15 Best Danish Souvenirs from Denmark: A Local’s Guide

Looking for something truly special to take home from Denmark?

Danish souvenirs offer a unique way to capture the essence of Denmark’s history, culture, craftsmanship, and style.

As someone who loves discovering local things, every product I have chosen has a story, a meaning, and a connection to Denmark. I can tell you that you will cherish these souvenirs and love looking at them, reminding you of your unique experiences here.

From wallet-friendly items to luxury goods, you can find a range of products worth your money, whether you’re gifting or treating yourself.

Let’s explore some of the best souvenirs from Denmark!

1. Royal Copenhagen Porcelain Collectibles

Royal Copenhagen is one of the most beautiful and traditional Danish souvenirs you can take home from Denmark. These unique keepsakes, founded by Juliane Marie in 1775, are a stunning representation of Danish craftsmanship.

If you’re into collectibles, Royal Copenhagen’s iconic blue-and-white porcelain pieces, especially their Christmas plates, are a must-have. The Christmas plates were introduced in 1895 featuring designs inspired by Copenhagen’s landmarks, including boats, landscapes, and historical statues.

Today, the brand offers thousands of products ranging from home decor to miniatures, vases, and candle holders. However, their blue collectibles remain a classic favorite. You can even join their collector’s club to enjoy exclusive discounts and benefits.

I highly recommend visiting their flagship store in Copenhagen if you want to truly experience the art and craftsmanship that go into each piece. During the Christmas season, the store is beautifully decorated and offers special discounts. You can also purchase these stunning pieces online.

Royal Copenhagen items are timeless, hand-painted luxurious souvenirs that add a touch of Danish heritage to any home.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly quality option, check Lyngby Porcelain. Their most sold is the vase.

2. Lego

Lego is one of the most classic Danish souvenirs you can buy from Denmark. It’s not just for kids, but for everyone!

The Lego Group was started in 1932 by Ole Kirk Christiansen, a Danish carpenter from a small town called Billund. Today, it’s a global brand that continues to spark creativity across generations.

Lego isn’t just a toy—it’s part of Danish culture and tradition. You’ll find Lego bricks in every Danish household.

I’ve seen both children and adults equally mesmerized by the endless possibilities that come with building Lego sets. I recently gifted my 21-year-old cousin the massive Eiffel Tower set, with over 10,000 pieces. It took her a few weeks to finish, and she told me it was one of the most enjoyable puzzles she’s ever done.

3. Georg Jensen Jewelry

Georg Jensen is one of Denmark’s most iconic luxury brands, and buying their jewelry is an excellent way to carry a bit of Danish heritage back with you.

Founded in 1904 by silversmith Georg Jensen, this design house has become world-renowned for its timeless Scandinavian elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. Their pieces, made from sterling silver, 18-carat gold, steel, and even diamonds, suit any style or occasion—from everyday wear to special events.

One thing I love about Georg Jensen’s jewelry is its minimalist design, yet striking enough to make a statement. The expert metalwork reflects more than 100 years of Danish design tradition.

Their jewelry collection is known for its balance between functionality and beauty, echoing Georg Jensen’s original philosophy. Check out their engagement and wedding rings or even their everyday stainless steel kitchen products.

If you are into luxury shopping, I highly recommend visiting a Georg Jensen store in Copenhagen. Their use of 100% recycled gold (from 2023) adds to sustainability, making their jewelry even more meaningful as a Danish souvenir.

4. Hans Christian Andersen Souvenirs

Hans Christian Andersen, the most celebrated Danish fairy tale author, has left a profound impact on the world, and buying souvenirs related to him is an ideal way to carry a piece of Denmark’s rich literature back home.

His work is a collection of 156 stories published in nine volumes and is translated into over 125 languages. If you like reading like me, you should read his stories.

The storybooks or decorative posters from the scenes of “The Ugly Duckling” or “The Little Mermaid” are more than just mementos; they’re special reminders of Denmark’s literary legacy.

