Denmark emerges as preferred holiday destination for Americans, records surge in overnight stays

Americans are flocking to Denmark, with the small Scandinavian country becoming a preferred holiday destination. In 2023, American tourists accounted for almost a million registered overnight stays in Denmark, twice the number recorded in 2014. This trend seems to be continuing, with 321,412 overnight stays recorded from American tourists from January to May this year, 14% more than the previous year. This makes Americans the fastest-growing tourist group in Denmark.

The appeal of Denmark to American tourists lies in the country’s quality of life, natural beauty, and culinary scene. Americans are drawn to the Danish lifestyle and wish to immerse themselves in it, according to Dennis Englund, marketing manager for UK & US in VisitDenmark.

Danish food, especially sourdough bread, is a hit among Americans. They are trading their traditional turkey, fried chicken, and cheeseburgers for Michelin-starred meals, gourmet pizzas, and Danish pastries.

Denmark’s natural beauty also plays a significant role in attracting American visitors. The sand dunes along the West Coast, lush forests, and golden rapeseed fields across the Danish landscape offer an idyllic experience for American tourists.

The vibrant city life in Copenhagen is another magnet for American tourists. The Danish capital has been featured in several TV shows and movies, and the positive reviews from famous American personalities living in the city have boosted its appeal.

Increased flight routes between the US and Denmark since 2014 have made Denmark more accessible to Americans, contributing to the influx of American tourists.

Denmark is also perceived as a safe destination by many Americans, which is an important factor considering the unrest in many parts of the world. Additionally, the high value of the US dollar enhances the purchasing power of American tourists, contributing to their high spending in Denmark.

In 2023, Denmark had the largest market share of international overnight stays in the Nordic countries (Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Finland) at 49%, up from 45% in 2019. This indicates that Denmark is not just popular among Americans, but also among international tourists.