Kastellet (The Citadel), Copenhagen
A perfectly preserved 17th‑century star fortress where red barracks, a windmill and grassy ramparts create a quiet green refuge beside Copenhagen’s harbour.
Kastellet is Copenhagen’s remarkably preserved 17th‑century star‑shaped fortress, still an active military area yet open as a tranquil public park. Grassy ramparts, a broad moat and five bastions encircle rows of bright red barracks, a baroque chapel and a historic windmill with views over the harbour and city skyline. Just a short stroll from the Little Mermaid, it’s ideal for peaceful walks, history‑minded wandering and atmospheric photography in all seasons.
A brief summary to Kastellet
- Gl. Hovedvagt, Kastellet 1, Copenhagen, København Ø, 2100, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 6 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
- Thursday 6 am-8 pm
- Friday 6 am-8 pm
- Saturday 6 am-8 pm
- Sunday 6 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least 1.5–2 hours to circle the full ramparts, explore the inner streets and pause at the windmill, chapel and viewpoints over the harbour.
- Wear comfortable shoes; paths are mostly level but long, and some sections of the ramparts can be slightly uneven or grassy underfoot.
- Bring a light jacket: the exposed bastions can feel noticeably windier and cooler than the city streets, especially outside high summer.
- Combine your visit with nearby sights such as the Little Mermaid and St Alban’s Church to make the most of this historic corner of the harbourfront.
- Remember this is an active military area and a place of memorials; stay on marked paths, observe restrictions and behave respectfully around buildings and monuments.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Metro and short walk from central Copenhagen
From central Copenhagen, take the M3 Cityringen metro to Østerport Station, a journey of about 5–8 minutes from hubs such as Nørreport. Trains run every few minutes throughout the day and standard single tickets within the city zones typically cost around 20–30 DKK. From Østerport it is an easy 10–15 minute walk on mostly level pavements to Kastellet’s gates, suitable for most visitors and pushchairs.
-
City bus to Kastellet area
Several city bus lines, including frequent services such as 23 and 1A, run from the inner city and other neighbourhoods toward the harbourfront near Kastellet. Depending on your starting point, the ride usually takes 10–25 minutes and uses the standard city fare system, with single journeys in central zones around 20–30 DKK. Buses stop on major roads close to the fortress; expect a short, straightforward walk along broad sidewalks from the stop to the main entrances.
-
Cycling from the city centre
Copenhagen’s extensive cycle lanes make reaching Kastellet by bike simple and enjoyable. From the historic centre, most routes take 10–20 minutes at a relaxed pace, following segregated cycle tracks along key streets and the harbour. You can use your own bike or one from city bike‑share schemes, which typically charge a modest per‑minute rate or short‑term pass fee. Be aware that riding is not permitted on all internal paths, so be prepared to dismount and walk your bike once inside the fortress area.
-
Walking from the inner harbourfront
If you are already near Nyhavn or the Amalienborg area, reaching Kastellet on foot is a pleasant option. The walk along the waterfront and through royal quarters usually takes 20–30 minutes at an easy pace on predominantly flat, paved surfaces. This is free and accessible for most visitors, though those with limited mobility should allow extra time and may prefer public transport in poor weather.
