Denmark is known for its high standard of living, modern design, thriving economy, and seamless digital infrastructure. Whether you are visiting Copenhagen for a weekend, relocating for work, or researching financial systems across the Nordic region, understanding Denmark’s currency is essential for budgeting, payments, and day to day transactions. Despite being part of the European Union, Denmark has maintained its own national currency and continues to operate one of Europe’s most stable monetary environments.
This comprehensive 2025 guide covers everything you need to know about Denmark’s currency, why it still uses the Danish Krone instead of the Euro, how to handle payments, what exchange rates to expect, how to withdraw money without excessive fees, and tips for travelers and expats navigating the Danish financial ecosystem.
The Official Currency of Denmark
Denmark uses the Danish Krone, often abbreviated as DKK. In Danish, the currency is called kroner in plural form and krone in singular form. The symbol kr is frequently used in price tags, bank accounts, and digital transactions.
Examples:
20 kr
150 kr
1.200 kr
Currency Code
DKK
Currency Symbol
kr
Subunit
1 krone = 100 øre
Although øre coins still exist in principle, small denominations are no longer in regular circulation. Most prices are rounded to the nearest krone for cash payments.
Why Denmark Does Not Use the Euro
One of the most common questions travelers ask is: if Denmark is part of the EU, why does it not use the Euro?
Denmark’s EU Opt Out
When the Maastricht Treaty was created in the early 1990s, Denmark negotiated an official opt out on adopting the Euro. This opt out remains legally binding today.
2000 Referendum
In 2000, Denmark held a national referendum on joining the Euro. The results were:
• 53 percent voted No
• 47 percent voted Yes
The Danish public chose to keep the krone, and no additional referendum has been scheduled.
Economic Stability
Denmark maintains a stable economic environment supported by:
• A strong central bank
• Low inflation targets
• A fixed exchange rate policy
• High GDP per capita
Because of this stability, there has been little political pressure to shift toward the Euro.
The Danish Exchange Rate System
Denmark uses a unique monetary approach known as a fixed exchange rate policy.
Pegged Exchange Rate
The Danish Krone is pegged closely to the Euro, meaning the exchange rate remains stable and predictable.
The target:
1 Euro ≈ 7.46 DKK
The Danish National Bank intervenes when necessary to maintain this stability, buying or selling kroner and adjusting interest rates.
Benefits of the Peg
• Predictable prices for international trade
• Stable import and export costs
• Reduced risk from currency fluctuations
• Strong investor confidence
Travelers and businesses appreciate the reliability of the Danish Krone’s value.
Coins and Banknotes in Denmark
The Danish currency features unique designs that reflect the country’s heritage and artistic traditions.
Coins
Denmark uses the following coins:
• 50 øre
• 1 krone
• 2 kroner
• 5 kroner
• 10 kroner
• 20 kroner
Many Danish coins have a distinctive hole in the center, historically used to string coins together.
Banknotes
Banknotes include:
• 50 kroner
• 100 kroner
• 200 kroner
• 500 kroner
• 1000 kroner
The designs often feature historic bridges, cultural landmarks, and archaeological elements.
Do You Need Cash in Denmark?
Denmark is one of the most cashless societies on the planet.
Card Payments
Most Danes use:
• Credit cards
• Debit cards
• Mobile payments
• Contactless cards
• Digital wallets
Visa, Mastercard, and Dankort (Denmark’s national card system) are widely accepted.
Mobile Payment Systems
Denmark is a leader in digital payments. The most popular method is:
MobilePay, a widely used app that allows peer to peer transfers, store payments, and QR based purchases.
Travelers with foreign phone numbers usually cannot register for MobilePay unless they have a Danish bank account.
When Cash Is Useful
Cash may be needed for:
• Small rural markets
• Some public toilets
• Older vending machines
• Small vendors in remote areas
However, most travelers can complete their trip without using any cash.
ATMs in Denmark: What Travelers Should Know
ATMs, known locally as kontantautomater, are common in cities and towns.
Where to Find ATMs
• Bank branches
• Train stations
• Airports
• Shopping streets
Withdrawal Tips
• Always choose to be charged in DKK, not your home currency.
• Decline dynamic currency conversion to avoid extra costs.
• Check for foreign transaction fees from your home bank.
Many banks apply a small fee for international cards, so using multi currency apps like Wise or Revolut can reduce costs.
Can You Use Euros in Denmark?
Denmark is part of the EU but does not use the Euro. While Euros are accepted in very limited situations, this is not the norm.
Euros May Be Accepted At
• Tourist shops in Copenhagen
• Some hotels
• Major airports
• Large attractions
However, these transactions often come with poor exchange rates.
Best Practice
Always use:
• Danish Kroner
or
• A card with no foreign transaction fees
This ensures cost efficient payments.
Using Cards and Digital Wallets in Denmark
Denmark’s financial ecosystem is built for electronic payments.
Accepted Payment Types
• Visa
• Mastercard
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Contactless cards
• Dankort
• MobilePay (local users only)
Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping is not mandatory, as service charges are built into the price. However, rounding up bills in restaurants or cafes is common.
Average Costs in Denmark
Denmark is known for its high cost of living, particularly in Copenhagen.
Sample Prices
Coffee: 30 to 45 kr
Restaurant meal: 120 to 200 kr
Beer: 40 to 60 kr
Public transport ticket: 20 to 40 kr
Taxi ride: 70 to 150 kr
Travelers should budget accordingly, especially in tourist heavy areas.
Exchanging Money in Denmark
Denmark offers several exchange options.
Best Ways to Exchange Money
• Withdraw from ATMs in Denmark
• Use international cards with low fees
• Use online currency services
• Use multi currency accounts from Wise or Revolut
Avoid
• Airport exchange kiosks
• Hotel currency exchange
• Tourist area cash booths
These often have higher commissions or unfavorable rates.
How Expats Manage Money in Denmark
Expats living in Denmark generally open a local bank account.
Popular Banks
• Danske Bank
• Nordea
• Sydbank
• Jyske Bank
To open an account, foreigners typically need:
• Passport
• CPR number (civil registration number)
• Work contract or residence permit
Once registered, expats gain access to MobilePay, online banking, and secure payment infrastructure.
Final Thoughts
Denmark’s use of the Danish Krone reflects its long tradition of financial independence, economic stability, and preference for maintaining control over monetary policy. Although closely tied to the Euro through a fixed exchange rate, the krone remains a symbol of national identity and economic reliability. For travelers, digital nomads, and expats, the Danish payment system offers modern convenience, advanced financial tools, widespread card acceptance, and a cashless experience unmatched in most parts of the world.
Understanding how money works in Denmark ensures smoother transactions, fewer fees, and a more enjoyable experience exploring one of Europe’s most progressive nations.
Sources
National Bank of Denmark
https://www.nationalbanken.dk
European Central Bank
https://www.ecb.europa.eu
Denmark Ministry of Finance Publications
https://fm.dk
Visit Denmark Travel Information
https://www.visitdenmark.com