You can visit his childhood home in Odense which is now a museum. It gives a glimpse into the life of Denmark’s greatest storyteller.

5. Postcards

Whenever I visit a new country, I always pick up some postcards featuring the iconic landmarks.

The colorful buildings of Nyhavn lining the canal are a symbol of Denmark. A postcard of Nyhavn makes for a great, cheap souvenir, perfectly capturing the lively, historic atmosphere of the city. Plus, they’re light, easy to carry, and perfect for slipping into a suitcase without taking up any room!

You can easily find postcards in any Danish souvenir shops scattered around Copenhagen or in bookstores. You will often find a variety of postcards featuring other famous landmarks, like the Little Mermaid or Tivoli Gardens.

6. Holmegaard Glassware

Holmegaard is one of Denmark’s iconic glassware brands founded in 1825, It is renowned for its high-quality glassware crafted by some of Denmark’s best artists. 

Holmegaard joined Royal Copenhagen in 1985, but in 2008, it was taken over by the Rosendahl Design Group.

From kitchen storage containers to Christmas decorations, Holmegaard’s catalog includes over 300 products, ranging from affordable to luxurious pieces. Prices start from just 10 Euros, which is quite reasonable for such quality craftsmanship.

What makes Holmegaard extra special is the fact that they produce both mouth-blown and machine-blown glass. Each piece of mouth-blown glass is unique, handmade by skilled glassblowers, and often marked with the famous swan logo, symbolizing authenticity.

I personally love the charm that comes with owning something handcrafted—there’s a story behind every piece!

If you’re in Denmark, I suggest visiting the Holmegaard Værk Museum to watch live glassblowing and explore their collection. It’s a delightful experience, and the Christmas markets held there are also fantastic! Just note that it’s about 85 km from Copenhagen.

Studio Arhoj also sells authentic Danish glassware in Copenhagen.

7. Hoptimist Toys

Hoptimists are the epitome of smiles, optimism, and good mood. Hoptimists are perfect Danish souvenirs.

I love these little bouncy toys because they’re not just cute—they have a deeper meaning, spreading joy and positivity wherever they are.

The first Hoptimists, Bimble and Bumble, were designed by Danish woodturner Hans Gustav Ehrenreich in 1968. It reminds us to look on the bright side of life. Bimble, with her smiling eyes, represents the cheerful female optimist, while Bumble, with his focused gaze, represents the male optimist. Together, they make the sweetest couple.

One of the coolest things about Hoptimists is their diversity—they come in different themes, like Christmas, Easter, Halloween, and even as Roligans dressed up in different country flags. These happy, bouncy little toys can be seen in most Danish households.

You can find them as keepsakes, keychains, tote bags, and even as little hanging decorations, making them a lightweight memento, and super easy to pack.

Hoptimists are crafted from high-quality materials like FSC-certified oak wood, ABS plastic, and steel, ensuring they’re durable and eco-friendly.

Even Danish astronaut Andreas Mogensen took a Hoptimist to space, making them a symbol of Danish ingenuity and cheer. Trust me, they’ll bring a smile to anyone’s face!

8. Kähler Ceramics

Kähler ceramics is a beautiful piece of Danish history and craftsmanship, been around since 1839 when Herman Kähler first opened his workshop in Næstved. For over 185 years, they have maintained their design traditions that are handmade and handpainted.

With vases, tableware, and decorative pieces, Kähler has a range of over 550 products that can make any home stylish and inspiring.

From more affordable items starting at 7 Euros to luxurious ceramics that can go up to 400 Euros, there’s something for everyone, regardless of your budget.

What’s even more special is that every Kähler product comes with the signature HAK logo, ensuring that the product is 100% genuine and original. It’s like owning a little piece of Danish ceramic history. These ceramics are not only functional but timeless and classy.

If you’re thinking about Danish souvenirs, a Kähler Ceramic piece is both meaningful and long-lasting. They truly are a great way to bring a touch of Danish design into your home.