Kastellet location weather suitability
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Cold Weather
-
Any Weather
-
Windy Conditions
Discover more about Kastellet
A Star-Shaped Fortress on the Edge of the Harbour
Kastellet, known in English as The Citadel, sits like a green pentagram beside Copenhagen’s harbour, its earth ramparts and wide moat forming one of Northern Europe’s best‑preserved star fortresses. Laid out in the 17th century as part of Copenhagen’s defensive ring, it was designed so soldiers could survey every approach line, a geometry that is still clearly legible from the paths atop the walls. As you wander the perimeter, the tranquil scene belies its original purpose. Grassy slopes tumble to the water, trees frame views of the harbour, and joggers trace the same lines once patrolled by guards. The fortress still belongs to the Danish armed forces, lending a subtle sense of ceremony and order, yet the grounds function as a relaxed public park where military history and everyday city life intersect.From Royal Ambition to Modern Military Role
The story of Kastellet begins in the 1600s, when Danish monarchs reshaped Copenhagen into a fortified capital capable of withstanding European power struggles. Commissioned in the reign of King Frederick III and initiated under King Christian IV, the citadel was built to a cutting‑edge star design, enabling overlapping fields of fire and stronger bastions than medieval walls could offer. Over the centuries, the fortress witnessed sieges, shifting borders and evolving warfare. In the 19th century it served primarily as barracks and logistical hub; during the Second World War it was occupied by German forces, a reminder that even this peaceful corner of the city once sat at the fault line of European conflict. Today, parts of Kastellet still house military institutions, but the emphasis has shifted from defence to remembrance and quiet reflection.Windmill, Chapel and Colour-Washed Barracks
Inside the walls, Kastellet feels like a self‑contained village. Rows of vividly painted red barrack blocks line the central axis, their orderly facades and white‑framed windows creating a striking contrast with the green embankments around them. These 18th‑century buildings once housed soldiers and officers and now provide a rare glimpse of historical military architecture in daily use. Close by, the baroque Citadel Church stands with understated elegance, its pale exterior and simple interior occasionally hosting services and concerts. On one of the bastions, a traditional windmill from the 1840s recalls the days when grain was ground here for the garrison, its sails framing views over the harbour. Together, these features give the fortress an almost pastoral character, more village green than garrison, especially on calm days.Walking the Ramparts and Exploring the Bastions
For many visitors, the highlight of Kastellet is the chance to walk the full loop of its ramparts. The path undulates gently along the five bastions, revealing new perspectives at every turn: glimpses of the Little Mermaid and the open sea, the domes and spires of central Copenhagen, and the straight lines of the barracks town below. It is an easy, accessible walk that nonetheless conveys the scale and ingenuity of the original fortifications. Down at moat level, tree‑lined paths follow the water’s edge, popular with runners, dog‑walkers and families. Benches invite you to pause and watch waterfowl on the moat or study the subtle angles of the defences. In several spots, sculptural monuments and memorials commemorate Denmark’s international missions and military history, adding a contemplative dimension to a casual stroll.A Green Refuge in the City
Despite its martial origins, Kastellet today feels primarily like a green haven. In spring, the lawns and ramparts burst into fresh colour; in summer, the long Nordic evenings make it a pleasant place for unhurried walks; autumn brings warm tones to the trees; winter can cloak the bastions in frost, sharpening the fortress outlines. Throughout the year, the atmosphere is notably calm compared with busier central parks. Its location near major sights such as the Little Mermaid, St Alban’s Church and the harbourfront makes Kastellet easy to weave into a wider day out, yet it retains a self‑contained serenity. Whether you come for military history, architectural geometry or just a quiet circuit in the fresh air, the citadel offers an unusually layered urban landscape: part monument, part park, and part living military site.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Our Fallen
0.2 km
A bronze tribute to World War II sacrifice, standing sentinel at Kastellet's gate since 1957.
Iver Huitfeldt Memorial
0.3 km
A towering tribute to Admiral Huitfeldt's heroic last stand at sea, crowned with Victory.
Maritime Monument
0.4 km
Honoring Denmark’s seafaring legacy, the Maritime Monument in Østerbro is a striking, evocative memorial nestled in the heart of Copenhagen’s leafy cityscape.
Horn mine
0.4 km
A disarmed World War II naval mine displayed in Churchill Park, turning a former weapon of the sea into a quiet reminder of conflict amid central Copenhagen’s greenery.
I am Queen Mary
0.6 km
A powerful harborfront monument honoring rebel leader Mary Thomas, confronting Copenhagen’s colonial past beside the historic West Indian Warehouse.
St. Paul's Church
0.6 km
Neo‑Romanesque red brick meets ochre-yellow naval housing at this calm parish church, giving Nyboder a quiet spiritual heart amid central Copenhagen.
Larsens Pl.
0.8 km
Historic waterfront where Scandinavian dreams embarked for America, now a refined promenade of heritage and harbour views.
