Europe

Terrorism

 

There is a general threat from terrorism in Denmark. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

 

For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

 

Crime

Crime levels remain relatively low.  Most visits to Denmark are trouble-free, but you should be aware that the tourist season attracts pickpockets and bag-snatchers in crowded areas.   You should observe sensible precautions such as keeping your personal belongings, including passports and money, secure. The areas of Christiania and Nørrebro areas in Copenhagen are generally safe, but there have been sporadic minor disturbances and confrontations with the authorities.

In Nørrebro in particular there have been a number of recent instances of violence between Hells Angels and minority groups including shootings. Whilst these are mainly gang related and localised you should exercise extra caution in these areas.

For more general information see Victims of Crime

  

Political Situation

 

Denmark Country Profile

 

Local Travel 

 

The public transport infrastructure is generally of a very high standard.  You can buy a variety of bus, train and metro tickets at train station kiosks and also at a selection of supermarkets.  Within the Copenhagen inner city area during the tourist season you can rent city bicycles (available for a token fee).  Cyclists found outside the inner city area on these bicycles may be subject to fines.  Other outlets hire out better quality bicycles for a reasonable fee.  Ferries are available to transport you to Denmark’s many Islands.

 

Road Travel

 

Road conditions in Denmark are good and driving standards are fairly high.  In 2007 there were 407 road deaths in Denmark (source: DfT).  This equates to 7.5 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2007.

 

You should carry a warning triangle in case of breakdowns.  You must wear seatbelts.  You must drive with dipped headlights at all times (day and night) and they should be masked with special European opaque material available from most garages in the UK and Ireland.   It is now law in Denmark (not just good driving practice) to indicate before changing lanes on a motorway.  Since September 2005 Denmark implemented measures that could result in driving offences committed in Denmark being reported to the UK authorities.  You should therefore take extra care when driving in Denmark.

 

Cycling is very popular in Denmark.  Cyclists often have the right of way.  It is particularly important that you check cycle lanes before turning right.  You must give due consideration to the many cyclists present in Danish cities.

 

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

 

Air Travel

 

The revised EU-wide security measures that came into effect for all passengers departing from UK airports in November 2006 are also being implemented in Denmark. 

For more details about this please see Airline Security.