Located 80km south of Copenhagen, this South Zealand town has medieval churches, a 13th-century monastery, and Denmark's oldest cinema from 1904.
Næstved sits one hour from Copenhagen on Zealand island. You can wander through medieval streets to St. Peter's Church from 1135, paddle a canoe down the Suså River, or spend a day at BonBon-Land amusement park. The town comes alive on Wednesdays and Saturdays when local vendors fill Axeltorv square with market stalls, while colorful murals brighten building facades throughout the center.
Getting to Næstved
You can reach Næstved by train from Copenhagen in about one hour, using either the main station on the South Line or Næstved Nord for regional connections. If you're driving, the town's position near the Great Belt Bridge puts it within easy reach from most Danish cities.
Shopping in the City Center
Walk through the car-free center to find independent shops and cafes in buildings dating back to medieval times. Local vendors sell fresh produce and goods at Axeltorv square every Wednesday and Saturday, continuing a centuries-old tradition. You'll find major retail at three locations: Næstved Storcenter with its 80+ shops, Næstved Mega Center, and the central shopping district.
Museums and Cultural Sites
Step into Næstved Museum at Stenboderne near St. Peter's Church to see archaeological discoveries, including local pottery and ancient weapons. The medieval Helligåndshuset, which once served as a hospital, now houses historical exhibitions. Look up as you walk through town - local and international artists have transformed many building walls into striking murals.
Family Activities
Take a 10-minute drive to BonBon-Land, one of Denmark's top 20 tourist destinations, for a day of rides and entertainment. Children can meet animals at Næstved Zoo, while at Holmegaard Glass Factory, you can watch glassblowers at work and learn about traditional glassmaking techniques in the museum.
Historical Buildings
Walk through St. Peter's Church, built as part of a Benedictine monastery in 1135, or visit the Gothic architecture of St. Morten's Church. Along the Suså River stands Herlufsholm School, Denmark's oldest boarding school from 1565, housed in a former monastery building.
Gavnø Castle and Gardens
Visit Gavnø Castle between mid-April and August to see its extensive painting collection. In May, thousands of tulips bloom in the castle gardens. From May through August, you can take a 2.5-hour boat trip on Friheden from central Næstved to the castle and continue to Karrebæksminde before returning.
