Discover the charm of Roskilde on a day trip from Copenhagen by train. Located just 30 minutes away, this historic town offers a lovely blend of history, charm, scenic beauty, and shopping. If your visit happens to align with early July, you might also experience Roskilde’s modern claim to fame: the Roskilde Festival. This annual music festival is one of Europe’s largest, attracting top international artists and over 120,000 fans. Unfortunately, I was a few days too late, but then again, it was really nice being able to explore a town without the crowds. To make the most of a day in this historic town, you'll need to catch a train from Copenhagen Central Station. Trains run frequently, and you will be in Roskilde within half an hour. You can purchase tickets through the DOT Tickets app or at ticket machines at train and metro stations. Once you arrive at the Roskilde train station, the town centre and the major sites are all within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. Start your day at Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the burial place of Danish royalty for nearly a millennium. Its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate tombs tell stories of Denmark’s monarchs and offer insights into Scandinavian history. Take time to explore the cathedral's interior and admire the high ceilings, medieval decorations, and the impressive chapel dedicated to King Christian IV. The cathedral's grounds also provide a peaceful spot for a quick rest or a coffee break. Be sure to check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary throughout the year. As a rough guide, the cathedral opens at 10 am on Mondays through Saturdays and at 1 pm on Sundays. Roskilde Cathedral charges admission to visit the royal tombs, royal chapels, museum, and gallery. Adults pay 70 DKK, while children (0-17 years) get in for free. Senior citizens (67+) and students can enjoy discounted rates of 50 DKK. After visiting the cathedral, head over to the Viking Ship Museum (Vikingeskibsmuseet), which is a ten-minute walk away. The museum's main attraction is its collection of five authentic Viking ships excavated from Roskilde Fjord. You can walk right up to these well-preserved ships and even participate in interactive exhibits. If you're visiting in the warmer months, the museum offers boat rides on the fjord in Viking-style ships—a perfect way to experience life as the Vikings did! However, it's highly recommended that you book this tour in advance, as it's a popular activity. The museum is open daily from 10 am until 4 pm. The cost of visiting the Viking Ship Museum varies depending on the season: Summer Season (from May 1st to September 30th) Adults (+18 years) pay 160 DKK, while children (0-17 years) get in for free. Family Tickets are available for 300 DKK, and students with a valid student ID can enjoy discounted rates of 105 DKK. Winter Season Adults (+18 years) pay 125 DKK, while children (0-17 years) still get in for free. Family Tickets are available for 230 DKK, and students with a valid student ID can enjoy discounted rates of 80 DKK. If you want to go on a boat trip on the fjord (from May 1st to September 30th), you can buy tickets online or at the ticket booth on the day. But if you're really keen on going on a boat trip, it's best to book in advance. After visiting the Viking Ship Museum, take a stroll through Byparken, a lovely park with pathways, green spaces, scenic views of Roskilde Fjord, and glimpses of the cathedral's towers. This is a great way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Once you're back in the town, take a leisurely stroll through Roskilde’s picturesque old town. The area is filled with cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and charming shops and cafes. You can spend your afternoon browsing through local boutiques or grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many eateries. With plenty of time to spare before returning to Copenhagen, you can enjoy a relaxing day in Roskilde without feeling rushed. The town is a delightful mix of history, culture, and nature—all in one easily walkable, compact town. I really enjoyed my day here, and I highly recommend it as an easy day trip by train from Copenhagen.
