Ribe is one of the smallest cities along the Jutland peninsula (and often overshadowed by its bigger neighbor, Esbjerg), but don’t let its size fool you – it’s actually the oldest town in Denmark!
Founded sometime in the 8th century, Ribe was one of the first examples of urbanization in Scandinavia, and served as an important trading hub thanks to its location on the west coast. When you think about it, Ribe is more than 1,000 years old!
Of course, being the oldest town in Denmark has its benefits, and Ribe boasts a rich history that’s evident in the many ancient landmarks and attractions around town. For example, the Ribe Cathedral is the first Christian church in Denmark, and each of the cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses have their own unique stories to tell (if only buildings could talk!)
Ribe is also one of the best places for Viking history in Denmark, especially thanks to the Ribe Viking Center. This fascinating open-air museum offers an interactive glimpse into Viking life and culture with exhibits, hands-on activities like crafting and archery, a real-life Viking ship, and even unique experiences like falconry!
In addition to its cultural offerings, Ribe is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. It serves as the gateway to Wadden Sea National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where travelers can enjoy the great outdoors and marvel at the area’s diverse wildlife, including seals and migratory birds.
With its quaint charm and rich history, Ribe is an idyllic destination that should not be missed – and our Ribe travel guide is here to help you make the most out of your trip!
Ribe | The Basics
How many days in Ribe?
Thanks to its compact size and close proximity of attractions, you can easily see Ribe in one day. You’ll be able to see the highlights, such as the town’s impressive cathedral and the Viking Center; walk along the picturesque streets and houses in the old town; and enjoy a leisurely meal in one of the town’s many restaurants.
Ribe also makes for an excellent day trip from nearby Esbjerg, as the towns are both connected by a short and direct train ride.
How to get to Ribe
Since Ribe is quite a small town, your best bet would be to arrive in Esbjerg first (a much larger city that’s only 30 km from Ribe), and then continue onto Ribe.
Here are some of the most convenient options:
By train | If you plan to travel from Copenhagen to Ribe by train, the fastest journey will take around 3.5 to 4 hours and will involve one or two transfers (usually at Fredericia or Bramming Station).
Other options include a train from Odense to Ribe (2 hours) or Aarhus to Ribe (2.5 to 4 hours).
Finally, there are hourly trains between Esbjerg and Ribe, which typically run until midnight.
As a bonus, Ribe Station is a short walk to the city center, so you can start exploring all that Ribe has to offer from the moment you arrive!
By bus | There aren’t too many buses that go to Ribe, and as such, the easiest way to travel to Ribe by bus would be through Esbjerg. You can check out some of the most popular routes on our Esbjerg travel guide or the full list on Flixbus’ website.
For example, the bus from Copenhagen to Esbjerg is almost a 4 hour journey. From there, it’s a 30-minute journey from Esbjerg to Ribe by train.
By car | To get to Ribe by car, you can take the E20 motorway from Copenhagen, which takes approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival in Ribe, there are several parking options in the city center, including paid street parking and public parking lots.
If you’re traveling to the world of Legos (AKA Billund), a trip to Ribe is only 1 hour away!
Transportation in Ribe
Whether you prefer walking, cycling, taking a taxi, or using public transport, you’ll find it all in Ribe.
For those who love walking, Ribe is the perfect place. Its compact size and well-organized pedestrian infrastructure allows you to wander the cobbled streets in comfort and enjoy the sights of this picturesque city.
If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you can also hail a taxi to get around Ribe. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the street, especially if you plan to visit places like the Ribe VikingCenter (a 7-minute drive from Ribe center).
Where to Stay in Ribe
For such a small city, Ribe is well-stocked with cozy apartments, hotels, hostels, and more – we’re certain that you’ll find the perfect accommodation for your trip!
TOP CHOICE | Weis Stue
Would you like to stay in the oldest inn in Denmark? Now you can!
Weis Stue’s history goes back all the way to 1600, and still has many of the original interior decorations from more than 400 years ago!
Weis Stue is conveniently located right in the center of Ribe (right next to the Ribe Cathedral) and also has an in-house restaurant. However, it’s important to note that the inn only has 7 rooms, so it’s best to reserve your spot quickly (especially in the summer!)
