Næstved is the largest town in southern Zealand, a market centre with medieval roots that sits on the Suså river about an hour south of Copenhagen. It has two notable medieval churches — Sankt Peders Kirke with its Gothic frescoes and the smaller Sankt Mortens Kirke — and a compact old town around Axeltorv square that is pleasant for a stroll.
The main reason to stop is the surrounding countryside. Gavnø Castle, on a small island just south of town, has one of the largest private painting collections in Scandinavia and spectacular gardens. The Suså river is good for canoeing, and the south Zealand coast is within easy reach. Næstved is not a destination in itself, but it works as a base for exploring the quieter parts of Zealand that most visitors skip on their way to Copenhagen.