Our Denmark road trip might just have been our wildest and most natural yet — 10 days of driving along the west coast of the Jutland peninsula, passing pretty lighthouses, wind-swept dunes, and charming villages. At some points, we were even able to drive right along the beach itself! We traveled by campervan, which is the ultimate way to experience the country’s natural beauty; the coastal area is perfect for camping, and the hospitality was truly unmatched. Discover our complete route in this ultimate Denmark itinerary.
Denmark Jutland Road Trip
Let the Denmark Jutland road trip begin! We started in the Netherlands, rented our campervan via GoBoony, and set our maps for Tønder, Sønderjylland — the first beautiful stop of many on this route.
Tønder
First stop, the pretty village of Tønder, located in Sønderjylland, which quickly became one of our favorite towns on the west coast of Denmark. The cobbled old streets are lined with colorful brick houses, each with its own unique doorway. For something a bit different, head to the Sculpture Park nearby, where you can bounce on trampolines tucked between art installations.

Breakfast tip: We started the day at Johanne’s – Vores Kaffebar. The smørrebrød here was so delicious!
Møgeltønder
Not far away lies Møgeltønder, a picture-perfect village where roses climb up the houses. It really feels like stepping into a storybook! Snap some photos and then walk to Schackenborg Slot, where a little bridge leads into the castle gardens. The grounds are free to enter, and although it is a quick stop, it’s well worth a visit.
Food tip: Mormors Lille Café is the spot here, serving homemade cakes in a cozy setting that feels like someone’s living room.
Højer
Further north, the flat marshes stretch around Højer, dominated by the striking black windmill known as Højer Mølle. We loved the café in the garden next to it, which has the best views of the sails turning slowly above.
Tickets cost 85 DKK (11 EUR), and you can purchase them online in advance.
Sunset at Marsk Tower
We ended the day at Marsk Camp, one of the best-designed campsites we have ever stayed at. The facilities are modern, and the on-site restaurant has a natural, Scandinavian feel. (Book your table here)
The highlight, though, is the Marsk Tower, a spiral viewing platform that rises high above the marshlands. We climbed it for sunset and had panoramic views over the Wadden Sea, glowing gold in the evening light. Tickets cost 95 DKK/13 EUR to climb the tower, but it’s well worth it!
Book your spot at Marsk Camp. It’s good to know that showers cost 10 DKK/1.35 EUR for 4 minutes
Day 2: Rømø Island & Ribe
On Day 2 of our Denmark itinerary, we headed for the wild and untamed Rømø Island. The long causeway across the water feels like a road into the sea, and the reward is one of the widest beaches in Europe. We were actually able to drive our camper straight onto the sand, which was a surreal moment as we looked out at the four kilometers of open shoreline in front of us.
Rømø Island (Naturcenter Tønnisgård)
One of the highlights was joining a foraging experience with Naturcenter Tønnisgård, led by our lovely guide Bente. She showed us how to collect edible plants, like samphire and other herbs growing wild by the shore.
Ribe, Jutland: Denmark’s Oldest Town
From the island, we drove to Ribe in the region of Vadehavskysten, Denmark’s oldest town and one of the prettiest places to visit in Jutland. The narrow streets twist past half-timbered houses and small shops, all leading to the towering cathedral in the center.
Top Tip: Stop for ice cream at Temper Chokolade — delicious!
Black Sun Tour in the Marshes
Our evening was spent on the Black Sun Tour at the Vadehavscentret. Standing in the marshes as thousands of starlings moved together in dark swirling patterns was absolutely mesmerizing. We are not usually birdwatchers, but this was something completely unique and unforgettable.
We stayed at Ribe Camping, a really cute site, where every pitch comes with a wooden deck and picnic table.
Day 3: Exploring Fanø Island
On day 3 of our Denmark road trip, we woke bright and early, ready to continue exploring the region of Vadehavskysten. Today, we were headed on the ferry to Fanø for some adventurous activities!
Day 3 route: Fanø — Blokarting — Sønderho
Fanø
A short ferry from Esbjerg takes you to Fanø, a windswept island with wide beaches and two charming villages. We instantly fell in love with the laid-back atmosphere here. Here is the ferry timetable (tickets cost around 329 DKK/44 EUR return for a camper)
Lunch tip: Fanø Krogaard, a wonderful restaurant by the harbor of Nordby, that serves traditional Danish open sandwiches (smørrebrød).
