Roskilde

Written by Elsa Holm
05/09/2025
Historic Viking ship moored on a bright day in Roskilde, Denmark.
Ivan Dražić, Pexels

Roskilde offers a captivating journey through Denmark's royal and Viking past, centered around its UNESCO World Heritage Cathedral and the immersive Viking Ship Museum. Beyond its historical core, the city embraces modern culture with a museum dedicated to pop and rock music, alongside tranquil natural landscapes of its fjord and national park.

The city's pedestrian zones are home to inviting shops, restaurants, and cafés, providing spaces for visitors to connect. Roskilde Harbor offers a scenic backdrop for relaxing at its small cafes, while the annual Roskilde Festival draws a large international crowd for a vibrant social and musical experience.

Top 4 Things to do in Roskilde

The activities primarily focus on delving into Denmark's Viking and royal history, exploring modern music culture, and enjoying the natural landscapes of the fjord and national park.

1. Roskilde Cathedral (Roskilde Domkirke)

Visiting Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a journey through 800 years of Danish history and architectural evolution. As the burial place for nearly all Danish monarchs since the 15th century, including the legendary Viking King Harald Bluetooth, the cathedral houses numerous ornate royal tombs and chapels, each showcasing different architectural styles. The interior features soaring Gothic vaults and detailed frescoes, offering a profound sense of historical grandeur. Taking a guided tour is recommended to fully appreciate the historical narratives and architectural nuances. The upper floor also contains a small museum tracing the building's history.

Cost: Adults: 70 DKK, Seniors (67+) and Students: 50 DKK. Free for children (0-17 years) and with a Copenhagen Card. Guided tours may have additional costs or be included with entry depending on the season. Entrance to services is free.

Transport: The Cathedral is located in the city center, approximately a 10-minute walk from Roskilde train station.

2. Viking Ship Museum (Vikingeskibsmuseet)

At the Viking Ship Museum, one can explore five original 11th-century Viking ships, recovered from Roskilde Fjord, which were deliberately sunk to protect the city from sea attacks. The museum provides deep insights into Viking life, seafaring, and traditional boatbuilding. Visitors can observe craftsmen in the boatyard reconstructing Viking ships using ancient techniques and materials. During summer months (May to September), there is an opportunity to embark on sailing trips on Roskilde Fjord in reconstructed Viking boats, offering a direct experience of Viking travel. The museum also features permanent and temporary exhibitions on maritime archaeology and Viking culture.

Cost: May-October: Adults 160 DKK, Students 105 DKK, Families 300 DKK. Rest of year: Adults 125 DKK, Students 80 DKK, Families 230 DKK. Free for children (0-17 years) and with a Copenhagen Card. Sailing trips (seasonal): Adults 300 DKK, children (4-17 years) 140 DKK.

Transport: The museum is located at Roskilde Harbor, within walking distance from the city center and train station.

3. RAGNAROCK - Museum for Pop, Rock and Youth Culture

RAGNAROCK offers an interactive journey through the history and impact of pop, rock, and youth culture in Denmark from the 1950s to the present. Located in the Musicon district, its striking golden building is an architectural landmark. Inside, visitors engage with music hands-on through interactive exhibits, recording studio simulations, and displays on how music has challenged boundaries and influenced society. The museum also hosts a vibrant program of concerts, events, and temporary exhibitions, along with a café and a shop selling unique items, including original Roskilde Festival posters.

Cost: Tickets typically cost around 100-120 DKK for adults (based on similar museum prices). Free for children (0-17 years) and with a Copenhagen Card. Entry to the café and shop is free.

Transport: RAGNAROCK is located in the Musicon district. From Roskilde Station, Bus 202A runs to Musicon. A taxi ride (approximately 5 km) would cost around 125 DKK.

4. Explore Roskilde Fjord and Skjoldungernes Land National Park

Roskilde Fjord, a significant part of Skjoldungernes Land National Park, offers a beautiful landscape of coves, salt marshes, and coastlines. It is an ideal setting for outdoor activities. Visitors can walk or cycle along the Fjord Path (Fjordstien), which provides extensive hiking and biking trails. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular options to explore the fjord's tranquil waters, with rentals available seasonally. The area is also notable for birdwatching, especially during autumn and winter when it hosts thousands of waterfowl. Swimming spots are available, and the fjord has been a fishing spot since the Stone Age.

Cost: Kayaking and paddleboard rentals start from approximately 250 DKK for 2 hours (April 15 to September 15). Guided tours are also available. Hiking and cycling are generally free, though bike rentals would be an additional cost.

Transport: Roskilde Harbor, near the Viking Ship Museum, is a starting point for fjord activities. The national park can be accessed by local buses or taxi, depending on the specific starting point for trails or activities. Bus fare is 24 DKK.

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