Nyholm Central Guardhouse
0.8 km
Discover Aarhus’s Latin Quarter, where historic charm meets a lively cultural scene, bustling cafés, artisan shops, and rich Danish heritage in the city’s oldest district.
Langelinie
1.0 km
Discover Copenhagen's iconic waterfront promenade, home to the Little Mermaid, historic landmarks, and stunning harbor views, offering a captivating blend of culture and maritime charm.
Hans Christian Andersen plaque
1.0 km
A modest plaque on elegant Amaliegade quietly marks Hans Christian Andersen’s presence amid the formal mansions and palace axis of Copenhagen’s Frederiksstaden.
Copenhagen Opera House
1.1 km
An architectural landmark on Copenhagen’s harbor, the Opera House blends Scandinavian design with world-class performances and spectacular waterfront views.
Sankt Annæ Pl.
1.1 km
Historic square blending royal heritage, climate innovation, and urban livability in central Copenhagen.
The King's Garden
1.1 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of The King's Garden, a historical park in Copenhagen surrounding the majestic Rosenborg Castle, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
The Kissing Stairs
1.1 km
Copenhagen's beloved waterfront amphitheatre where culture, community, and harbour views converge.
Bredgade 18
1.1 km
Explore the architectural elegance of Bredgade 18 in Copenhagen's historic Frederiksstaden district.
Unmissable attractions to see
Monument to Denmark's international activities after 1948
0.1 km
A quiet, contemporary memorial within Copenhagen’s star-shaped fortress, honoring Denmark’s post‑1948 international missions with flame, stone and thoughtful space.
Langelinie Pavillonen
0.3 km
Experience modernist elegance and panoramic harbor views at Copenhagen's iconic Langelinie Pavillonen.
St Alban's Church
0.3 km
Step into history and legend at Kronborg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed as Hamlet’s ‘Elsinore,’ overlooking the spectacular Øresund Strait.
Inugsuk
0.3 km
Discover one of Europe's oldest and most innovative zoos, home to over 4,000 animals and award-winning habitats in the leafy heart of Frederiksberg, Copenhagen.
Gefion Fountain
0.3 km
Copenhagen’s creation myth cast in bronze, the Gefion Fountain hurls goddess, oxen and water into a powerful tableau beside the harbour and Churchillparken.
Langelinieparken
0.3 km
Leafy waterfront lawns, sculptures and sea views where cruise ships, mythic fountains and Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid all meet along a single harbourfront walk.
Langelinie Park
0.3 km
Explore Denmark's first public museum, showcasing the neoclassical masterpieces of Bertel Thorvaldsen in the heart of Copenhagen.
The Little Mermaid
0.4 km
Historic harbor district ablaze with color, culture, and canals—Nyhavn is Copenhagen’s most iconic and photogenic waterfront destination.
Museum of Danish Resistance
0.4 km
Go underground beneath Churchill Park to follow five real lives through Denmark’s World War II occupation, in an immersive museum of resistance, choices and courage.
ZinkGlobal by Kim Michael
0.4 km
A contemplative scrap-metal thinker on Copenhagen’s harborfront, ZinkGlobal fuses recycled machinery with big ideas about the future and our industrial past.
Den Frie Udstilling
0.4 km
Independent artist-run exhibition house in a striking wooden building, presenting changing contemporary art shows in the heart of Copenhagen’s Østerbro district.
Bredgade Kunsthandel
0.5 km
Refined contemporary art gallery on Copenhagen’s Bredgade, where Danish and international works unfold in bright, minimalist rooms just steps from royal and design landmarks.
Designmuseum Danmark
0.5 km
Copenhagen’s temple of design, where rococo halls, iconic Danish chairs and a tranquil garden reveal how beautifully made objects shape everyday life.
Kongeskibet Dannebrog
0.6 km
An elegant white royal yacht moored in Copenhagen’s harbour, Kongeskibet Dannebrog is a floating palace, naval vessel and living symbol of modern Danish monarchy.
Nyboder
0.6 km
Historic naval home preserving four centuries of Danish maritime family life in a single yellow row house.
