Technical Museum of Denmark (Danmarks Tekniske Museet)

The basics

Located in a former iron foundry, the museum is composed of vast halls with themed sections ranging from the evolution of the bicycle to futuristic space flight. Many visitors spend 2–3 hours in the big exhibition halls, with options to play vintage video games, operate a robot arm, climb into the cockpit of a military jet, and more. Younger kids often love to watch the model railway, while older visitors can delve into green energy, smartphone technology, and Danish inventions that have made their marks on the world.

Things to know before you go

• With a wide range of exhibits appropriate for visitors of all ages, the Technical Museum is a great family-friendly break from sightseeing.

• The larger exhibition halls are not heated, so wear warm clothing if visiting in winter.

• There is a small café and gift shop inside the museum. Food and drinks are not allowed inside the halls, however, and must be consumed in the café.

• Most of the museum is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible (with the exception of the rescue vehicle exhibition, the Ellehammer exhibition, and the large airliners); wheelchairs are available to borrow.

How to get there

The Technical Museum of Denmark is located on the outskirts of the city of Helsingor, just north of Copenhagen. The town can be reached by train from the capital city in under an hour. The bus routes 803, 390R, and 353 run between the Helsingør Station or Snekkersten Station and the museum.

When to get there

The museum is open daily except for Mondays and some holidays; check the museum website for specific holiday closures. The covered exhibition halls are an ideal retreat for a rainy day, but keep in mind that many do not have climate control so can be chilly in the winter and hot in the summer.

A Helsingor day trip guide

Located less than an hour north of Copenhagen and connected by direct train, the seaside town of Helsingor makes a great day trip. The old town is picturesque, with medieval timbered houses and cobblestone lanes, and there are a handful of attractions just outside the historic center to explore, including the Kronborg Castle, Øresund Aquarium, and Maritime Museum. You also can cross the Øresund Strait by ferry to visit the Swedish town of Helsingborg.