Nykøbing Falster: The Complete Guide

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Flemming Munch

Visiting Nykøbing Falster offers a charming mix of small-town atmosphere, cultural experiences, and natural beauty in the southern part of Denmark on the island of Falster. The town is an inviting destination for those looking to escape the fast pace of city life while still enjoying a lively local culture. Quaint streets, colorful buildings, and friendly cafés make it ideal for leisurely strolls and laid-back afternoons.

The town is a great base for exploring the Guldborgsund region, which includes picturesque coastal paths, forests, and islands perfect for hiking, biking, or kayaking. Families will especially enjoy attractions like the Guldborgsund Zoo and the botanical gardens, while couples and solo travelers might find the town’s art galleries and boutique shops especially appealing.

Nykøbing Falster also hosts seasonal events and small festivals throughout the year, giving visitors a chance to enjoy live music, local food, and traditional crafts. With good transport links to the rest of Zealand and Lolland-Falster, it’s a convenient and enjoyable destination whether you’re coming for a day or planning a longer stay to explore the surrounding countryside.

History of Nykøbing Falster

Nykøbing Falster in the Medieval Period

Nykøbing Falster emerged as a settlement in the 12th century, gradually evolving around a royal castle that served as a residence for Danish monarchs and nobility. The castle played a strategic and symbolic role, helping establish the town’s importance during the Middle Ages. As the castle attracted trade, craftspeople, and clergy, the town gained its early shape and started to flourish with the establishment of a market and religious institutions.

Nykøbing Falster in the Renaissance and Early Modern Era

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Nykøbing Falster continued to thrive as a regional center of commerce and administration. The presence of the royal court and the growing bourgeoisie helped establish civic buildings, schools, and churches. The town benefited from its proximity to Baltic trade routes and maintained strong ties with surrounding agricultural areas. Though the royal castle was eventually dismantled, its legacy shaped the town’s development for generations.

Nykøbing Falster in the 19th and 20th Centuries

The industrial revolution brought new energy to Nykøbing Falster, with railways, ports, and factories strengthening its position as a regional hub. In the 19th century, the sugar industry became a major driver of growth, employing many locals and linking the town with global markets. Cultural institutions such as theatres, newspapers, and schools grew in parallel, giving the town a vibrant civic life. In the 20th century, modernization and urban planning reshaped the town’s layout, while preserving many of its historic buildings and traditions.

Nykøbing Falster Today

Today, Nykøbing Falster blends its historical identity with a modern, livable atmosphere. While the old castle is long gone, the street names, layout, and preserved landmarks still echo its past. The town maintains its cultural relevance through museums, arts venues, and seasonal festivals, continuing the legacy of a community deeply rooted in centuries of regional significance.

Visiting Nykøbing Falster for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Nykøbing Falster on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

1. Rudkøbing Harbour

Rudkøbing Harbour is the town’s vibrant waterfront, featuring a modern marina, sandy beach, and bathing pavilion open year-round . Facilities include a playground, parkour court, tables for table tennis, and a picturesque promenade perfect for sunset walks. Ferries and schooners also depart from here to nearby islands.

Open all year with free access. The bathing pavilion is open daily; facilities like showers and Wi‑Fi are available with yacht harbour fees.

2. Langelands Museum

Located centrally, Langelands Museum presents Rudkøbing’s local history—from Viking times to the present—through artifacts, exhibitions, and children’s activities . The museum includes “Den Gamle Apotek” (the old pharmacy) exhibiting H.C. Ørsted’s early life and his father’s historic pharmacy building .

Open Tues–Sun, approximately 10:00–16:00. Entry fee around 50 DKK; some exhibits may be free, such as the pharmacy.

3. Rudkøbing Church

Rudkøbing Church dates from the late 1100s and early 1200s, featuring restored Romanesque and Gothic architecture . The interior contains frescoes, wooden altarpieces, and historic bells. The church also hosts occasional concerts.

Open daily during daylight hours. Entry is free.

4. Gåsetorvet & H.C. Ørsted Exhibition

Gåsetorvet (Goose Square) is a charming historic square, home to a statue of Rudkøbing-born physicist H.C. Ørsted and located beside the H.C. Ørsted exhibition and the former Ørsted pharmacy. The exhibition features interactive science displays and experiments—ideal for families.

Square is freely accessible year-round. H.C. Ørsted exhibition: free entry, open daily around 10:00–16:00.

5. Rudkøbing Town Mill (Bymølle)

Perched on the old town ramparts, this mill dates back to the 17th century and offers scenic views over Rudkøbing Vejle and bird habitats . About a 10-minute stroll from the town center, it’s perfect for photography and easy walking.

Open year-round with free access.

6. Art & Sculpture Route

Rudkøbing’s “Kunstruten” features around 15 public sculptures by local and international artists . This self-guided art trail takes visitors through the artist quarter and town streets.

Route is open year-round with free access.

7. Self‑guided Town & Park Walks

Marked trails like “By og Park stien” and “Hjertestien” connect the town centre, harbour, and forested areas. Informative signposts highlight historical sites and local flora and fauna.

Free and accessible all year.

8. Market at Torvet

Rudkøbing hosts a vibrant local market featuring fresh produce and handicrafts every Wednesday during summer (12:00–16:00), and on the first Saturday of each month (10:00–14:00). The market bursts with local color and community spirit.

Open seasonally; free to attend.

9. Ørsted Park & Playground

Near the harbour, Ørsted Park offers green lawns, playgrounds, and sports courts including parkour, table tennis, and ball fields. It’s kid-friendly and perfect for family fun by the water.

Open year-round with free access.

10. Rudkøbing Multi‑track & Marinas

This area near the yacht harbour includes a multi‑track for parkour, sports courts, table tennis, and seating zones by the Ørsted Pavilion. It’s ideal for active visitors and families.

Open year-round; all facilities are free to use.