Denmark

We advise you to exercise normal safety precautions in Denmark. Pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media for information about possible safety or security risks.

Since October 2005, a number of individuals have been arrested in Denmark on suspicion of planning terrorist attacks. In April 2008, three people were convicted of planning an act of terror. In June 2008, the Danish Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan was attacked by terrorists. The reprinting of cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed in 2008 has led to an increased focus on Denmark and Danish interests as a potential terrorist target. The cartoons were republished in September 2010.

There is an ongoing risk of terrorism in Europe. In the past, terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities, such as Glasgow, London, Madrid and Moscow. Targets have included public transport and transport hubs, and public places frequented by foreigners. In addition, a number of planned attacks have been disrupted by European security services in recent years, underscoring the continuing interest of terrorists in attacking European locations.

Terrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in our General Advice to Australian Travellers.

There have previously been isolated incidents of civil disturbance, particularly in the tourist area of Christiania, in Copenhagen. While the majority of demonstrations are non-violent, travellers should remain vigilant and avoid large gatherings and demonstrations as they have the potential to turn violent.

Denmark has a low incidence of serious crime. In the areas of Christiania, Vesterbro and Norrebro in Copenhagen there have been localised disturbances and confrontations with the authorities. In Norrebro in particular there have been a number of instances of violence between Hells Angels and minority groups, including shootings. Whilst these are mainly gang-related and localised, travellers should exercise caution in these areas.

Organised petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching has increased, particularly during the peak tourist season (summer). Thieves tend to target the central train station, crowded trains and buses, the airport, hotel lobbies, restaurants, hostels and tourist areas. Travellers should be aware of their personal belongings at all times and not leave their belongings unattended or unsecured.

The currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). The Euro is not accepted in Denmark except in larger international shops or hotels.

Before you go, organise a variety of ways to access your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers' cheques, cash, debit cards or cash cards. Australian currency and travellers' cheques are not accepted in many countries. Consult with your bank to find out which is the most appropriate currency to carry and whether your ATM card will work in Denmark.

Foreign-issued debit/credit cards may not be accepted by some outlets in Denmark, or may incur a user surcharge fee. Credit card transactions require the use of a PIN code for identification purposes, not a signature. Some stores in Denmark may not accept credit cards that do not have chip and PIN technology.

Make two photocopies of valuables such as your passport, tickets, visas and travellers' cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.

While travelling, don't carry too much cash and remember that expensive watches, electronic equipment, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves.

As a sensible precaution against luggage tampering, including theft, lock your luggage. Information on luggage safety is available from Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority.

Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to report a lost or stolen passport. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.

You are required to pay an additional fee to have a lost or stolen passport replaced. In some cases, the Government may also restrict the length of validity or type of replacement passports.

Please refer to our travel bulletin for information about Aviation Safety and Security.

Australian/Danish dual nationality is not generally recognised by Denmark. The only exception is if Danish citizenship is acquired as a child, through citizenship by descent. Dual nationals who are registered citizens of Denmark may be liable for three months military service when they turn 18. For further information, contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Denmark.

Our Dual Nationals brochure provides further information for dual nationals.

For general information and tips on travelling with children see our Travelling with Children brochure.

If you are planning on placing your children in schools or childcare facilities overseas we encourage you to research the standards of security, care and staff training within those establishments. You should exercise the same precautions you would take before placing children into schools or childcare facilities in Australia.

Ideas on how to select childcare providers are available from the smartraveller Children's Issues page, Child Wise and the National Childcare Accreditation Council.

Australians are advised to respect wildlife laws and to maintain a safe and legal distance when observing wildlife, including marine animals and birds. You should only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators and closely follow park regulations and wardens' advice. It is also advisable not to feed animals in metropolitan areas.