This post provides a comprehensive overview of Denmark’s currency, valuable information on exchanging currency, current exchange rates, and the best locations to exchange money.
- What is the currency?
- Banknotes and Coins
- Exchange Rates
- How to Exchange
- Cash vs. Credit Cards
- Exchange Locations
- FAQs
It's important to note that the Danish almost solely pay for purchases electronically and don’t tip.
You'll want to think hard about how much cash you’ll actually need on your trip so you won’t have to pay to exchange it back to your own country’s currency when you leave.
What Currency is Used in Denmark?
The official currency of Denmark is the Danish Krone, abbreviated as DKK and often symbolized as kr. This is also the currency of Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
Denmark has been a member of the European Union since 1971. However, they have not chosen to adopt the euro as their currency.
While a few places in larger cities like Copenhagen may accept Euros, the Danish Krone is the national currency and is accepted everywhere.
Denominations of Danish Kroner and Coins
The Danish Kroner, the official currency of Denmark, includes paper banknotes and metal coins.
Danish banknotes can be found in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 kroner, kroner being the plural form of krone.
The banknotes feature Danish bridges and either landscapes or details from Danish landscapes. They also have a watermark, a security thread, and a colorful hologram. And they are color-coded:
- Violet = 50 kr
- Orange-Yellow = 100 kr
- Green = 200 kr
- Blue = 500 kr
- Red = 1,000 kr
Note that smaller notes are more likely to be accepted by retailers than larger ones.
Meanwhile, there are also coins. They are more minor in value but are still valuable.
The Krone is made up of 100 ører. Coins smaller than 1 knone have been removed from circulation, other than 50 ører which is not used often.
Danish coins can be found in 1 krone, 2 kroner, 5 kroner, 10 kroner, and 20 kroner. They have different colors, and the thicker or bigger the coin, the higher the value.
Exchange Rates for CKK
The exchange rate for the Danish kroner can fluctuate based on several factors, so it's essential to check the current exchange rate before you exchange your travel money.
The value is tied to the euro and can fluctuate by only +/- 2.25% against the current exchange rate.
Frequently traded pairs usually involve prominent currencies like the US dollar (USD), euro (EUR), and British pound (GBP).
As we step into March 2024, here's a snapshot of the current exchange rates:
- 1 USD is equivalent to 6.83 DKK, which means 100 USD is approximately 683.00 DKK.
- 1 EUR is equivalent to 7.46 DKK, which means 100 EUR is approximately 746.00 DKK.
- 1 GBP is equivalent to 8.51 DKK, which means 100 GBP is approximately 851.00 DKK.
Exploring Currency Exchange Options in Denmark
There are a few options to get your hands on the Danish kroner once you arrive in Denmark. Bank branches and currency exchange offices are the most common places where you can exchange your USD, euro, or any other currency to DKK.
Banks:
You can use reputable banks to exchange your money for Danish Kroner (DKK) in Denmark. They function throughout regular business hours and provide the best exchange rates.
Your own bank may have partnerships or even foreign branches in Denmark, something you can check on before you leave.
Note that it’s always a good idea to let your bank know you’ll be traveling anyway so they don’t decline a withdrawal at a foreign ATM.
Foreign Exchange Offices:
There are some exchange offices in Denmark. They provide the convenience of longer operating hours in touristy areas, although they may be closed on one of both weekend days.
However, vendors at such places as the airport or hotels tend to have the least favorable exchange rates.
And watch out for the “no commission fees” claim as those places also tend to offer a less favorable exchange rate.
ATMS
Another option is withdrawing directly from ATMs, something quick and convenient.
However, ATMs aren’t as common in Denmark as they are in other places, such as the US. Visa and Mastercard should be accepted in most places.
Check your card to see if it is part of a global network such as Cirrus or Plus. Once you know what network you’re on, you can search for a local ATM online.
Also, research the foreign transaction fees on your credit card, something that could be as high as 3% so you understand what you’ll be charged. An even better idea is to choose a card that waives those.
Be sure to select “change in local currency” if the ATM offers you that option, and always ask for a receipt to keep track of your spending.
Cash vs. Credit Cards
As mentioned above, Denmark is an almost cashless country.
Credit cards are commonly accepted in Denmark, particularly in larger cities and popular tourist spots.
From hotels to restaurants and major retailers, you'll find that your Visa is most often welcomed. Following that is the Mastercard, which is accepted in many places.
Less so are the American Express card and Diners Club cards; retailers may also impose extra fees for using these cards.
Retailers also frequently accept Mobile Pay, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay.
The Best Locations to Exchange Currency in Denmark
When visiting Denmark, knowing where to find the best locations for currency exchange is essential.
Please look at these three currency exchange offices in Copenhagen.
Location: Vester Farimagsgade 4, 1606
Contact number: +45 33 32 13 13
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 10 am - 5 pm
- Tuesday: 10 am - 5 pm
- Wednesday: 10 am - 5 pm
- Thursday: 10 am - 5 pm
- Friday: 10am - 5 pm
- Saturday: 11am - 4 pm
- Sunday: Closed
Location: Nørre Voldgade 90, 1358
Contact number: +45 33 32 81 00
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 10 am - 6 pm
- Tuesday: 10 am - 6 pm
- Wednesday: 10 am - 6 pm
- Thursday: 10 am - 6 pm
- Friday: 10am - 6 pm
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Ria Money Transfer & Currency Exchange
Location: Bernstorffsgade 16, 1577
Contact number: +45 33 11 51 15
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 9 am - 7 pm
- Tuesday: 9 am - 7 pm
- Wednesday: 9 am - 7 pm
- Thursday: 9 am - 7 pm
- Friday: 9 am - 7 pm
- Saturday: 9 am - 7 pm
- Sunday: 10 am - 7 pm
FAQS - Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from travelers.
Can I use the euro in Denmark?
Some businesses in Copenhagen may accept the euro; however, they are not required, and you won’t get as good of an exchange rate.
It’s better to use the Danish krone, which is accepted everywhere in Denmark.
Is USD accepted in Copenhagen?
Some larger purchases can be made in Copenhagen using US dollars, but it can’t be relied on, and the exchange rate won’t be to your advantage.
Should I exchange money before I travel to Copenhagen?
Danish cash can't be exchanged outside of Denmark, so no. And because the country is mostly cashless, you won't have a need for cash immediately on arrival.
How much money do I need in Copenhagen per day?
The amount of money you will need daily in Copenhagen depends on your individual spending habits and the activities you plan to engage in. However, Denmark is one of the more expensive countries you can visit.
On average, travelers can expect to spend around 1,025-1,600 DKK daily for meals, local transportation, attractions, and hotels.
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