The top of Denmark has something for everyone
Skagen is a captivating coastal gem at the northern tip of Denmark.
With its pristine beaches, vibrant art scene and rich cultural heritage, Skagen is truly a unique destination to visit.
No wonder many Danes and tourists love this vacation spot!
Here at the northernmost point in Denmark, the sand rules and people have learned to live with it. It’s both harsh and beautiful.
With the constant sand drift, Skagen is ever-changing, and we believe the sunsets are just a bit more stunning in this part of northern Jutland.
The beaches and dunes surround Skagen’s historical sites in the most picturesque way, making it a perfect tourist destination to explore for a couple of days or a week.
If you’re curious about what to do in Skagen, you’ve come to the right place.
In this travel guide to Skagen in North Jutland, we’ll tell you why you should visit, the best things to do in Skagen, where to stay and our best tips for experiencing the Danish seaside town.
Where to stay in Skagen?
- Budget: Hotel Marie – Keep the price down with shared bathrooms.
- Value for money: Skagen Strand and Holiday Center – The perfect place for families.
- Luxury: Skagen Hotel – Great location and stylish rooms.
Search for the best hotels in Skagen here.
Table of contents
Why visit Skagen
Skagen is Denmark’s northernmost town, where the invigorating sea breeze and wide-open coastal landscape make it feel like you’ve reached the very edge of the country.
If you’re looking for things to do in Skagen, you’ll find plenty to explore both in town and nearby.
At the top of Grenen, you can stand with one foot in each sea, where the Skagerrak and the Kattegat meet – it’s one of the most unique nature experiences in Denmark.
Just a short drive away, you’ll find the awe-inspiring Råbjerg Mile: Northern Europe’s largest migrating sand dune.
The winds constantly reshape the dunes across northern Jutland, creating a dramatic and ever-changing landscape that’s well worth seeing.
Scroll down for more ideas on what to do in Skagen.
A picturesque coastal haven
When you need a break from the impressive natural attractions, the charming town of Skagen has a quaint village atmosphere with cobblestone streets and colourful houses.
It’s renowned for its blend of natural beauty and artistic inspiration, making it a haven for those in search of both tranquillity and creativity.
The small coastal town has an estimated population of 8,000 people in the municipality.
In summer, many more gather here to soak up the laid-back vacation vibes, swim on the beaches and enjoy life.
For outdoor enthusiasts, there are also plenty of opportunities for cycling picturesque routes, hiking along coastal trails or partaking in water sports – and that’s just some of the many things to do in Skagen if you love being outside.
Skagen in summer is lovely, but you can, of course, also visit Skagen during the rest of the year – just remember to dress for crazy, unpredictable Danish weather.
10 best things to do in Skagen
Are you wondering what to do in Skagen?
Well, the Danish seaside town offers a variety of natural and cultural attractions!
With its migrating sand dunes, vibrant art scene and historical landmarks, you’re spoilt for ways to spend your time.
Get ready for the best things to do and see in Skagen.
1. Stand with a foot in each of the two seas at Grenen
Standing on Denmark’s northernmost point with one foot in Skagerrak and one foot in Kattegat is a unique experience.
It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Skagen, and a trip to the top of Jutland is not complete without having tried that!
More than a million people visit Grenen in Skagen every year, and we understand why. It’s beautiful and raw.
From around the beginning of April to the end of October, you can ride with Sandormen (meaning the sandworm) from the car park out to the tip of Grenen and learn about the local wildlife, nature and changes in the coastline.
Read more about the unique sandbar at Denmark’s northernmost point and what to do in our travel guide to Grenen in Skagen.
Be aware that swimming here is very dangerous.
Everything you need to know about the long sandbar at Skagen Odde including what to do, where to stay and our best tips
Read more2. Get sand in your hair at Råbjerg Mile
Råbjerg Mile is a massive migrating sand dune – in fact, it’s the largest moving sand dune in Northern Europe!
The area is extensive, and climbing the many sandy hilltops will both raise your heartbeat and provide you with incredible views over the dunes and the west coast of Skagen.
