Things To Do
in Varde
Varde is a small coastal town in southwest Denmark, set between dunes, forests, and the Wadden Sea. It acts as a gateway to expansive nature reserves such as Vadehavet National Park and Ringkøbing Fjord, while maintaining a charming town center with markets and cafés. The surrounding countryside offers forest trails, beaches, and medieval towns like Ribe within easy reach.
Expect a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where outdoor exploration and Danish heritage blend seamlessly.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Varde's charming historic center, where you can admire the beautifully preserved half-timbered buildings. Visit the Varde Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the town's rich history and cultural heritage. Don’t forget to stop by the local bakery for a traditional Danish pastry and coffee.
After lunch at a cozy café overlooking the square, head to the Varde River to enjoy a scenic walk along the water. You can also visit the nearby Varde Town Hall, an impressive building with unique architectural features. Take your time exploring the quaint shops and boutiques that line the streets, offering unique souvenirs and local crafts.
As the sun sets, find a delightful restaurant in the heart of Varde and indulge in traditional Danish cuisine, perhaps sampling some local fish dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk back through the historic center, where the buildings are beautifully lit, creating a magical atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for entertainment, check if there’s a local performance or concert happening in town.
Kick off your day with a breakfast at your accommodation before making your way to the nearby popular beach at Vejers Strand. Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, or simply strolling along the sandy shores, breathing in the fresh sea air. For the adventurous, consider trying out windsurfing or kitesurfing lessons offered by local instructors.
After a morning of fun in the sun, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach or dine at a beachfront café with stunning ocean views. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful dunes and coastal landscapes, perhaps even spotting local wildlife. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike and ride along the scenic coastal paths.
As evening approaches, gather at the beach for a breathtaking sunset, casting warm colors across the sky and sea. Following the sunset, enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant known for its fresh catches from the North Sea. Wind down with a stroll along the shore, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the sand.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket (1 ride) | $4-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and nature reserves
- Compact town with easy access to Ribe and Esbjerg
- Friendly locals and safe environment
- Good value for family-friendly getaways
- Limited nightlife within Varde itself
- Weather can be windy and changeable
- Some services are concentrated in larger nearby towns
- Higher driving distances to major urban centers
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Farvel" - Goodbye
- "Tak" - Thank you
- "Undskyld" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Hvor ligger toilettet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hvad koster det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Kan jeg få regningen, tak?" - Can I have the check, please?
- "Taler du engelsk?" - Do you speak English?
- "Jeg forstår ikke" - I don't understand
- "Godmorgen" - Good morning
- "Godaften" - Good evening
- "Hvad anbefaler du?" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Varde
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic coastal views with expansive dunes and sea spray, especially at sunrise.
Medieval streets, timber-framed houses, and the striking cathedral provide excellent architectural photography.
Salt marshes and tidal flats along the Wadden Sea offer wildlife and wide-angle coastal shots.
Open skies, reed beds, and calm waters ideal for reflections and sunset photography.
Classic Danish countryside scenes with a windmill and rural landscapes.
Food in Varde
Varde Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Danish pan-fried meatballs usually served with potatoes, gravy, and pickled cucumber.
Must-Try!
Seafood croquettes made with fish and herbs, often served with remoulade.
Fried plaice, a popular seaside dish featuring a crispy fish fillet.
Traditional open-faced sandwiches with toppings like fish, roast beef, or pickled vegetables.
A traditional red berry pudding served with cream for dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, cheeses, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual; Danish culture values orderly queues and polite conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Varde
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not expected; rounding up or adding 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, mild sea breeze, beaches and outdoor dining. Expect crowds near popular beaches; carry sun protection.
Migrating birds and harvest markets; cooler days with golden-hour lighting for landscapes.
Shorter daylight hours and crisp air; coastal storms possible; cozy cafés and museums are good indoors options.
Blooming countryside and accessible trails; excellent for cycling and birdwatching as wildlife returns.
Varde at Night
Hiking in Varde
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive tidal flats and bird-rich coastlines; ideal for long walks and photography.
Dune sequences and woodland paths with sea views.
Flat terrain with water views and easy hiking routes.
Airports
How to reach Varde by plane.
Closest airport with domestic and some international flights; about a 25–40 minute drive from Varde.
Major gateway offering many domestic and international connections; about 1 hour by car from Varde.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in and around Varde, drawn by good schools and nature access.
A sizable retired community with a preference for outdoor and cultural activities.
Visitors from Denmark and neighboring countries, especially in summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and matches are common across towns.
A popular sport in Denmark with community clubs and youth programs.
Daily commuting and scenic cycling routes along coast and countryside.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Varde.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available; look for open sandwiches, salads, and root-vegetable dishes; ask for vegetable-based soups and side dishes.