Køge

Køge, a coastal town 40 km southwest of Copenhagen, is known for its centuries-old architecture and active harbor. In Køge, you can walk through Denmark's largest medieval square, see the country's oldest dated non-religious building from 1527, and relax on the sandy beaches of Køge Bay. The town has unique museums like KØS Museum of Art in Public Spaces, the historic St. Nicholas Church, and seafood restaurants that serve fresh local catch.

Wandering Through Køge's Medieval Center

Køge's old town center has many half-timbered houses from the 16th century onwards. As you explore the narrow streets, you'll see Denmark's oldest dated non-religious building from 1527 on Kirkestræde. The Market Square (Køge Torv) forms the heart of the old town, covering nearly a hectare. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the square becomes an active market where you can find local produce and handicrafts. The well-preserved architecture and layout of the old town show Køge's long history as a market town and port.

Exploring Public Art at KØS Museum

At KØS Museum, you'll find a unique focus on art in public spaces. This is Denmark's only institution dedicated to the process behind large-scale public artworks. You can examine sketches, models, and plans for sculptures and installations that shape urban environments across Denmark. The museum's exhibits change regularly, so there's often something new to see. KØS Museum explains how public art is conceived, created, and integrated into everyday life.

Experiencing Køge's Maritime Present

Køge's natural harbor continues to be central to the town's identity. You can walk along the modernized port and marina to see fishing boats and recreational yachts. Several waterfront restaurants serve fresh seafood caught in local waters. During summer months, you can take a ferry from Køge to the island of Bornholm. The harbor area combines its working port functions with leisure facilities, reflecting Køge's ongoing connection to the sea.

Enjoying Køge's Beaches and Outdoor Spaces

South of the town center, you'll find Køge's South Beach (Søndre Strand), a long stretch of sandy coastline. In warmer months, people swim and sunbathe at the beach. The surrounding area has various activities - you can play golf at nearby courses, fish in coastal waters, or cycle through the countryside. During summer, you can rent canoes for paddling along Køge Stream. The forests and rural landscapes near Køge have numerous trails for hiking and nature walks, allowing you to experience the Danish countryside.

Climbing St. Nicholas Church Tower

St. Nicholas Church, dating back to 1324, is a prominent building in Køge's skyline. The church's tower was both a religious spire and Denmark's first lighthouse. You can climb the tower for views over Køge and the surrounding area. Inside the church, you'll see intricate woodcarvings and a baroque altarpiece. The building has a grim history - in the 14th century, the tower was used for hanging pirates, known locally as "Køge's Chickens".

Discovering Local History at Køge Museum

Køge Museum, in a merchant's house from 1619, presents the town's past. You'll find exhibits about Køge's maritime history, including its role in Danish-Swedish conflicts and the development of trade. The museum also covers darker parts of local history, such as the witch trials that took place in the 17th century. Interactive displays and artifacts help explain these stories, giving you an understanding of Køge's place in Danish history.

Reaching Køge from Copenhagen

You can reach Køge from Copenhagen using public transportation or by car. The E line of Copenhagen's S-train system ends in Køge, with trains running frequently throughout the day. The journey takes about 40 minutes from central Copenhagen. If you drive, Køge is located just off the E20 and E47/E55 motorways. Once in Køge, you can explore most of the town on foot. The train station is in the center, putting you within walking distance of most attractions when you arrive.