Essential places to dine
Veve
0.6 km
A destination for innovative, plant-based fine dining in Østerbro, where Nordic purity meets global flavors for an unforgettable vegetarian tasting menu experience.
Kokkeriet
0.7 km
Intimate Michelin-starred townhouse in central Copenhagen, reimagining classic Danish cuisine as elegant modern tasting menus with curated wines and juices.
Reffen - Skøjteøen
0.9 km
Copenhagen’s dynamic hub for global street food, creative pop-ups, and urban harbor vibes in a repurposed shipyard setting with a seasonal ice skating rink.
Aoc
1.0 km
Two Michelin stars of bold Nordic flavors in a historic 17th-century cellar.
Restaurant Rebel
1.0 km
Seasonal Danish produce meets French technique at this relaxed, MICHELIN-recommended bistro on Store Kongensgade, where an open kitchen and inventive plates define the mood.
Dag H
1.0 km
Stylish Østerbro brasserie offering classic bistro plates, all-day dining, and a cosmopolitan terrace in Copenhagen’s embassy quarter.
La Banchina
1.1 km
Tiny blue harbour house on Refshaleøen blending seasonal pescatarian cooking, natural wines, sauna culture and swims into one uniquely Copenhagen experience.
Restaurant Koefoed
1.1 km
Fine dining in a historic coal cellar celebrating Bornholm's culinary traditions and Danish gastronomy.
Restaurant Vita
1.1 km
Historic Danish dining in a former royal pharmacy, serving traditional smørrebrød and national classics.
Den Lille Fede
1.2 km
Cosy, candlelit tasting-menu restaurant near Kongens Nytorv, where playful Nordic-inspired courses and thoughtful wine pairings turn dinner into an unhurried evening event.
Alouette
1.2 km
One‑Michelin‑star Green Star dining in a historic Copenhagen townhouse, where hyper‑seasonal Nordic tasting menus meet quietly striking design by the King’s Garden.
Goldfinch
1.2 km
Stylish Cantonese-inspired dining and cocktails on historic Kongens Nytorv, pairing shareable plates with a moody interior in the heart of Copenhagen.
Nyhavns Færgekro
1.2 km
Classic Danish cooking and a famed herring buffet in a cozy canal-side tavern, set within one of Nyhavn’s colorful townhouses overlooking Copenhagen’s historic harbor.
Cap Horn
1.3 km
Candlelit Nordic bistro in a historic Nyhavn townhouse, blending classic Danish seafood, canal views and cosy hygge from late morning to late evening.
Alchemist
1.3 km
A boundary-pushing Copenhagen icon where fine dining, art installation and social commentary fuse into a five-hour, 50-course immersive experience under a vast projected dome.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Crown souvenir
0.5 km
Compact, colorful souvenir stop on elegant Amaliegade, perfect for picking up Danish flags, Little Mermaid trinkets and royal-themed keepsakes near Amalienborg.
Royal Souvenir Shop
0.8 km
Compact and colourful, Royal Souvenir Shop on Bredgade distils Copenhagen into easy‑to‑pack gifts, from royal guards and Vikings to flags, mugs and playful keepsakes.
The Wilde Shop
1.2 km
A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Zane
1.2 km
Intimate Copenhagen florist and design boutique on stylish Bredgade, blending seasonal blooms, Nordic homeware and thoughtful gifts in a cosy, lived-in space.
Maritime Antiques &
1.2 km
Atmospheric basement shop near Nyhavn where genuine maritime antiques share space with heritage-inspired clothing and rugged knitwear in a cosy, ship-like setting.
Copenhagenglass
1.3 km
Intimate glassblowing studio and shop near Nyhavn, where Danish maritime-inspired designs and hands-on sessions turn molten glass into memorable Copenhagen souvenirs.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
1.3 km
Denmark's largest souvenir chain with 14 locations offering over 2,000 authentic Danish keepsakes and contemporary design pieces.
Storm - design art fashion
1.4 km
A pioneering Copenhagen concept store where avant-garde fashion, art, design objects and niche fragrances meet in a minimalist, gallery-like space on Store Regnegade.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
1.4 km
Step off the cobblestones of Gammel Mønt into Henrik Vibskov’s offbeat fashion laboratory, where avant‑garde silhouettes, artful interiors and curated design collide.
