment with delicious draft beer and fine wines, and often features live music in the summer, creating a vibrant evening scene.
Køge Bryghus (Køge): A brewery with a cozy bar that is known to host live music, making it a good spot for a lively evening and a taste of local craft.
Bar Sildshuset (Køge): During the summer months, this Køge bar transforms into a vibrant outdoor area with live music performances, functioning as a seasonal party spot.
The Ice Bar Køge (Køge): An intriguing, seasonal winter spot that offers a unique bar experience with drinks served in frozen glasses.
Bryggebaren Køge (Køge): Located near the water, this bar provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying drinks with a view, and its atmosphere is ideal for late-night socializing.
Cafe Chino (Roskilde): A Roskilde cafe that hosts regular evening events, such as Jazz Jam sessions, making it a reliable spot for live music and a late-night drink.
Røde Port Bistro Bryghus Bottleshop (Roskilde): A large, multi-level bar and taproom with 10 beer taps and a full food menu, known for hosting live music, making it a lively entertainment spot on Algade.