Things To Do
in Silkeborg

Silkeborg, located in central Denmark, is a charming town known for its stunning lakes and lush forests. Often referred to as the 'Lake District' of Denmark, it offers a perfect blend of nature and culture. The town is famous for its art scene, particularly the Silkeborg Art Museum, which showcases modern Danish art.

Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Art
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Silkeborg Museum to learn about the region's history, including the famous Tollund Man. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk around the Silkeborg Lake.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, followed by a scenic boat tour on the Gudenå River, where you can experience the beauty of the surrounding nature.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Danish restaurant, and then enjoy a stroll along the lakeside promenade, which is beautifully illuminated at night.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at a local bakery, then head to Himmelbjerget, one of Denmark's highest hills, for a hike with panoramic views.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant before visiting the Silkeborg Art Museum to appreciate contemporary art.

evening
:

Conclude your visit with dinner at a cozy bistro, followed by drinks at a local pub, where you can mingle with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🚍Public transport ticket$3
🍔Fast food meal$10
🏨Hotel room per night$120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings with lakes and forests.
  • Rich cultural scene with art museums and galleries.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent during off-peak hours.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tak" - Thank you
  • "Undskyld" - Excuse me
  • "Hvor ligger...?" - Where is...?
  • "Jeg forstår ikke" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Silkeborg

Visit one of these nice places.

Himmelbjerget

Capture stunning panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and forests from this iconic hill.

The Gudenå River

The winding river provides picturesque scenes, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Silkeborg Lake

A beautiful lake ideal for landscape photography, particularly during autumn when the leaves change color.

Culinary Guide

Food in Silkeborg

Silkeborg's culinary scene blends traditional Danish cuisine with modern influences, offering a delightful range of flavors to explore.

Silkeborg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stegt Flæsk

Crispy fried pork belly served with parsley sauce and boiled potatoes.

Must-Try!

Rugbrød

Traditional Danish rye bread often served with various toppings, including herring and liver pate.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Silkeborg Market

A lively market held every Thursday, offering fresh local produce, meats, and artisanal products.

Street Food by the Lake

Food trucks and stalls offering a variety of street food options, perfect for a casual bite.

Climate Guide

Weather

Silkeborg experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures typically range from -1°C to 5°C (30°F to 41°F). Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, so it’s advisable to carry an umbrella regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Danish culture; lateness is often seen as disrespectful.

Personal Space

Danes value personal space, so maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Casual Greetings

A simple 'Hej' (Hello) is a friendly way to greet someone in Denmark.

Safety Guide

Safety

Silkeborg is generally a safe town for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's wise to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Silkeborg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not obligatory in Denmark; however, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, ideal for lake activities and exploring nature.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning foliage, making it a picturesque time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the winter landscapes can be breathtaking, especially around the lakes.

Nightlife Guide

Silkeborg at Night

Silkeborg's nightlife is laid-back yet vibrant, with a variety of bars and pubs offering local beers and cocktails. Many venues host live music, particularly during weekends, creating a lively atmosphere. The town also features a few nightclubs that cater to a younger crowd. Most establishments are centered around the lake, offering beautiful views at night.

Hiking in Silkeborg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Silkeborg Forest Trail

A well-marked trail that winds through lush forests and offers stunning views of the lakes.

Himmelbjerget Trail

This trail leads to the summit of Himmelbjerget, providing breathtaking views and a chance to explore the historical monuments along the way.

Airports

How to reach Silkeborg by plane.

Billund Airport

Located about 45 minutes from Silkeborg, Billund Airport is the nearest major airport, serving both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Silkeborg is very walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance from each other. The scenic lakeside promenades and parks offer pleasant walking paths, making it easy for visitors to explore the town on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Silkeborg has a growing population of young families attracted by its quality of life and educational facilities.

Retirees

The town is popular among retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Silkeborg, with local teams competing in national leagues.

Handball

Handball enjoys significant popularity, with many local clubs and facilities available for enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Silkeborg is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation includes buses that connect Silkeborg with surrounding towns, though services may be limited during evenings and weekends. Biking is a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Silkeborg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some cafés and restaurants provide gluten-free options; inquire when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Denmark has a high standard of healthcare. Emergency services are accessible, and there are several hospitals and clinics in Silkeborg. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access healthcare, while non-EU visitors are advised to have travel insurance.

Discover Denmark

Read more in our Denmark 2025 Travel Guide.

Denmark Travel Guide