Denmark has more than 400 islands, with plenty of lesser-known destinations – like Als, for example! While Als is the 7th-largest island in Denmark, not many people know about this natural wonder.
Als island is most famous for its lush natural areas (like Nørreskov, a coastal forest) and picturesque seaside promenades, while its largest city (Sønderborg) is full of charm and a cozy small-town atmosphere.
If you’re planning to travel to Als (Denmark), this travel guide will help! We’ve included everything you need to know, including how to get here, transportation, where to stay in Als, what to do, and much more.
How to Get to Als (Denmark)
Getting to the island of Als in Denmark is relatively easy as it is well connected to the mainland by road and ferry. Here are typical ways to get to Als Island:
By plane | Despite the island’s small size, there is an airport in Als, Denmark! Sønderborg Airport is located just 7.5 km (4.6 mi mi) from the city center of Sønderborg and has regularly scheduled flights to and from Copenhagen via Air Alsie and FlexFlight. Tickets start around 1,200 DKK for a round-trip flight. Click here to see flights.
By train | There are plenty of direct and indirect trains to Sønderborg, the ‘main’ city on Als island. Trains run from major Danish cities such as Copenhagen, Aarhus, Esbjerg, and Odense.
Here are the average travel times for direct trains:
- Copenhagen to Sønderborg – 3 hours, 30 mins is the quickest route (no direct trains, layover in Fredericia or Kolding)
- Odense to Sønderborg – 2 hours, 15 mins (direct train)
- Esbjerg to Sønderborg – 2 hours (no direct trains)
- Aarhus to Sønderborg – 3 hours, 10 mins (no direct trains; layover in Vejle)
You can buy tickets on the official DSB website.
By bus | If you prefer the fun adventure (and convenience!) of taking a bus, there are plenty of direct buses to Sønderborg from other major cities in Denmark … and dozens of international locations as well!)
Here are some of the most popular bus routes to Sønderborg, as well as their average travel time and a link to buy tickets:
- Odense to Sønderborg | 2 hours, 15 mins – Buy tickets
- Copenhagen to Sønderborg – 4 hours, 15 mins – Buy tickets
- Gothenburg (Sweden) to Sønderborg – 11 hours – Buy tickets
- Berlin (Germany) to Sønderborg – 11.5 hours – Buy tickets
You can view available buses and buy tickets via Flixbus – click here!
By ferry | Another scenic option is to take the ferry to Als island. Several ferry routes connect Als island to the mainland:
One of the most popular routes is from Funen (Bøjden-Fynshav) to Als, which takes about one hour. You can book tickets here.
It is also possible to go island hopping from another popular island, Aero – the Søby-Fynshav ferry also takes 1 hour. You can book tickets here.
Please note that ferry schedules may vary depending on the season and it is advisable to check the ferry company’s website to confirm departure times.
Transportation & Getting Around Als
Once you arrive on Als, you will have several transportation options to get around the island:
Bus | Public transport on Als is mainly provided by buses, which connect the main town of Sønderborg with the island’s smaller settlements. Buses run frequently and are an affordable option for getting around, with fares starting from DKK 20 per trip.
Bicycle | If you prefer to explore the island at your own pace, renting a bike is also a great option, and there are several bike rental shops in Sønderborg. Exploring the island by bike is a great choice, as there are many scenic routes through forests, beaches, and small towns (plus it’s eco-friendly!)
Car | If you plan to travel around Als island by car, there are several companies where you can rent a car, including Europcar, Avis, and Budget. Click here to check prices and book a rental car in Als.
Where to Stay in Als (Denmark)
Two-Bedroom Apartment in Sydals | Located on a smaller island south of Als, this adorable holiday home looks like an old-fashioned kro (a traditional inn) with a beautifully-renovated interior. There are two bedrooms that can hold up to 6 guests, as well as a fully-stocked kitchen, bathroom, and expansive backyard.