Alternatively, you can also find good-quality Danish ceramics from Arhoj, Wauw, and Stilleben.

9. Danish Flag

Danish flags are everywhere—from welcoming friends at the airport to Danish bakeries. They’re more than just a symbol of patriotism; they’re woven into Denmark’s celebrations and traditions.

I’ve always loved collecting flags from my travels. The Danish flag called Dannebrog is the oldest national flag in the world. It’s a simple and lightweight souvenir that’s easy to pack. Plus, they’re super cheap, making for great budget souvenirs!

You’ll find Danish flags on keychains, stickers, and even for decorating Christmas trees (yes, Danes use flags).

10. Mads Nørgaard Outfits

Founded in 1986, Mads Nørgaard is a luxury Danish fashion brand. Known for its modern, minimalistic designs, the brand emphasizes lines or stripes, which can even be found in its logo.

One of the things I love most about Mads Nørgaard is its versatility—it offers high-quality clothing for men, women, and children.

Their winter collection, made in Denmark, stands out. I bought a striped sweater last winter, and I can’t get enough of how cozy yet stylish it is.

Plus, their accessories like beanies, scarves, and bags are a perfect complement to any outfit.

One thing that distinguishes Mads Nørgaard is their focus on community and culture. Instead of promoting deals on Black Friday, they offer cultural experiences under their “Culture Friday” initiative, where customers receive museum or cinema tickets with every purchase—a gesture that reflects their connection to Danish culture and values.

For anyone into high-end fashion with a touch of Scandinavian style, Mads Nørgaard is a must-visit while shopping in Denmark.

Although there are several other Danish fashion brands, I have tried only a handful of them. Below are a few.

• Mondo Kaos – For vintage-inspired clothing in Copenhagen
• Flippa K – For simple well-made garments
• Wilgart – Handcrafted Danish hats for both men and women
• New Yorker – budget clothes for everyone

Knitwear made from Danish lambswool is particularly popular. Gift your loved ones the woolen scarves or mittens.

11. Danish Board Games

As someone who loves bringing memorable tokens from my travels, Danish board games perfectly capture their love for “hygge”. Board games create a relaxed atmosphere while enjoying quality time with friends and family, without relying on the internet and screens.

It makes for fantastic souvenirs offering hours of entertainment. 

Danes have designed several board games. Here are a few that I recommend if you are a beginner.

• Klask – A favorite not just in homes but also in Copenhagen’s bars.
• Bezzerwizzer – This Danish trivia game, first introduced in the 1800s, is still popular today.
• Matador – Denmark’s version of Monopoly.
• Catan – A multi-player board game first published in 1995. Very popular in Europe.
• Scythe – A strategy-based game that’s popular among board game enthusiasts for its complex gameplay and futuristic themes.

Check out the Facebook group Papsnak for Danish board game lovers.

12. Arne Jacobsen Clocks

One of the souvenirs from Denmark has to be designed by the legendary Danish architect Arne Jacobsen. He has designed a few buildings, furniture, and objects. His work captures a modernist vision that feels timeless. 

The original designs of the wall clocks consist of four series – Banks, City Hall, Roman, and Station- and are used in major landmarks like Denmark’s National Bank and various town halls. The alarm clock is minimalist yet equipped with practical features like alarm, snooze, and light.

Buying Arne Jacobsen Clocks as souvenirs is not only functional but also serves as a daily reminder of Danish design and your trip.

You can find these clocks online or in selected Danish stores, and they make for a meaningful gift from Denmark.

13. Kay Bojesen Wooden Toys

Kay Bojesen’s wooden toys are some of the most charming and iconic Danish souvenirs you can take back home.

Bojesen’s designs are playful and creative, with a signature simplicity that has made them beloved for generations. His mantra was “lines must smile,” and you can see that philosophy comes to life in every piece.

