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Safety and Security

Denmark remains largely free of terrorist incidents; however, like other nations, Denmark faces an increased threat of terrorism. In 2011 and 2012, police arrested individuals accused of planning terrorist attacks in Denmark. The 2005 and 2010, publication in Denmark of cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad continues to impact Danish relations with the Muslim world and draw the attention of some extremists.

As with other countries in the Schengen area, Denmark’s open borders allow for the possibility of terrorist groups entering and exiting the country with anonymity. You are reminded to remain vigilant with regard to your personal security and to exercise caution. In general, Copenhagen is a safe city, but certain areas require greater security awareness than others. For instance, late at night, you should be extra vigilant in central Nørrebro and Vesterbro.

Public demonstrations occasionally occur in Copenhagen and other cities, and are generally peaceful events. Prior police approval is required for public demonstrations, and police routinely provide oversight to ensure adequate security for participants and passers-by. Nonetheless, as with any large crowd composed of diverse groups, situations may develop which could pose a threat to public safety. You should avoid areas where public demonstrations are taking place. Be aware that participation in illegal demonstrations or street riots may result in immediate imprisonment and long-term bans on re-entering Denmark.

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CRIME: Denmark, Greenland, and the Faroes all have relatively low violent-crime rates. Robberies, sexual assault, and racially motivated violence are rare. Violent confrontations occasionally take place involving various immigrant gangs and outlaw motorcycle gangs operating in Denmark, but do not typically affect tourists and law-abiding Danish citizens. There is always a possibility that travelers could be caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Travelers should be aware of their surroundings and immediately leave the area if they feel threatened. Be particularly vigilant in the Nørrebro and Vesterbro areas of Copenhagen late at night.

Freetown Christiania, located in the Christianshavn area of Copenhagen, has been known to be a hostile environment for tourists. Historically, Christiania has been the site of illicit drug activity. Recent drug enforcement efforts have resulted in clashes between the police and Christiania residents. Because of the illicit activity taking place in the area, Christiania residents have imposed a strict no-photography policy; tourists have been assaulted and robbed for taking pictures. Police and emergency services are limited in Christiania.

Pickpockets and purse-snatchers operate mainly at train stations -- the Copenhagen Central Station in particular -- and on crowded trains or buses, as well as in areas frequented by tourists. Sophisticated thieves also target the Copenhagen Airport and cruise ship quays. The best precaution is to keep an eye on your belongings at all times. Do not put any bags containing valuables, such as your passport or credit cards, down on the ground or on the back of a chair. Watch your computer bag, which is particularly desirable. Popular tourist attractions, like shopping streets and restaurants, also attract pickpockets and thieves. Hotel lobbies and breakfast rooms attract professional, well-dressed criminals who blend in with guests and target purses and briefcases left unguarded by unsuspecting tourists and business travelers. Pickpockets and purse-snatchers often work in pairs or groups, with one person distracting the victim while another grabs the valuables. Since car and home break-ins have become more prevalent in recent years, we strongly recommend that you not leave any valuables in parked vehicles and ensure your vehicle or residence is locked properly when you leave it.

Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal to bring back into the United States, if you purchase them, you may also be breaking local law.

VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. We can:

  • Replace a stolen passport.
  • Help you find appropriate medical care if you are the victim of violent crimes such as assault or rape.
  • Put you in contact with the appropriate police authorities, and if you want us to, contact family members or friends.
  • Help you understand the local criminal justice process and direct you to local attorneys, although it is important to remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

Denmark has a program to provide financial compensation to victims who suffer serious injuries due to crime. The victim must report the incident to the police within 24 hours. Danish police routinely inform victims of serious crime of their right to seek compensation. The relevant forms are available from the police or from the Danish Criminal Injuries Compensation Board, Adelgade 13, 1304 Copenhagen K. TEL: 45-3392 3334; FAX: 45-3920 4505, e-mail: erstatningsnaevnet@erstatningsnaevnet.dk. Claim processing time is a minimum of three months. While there is no maximum award limit, victim compensation payments are generally far lower than equivalent payments in the United States, due to Denmark’s generous domestic social welfare coverage. More information about compensation payments to victims of serious crime is available at the Compensation Board’s website.

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in Denmark is “112.” For non-life threatening situations, individuals in the greater Copenhagen area may dial 1813 to reach an urgent medical helpline.

Please see our information for victims of crime, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.

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Population: 5,792,202


Total Land Area: 42,430 km2


Population/km2: 136.51