Hotel Sønderborg Kaserne | This budget-friendly accommodation is located just outside of Sonderborg’s city center and features chic minimalist-style rooms with a hint of industrial elements. As a bonus, breakfast is included in the price!
Gem Suites Luxury Holiday Apartments | Those who prefer to stay in apartments over hotels will fall in love with this ‘Gem’! The building only has four suites – a double room, a triple room, triple room with terrace, and a quadruple room – that are beautifully decorated and very spacious. Perfect for families or large groups!
Harbour Walk | Located in the heart of Sonderborg harbor, this apartment has an excellent view of the harbor (just as the name says 😉 ) and a cozy atmosphere.
Steigenberger Alsik Hotel & Spa | One of the best hotels in Sonderborg – and the entire island of Als! Alsik Hotel has absolutely everything a traveler could ever want, from the beautifully-decorated rooms to the spacious lobby, fitness center (with a pool!), beautiful views, and one of the best breakfasts in the country. As one reviewer put it, “ I have never experienced a larger selection of amazing food. Everything you could dream of!”
Tiny Seaside | if you prefer the peace of living away from the city, this is the perfect seaside escape! Located right in the middle of nature and just steps away from the beach, this adorable tiny home feels as if you’re on a glamping retreat.
Harbour Penthouse | Chic, minimalist, and full of natural light, this penthouse has a panoramic view of the Sonderborg harbor and is the definition of hygge!
Rønhave | If you’re looking for a unique accommodation on Als island, you’ll find it at Rønhave. The building is actually a converted farmhouse in the middle of the countryside, yet just a short drive away from Sonderborg city center. The bed-and-breakfast concept gives off an atmosphere of coziness, and the owners are absolutely lovely.
Things to do on Als (Denmark)
Discover the Charming Town of Sønderborg
Start your adventure on the island of Als by exploring Sønderborg, the island’s largest city. There are plenty of things to do in Sonderborg, from strolling the cobbled streets of the Old Town, to admiring the historic architecture, trying delicious local food (Huset Blom is a popular choice!), and more.
Finally, don’t miss Sønderborg’s beautiful waterside promenade with colorful houses.
Stroll Around Sønderborg Castle
Located in the center of the city along the waterfront, Sonderborg Castle is a must-visit when traveling to Als. This beautifully preserved 12th-century fortress houses a museum showcasing the island’s rich history and has a lovely garden to walk around during warm days.
Enjoy a Bike Ride Around the Island
Of course, we can’t leave out one of the most popular activities in Denmark – cycling! 😉
The island of Als is ideal for cycling enthusiasts, with many scenic routes through forests, along beaches, and through charming villages. Rent a bike and explore the island’s picturesque routes, including the 84-kilometer Gendarmes Trail, which offers spectacular views along the coast. Click here to go to the official site for more information.
Dybbol Mill
Dybbol Mill is one of Denmark’s most proud symbols, as it was where the Battle of Dybbøl took place. While ultimately ending in defeat for Denmark, the mill served as the ‘last stand’ in the battle and is an important place for fans of history. There’s an on-site history museum and an area that has historical artifacts.
Visit Jollmands Gaard
Found just outside of Nordborg, Jollmans Gaard is a well-preserved farmstead with its original interior from hundreds of years ago. The building functions as a sort of museum that goes over the history of farming in Denmark and how life was back in the day. Be sure to check their opening hours before visiting, as it changes depending on the season.
Hike in Nørreskov
Nørreskov is one of Denmark’s longest coastal forests (it stretches 9 km along the coast!) and features rolling hills, beech forests, and even burial mounds from the stone age!
Visit Aero Island
If you’re in the area for a few days, we highly recommend going island hopping and visiting the nearby Aero island! You can visit as a day trip, but the island has so much to offer that it’s also possible to stay overnight and explore over a few days. Be sure to check our Aero island guide for all the information!
Photo Credits: Sonderborg + Sonderborg drone + Dybbol by James Cripps (courtesy of Destination Sønderjylland) | Norreskov by Nis Hoff