Some of the dunes can reach heights of up to 40 metres, which makes Råbjerg Mile a prominent landmark in the otherwise flat landscape.
Råbjerg Mile is a must-visit in North Jutland and it’s one of the best free things to do in Skagen.
Read more about how to visit and our best tips in our travel guide to Råbjerg Mile.
Everything you need to know about the migrating coastal dune of Råbjerg Mile in northern Jutland, including what to do, where to stay and our best tips
3. Explore Skagen town centre
Skagen is a pretty and cosy city which is characterised, among other things, by the yellow-coloured houses and white-edged roof tiles.
Because people live here all year round, the city is fun to visit in both autumn, winter, spring and summer – although it’s undoubtedly most alive in the warmer months when holidayers from near and far come and stay for longer.
Stroll around the cobblestoned streets, admire the colourful houses, buy an ice cream and make sure to stop by the scenic harbourfront.
4. Visit the Sand-Covered Church
The Sand-Covered Church (in Danish: Den Tilsandede Kirke) is one of the most popular things to do in Skagen.
If you have read about it in our travel guide to the Sand-Covered Church, you will know that there’s not an actual church buried under the sand.
To be honest, we thought so ourselves before visiting because we hadn’t researched it!
Well, the original church was built in the late 14th century and during the latter part of the 18th century, the church was indeed flooded by sand from the neighbouring sand dunes.
Today, the only remaining part of the church is the beautifully preserved church tower.
Visiting this landmark offers an interesting experience that combines history, nature and cultural intrigue, and it’s one of the best free things to do in Skagen.
Plus, the area is great for a walk.
Everything you need to know about the Sand-Covered Church in Skagen, including why you should visit, where to stay and our best tips
5. Admire Danish art at Skagens Museum
Skagen is especially known for two things: its wild, windswept landscapes and the artists who have drawn inspiration from them.
The light in the northern tip of Jutland is really something special.
At least that’s what artists like Anna Ancher, Michael Ancher and P.S. Krøyer thought when they settled in Skagen to paint.
Known as “the Skagen Painters“, they were active in Skagen from the end of the 19th century, and their masterpieces of the local landscapes can be seen at the Skagens Museum today.
Read more about the museum, as well as prices and opening hours, on the official website.
6. Learn about migratory birds in Skagen’s Grey Lighthouse
If you’re interested in birdlife, one of the best things to do in Skagen is to stop by Skagen’s Grey Lighthouse (Det Grå Fyr) on your way from town towards the car park at Grenen.
Here, you can learn more about the rich birdlife found at Denmark’s northern tip.
The 46-metre-high lighthouse dates back to 1858 and is still in operation today, visible far out at sea.
Inside, the restored building lets you explore preserved rooms that offer a glimpse into its history.
It also serves as a centre for migratory birds with an interactive exhibition and an active bird observatory.
Read more about Skagen’s Grey Lighthouse here.
7. Go back in time at the Skagen Bunker Museum
At the small war museum, Skagen Bunker Museum, you can explore a real bunker that was used by the Germans as an infirmary for treating wounded soldiers during the Second World War.
Inside the bunker, there are different artefacts like weapons and uniforms, as well as an operations room and a film room.
It’s definitely one of the more special things to do in Skagen, particularly if you’re interested in war history.
Read more on their website here.
8. See Ancher’s Hus
In Ancher’s Hus, the Skagen Painters Anna and Michael Ancher lived with their daughter Helga.
Anna Ancher died in 1935, and their beautiful red house has been preserved as it stood back then.
There are about 250 works of art on the walls in the home of the Ancher family, so if you are interested in art, this is a must-visit in Skagen.
Read more about the museum as well as prices and opening hours on the official website.
9. Spot wildlife
Skagen is full of life, and Grenen is in fact the place in Denmark where you can spot the most bird species.
Bring your binoculars and look for both birds and marine mammals at sea and on land.
Grey seals are known to sunbathe in the sand close to Grenen, and they can be seen all year round. However, you still have to be lucky to find the cute animals.
