Denmark had a bright start to the game and orchestrated a series of promising attacks on the Italians' goal, but lacked the cutting edge to make the most of their momentum in the first half.
Instead, the hosts who reached the semi-final in the European Championships last year took the lead after 19 minutes when Martina Piemonte rose high to head home a corner from Manuela Giugliano.
The goal visibly boosted the Italian confidence, and the hosts settled into their stylish stride for the remainder of the half, but Denmark held their own to prevent further damage before the interval.
Denmark also looked superior from the start of the second half and won a penalty when Pernille Harder was brought down illegally in the box. But the Bayern Munich striker wasted the chance when she hit the inside of the post, only for the ball to roll across the goal into the hands of the Italian keeper.
However, Denmark still managed to restore parity after an hour's play when Harder and Sofie Svava combined in the box to set up Olivia Holdt, who found space in a crowded box to find the equalizer, which could turn out to be hugely important for Denmark's chances to qualify for the World Cup.
Thanks to the draw, Denmark climbed to the top of Group 1 as Sweden drew 0-0 with Serbia in the other match of the group.