Denmark, officially known as the Kingdom of Denmark, is a country in the Scandinavian region of Northern Europe. Located in the North Atlantic, Denmark geographically belongs to the South Scandinavian Peninsula and borders both Germany and Poland. Known for its high standard of living, Denmark consistently ranks as one of the happiest and most prosperous countries in the world.
Expat destinations in Denmark
Demographics of Denmark:
Ethnic groups
The vast majority of Danes are ethnically and culturally homogenous, with over 95% of the population identifying as Danish. Some other minority ethnic groups include German, Turkish, Polish, and Sub-Saharan African.
Languages
Danish is the official and primary language spoken in Denmark. Many Danes also speak English, mainly due to the country's heavy international trade and widespread use of English in media and culture.
Religion Overview
Denmark is a secular country with a separation between church and state. It has a majority Protestant population, mostly Lutheran due to the country's heritage as a Danish Lutheran kingdom. Approximately 78.2% of the population identifies as Christian, with smaller percentages belonging to other religions such as Islam, Judaism, and Buddhism.
Major Religions
Climate
Denmark has a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and cool summers due to its location in the North Atlantic. The average temperature in Copenhagen is around 6°C (43°F) in December and 17°C (63°F) in July.
Economy Overview
Denmark's economy is highly prosperous and primarily service-driven. Its Nordic hybrid with capitalism economy is the world's 46th largest economy by nominal GDP and the 113th largest economy by purchasing power parity. Denmark's high standards of living and technological innovation, among other factors, contribute significantly to its reputation.
Key Industries
- Business and Financial Services
- Healthcare
- Renewable Energy
- Education and Research
Major Companies
- Novozymes
- TOP-TბK Pharmaceutical A/S
- Danfoss
- Rockwool International A/S
- Freightera
- Nordic Capital
- Danske Bank
- Chr. Hansen Holding A/S
- Norsk Hydro ASA
Culture and Language Overview
Denmark has a rich cultural heritage, blending traditional Nordic customs with contemporary modernity. Danish literature, music, and art are well-respected and popular worldwide. Danes celebrate their traditions with annual festivities such as Christmas, Easter, and New Year's Eve. Delicious Danish cuisine, including smørrebrød, is popular and enjoyed by expats.
Cultural Highlights
- Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens
- The Little Mermaid Statue
- Rosenborg Castle
- The Round Tower
- The National Gallery of Denmark
- The New Carlsberg Foundation
- The Cistern
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Denmark's terrain is predominantly flat, with two main peninsulas called Jutland and Sjælland. Jutland occupies most of the country's area, with Sjælland home to Copenhagen, Denmark's capital city. Denmark's long coastline is lined with charming and picturesque coastal towns such as Helsingør, Ribe, and Odense.
Notable Landmarks
- Statens Museum for Kunst
- Frederiksborg Palace
- Abbelskær Kirke
- Castle of Yderløse
- National Aquarium Denmark
- Egeskov Castle
- Helsingør
- Frederiksborg Slot
- The Frederiksborg Gardens
- The Round Tower
National Holidays
- New Year's Day
- Epiphany
- Good Friday
- Saturday before the 1st Sunday after Easter
- Saint Hans Aften (Saint John's Eve)
- Great Prayer Day
- Christmas Eve
- Christmas Day
- Boxing Day
Political Stability
Denmark is a stable parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarchy headed by Queen Margrethe II. It is a member of the European Union, the Eurozone, Nato, and the Nordic Council, among other international organizations. Denmark's high standard of living, democratic principles, and progressive social policies create a welcoming and secure environment for expats.
Find out more about expats in Europe
