Vordingborg

TL;DR: Vordingborg is a charming historic town on Zealand’s south coast featuring a 650-year-old castle tower, excellent seafood restaurants, cozy accommodations, and easy access to stunning coastal scenery. Perfect for history buffs, families, and anyone seeking an authentic Danish experience.

Picture this: you’re standing at the foot of a 650-year-old tower topped with a golden goose, overlooking the shimmering waters of Masned Sound, while the scent of fresh Danish pastries wafts from a nearby café. Welcome to Vordingborg – Denmark’s best-kept secret that’s about to become your new favorite destination.

Why Vordingborg Should Be on Your Bucket List

This isn’t just another sleepy Danish town (though it definitely has that cozy hygge factor down pat). Vordingborg was once the political powerhouse of medieval Denmark, where kings like Valdemar the Great shaped the nation’s destiny from their mighty fortress. Today, it’s evolved into the perfect blend of historical significance and modern charm that makes for an unforgettable getaway.

What sets Vordingborg apart? It’s got serious medieval street cred, but without the crowds of more famous European castle towns. Plus, you’re just an hour from Copenhagen by train – making it ideal for day trips or extended stays.

The Crown Jewel: Vordingborg Castle and the Iconic Goose Tower

The Goose Tower (Gåsetårnet) – Your Instagram Star

The 26-meter tall Goose Tower is the only fully preserved part of the original castle and serves as the symbol of the city. But here’s the fun part – that golden goose perched on top? It’s there because King Valdemar Atterdag allegedly used it to mock the German Hanseatic League. Talk about medieval trash talk!

Insider tip: The tower became Denmark’s first officially protected historical monument on December 24, 1808 – so you’re literally visiting a piece of preservation history.

What to expect when you visit:

• Climb the stairs to experience spectacular views and see how Vordingborg castle looked in the 1360s
• The current ‘MONSTER’ exhibition lets you meet creatures like the Love-Hungry Kraken and Fearsome Beezlebub
• At the top, experience ‘Under Siege’ – an immersive sensory experience of a medieval castle attack

The Danish Castle Centre (Danmarks Borgcenter)

The museum features the current exhibition ‘Queens of Power,’ showcasing seven powerful medieval queens and their stories of political intrigue, alliances, and yes, a bit of blood on their hands. It’s like Game of Thrones, but real.

Pro tip: Get the iPad guide included with your ticket – it offers hours of entertainment for the whole family, with stories about exhibits and ghost hunts throughout the castle grounds.

The Castle Ruins and Grounds

Walk on top of the buried Saint Andrew church, where medieval graves tell stories of social status – the richer you were, the closer to holy ground you got buried. The castle grounds are free to explore, and you can get close to the old ring wall and enjoy views over the water and Oringe peninsula.

Where to Eat: From Harborside Seafood to Cozy Cafés

Harbor Views and Fresh Catches

Marina Fisk – A nice venue on the seaside with beautiful ships, serving fish and chips and fish fillets. Perfect for watching the boats come in while enjoying Denmark’s coastal bounty.

Restaurant Snekken – Located at Nordhavnsvej 32, this Chinese restaurant offers authentic flavors with harbor views. One reviewer raved: “to get Chinese food outside China is somehow difficult… but at Snekken you get this!!! and if you also like friendly service like you are attending a private dinner… Then Snekken is also the place”.

Downtown Dining Delights

Café Oskar – This charming restaurant offers fresh and well-prepared food, featuring dishes like veal culotte, fiskefrikadeller, and rhubarb dessert. Visitors praise the “crispy fish and smorrebrod” with one noting the smørrebrød was “beautiful and delicious”.

The Burger Vordingborg – Popular with families, offering great food and atmosphere, with all meat being Halal. Located “right across the street from the famous castle,” with an owner described as “really nice and accommodating for families with children”.

Budget-Friendly Bites

The town offers numerous pizzerias, cafés, and casual dining spots with reasonable prices and friendly service. Many establishments cater to different dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan options.

