Conjuring images of Vikings and fairytales, this country of colorful houses, candlelit cafés and historic harbors is an unexpected treasure.

Famous for its understated design aesthetic, its colorful LEGO bricks and the happiness of its people, Denmark is easy to fall in love with. Make Copenhagen, the capital city, your first stop. Sail or swim around the harbor, then retreat to a cozy teahouse.

Just steps from City Hall in the center of Copenhagen is Tivoli Gardens, a famous amusement park created in 1843. Enjoy the selection of nostalgic and modern rides. Walk around the manicured gardens and admire the interesting architecture.

Learn a little more about Denmark’s history at the National Museum of Denmark, located in the Prince’s Palace. Take a self-guided tour around the museum’s collections of antiquities, handicrafts and furniture dating back as far as the Stone Age.

Head to Langelinie Pier to see The Little Mermaid, Copenhagen’s most famous sculpture. Perched on a rock, the statue was a gift to the city of Copenhagen from the Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen in 1913.

Kronborg Castle, located around an hour outside of Copenhagen, is considered to be one of the finest Renaissance castles in all of Europe. Join a guided tour to learn more about this castle, which Shakespeare used as the setting for his famous play Hamlet.

Another Danish castle of note is Frederiksborg Castle, situated in Hillerød around 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Copenhagen. Take the train from the capital and spend a couple of hours walking around the stunning Baroque gardens and examine the on-site portrait collection.

Food in Denmark runs the gamut from open-faced sandwiches (smørrebrød) to Michelin-starred meals. Hot dogs, pastries and rolled eel are other local favorites. Hygge, a Danish word that translates to “coziness,” is prevalent all over the country, but is felt particularly strongly around Christmas, when Danes spend time with family, drink warm wine and light candles.

Travel around Denmark on the extensive bus system. Buy an electronic ticket that can be topped up with money before you ride. The main airport that services Denmark is Copenhagen Airport, located around 15 minutes from the center of the city.

Cozy up in this colorful country filled with fairytale castles and comfortable cafés.