M/S Maritime Museum of Denmark

The basics

Pair a visit to the M/S Maritime Museum of Denmark with a walking tour through Helsingør’s charming medieval old town and a visit to Kronborg Castle, a splendid example of Renaissance architecture. Afterwards, spend a few hours at this museum taking in its wide range of multimedia exhibitions to learn about the history and lore of exploring the earth’s oceans. Visitors of all ages can try their hand at navigating virtual trade routes, learn about the traditional tools of shipping, or even get a temporary sailor’s tattoo.

Things to know before you go

• This family-friendly museum includes a number of exhibits geared toward the youngest visitors.

• Architecture buffs will want to admire the award-winning design of this underground museum, which opened in 2013.

• A café, gift shop, free lockers, and Wi-Fi are available on-site.

• The museum is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

Take a train from Copenhagen to Helsingør Station or a ferry from Helsingborg in Sweden to the Helsingør ferry port, both about a 10-minute walk from the museum. A number of bus routes also stop close by, and the sights in the city’s old town are within easy walking distance.

When to get there

The museum is open Tuesdays to Sundays from September to June, and daily in July and August. Weekends and holidays bring the biggest crowds to this popular, kid-friendly destination, so go on a weekday for a quieter visit. The museum is indoors, making for a perfect rainy-day attraction.

Exploring the Helsingør harbor

Helsingør’s harbor is home to a number of premier attractions. Just opposite the museum, the Culture Yard is a multifaceted center that houses the excellent city library, Shipyard Museum, and exhibition spaces for films, concerts, theater productions, and family entertainment. Kronborg Slot sits just across the channel, a Renaissance castle that was the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The harbor is also a lovely spot for scenic waterfront walks.