What’s the Number of the Islands of Denmark, Including Greenland?
The kingdom of Denmark is known for its many beautiful islands. Thanks to the strategic policies of the Danish government, Greenland, the largest island in the world, is even a part of the Danish Realm. How many islands does Denmark have, though? Are there 400 islands in total? 444 islands? 1000+? There is a lot of conflicting information on this subject. In this article, you’ll find out what the real answer is.
What Is the Real Number of Islands in the Kingdom of Denmark?
According to the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the number of islands in Denmark is 1419. Out of these, the populated islands are 78 while there are 443 named islands. This indicates that nearly a thousand islands of Denmark are yet to be named.
It’s possible that there are some islands that haven’t been discovered too. In 2021, a team of Danish researchers from the University of Copenhagen discovered a 100-ft island in the northernmost part of Greenland. The researchers suggested naming the island “Qeqertaq Avannarleq,” a Greenlandic phrase for “the northernmost island.” Although we haven’t heard of any other natural islands being discovered from 2021 to 2025, there’s still a chance that a fresh one may be spotted in the nearest future.
Besides discovered and undiscovered islands, Denmark’s government is also in the business of creating artificial islands through land reclamation projects. The largest island is Lynetteholm, which is still being built, and is expected to be completed by 2070 and house 35,000 residents. Upon its completion, Lynetteholm will be 271 acres wide. The Copenhagen municipal government submitted the proposal for the construction of the island in 2018. Despite facing opposition from many Danes, the government proceeded with the proposal and has since invested over DKK 2 billion in the project. It’s expected the second phase of the project will be completed by early 2026.
Denmark consists of the Faroe Islands and Greenland too. Although not indigenously Danish, the people of Greenland and the Faroe Islands are also part of the Danish realm.
Major Danish Islands to Visit
Bornholm
The island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea wouldn’t be Bornholm without its signature morainic cliffs and medieval Hammershus ruins. A longtime favorite among both Danes and tourists, Bornholm thrives on cycling paths, scenic beaches, and smoked herring that’s become a local staple. Despite its isolation from mainland Denmark, the island is vital to Danish tourism and sustainable development.
North Jutlandic Island
One of the largest islands in Denmark is the North Jutlandic Island, referred to as “Vendsyssel-Thy” in Danish. With a land area of around 29,734 square kilometers, it takes up about 10% of the Jutland Peninsula. It’s bordered by the North Sea and the Skagerrak.
Zealand
Without Zealand, Denmark wouldn’t have Copenhagen; without Copenhagen, Denmark wouldn’t be the same. As the largest island, it anchors much of the country’s population size and serves as a hub for both infrastructure and innovation. The Øresund Bridge connects the island to Sweden via the artificial Peberholm island, while ferries and bike-friendly paths link Zealand to surrounding small islands. Zealand’s proximity to the Kattegat and Baltic Sea facilitates maritime trade between Denmark and other countries in the region.The coastline and archipelago around it also provide countless options for outdoor escapes when city life needs a pause.
Funen
Denmark’s second largest island is the source of much of the country’s produce. Danes know it for its idyllic countryside, but it’s also known globally for Odense, birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen. Funen wouldn’t be Funen without the South Fyn Archipelago, where smaller islands invite exploration through sailing and cycling. The waters around Æbelø, a tiny island north of Funen, offer a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Samsø
Samsø is what happens when a community goes all-in on renewable energy. Without Samsø, Denmark’s reputation for sustainability wouldn’t be the same. This small island is fully self-sufficient, powered by wind and solar. Yet sustainability isn’t the only draw. Its calm landscapes, quaint farms, and cycling paths make it a haven for anyone seeking a slower pace. The people here live the essence of hygge—simple, comfortable living that visitors can’t help but admire.
Als
The largest island in Southern Jutland, Denmark, covers an area of 321 square kilometers and shares a border with Germany. On Als Island, locals and visitors alike embrace the good life—hiking, cycling, and swimming their way through lush forests and along sandy beaches. When they’re not fishing or sailing the island’s sparkling coastline, you’ll find them birdwatching or diving into water sports. History buffs wander through Sønderborg’s castle, soaking up tales of old battles, while others simply revel in the peaceful countryside.
Small Unpopulated Islands
Denmark is a country with plenty of everything, including small islands. Some of the smaller islands include Avernakø, Egholm, Endelave, Lilleø, and Askø. How many little islands are in the Danish realm? Let’s carry out a brief calculation. Since most uninhabited islands are small, and only 78 islands are inhabited, it follows that about 1300 islands in Denmark may be small.
What’s the Largest Island in Denmark?
In terms of population density, the largest island in Denmark is Zealand. Its population size is more than 2 million people. Meanwhile, in terms of total area, Greenland is the largest island in Denmark.
How Many Islands Does Denmark Have? Final Thoughts
If you were to visit all Danish islands, including Greenland and the Faroe Islands, going to one island each day, you’d spend more than 3 and a half years completing your tour. Some of these islands are connected to one another, like Funen and Æbelø. Will each of these areas always be an island? No. For a land area to be declared an island, it must be surrounded by free flowing water. Due to the small size of some islands, they may eventually sink or erode, and they may later disappear altogether. If you haven’t already, be sure to visit your favorite small island before you hear that it has ceased to exist.
