Which credit cards are accepted in Denmark?
Visa first, but the big cards work.
Short answer
Visa is the most common card in Denmark, and ATMs generally also accept Mastercard and American Express. Major cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, cafés and restaurants, but it is wise to ask first in small places. When you pay by card, have your PIN ready and carry a photo ID. Some places charge a fee for foreign cards, which is allowed for cards from banks outside the EU.
Why
- Danes use cards for most everyday payments.
- A PIN is usually needed, not only a signature.
- Small places may take fewer card types, so ask first.
Details
Many shops, cafés and restaurants also accept Apple Pay.
Tip
Bring two different cards, for example one Visa and one Mastercard, in case one is refused or blocked.
What may differ
Some places charge a fee for foreign cards, so check the sign at the till or ask before you pay.
Common misconception
Some visitors think a signature is enough when they pay by card in Denmark.
What actually happens
Have your PIN ready, because card payments in Denmark are usually confirmed with a PIN.
People also ask
- Can shops in Denmark charge a fee for card payments?
- Should you pay in kroner or your own currency?
- Are ATMs open 24 hours in Denmark?
Sources
- Wonderful Copenhagen: Basic need-to-know informationChecked at:
- VisitDenmark: CashChecked at:
- Forbrug.dk: Rules for paying by card and cashChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Payment rules, limits and fees change, so check the official sources or your bank before you pay.
Practical infoRelated questions
-
What is the Danish Payments Council?
The Danish Payments Council is a forum for cooperation on retail payments in Denmark, set up by Danmarks Nationalbank in 2012.
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Can you pay by card in Denmark if the payment system goes down?
Often yes.
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When did Apple Pay and Google Pay come to Denmark?
Apple Pay was launched in Denmark in 2017, Google Pay in 2018 and Samsung Pay in 2022.
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How much of Danish card spending is online?
In 2025 e-commerce accounted for 30 % of total card turnover in Denmark, up from 22 % in 2019.

