Things To Do
in Køge

Open-faced rye-bread sandwiches topped with pickled herring, cold cuts, liver pâté, or smoked fish; available at cafés and lunch spots on Køge Torv.

Must-Try!

Traditional Danish pan-fried meatballs often served with potatoes and red cabbage; common on local restaurant menus.

Herring prepared in various marinades and local smoked fish from Køge harbor stalls and seafood restaurants.

Dense Danish rye bread used for sandwiches, and buttery pastries from bakeries in the old town.

Regular market in the town square with seasonal stalls selling fresh produce, baked goods and occasional street-food vendors—great for tasting local specialties and sampling cheeses, herring and seasonal fruit.

In summer you’ll find pop-up stands and seafood sellers near the marina offering freshly prepared fish and casual snacks.

Tipping is not mandatory in Denmark; service charges are usually included. Leaving small change or rounding up (5–10%) is appreciated for exceptional service, but not expected.

Card payments are the norm (Dankort, Visa, Mastercard) and contactless/mobile payments (MobilePay) are widely accepted. Cash is less common but still usable in some markets and small shops.

Mild temperatures with increasing daylight; gardens and parks bloom—ideal for walks and photography. Early spring can still be chilly and breezy on the coast, so pack layers.

Warmest and sunniest months with long daylight, outdoor cafés, harbour life and beach swimming. Expect peak visitor numbers on weekends and events on the square—book accommodation early.

Crisp air, changing foliage and fewer tourists; good for coastal walks and visiting Stevns Klint in dramatic light. Weather can be unsettled—waterproof layers recommended.

Cold and short daylight hours with occasional snow or frosts; quiet town atmosphere and cozy indoor cafés. Some seasonal attractions may close—check opening times in advance.

UNESCO-listed chalk cliffs with coastal trails, dramatic views and geological interest; excellent hiking and birdwatching opportunities—about a short drive south of Køge.

Gentle walking paths around the historic castle, parklands and shoreline—good for shorter, scenic walks near Køge.

Coastal walking routes along Køge Bay that connect beaches, dunes and small harbours—pleasant for long seaside walks and sunset hikes.

Larger recreational area with trails, lakes and varied terrain suitable for hiking, mountain biking and nature walks; reachable by car or regional transit.

Main international airport serving the Copenhagen area, about 40–60 minutes by train from Køge depending on connection—regular regional and intercity rail links make it straightforward to reach Køge.

Smaller airport near Roskilde mainly for general aviation and some charters, located roughly 30–40 minutes by car from Køge; limited commercial services.

Køge has many established Danish families and long-term residents who contribute to the town’s community life and traditions.

A substantial number of residents commute to Copenhagen for work, making Køge a regional hub with a commuter demographic.

Smaller groups of students and younger professionals drawn by affordable housing relative to Copenhagen and good transport links.

A growing number of international residents and expats work regionally or in Copenhagen while living in Køge for its quality of life.

Very popular locally—HB Køge is the town’s football club and games draw local fans.

Handball is widely played across Denmark with local clubs and youth teams active in the area.

Given the harbour and bay, sailing, kayaking and wind-based sports are common recreational pastimes in and around Køge.

Cycling is both a popular sport and everyday mode of transport; local clubs and scenic routes attract cyclists.

Vegetarian options are widely available in cafés and restaurants—look for open-faced vegetarian smørrebrød, salads and seasonal vegetable dishes. Ask staff for fresh preparations if menus are meat-heavy.

Vegan choices are increasing but still limited in smaller town restaurants; cafés and bakeries often offer plant-milk for coffee and a few vegan sandwiches or salads—bring snacks if you have strict needs.

Gluten-free bread and options are available in many cafés and supermarkets; communicate your needs clearly as rye-based dishes are common.

Staff in eateries are used to dietary requests, but it’s wise to state allergies clearly (in English or Danish) and double-check when seafood is involved.