Travellers without reservations can book at one of the provincial tourist offices. Denmark's fine beaches attract many visitors, and there are hotels and pensions in all major seaside resorts.

Grading: Hotels are graded from 1 to 5 stars. Approximately 470 hotels and holiday centres (some 85% of Denmark's total hotel capacity) are part of the grading scheme. VisitDenmark publishes an annual list of about 1,000 establishments, describing facilities and tariffs; quoted prices are inclusive of MOMS (VAT). A number of hotels and hostels in Denmark also participate in a grading scheme based on environmental concerns. To receive an eco-friendly certificate (a so-called 'Green Key'), participating establishments have to fulfil 55 strict ecological criteria.

Excellent inns are to be found all over the country. Some are small and only cater for local custom, but others are tailored to the tourist and have established culinary reputations for both international dishes and local specialities. For further details, contact VisitDenmark (see Contact Addresses).

There are private rooms to let, usually for one night, all over Denmark. Signs along the highway with zimmer frei or vårelse on them indicate availability of accommodation. In Copenhagen, rooms can be booked in person through the Tourist Information Department (see Accommodation Information) for a small fee. Local tourist offices may be contacted, either by writing or in person.

Chalets are available in various parts of the country.

Campers must purchase a camping carnet, available at campsites. Over 500 campsites are officially recognised and graded for facilities and shelter. Prices vary greatly; it is half price for children under four years. Grading is from 1 (lowest) to 5 stars (highest), controlled by the Danish Camping Board; approved sites carry the sign of a pyramid-shaped tent. For more information and a list of campsites, contact VisitDenmark (see Contact Addresses).

There are 100 Youth and Family Hostels scattered around the country, all of which take members of affiliated organisations. A membership card from the National Youth Hostel Association is required. Hostels are classified from 1 to 5 stars.

Rooms are often available for rent in farmhouses. Visitors stay as paying guests of the family and, although it is not expected, are welcome to help with the daily chores of the farm. Alternatively, in some cases, separate apartments are available close to the main farmhouse. Many farms have their own fishing streams. All holiday homes and farmhouses are inspected and approved by the local tourist office.

Introductions between families interested in home exchange for short periods can be arranged. The major expense for participants is travel, plus a fee of kr500. The best period (because of school holidays) is from late June to early August.

HORESTA (Association of the Danish Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Industry)
Vodroffsvej 32, DK-1900 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
Tel: 3524 8080.
Website: www.horesta.dk

The Green Key
(See HORESTA address above.)
Website: www.dengroennenoegle.dk

Danhostel (Information on Family and Youth Hostels)
Vesterbrogade 39, DK-1620 Copenhagen V, Denmark
Tel: 3331 3612.
Website: www.danhostel.dk

HomeLink Denmark (Information on Home Exchange)
Dansk BoligBytte, Sankt Peders Stræde 41, DK-1453 Copenhagen K, Denmark
Tel: 3961 0405.
Website: www.bbdk.dk

Tourist Information Department
Tel: 7022 2442.
Website: www.visitcopenhagen.com