Porpoises and harbour seals are also very common here, and there have been quite a few whale and dolphin sightings.
10. Go to the beach
When the Danish weather allows it, take the chance and enjoy it on one of the many gorgeous beaches close to Skagen.
You can find no less than 60 kilometres of white sand beaches in the area!
Skagen Sønderstrand, Damstederne, Nordstrand and Kandestederne are some of the best beaches in Skagen.
Map of the best things to do in Skagen
Find all of the best things to do in Skagen marked on the map below.
Click the icon in the top left corner of the map to navigate using a list.
Where to stay in Skagen
If you’re planning where to stay in Skagen, the town itself is the most convenient base.
Skagen offers the widest selection of accommodation, and you can find something that suits your style, whether you’re after a romantic getaway, a family-friendly stay or something more budget-conscious.
It’s also where you’ll find many of the best hotels in Skagen.
During our visit, we were travelling with a caravan after a road trip to southern Norway, so we stayed at CampOne Grenen Strand Camping, which worked perfectly for us.
If you’re not travelling with your own setup, though, staying in a hotel in Skagen is the easiest and most comfortable option.
You will be close to restaurants, beaches and within easy reach of the best things to do in Skagen and Northern Jutland.
Search for the best hotels in Skagen here (adlink).
Skagen Hotel
Skagen Hotel is right by Skagen Station and it’s perfect for exploring the city.
The hotel is clean and neat and the rooms are stylishly designed. And the yellow house is really pretty, too!
Check prices and availability at Skagen Hotel here (adlink).
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Read moreSkagen Strand Holiday Center
Take a look at Skagen Strand Holiday Center, if you would prefer to have your own apartment with a kitchen in Skagen.
There is room for either 5 or 7 people, and there’s a free water park and playgrounds for the children as well as a fitness centre, minigolf, tennis and badminton courts.
A great choice if you’re staying in town for longer than a few days, and particularly, if you’re looking for where to stay in Skagen with kids.
Check prices and availability at Skagen Strand Holiday Center here (adlink).
Hotel Marie
If you are looking for a budget place to stay in Skagen, Hotel Marie has the option of double or triple rooms with shared bathrooms, which keeps the budget down.
There are also double rooms with private bathrooms, but they, of course, cost a little more.
The hotel is located right by the harbour in Skagen, so you will be close to the city’s restaurants and cultural offerings.
Check prices and availability at Hotel Marie here (adlink).
Where to eat in Skagen
The coastal town of Skagen has several great restaurants and cafés.
Of course, there is a lot of seafood available, but if you want to eat as environmentally and animal-friendly as possible, we recommend eating plant-based food.
There are no completely vegan restaurants in Skagen (yet), but there are a few restaurants that offer vegetarian and vegan dishes:
- Juicy Skagen. Delicious juices, smoothies, salads, wraps and sandwiches. They use many organic ingredients, try to shop locally and follow the seasons as much as possible.
- Jakobs. Vegan salads with mock meat, soups and a burger.
- Bodilles Kro. Danish cuisine with a few vegetarian and vegan options.
- Cafe Knuth’s. Limited vegan options, but there’s a vegan falafel salad and a vegetarian burger.
Check out HappyCow for an updated list of places serving vegetarian and vegan food in Skagen.
Our best tips for Skagen
- Pack for the wind. Even on warm summer days, Skagen can be surprisingly windy. A light jacket and a hat are always a good idea if you’re spending time on the beaches or at Grenen.
- Bring sand-friendly footwear. Between Grenen, Råbjerg Mile and the Sand-Covered Church, you’ll be walking in sand a lot. Sandals or shoes that are easy to take off will save you a lot of hassle.
- Explore the town on foot. Skagen’s town centre is compact and best enjoyed slowly. Stroll the cobblestone streets, admire the yellow houses and stop by the harbourfront for a coffee or an ice cream.
- Bring a good camera – Skagen is beautiful. Here’s a guide to the gear we use.