Blokarting in Fanø
The highlight of Fanø for us was this blokarting experience on Rindby Strand. You sit in a small three-wheeled cart with a sail and let the wind push you across the sand. I was a bit nervous when I saw how fast they could go, but it was surprisingly easy to learn and a lot of fun!
Note: We drove our camper directly onto the beach here. This made our blokarting experience even more memorable, with the waves on one side and the dunes on the other.
Sønderho in Fanø
Later, we wandered around Sønderho, a village filled with thatched-roof cottages and small cafés. We also stepped inside Sønderho Mølle, the old windmill, and enjoyed the peaceful vibe that makes this village feel timeless. (Entrance fee: 20 DKK/3 EUR)
We finished the day with dinner at Kellers Badehotel, a stylish and cozy spot that felt like the perfect way to wrap up our time on Fanø.
On night 3 of our time in Denmark’s Jutland, we recommend staying at Rødgaard Camping.
Day 4: Tirpitz Museum + Dune Walks
On day 4 of our Denmark itinerary, we discovered the region of Vesterhavet, famous for its watersports and windswept dunes.
Day 4 route: Nordby – Tirpitz Museum — Blåvand — Børsmose Sunset dune walk.
Stroll through Nordby
Before you depart from Fanø, stroll through Nordby. This is the vibrant heart of Fanø and one of the island’s most charming villages (it was one of our favorite places during the road trip). Narrow streets are lined with colorful thatched-roof houses, and there are plenty of small boutiques and art shops to browse. For a coffee break, we recommend Haven Fanø, a lovely spot with a great atmosphere and a beautiful garden.
Tirpitz Museum (Blåvand)
One of the most impressive museums on the west coast of Denmark is the Tirpitz Museum near Blåvand. Built directly into the dunes, it tells the story of World War II through immersive exhibitions, while also featuring beautiful displays about amber and the Ice Age. What makes it so special is the design: from above, we could hardly see the museum at all, as it blends into the landscape.
Grab a Takeaway in Blåvand
Blåvand itself is a lively coastal town with plenty of small shops and cafés. Wine & Delights is a nice place for lunch or dinner.
Evening in the Dunes of Børsmose Strand Camping
We camped at Børsmose Strand Camping, a site spread out across the dunes where you can choose your own pitch. From our spot, we could watch paragliders drifting above the coast. In the evening, we walked straight over the dunes to catch the sunset on the beach, which felt like the perfect slow end to the day.
Day 5: Hvide Sande + Lyngvig Fyr
On Day 5 of our Denmark itinerary, we continued to explore the region of Vesterhavet, in particular, Hvide Sande. This narrow strip of land is all about wind and water; it’s one of the most exciting places to visit in Jutland!
Day 5 route: Naturkraft — Cable Park — Lyngvig Fyr lighthouse.
Naturkraft Outdoor Park
Naturkraft is an outdoor park that mixes play with learning. Kids and adults can cross rope bridges, pull themselves across small lakes, or step into a wind tunnel that shows what it feels like to stand in a storm. Indoors, the exhibitions are also interactive, showcasing the change of seasons through a digital “Tree of Life” and telling the story of Danish wind energy.
Lunch Tip: On the way back toward the coast, we stopped at Vestkystens Gårdbutik, a small farm shop specializing in local specialties, including cheese and honey. Great for picnic supplies!
Cable Park in Hvide Sande, Denmark
For those who love a bit of adrenaline, the Cable Park in Hvide Sande is the perfect destination. You can wakeboard or waterski along a cable circuit, with easy loops for beginners and ramps for pros. We enjoyed just watching too, especially with the summer buzz around the harbor. (Book your spot here)
Climb the Lighthouse: Lyngvig Fyr (A must-see in Jutland, Denmark)
The evening was dedicated to Lyngvig Fyr, a tall white lighthouse surrounded by dunes. You can climb the spiral staircase to the top for views of the entire coastline, which was magical. (Tickets cost 75 DKK/10 EUR, and you can book them online)
Camping Tip: We stayed at DCU Lyngvig Strand Camping. From here, you can simply walk over the dunes and watch the lighthouse at sunset. This campsite was one of our absolute favorites; it featured an outdoor pool and a stunning dune setting that felt far removed from everything.