The most popular of his creations is the wooden monkey, designed in the 1950s, but you’ll also find a variety of other animals like birds, elephants, and even the Royal Danish Guard figurines.

These toys aren’t meant to be exact replicas of animals; they’re more about capturing the essence of fun and imagination. Bojesen’s designs were always meant to spark curiosity.

I recently bought one of the monkeys as a gift for my niece, and she adores it. The toys come in various sizes—small, mini, medium, and large.

The figures and animals are made from FSC-certified wood, making them an environmentally conscious choice. You can find these beautiful keepsakes in the Kay Bojesen store or online. Definitely worth adding to your collection!

14. Books as Danish Souvenirs

Buying Danish books is a great way to take a piece of the country’s culture and history home. One standout for history buffs and literature is Saxo Grammaticus’ The History of the Danes (Books I-IX). This iconic work dives into Denmark’s early history and mythology, and it’s even available in English.

For food lovers, a Danish cookbook makes a wonderful gift. It offers a taste of traditional Danish cuisine that you can recreate in your own kitchen. Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales like “The Little Mermaid” and “The Ugly Duckling” are timeless treasures, bringing classic fairy tales to life.

If you’re planning on moving to Denmark or know someone who is, picking up a Lonely Planet Denmark travel guide or a book on learning the Danish language can be a thoughtful and practical gift. Plus, books are budget-friendly for last-minute shopping!

Other books of interest include “The Little Book of Hygge”, “The Little Book of Lykke”, and “The Year of Living Danishly”.

You can easily find them from any of the following stores.

• Storrs Antikvariat – Danish book store
• Vangsgaards Antikvariat og Forlag – Crazy discounts often
• Arnold Busck – Most popular in Copenhagen
• Fantask – Comic book store
• Boghallen – Book store in the city center

15. Handcrafted Danish Scented Candles

Handcrafted Danish candles make for an ideal and thoughtful souvenir. I’m personally obsessed with candles, and Danes are too—they have one of the highest candle consumption rates in Europe!

One of the oldest brands is Ester & Erik, a family-owned company that’s been creating premium candles in Denmark since 1987. Yes, they can be a bit pricey, but the quality justifies it.

Ester & Erik candles are made using 100% paraffin wax of the purest quality. The wicks are pure cotton, and even the dyes and coatings are water-based and eco-friendly, so you know you’re getting something both luxurious and sustainable. Their candles come in an amazing palette of 96 colors, with gold and silver options particularly more popular.

One of my favorite things is, the scented candles come in simple, reusable ceramic jars. You can even get refills for their scented candles, making it a sustainable option. The natural aromas used in their candles are subtle yet create a cozy atmosphere. 

Candles from Ester & Erik are perfect gifts or personalized reminders of Danish Hygge.

I love the Skandinavisk’s scented candles as well. Isæbella’s candles are also good.

Where to Buy Danish Souvenirs from Denmark?

If you are wondering where to go shopping to buy Danish souvenirs, the most popular brands have dedicated stores in the country. You can surely get your favorites from there.

The best shopping areas in Copenhagen are,

• Nordic Nesting, Copenhagen
• Stroget, main shopping street in Copenhagen
• Shopping Malls 
• Super Markets 
• Det Gamle Apotek
• Megasin Shopping Center
• Imerco
• Illums Bolighus
• Christmas markets (Nov and Dec only)

Danish design goods are also sold online at rosendahl.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: Souvenirs from Denmark that are so Danish

My favorite Danish souvenirs are Lego blocks, Danish flags, and postcards.

Out of 15 Danish souvenirs, I’m sure you will take home more than just mementos from Denmark—you will be carrying back the memories of your favorite places, authors, and Danish designs that have made a profound impact on this country’s culture.

So, whether you’re gifting someone special or adding a touch of Danish elegance to your collection, you’ve made a choice that reflects quality, style, and modernity.

Enjoy the memories and lasting impression these treasures bring with them from your trip to Denmark.

Make your trip even more memorable by buying these souvenirs!