MID-RANGE | Hotel Dagmar
We’re not done with historic accommodations just yet! In fact, the oldest hotel in Denmark is also located in Ribe, and it’s called Hotel Dagmar.
The original building was lost during a fire, yet quickly rebuilt around 1581 and has stood to this day. The building was originally used as a private residence before being turned into the mayor’s house for nearly a century. Around the 1800s, the building officially became a sort of hotel, and in the 1950s, it was turned into a first-class hotel.
The hotel itself has a total of 59 guest rooms, as well as a restaurant and banquet room.
If you’re wondering about the differences between Weis Stue and Hotel Dagmar – Dagmar is slightly more fancier and well-appointed, while Weis Stue is cozy and traditionally-decorated. However, both are excellent choices!
BED & BREAKFAST | Den Gamle Købmandsgaard
If you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, say no more – we have just the place!
Den Gamle Købmandsgaard is the epitome of a B&B, as it only has 3 well-appointed rooms (a standard room, suite, and a junior suite) and friendly owners who take pride in being hospitable.
Just like most places in Ribe, the building also has plenty of history! It was built in the 1850s and served as a well-known merchant’s farm until 1976, when it became an inn. Even the name is translated to The Old Merchant’s Yard!
APARTMENT | Sortebrødregade Holiday Apartments
There’s something special about blending in and feeling like a local, and this adorable vacation rental apartment will help you do just that.
Located right in the heart of Ribe, this apartment is whimsically decorated with tons of color and humor. One review says it best: “I felt as if I was living Danish life for a couple of days, not just peeking into it through a window. The house is adorable, on a perfect street of medieval homes, and the unit has a truly lovely and thoughtful decor, and so many little touches.”
The owner also runs a quaint cafe down the street – perfect for grabbing breakfast or a delicious cup of coffee!
UNIQUE | Den Gamle Arrest
Looking for a unique and unforgettable stay in Denmark? Look no further than Den Gamle Arrest, a hostel like no other – literally! This accommodation used to be a prison, but don’t worry – it’s been renovated into a comfortable hostel that retains much of its original character.
Den Gamle Arrest was built in 1546 and was originally used as a chaplain’s residence for the nearby cathedral. In the1800s it was converted into a girls’ school, and finally, from 1891 to 1989, the building served as a prison.
The rooms are tastefully decorated and feature comfortable beds, modern amenities, and even some of the original prison decor. You’ll feel like you’re a part of history as you explore the former prison grounds and learn about its past.
But don’t let the historic nature of this hostel fool you – it’s also equipped with all the modern conveniences you could need. From high-speed internet to a shared kitchen and lounge area, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The hostel includes a variety of rooms, from singles to doubles, and even a suite in the former Inspector’s house! While all rooms are private, some have shared baths and others have private bathrooms.
BUDGET | Danhostel Ribe
Conveniently located within walking distance of Ribe’s main attractions, Danhostel is a classic choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly hostel. There are a variety of rooms, including twin-, double-, triple-, and even quadruple rooms. Be sure to book one that says ‘with City View,’ as those rooms boast breathtaking views of the cathedral and skyline!
Not only does Danhostel Ribe provide comfortable and affordable accommodations, but it also offers a range of facilities such as a fully-equipped kitchen, a cozy lounge area, and a spacious courtyard, where guests can relax and unwind.
What to do in Ribe
Ribe is a small and charming historical town, which, despite its small size, is rich in interesting places to see. With its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage, Ribe is a place that will delight and inspire you. Here are some of the top things to do in Ribe:
Visit the Ribe Viking Center
Go back more than 1,300 years ago and immerse yourself in the world of the Vikings at the Ribe Viking Center! This interactive museum is one of the best museums in Denmark where you can learn about the vikings’ lifestyle, beliefs, and history.
Visitors can view reconstructed Viking houses, farms, and marketplaces; see the tools and weapons they used; and even board a life-size replica of a Viking ship!
In addition to exhibits, the museum also offers live demonstrations and performances by actors dressed in authentic costumes. The Viking Age comes to life in front of your eyes through interactive activities such as blacksmithing, woodcarving, archery, and cooking.