If you prefer a nice dinner this evening, RI10 in Hvide Sande is a popular option!
Scenic Drive Along Homsland Klit
After a slow coffee stop in Ringkøbing, we followed the scenic drive along Holmsland Klit, a narrow sand spit with water on both sides. The views are endless, with dunes rolling into the horizon and little pull-offs where you can park and walk straight onto the beach.
Søndervig Sand Sculpture Festival in Jutland, Denmark
From May to October, this stretch of coast also hosts the Søndervig Sand Sculpture Festival, where artists from around the world create huge and intricate sculptures. Wandering through the festival feels like stepping into an open-air museum made entirely of sand, and it is one of those events that you will only see if you happen to be here at the right time of year.
Tickets: 90 DKK/12 EUR
Lazy Beach Afternoon
The rest of the day, we kept it simple. Picnics by the fjord, long beach walks, and enjoying the day. After so many stops packed with activities, this was the perfect way to slow down and soak up the summer atmosphere.
Again stay overnight at: DCU Lyngvig Strand Camping
Day 7: Drive into Nordjylland: The Surf Hub of Jutland, Denmark
On day 7, we drove along the beautiful coastline of Nordvestkysten, most famous for its quaint fishing villages and fantastic surf.
Day 7 route: Husby Klitplantage — Thyborøn — Ferry to Agger — Lodbjerg Fyr lighthouse — Beachtime
Husby Klitplantage + Bovbjerg Fyr
Heading further north, our first recommended stop is Husby Klitplantage, a stunning landscape featuring pine forests, dunes, and heathlands. After, visit Bovbjerg Fyr, a red lighthouse that stands proudly on the edge of dramatic clay cliffs.
Tip: Stop in Lemvig for a stroll at the harbor!
Thyborøn
Next, continue to Thyborøn. This little town is full of quirky details, like the shell-covered Sneglehuset and the colorful Røde Huse fishing huts. Both are quick stops, but they give Thyborøn a unique character.
Lunch tip: Grab lunch at one of the eateries, like Clubben Streetfood.
Ferry to Agger
The ferry from Thyborøn to Agger is a short but scenic route, crossing the waters in approximately 25 minutes. Tickets are easily purchased at the machine in the harbor (approximately 260 DKK/35 EUR for a camper).
Lodbjerg Fyr
On the Agger side, we headed straight for Lodbjerg Fyr, a lovely lighthouse set among heath and dunes. The climb to the top offers incredible views of the coast, and several trails start right at the base for those who want to stretch their legs.
Cold Hawaii (Klitmøller)
By afternoon, we had reached Klitmøller, better known as Cold Hawaii. It’s all about the surf scene here, but you don’t have to surf to enjoy it. We also spent time relaxing on the beach, watching the waves, and soaking up the lively yet laid-back atmosphere. Later, we had a cozy stop at Café Break, which felt like the perfect way to end the day.
Stay at: Vorupør Camping. This spot is all about the vibe: surfboards stacked by vans, sunsets over the sea, and everyone moving a little slower.
Take a Surf Lesson
Cold Hawaii is the kind of place that makes you want to try surfing, even if you have never done it before. We joined a beginner lesson with Viking Surf House, and within a couple of hours, we were riding waves in the North Sea. The instructors are great at making it fun and approachable, and just being out there with the boards was an incredible experience.
Snack tip: Afterwards, we warmed up at Kesses Hus, where Hannah was delighted to discover the gigantic (!) pancakes. It was the perfect post-surf treat.
Bulbjerg Klint (Our favorite spot in Jutland, Denmark)
Then we drove to Bulbjerg Klint, Denmark’s only bird nesting cliff, apart from Bornholm. The white chalk cliffs rise sharply above the water, and from the top, you get expansive views over the coastline. Signs are warning about rockfall and changing tides, so it is worth keeping a little distance, but it is still one of the most dramatic viewpoints on the west coast of Denmark.
