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Ribe Byferie 

As the oldest town in Denmark, Ribe celebrates its 1300th anniversary jubilee in 2010. From humble roots as a marketplace, Ribe grew quickly to become one of the most important trading centres in Scandinavia until the 16th Century.

The well-preserved medieval town centre features charming half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and a Cathedral forming a magnificent central point.

The best way to see Ribe is on foot – walking through the winding streets is like stepping back in time, and memorial plaques across the town give information on the great events and visitors Ribe has witnessed over the centuries.

Ribe offers a wide range of activities, from museums and art galleries to shopping, bars and activities. Ribe is also ideally situated in the Wadden Sea National Park. These tidal flats are home to a vast array of birds and aquatic life, and are a perfect location for cycling, riding or fishing.

Ribe is home to many high quality cafes and restaurants, offering a range of food from local delicacies to more exotic dishes from around the world. Each establishment has its own unique character and atmosphere, and in summer you can enjoy your meal outside.

The shops of Ribe are similarly unique and varied - the stores that line the pedestrian streets of the old town have been likened to a string of pearls. You can browse through curios or pick up a souvenir, or buy fresh local produce like cheese, vegetables or herbs.

Things to see and do in Ribe

Enjoy your short break to Ribe Byferie

Ribe offers a wide range of attractions, from cultural events and historic buildings to activities and shopping. Here are some highlights of what Ribe has to offer:

Ribe Domkirke (Cathedral)

Ribe Cathedral is a landmark of the old town, and can be seen for miles around.

Ribe Viking Museum

Museum of the Viking Ages and Middle Ages. An exciting journey taking you from the year 700 to the year 1700.

Ribe Viking Centre

Ribe's more dramatic Viking roots are brought back to life in the Ribe Viking Centre, a reconstruction of Ribe as it would have been over 1000 years ago – including Vikings!

The Night Watchman

In the summer, visitors can explore the winding streets of Ribe by accompanying The Night Watchman on his traditional rounds.

Wadden Sea Centre

Learn about the striking tidal wetlands of the Wadden Sea, and view the wildlife in a guided tour.

Ribe Art Museum

A fine collection of Danish Art from the Golden Age and Skaw schools.

The Old Town Hall

Ribe’s Town Hall was built around 1496.

St Catharinæ Church and Abbey

The Abbey was founded in 1228 for Dominican Friars.


Shopping in Ribe

Enjoy your short break to Ribe Byferie

The medieval ambience of Ribe makes it a unique shopping experience. The pedestrianised streets are home to many speciality shops, perfect for browsing or buying unique souvenirs.

The Town Market runs on Wednesdays throughout the summer, and its lively, bustling atmosphere makes it a popular shopping destination.

Ribe is also home to a variety of local producers selling everything from traditionally produced cheeses and fresh local vegetables to its own brewery.

At Christmas time Ribe really comes into its own as a shopping centre. The old town is home to a whole host of festive events, which makes Christmas shopping a truly magical experience.

Eating out in Ribe

Ribe offers many cosy cafes and restaurants, each with its own unique character. Here are some of the highlights:

Hotel Dagmar

Hotel Dagmar was built in 1581, making it the oldest hotel in Denmark. The hotel has two restaurants, each offering high quality locally sourced food, freshly baked bread and fresh fish.

Restaurant Kammerslusen

This charming red brick building houses a popular local restaurant, serving hearty fare based on traditional regional dishes.

Restaurant Backhaus

Restaurant Backhaus offers a varied and reasonably priced a la carte menu of traditional Danish food, just 50m from the Cathedral.

Weis Stue

A traditional half-timbered inn originally built in the 1500's. Weis Stue serves traditional Danish cuisine at reasonable prices.

Restaurant Sælhunden

Cozy and cheerful restaurant and bar. Pop in for a beer and a snack on the terrace or for a full meal. Choose from regional delicacies or offerings from further afield.

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