Likewise, the center is an ideal attraction for families with children. Kids can try on Viking gear and imagine themselves as fierce warriors, while feeding the cows and horses on the grounds is an unforgettable experience. A playground area is also available, making it a great spot to let your little ones run around and burn off some energy.
Stroll through the historic city center
Ribe’s historic center is a charming and well-preserved area that houses many of the city’s most important sights.
Narrow cobbled streets intertwine among historical buildings to be explored and viewed, making it the perfect place to take a leisurely walk and get to know the unique architecture and history of Ribe.
The old town of Ribe is also a great place to look for cozy restaurants and boutique stores that sell unique souvenirs from local artisans.
See the Night Watchman in Action
With a Morning Star in one hand and a lantern in the other, the Night Watchman lights up the evening with his thundering songs coupled with tales of bygone times.
A historical symbol and one of the most popular ‘tourist attractions’ in Ribe, the Night Watchman leads visitors on a tour of the old town of Ribe, pointing out important historical sites and telling stories about the city’s past.
During the tour, the Night Watchman tells visitors stories about the city’s history, including tales of pirates, Vikings and medieval merchants. The tour also provides an opportunity to learn about the city’s architecture and cultural heritage, including its churches, museums, and other important buildings.
Perhaps the most magical aspect of the Night Watchman tour is the ambiance of the town after dark. As you walk through the narrow, winding streets, the glow of lanterns and torches illuminates the ancient architecture, casting shadows and creating an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that will transport you back in time and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the rich history and culture of Ribe.
The history of Ribe’s Night Watchman goes back to the 1500s, when a resident was responsible for patrolling the city, making sure everything was in order, and making sure the street lights were on. As for the singing? At the beginning of each hour, the Watchman would start singing in order to alert the locals of the time. This tradition has continued for more than 500 years, with the exception of the early 1900s and WWII.
The night watchman starts his tours in front of the Weis Stue restaurant from May to October at 20:00 (and also at 22:00 from mid-June, July and August). If you’re visiting during the holidays (like Christmas and Easter), you’re also in luck! Likewise, the tour is free with an option to tip.
Explore Ribe Cathedral
Ribe Cathedral, located in the heart of the city, is the oldest Christian church in Denmark. The first church was founded in 860 as a timber house, and after a fire in the late 880s, it was rebuilt as a stone cathedral.
The cathedral is famous for its beautiful Gothic architecture, with beautiful stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings. Visitors to the Ribe Cathedral will be amazed by its tall arches, impressive towers, and intricate stone carvings. The cathedral also houses several important religious artifacts, including a 14th-century altarpiece and a medieval organ.
Visit the Ribe Art Museum
Located in the center of Ribe is another interesting yet often overlooked attraction: the Ribe Kunstmuseum!
This art museum is located in a beautiful former villa and features predominantly Danish artists from the 1700s all the way to modern times.
One of the highlights of the museum are its exhibitions, which are held several times a year and showcase the work of both established and emerging artists. The exhibitions at the Ribe Art Museum are always changing, making the museum a popular destination for art lovers and those interested in local culture.
Get Spooked at Hex! Museum of Witch Hunt
Did you know that Ribe was home to one of Denmark’s most famous witches?
It’s true – and now you can learn more about the story – as well as the history of witches and witch hunts – at this unusual museum. Hex has an impressive collection of artifacts, including original documents, books, and tools that witches used during their invocations.
Visitors are given an audio guide at the entrance (in either English, Danish, or German), which are used to learn more about each exhibit. The atmosphere is especially elevated with modern displays and interactive exhibits, well-curated artifacts, and interesting maps and other documents.
Don’t forget to stop at the gift shop, which is stocked with ‘potions’ and other goodies like books, handmade soap, amulets, posters, and much more.
Photo credits | Ribe center, Night Watchman, Ribe Cathedral Hex Museum by Gitte Lindeborg | Ribe Art museum by Anders Sune Berg | Hex Museum by Red Star | Ribe Viking Center by Destination South West Jutland | Hotel photos courtesy of respective accommodations