Where to Stay: From Historic Hotels to Cozy B&Bs

Historic Charm in the Heart of Town

Hotel Kong Valdemar – Located in Vordingborg city center offering free Wi-Fi and private parking, with the Goose Tower just 164 feet away. Guests praise it as having “good location in town, parking easily available and friendly staff” with a “very good Continental Breakfast”.

Unique Accommodation Experiences

Øbjerggaard Bedrooms – This 3.0-star guesthouse is described as “a hidden gem that captures the essence of unique travel experiences” with spacious accommodations and communal kitchen that “encourages guests to embrace a homey atmosphere”.

Hotel Fjordkroen – This 4.0-star beachfront hotel offers “direct access to the shoreline” with “spacious and comfortable suites” and an on-site restaurant serving “excellent cuisine with generous portions”.

Budget-Conscious Options

Danhostel Vordingborg provides garden views, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi, and barbecue facilities, perfect for travelers seeking quality accommodation without breaking the bank.

Getting There and Getting Around

By Train from Copenhagen

Take a train from Copenhagen to Vordingborg Station – the journey takes approximately 1 hour and runs frequently. Once you arrive, it’s just a short walk from the station to the Goose Tower area.

By Car

From the E47 motorway, take exit 37 towards Vordingborg, then continue on Route 9 for about 5 kilometers to reach the town center. Follow signs for ‘Slotsruinen’ or ‘Goose Tower’ with parking available near the castle site.

Local Transportation

Public buses serve the town, with convenient stops like “Algade 112” near the castle ruins and Goose Tower.

Beyond the Castle: Day Trips and Extended Adventures

Nearby Natural Wonders

Møns Klint is “very impressive – a top highlight and highly recommended” featuring cliffs over 8 kilometers long and up to 128 meters high.

Family-Friendly Attractions

The area offers attractions like BonBon-Land, Crocodile Zoo on Falster, and Kalvehave Labyrintpark – perfect for keeping kids entertained.

Harbor and Coastal Activities

Vordingborg Nordhavn is described as “an idyllically located natural harbor” and the town offers various water sports, kayaking, and fishing charters.

When to Visit: Seasonal Insider Tips

Peak Season (May-September)

This is when Vordingborg truly shines. The town “offers a lot of cultural events throughout the summer”, and the weather is perfect for exploring the castle grounds and enjoying harbor-side dining.

Off-Season Value (December-February)

If you’re budget-conscious, consider traveling between December and February when hotel prices are generally lowest. The castle and museums remain open, and you’ll have a more intimate experience with fewer crowds.

Planning tip: Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be busy with tourists.

Making the Most of Your Visit

Essential Photography Spots

• The golden goose atop the tower (best light in late afternoon)
• Castle ruins with harbor backdrop
• Panoramic views from the top of the tower offering “a unique perspective of Vordingborg and its charming surroundings”

Cultural Immersion Tips

• Download the castle app to understand the historical remains better
• Take advantage of the highly praised frontline museum staff who “will always meet you positively, give you a thorough introduction, and be ready with help and guidance”

Combining History with Modern Comfort

Consider combining your visit with a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the tower’s history, then unwind at one of the harbor restaurants watching the boats come and go.

The Verdict: Why Vordingborg Deserves Your Time

Vordingborg isn’t trying to be the next big thing – it already knows what it is: an authentic slice of Danish history wrapped in modern comfort. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking stories etched in ancient stones, a family looking for educational fun, or a couple wanting a romantic getaway with medieval flair, this charming market town delivers.

The best part? You’re not just visiting a destination; you’re stepping into nearly 900 years of Danish history, all while enjoying excellent food, comfortable lodging, and that famous Danish hospitality that makes every visitor feel like they belong.

Ready to explore Denmark’s royal heritage? Vordingborg is waiting to share its secrets, one golden goose and medieval story at a time.

Planning your Vordingborg adventure? Check opening hours before visiting as they may vary seasonally, and don’t forget your camera – those tower views are absolutely worth the climb!