- Allow at least two full days. Between the natural attractions, the beaches, the Skagen Museum and the town itself, Skagen deserves more than a day trip. Two to three days gives you time to see the highlights without rushing.
- Visit outside July and August if you can. Skagen is at its most alive in peak summer but also at its most crowded. Late June or early September offers great weather with noticeably fewer tourists.
- Don’t miss the Skagen painters. The Skagen Museum and Ancher’s Hus are worth a visit even if art isn’t usually your thing.
- Use sunscreen even on cloudy days. The sand reflects the sun’s rays, and the light in northern Jutland is stronger than it looks.
- Remember travel insurance (adlink). Never travel without it!
What camera, drone and accessories we use to capture life on the road
Read moreSustainable travel tips
To travel as sustainably as possible, we recommend the following:
- Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle.
- Avoid disposable plastic.
- Sort your trash correctly and do not throw it on the ground.
- Take only photos and leave only footprints. Avoid taking things from nature with you.
- Respect the local wildlife.
- Use an environmentally friendly sunscreen. The sun can be reflected in the sand, so it is a good idea to protect your skin – especially from the dangerous rays in the middle of the day – even in Denmark.
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Read moreFAQ about visiting Skagen
Where is Skagen located?
Skagen is located at the northernmost tip of Denmark on the Jutland Peninsula, in the region of North Jutland. It’s at the point where the North Sea and the Baltic Sea meet.
What is Skagen famous for?
Skagen is famous for being the northernmost town in Denmark, where you can stand with a foot in two different seas at Grenen.
It’s also known for its migrating sand dunes, its many kilometres of white sand beaches and its rich artistic heritage (especially the Skagen painters).
Is Skagen worth visiting?
Absolutely! Skagen offers a rare combination of windswept natural landscapes, rich cultural history and a charming coastal town atmosphere.
Whether you are interested in nature, art, history or simply relaxing on the beach, Skagen has plenty of things to do.
How many days do you need in Skagen?
Two to three days is ideal for seeing the highlights of Skagen.
This gives you enough time for the best things to do in Skagen and still have time to relax on the beach.
When is the best time to visit Skagen?
The best time to visit Skagen is in the summer months – from June to September, when the weather is warmest, and all attractions are fully open.
If you want to avoid the crowds, late June or early September is preferable to the peak weeks of July and August.
Are there free things to do in Skagen?
Yes, several of the best things to do in Skagen are completely free.
Visiting Grenen, Råbjerg Mile, the Sand-Covered Church area and the beaches all cost nothing.
This makes Skagen one of the better value destinations in Denmark despite the country’s generally high prices.
Is Skagen good for families with kids?
Yes, Skagen is a great destination for families.
Children will love playing on the beaches, climbing the sand dunes and spotting wildlife.
Is it possible to swim in Skagen?
There are plenty of great swimming beaches near Skagen, with around 60 kilometres of white sand beaches in the area.
However, swimming at Grenen is strongly discouraged due to dangerous currents where the two seas meet.
Can you see seals in Skagen?
Yes, grey seals are known to sunbathe on the sand near Grenen and can be spotted all year round.
Harbour seals and porpoises are also common in the area, and there have been occasional whale and dolphin sightings.
Thanks for reading our Skagen guide
Thank you for reading our travel guide to the best things to do in Skagen. We hope it has been helpful!
What do you think of the coastal city at the top of Denmark? Do you know what to see in Skagen now?
If you have already been to the top of Denmark, it would be great to hear your recommendations and best tips.
And if you haven’t been to the northern tip of Jutland yet, don’t hesitate to ask us anything in the comments. We are happy to help.
Pin for later:
Our favourite travel resources:
- Booking.com for hotels and apartments.
- Momondo for the best flight deals.
- AirHelp for flight delay compensation.
- GetYourGuide for great tours everywhere.
- Airalo for reliable eSIM.
- Discover Cars for transparent car hire.
- SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like True Traveller. Compared here.
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Everything you need to know about the Sand-Covered Church in Skagen, including why you should visit, where to stay and our best tips
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