Last Updated on: 3rd April 2025, 01:53 am

Located along the Øresund Strait, just a short drive from Copenhagen, Dragør is a charming coastal town known for its well-preserved historic centre, scenic harbour, and maritime heritage. I spent two weeks house-sitting here during the summer, and it proved to be an excellent base for exploring Copenhagen while also enjoying the quieter charm of a traditional Danish fishing village.

Here are some of what I personally found to be the best things to see and do in and around Dragør.

Wander Through Dragør’s Old Town

Dragør’s lovely old town is beautifully preserved with cobbled streets, colourful 18th-century houses, and a strong maritime history. Walking through Dragør feels like stepping back in time, with its traditional yellow-painted buildings and red-tiled roofs.

Keep an eye out for porcelain dogs displayed in the windows of many old houses—these decorative figurines have a unique maritime tradition. Sailors’ wives would place the dogs in their windows, positioning them in different ways to signal whether their husbands were home or away at sea.

Explore Dragør Harbor

The picturesque harbour is the heart of the town, where fishing boats, waterfront restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere make it a great place for a stroll. Don’t forget to pop into the local museum there.

In the summer, local events and festivals often take place here. It’s also the perfect spot to enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Øresund.

Experience Dragør Søbad (Dragør Sea Bath)

For an authentic Danish coastal experience, head to Dragør Søbad, the town’s traditional sea bath. This historic wooden bathing pier extends into the Øresund and features enclosed bathing areas, perfect for a refreshing dip in the sea.

It is open daily from 1 May to the end of August.

Visit Goose Republic

A unique attraction in Dragør is the Goose Republic. For hundreds of years, people in Dragør have kept geese, and the town was famous for its many geese in the streets. Initially, they kept them in their homes, where they would live, for example, under a bench in the living room.

Then, they were let out in the morning. In one corner of several gates in the old town, you can see a small goose hatchet.

Later, a small “town” was established with houses for the geese.

When the ferry port was built around 1960, the geese were moved to their current location because it was considered too dangerous for them to cross the ferry area on their way to the beach meadows. The geese now roam freely in this charming little farm area, making it a fun and quirky stop.

Climb Dragør Fort

Built in the early 20th century, Dragør Fort is a fascinating piece of Danish military history. While it’s no longer in active use, you can walk around and take in views across the water. It’s also a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching.

Swim at the Dragør Swimming Bridge

For those who love the water, Dragør’s swimming bridge offers a great place for a dip in the Øresund. The wooden pier extends into the sea, making it easy to access the refreshing waters. It’s a favourite spot among locals, especially on warm summer days.

Relax at Grandmother’s Beach

Grandmother’s Beach, just south of the harbour, is another great place to unwind, with shallow waters perfect for wading and grassy areas for a picnic. On clear days, you can see across to Sweden, making it a scenic spot for a leisurely afternoon.

Enjoy Views of the Øresund Bridge to Sweden

One of the most iconic sights from Dragør is the Øresund Bridge, which connects Denmark to Sweden. Whether at the beach or harbour or walking along the coastline, you’ll have fantastic views of this impressive structure.

Walk Through Amager Nature Park

Amager Nature Park, located just outside the town of Dragør, is a vast, tranquil escape into Denmark’s natural beauty. Known for its diverse landscapes, the park features expansive meadows, woodlands, wetlands, and coastal areas.

It’s a perfect place for walking, cycling, and birdwatching, with trails that meander through peaceful surroundings. With its proximity to the water, you can even enjoy views of the sea, adding to the park’s serene atmosphere.

Enjoy Local Cafés and Bakeries

Dragør has several cosy cafés and bakeries where you can try Danish pastries and coffee. Café Sylten was my favourite, offering delicious treats with a harbour view.

See the Thai Buddhist Temple

One of the unexpected gems near Dragør is the serene Thai Buddhist temple, Watpa Copenhagen. Surrounded by lush greenery, this temple offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the intricate architecture, and delve into the teachings of Buddhism in Denmark.

Discover the Museum in the Nearby Store, Magleby

Just a short trip from Dragør, Store Magleby has a fascinating museum that highlights the area’s history, particularly its Dutch heritage. Dutch farmers settled the town in the 16th century, and their influence can still be seen today. If you’re interested in local history and culture, this museum is well worth a visit.

How To Get To Dragør

There are several ways to reach Dragør. The fastest obviously is going by car. The distance from Copenhagen city centre to Dragør is 12 kilometres and takes around 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Head for the old harbour “Gamle Havn” where you can find a big public car park.

However, Copenhagen’s public transport system is incredibly efficient and reliable.

By Public Transport from Copenhagen City Centre

There are two options:

Bus 350S direct to Dragør departs from in front of Tivoli Gardens.

Or take the train, bus or metro to Copenhagen Airport and then change to Bus 35 towards Dragør Stationsplads.

Final Thoughts

Dragør is the perfect mix of history, nature, and seaside charm. Whether you’re visiting for a day or using it as a base like I did, it’s a destination that offers a quieter, more authentic Danish experience while still being close to the buzz of Copenhagen. If you’re looking for a relaxing coastal escape with plenty of character, Dragør is well worth a visit.

Would you add Dragør to your Denmark itinerary? Let me know in the comments!

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