Optional snack: Try the delicious fish cakes at Thorupstrand Fiskehus, just a 15-minute drive from the cliff. Make sure to time it right, as it closes at 3 PM.
After, we headed back for a relaxed evening and a cozy dinner at our campsite: Vorupør Camping.
Route 181 (Drive Along the Beach in Jutland!)
The last stretch of our Denmark road trip took us north along Route 181 to Løkken, one of the most scenic drives in Jutland and one of the few places in Denmark where driving on the beach is still allowed.
Løkken
Løkken is lively and full of atmosphere. From the beach, climb the wooden “Stairs to Heaven” for views over the coastline. After, wander into town to grab a quick bite to eat at:
Spend your night at Løkken Beach Camping (which is at the Stairs to Heaven).
Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse (Our favorite place in Jutland, Denmark)
The finale was Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse, which was famously moved 70 meters inland in 2019 to save it from being claimed by the sea. We hiked up the dunes to reach it, but we also saw the option to hop on the quirky tractor shuttle, which looked like a lot of fun!
From the top, the views stretch endlessly over sea and sand, with the wild beauty of Denmark’s Jutland on full display.
Tip: For a different perspective of the lighthouse, drive to the nearby ruins of Mårup Kirke.
Lønstrup
Our Denmark Jutland road trip ended in Lønstrup, a charming artists’ town. We loved all the workshops, selling incredible glassware and ceramics. Some of our favorites were:
Tip: Kegels Bageri was perfect for pastries, or grab a cozy coffee at Keramikcafé Møllehuset.
Where to Stay in Denmark: Booking Campsites
Denmark campsites are well-organized but popular in the summer. Ask for dune-side pitches if available (the absolute best views!). Expect excellent facilities: hot showers, kitchens, and often bakeries. We stayed at:
- Marsk Camp
- Ribe Camping
- Rødgaard Camping
- Børsmose Strand Camping
- DCU Lyngvig Strand Camping
- Vorupør Camping
- Løkken Strand Camping
For more campsites and information, you can check out our Denmark road book on Goboony.
Budget for Your Denmark Road Trip
In Denmark, the local currency is the DKK (Danish Krone), and we always recommend paying in this currency when using a card. We always use Wise to avoid high bank fees and exchange rates.
- Campsites: 150–300 DKK (20-40 EUR) per night
- Entrance Fees: Up to 100 DKK (14 EUR) per attraction
- Ferries: ± 35-50 EUR return for a camper
- Activities: 40-70 EUR per activity
- Camper rental: 100-300 EUR per day (via Goboony)
- Fuel: 1.97 EUR and Diesel 1.34 EUR per liter
- Restaurants: 30-40 EUR per meal
Practical Tips for Your Road Trip
Apps & Websites
- EasyPark: Pay for parking
- Park4Night or Campercontact: Find the best campsites
- YR / Windy: Weather & wind forecast
- DMI radar: Track rain across Denmark
- Goboony: For campervan rental
Hygge on the Road
Bring fairy lights, candles, or a lantern to make evenings at the campsite extra cozy. Pair with Danish beer or a smørrebrød picnic and you’ve got hygge on wheels!
Best Time to Visit Denmark
We traveled to Denmark in early September, and it was a beautiful time of year to visit; we had sunny days that were perfect for driving along the sandy beaches. The western coastline is windy, which means rain clouds can suddenly appear, so always carry a jacket.
If you’re visiting in summer, be aware that it will be much busier, and you’ll need to book a campsite in advance or have a look at all the campsites in Denmark.
Absolutely. Distances are short, campsites are excellent, and the west coast of Jutland offers a mix of nature, towns, and unique experiences, such as beach driving and the Black Sun.
Our highlights include:
- Ribe
- Rømø and Fanø islands
- Blåvand’s Tirpitz Museum
- Hvide Sande
- Lyngvig Fyr, Bovbjerg Fyr, and Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse
- Cold Hawaii
We recommend 10 days for the whole West Coast route. If you have only 7 days, focus on the southern half (Days 1–7), which is home to our favorite spots.ou
Jutland is the mainland peninsula of Denmark, stretching north from the German border. This 10-day Denmark itinerary follows the entire west coast of Jutland.
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