Last Updated on 14th May 2025, 12:01 pm Located along the Øresund Strait, just a short drive from Copenhagen, Dragør is a charming coastal town known for its well-preserved historic centre, scenic harbour, and maritime heritage. I spent two weeks house-sitting in this picturesque town during the summer and found it to be an excellent base for exploring Copenhagen while also enjoying the quieter charm of a traditional Danish fishing village. Dragør's old town is beautifully preserved with cobbled streets, colourful 18th-century houses, and a strong maritime history. Walking through Dragør feels like stepping back in time, with its traditional yellow-painted buildings and red-tiled roofs. One of the unique features of this historic area is the display of porcelain dogs in the windows of many old houses. These decorative figurines have a unique maritime tradition that dates back to when sailors' wives would place them in their windows, positioning them in different ways to signal whether their husbands were home or away at sea. The picturesque harbour is the heart of the town, where fishing boats, waterfront restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere make it a great place for a stroll. Don't forget to pop into the local museum there, as local events and festivals often take place here in the summer. It's also the perfect spot to enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Øresund. For an authentic Danish coastal experience, head to Dragør Søbad, the town's traditional sea bath. This historic wooden bathing pier extends into the Øresund and features enclosed bathing areas, perfect for a refreshing dip in the sea. It is open daily from 1 May to the end of August. A unique attraction in Dragør is the Goose Republic. For hundreds of years, people in Dragør have kept geese, and the town was famous for its many geese in the streets. Initially, they kept them in their homes, where they would live, for example, under a bench in the living room. Then, they were let out in the morning. In one corner of several gates in the old town, you can see a small goose hatchet. Later, a small "town" was established with houses for the geese. The geese now roam freely in this charming little farm area, making it a fun and quirky stop. The Dragør Fort is another fascinating piece of Danish military history built in the early 20th century. While it's no longer in active use, you can walk around and take in views across the water. The Dragør Swimming Bridge offers a great place for a dip in the Øresund. The wooden pier extends into the sea, making it easy to access the refreshing waters. It's a favourite spot among locals, especially on warm summer days. Another great spot to unwind is Grandmother's Beach, just south of the harbour, with shallow waters perfect for wading and grassy areas for a picnic. On clear days, you can see across to Sweden from this scenic spot. One of the most iconic sights from Dragør is the Øresund Bridge, which connects Denmark to Sweden. Whether at the beach or harbour or walking along the coastline, you'll have fantastic views of this impressive structure. Amager Nature Park, located just outside the town of Dragør, is a vast, tranquil escape into Denmark's natural beauty. Known for its diverse landscapes, the park features expansive meadows, woodlands, wetlands, and coastal areas. It's a perfect place for walking, cycling, and birdwatching, with trails that meander through peaceful surroundings. Dragør has several cosy cafés and bakeries where you can try Danish pastries and coffee. Café Sylten was my favourite, offering delicious treats with a harbour view. Another unexpected gem near Dragør is the serene Thai Buddhist temple, Watpa Copenhagen. Surrounded by lush greenery, this temple offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the intricate architecture, and delve into the teachings of Buddhism in Denmark. The Store Magleby has a fascinating museum that highlights the area's history, particularly its Dutch heritage. Dutch farmers settled the town in the 16th century, and their influence can still be seen today. How to get to Dragør is relatively straightforward. The fastest way is by car, with the distance from Copenhagen city centre being 12 kilometres and taking around 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take public transport from Copenhagen City Centre via bus or train, changing at Copenhagen Airport for Bus 35 towards Dragør Stationsplads. Dragør is the perfect mix of history, nature, and seaside charm. Whether you're visiting for a day or using it as a base like I did, it's a destination that offers a quieter, more authentic Danish experience while still being close to the buzz of Copenhagen. If you're looking for a relaxing coastal escape with plenty of character, Dragør is well worth a visit.
