Visiting

The best Danish islands, where to go

Updated July 2026Reviewed July 2026
The short versionBeyond Zealand and Funen, Denmark has hundreds of islands. The best for visitors: Bornholm for cliffs and smoked herring, Mon for white chalk cliffs, Aeroe for idyllic harbour towns, and Samso for its green, laid-back charm.

Bornholm, the Baltic gem

The furthest out and arguably the best all-rounder: round churches, cliffs, beaches, cycling and smoked herring. Worth several days. Full detail in the Bornholm guide.

Mon, the white cliffs

Southern Zealand's island of dramatic chalk cliffs, a UNESCO site and Dark Sky Park, reachable by bridge. See the Mon guide.

Aeroe and Samso

Aeroe in the South Funen archipelago is all cobbled towns and beach huts, romantic and slow. Samso, in the Kattegat, is famous as a renewable-energy island with gentle countryside and good produce, an easy, relaxed escape.

How to choose

For a full multi-day trip, Bornholm. For dramatic scenery close to Copenhagen, Mon. For pure idyll, Aeroe. For a quiet green break, Samso. All are best in summer; check ferry times and the best time to visit.

Common questions

What are the best islands to visit in Denmark?

Bornholm for its all-round mix, Mon for white cliffs, Aeroe for idyllic towns, and Samso for a green, laid-back escape.

Which Danish island has cliffs?

Mon has Denmark's dramatic white chalk cliffs (Mons Klint); Bornholm has rugged cliffs in its north.

How do you get to the Danish islands?

Mostly by ferry (Bornholm, Aeroe, Samso) or bridge (Mon); check seasonal ferry timetables and book ahead in summer.