Denmark is set to celebrate its rich legacy of design and architecture with a year full of new events, cultural openings and notable anniversaries. Below are nine highlights to look forward to in 2023, presented clearly for travelers and design enthusiasts alike.
1. Copenhagen Declared UNESCO World Capital of Architecture 2023
Copenhagen has been named UNESCO World Capital of Architecture for 2023. The program, themed Copenhagen in Common, will present a wide range of activities that invite both residents and visitors to experience the city’s built environment in new ways—community picnics, open houses in normally private buildings and public events spread across the year. The Danish Architecture Center will act as a central hub and will host a new exhibition, Made in Denmark, tracing Danish architecture from the Viking Age to contemporary projects. In July 2023, Copenhagen will also welcome the UIA World Congress of Architects.
2. Noma Marks Its 20th Anniversary
Noma, widely regarded as a pioneering force in modern cuisine, celebrates its 20th anniversary in November 2023. The restaurant has earned top rankings on international lists and continues to innovate with special projects and pop-ups. To mark the milestone, Noma released a new volume, Noma 2.0: Vegetable, Forest, Ocean, highlighting its culinary evolution and philosophies.
3. Opera Park to Open Along the Copenhagen Waterfront
A new Opera Park is planned beside the Royal Danish Opera House, adding green public space to the waterfront and complementing Copenhagen’s renowned urban design. Inspired by 19th‑century romantic parks, the site will include a café and winter garden. Sustainability is central to the design, with rainwater reuse systems and durable, recyclable materials integrated throughout the landscape.
© The Science Museums and Ruslan Merzlyakov
4. Observatory Science Park Reopens Near Aarhus
The Ole Rømer Observatory near Aarhus is undergoing a major restoration to reopen in summer 2023. The refurbishment returns the buildings closer to their original form while upgrading facilities for visitors. Surrounding grounds will be developed into a Science Park that encourages learning about astronomy through outdoor exhibits and activities. New science cabins will allow school groups to stay overnight, extending educational possibilities.
5. Faster Access to Bornholm with a New Ferry
The high-speed ferry Express 5 begins service between Rønne on Bornholm and Ystad in southern Sweden in March 2023. As one of the world’s largest high-speed ferries, it carries up to 1,610 passengers and 451 cars and supports dual‑fuel operation for improved efficiency. The new link enhances connections between Bornholm, Ystad and Copenhagen, making the island more accessible.
6. Seaside Hotel Opens in a Former Town Hall
Gilleleje Sø- og Havbad opens in 2023 after transforming the town hall from 1939 into a seaside hotel on the Danish Riviera in North Zealand. The conversion preserves architectural character while adding modern amenities: 40 guest rooms, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, rooftop terrace and spa facilities, providing a refined coastal retreat.
7. The Ocean Race Calls on Aarhus
Aarhus will host a stop of The Ocean Race from May 29 to June 8, 2023, becoming the first Danish city to welcome the world’s longest offshore sailing race. The event will turn the harbor into a festival of sailing and sustainability, featuring a dedicated Sustainability Island showcasing innovations and solutions related to maritime and environmental challenges.
© PFA Properties
8. Dual‑Brand Marriott Development in Nordhavn
A new harborfront complex in Copenhagen’s Nordhavn will introduce two Marriott brands in one building: Residence Inn and Fairfield by Marriott, the latter opening its first property in Europe. Designed by Henning Larsen Architects, the project includes 89 Residence Inn rooms and 222 Fairfield rooms. The development aims for high environmental standards, targeting DGNB Gold certification and Green Key operation.
9. Explore Jørn Utzon’s Danish Works
2023 also invites exploration of the Danish works of architect Jørn Utzon, internationally known for the Sydney Opera House, which marks its 50th anniversary this year. In Denmark, Utzon designed a variety of notable modernist buildings, including Paustian in Copenhagen, the Music House in Esbjerg, the Utzon Center in Aalborg and Bagsværd Church—each offering insight into his architectural legacy.