Dragør

Dragør is a small harbour town on the island of Amager, a short ride south of central Copenhagen and close to the airport. It is one of the best preserved old settlements in Denmark, with cobbled lanes, yellow and ochre houses and thatched or red tiled roofs.

The town grew rich on fishing, seafaring and piloting ships through the Øresund, and that past still shapes its character. Skippers' houses, a small harbour full of boats and the Dragør Museum tell the maritime story, while the Amager Museum in a nearby village recalls the Dutch farmers who once settled on the island. Dragør Fort, a coastal fortress from the defences of Copenhagen, lies just south of the harbour. Show more

The surroundings are flat and open. Beach meadows and a modest beach line the sound, the Kongelunden forest and the wide Kalvebod Fælled nature area offer walks and birdlife, and the Kastrup Sea Bath stands in the water further north. Fish restaurants and cafés by the harbour serve classic Danish dishes, and planes approaching the airport pass low over the water, which draws plane spotters.

Dragør is easily reached by bus from Copenhagen and works well as a half day or a quiet base near the airport. Summer evenings in the lanes are especially pleasant, while the harbour and the coastal paths can be enjoyed all year.