Marselisborg Castle: The Royal Summer Residence by Aarhus Bay
Royal residence on Aarhus Bay with historic gardens, open parkland, classic Danish architecture, and the chance to witness the royal guard—all amidst city green space.
Marselisborg Castle is the beloved summer residence of the Danish royal family, set amid expansive parklands on the southern edge of Aarhus. While the striking early-20th-century manor remains private, the castle park and gardens are open when the royals are away, offering ornate sculptures, tranquil lawns, and fragrant rose beds—an appealing blend of regal grandeur and accessible local relaxation, steeped in Danish history and tradition.
A brief summary to Mindrebæltsbroen
- Klostergade 28, Aarhus Municipality, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the castle park when the royal family is away—opening times are posted at the gates and vary by season.
- Bring a picnic or book to relax in the gardens, which locals treasure as a peaceful escape within reach of the city.
- Look out for the changing of the Royal Guard if the queen is in residence—usually around midday and a favorite for families.
- The southern park edge leads toward the Marselisborg Forests, perfect for a longer walk or cycling trip after your visit.
- Disabled access is good in the park area, though some paths are gravel or grass—comfortable footwear is recommended.
Getting There
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Walking
From central Øgadekvarteret, head toward the broad greenbelt area framing the southern flank of Aarhus. The castle’s prominent gates and white towers emerge as you approach the waterfront, with a gentle walk of roughly 20–30 minutes through leafy neighborhoods and past the distinctive ARoS art museum. The walk is mostly level and passes several popular city parks, making it a scenic approach for those enjoying a leisurely stroll.
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Public Transport
Local city buses toward Aarhus’s southern districts depart frequently from central Aarhus—journeys to the stop nearest the castle generally take 10–20 minutes, with a standard adult fare of approximately 24–28 DKK. From the bus stop, follow signs to the palace park; the grounds are easily visible and a short walk away, with clear visual cues from the nearby stadium.
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Taxi
A taxi from Øgadekvarteret to Marselisborg Castle typically takes 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs in the region of 80–120 DKK. Taxis can usually drop off by the castle’s main entrance, but note that vehicle access beyond the gates is not permitted.
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Driving
Drivers will find parking available in marked lots just outside the castle park. These municipal spaces are metered, generally costing around 18–25 DKK per hour. The area can get busy, particularly on weekends or during special royal events, so consider arriving early if you prefer convenient parking.
Discover more about Mindrebæltsbroen
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Den Svangre
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Folkehuset Trøjborg
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Frederiks Plads
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Botanical Garden
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University Park, Aarhus
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Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg
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Tivoli Friheden
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Flagpladsen
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Marselisborgmonumentet
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Klostertorvet
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Our Lady Church
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Lille Torv
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Store Torv
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History Hunts med Hvem.nu
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Vadestedet
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Latinerkvarteret
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Viking Museum
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Latin Quarter
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KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
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Aarhus Cathedral
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Sankt Clements Torv
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Bishop's Square
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Essential places to dine
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Restaurant Komfur
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Carlton
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Lydmar Restaurang
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Lupo
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Slap Af
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Plant Food
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Balsalen
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Weekday
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Fair Trade Shop Bazaar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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