Viking Souvenirs
1.4 km
Authentic Danish and Viking-themed souvenirs in Copenhagen's historic city center.
Danish Souvenirs & luggages
1.4 km
Central Strøget souvenir and luggage shop combining classic Danish mementos with practical travel gear, open long hours for convenient, last‑minute Copenhagen gifts.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
1.4 km
Central Copenhagen’s cosy hygge boutique for Danish design, classic souvenirs, and easy last-minute gifts just off bustling Kongens Nytorv square.
Red Cross Op Shop
1.4 km
A vibrant Østerbro thrift store where sustainable shopping, Danish design, and community spirit support Red Cross humanitarian work.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design
1.4 km
Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
Magasin du Nord
1.5 km
Copenhagen’s classic department store: historic architecture, Nordic style, gourmet treats and relaxed cafés gathered under one elegant roof on Kongens Nytorv.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Swan
0.7 km
Craft-forward, cosy and unpretentious, Black Swan is Copenhagen’s inner-city local where rotating taps, serious cider and good conversation flow late into the night.
ROOTS Vin Bar & Butik - Østerbro
1.2 km
Explore the finest wines at ROOTS Vin Bar & Butik in Østerbro, Copenhagen – where every sip tells a story.
Aloha Beach Bar
1.3 km
Island-inspired cocktails, neon glow and late-night party vibes packed into a compact tropical bar just off Gothersgade in central Copenhagen.
Bar Deco
1.3 km
Intimate Art Deco–inspired cocktail bar near Kongens Nytorv, pairing crafted drinks with moody lighting and a relaxed, grown‑up Copenhagen atmosphere.
Søernes Ølbar
1.3 km
Discover Søernes Ølbar, a cozy craft beer haven by Copenhagen's lakes, offering an extensive selection of brews and breathtaking views.
Trykbar
1.3 km
Cosy, central Copenhagen bar with a strong beer list, warm lighting and a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere that blends hygge with lively late-night energy.
ØB
1.4 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen's nightlife at ØB, where great beer, tasty burgers, and a lively atmosphere come together.
Trianglen 7
1.4 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen wine culture at Trianglen 7, a charming wine bar offering a curated selection and an inviting atmosphere.
Østerbros Perle Pub
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Østerbros Perle Pub in København Ø, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and laughter.
Brønnum
1.4 km
An opulent, multi‑room cocktail bar steps from Kongens Nytorv, where historic townhouse elegance meets contemporary mixology and candlelit late‑night conversation.
Balthazar
1.4 km
A luxurious Champagne bar at Hotel d’Angleterre, pairing an extensive bubbles list and crafted cocktails with velvet-luxe interiors and a lively DJ-backed ambience.
Chevy's
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Chevy's in Østerbro, Copenhagen—where delicious drinks and good company create unforgettable nights.
1105
1.4 km
Intimate, dimly lit cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s 1105 postcode, pairing dark, elegant interiors with carefully crafted Nordic-inspired drinks and classic mixes.
The Moose
1.4 km
Graffiti-plastered walls, infamous moose murals and cheap late-night beers make this smoky Indre By dive bar a gritty, unpolished slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Charlie's Bar
1.5 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Culture Box
0.9 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Mini Bar
1.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Lusso
1.4 km
A compact, high-end Copenhagen nightclub with champagne-forward table service, dim lighting and a stylish late-night crowd just steps from Kongens Nytorv.
The Zoo
1.4 km
Intimate late-night nightclub on Sværtegade in Copenhagen’s historic center, blending a compact dance floor, DJ-driven beats and a casual, social bar atmosphere.
Mirage
1.8 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Chateau Motel
1.9 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Hive
1.9 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Operaen
2.0 km
Compact harbourfront nightclub near Copenhagen’s modern opera house, mixing DJ-driven beats, local crowds and late-night energy by the inner-city waterfront.
Rumors
2.0 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
2.0 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
La Terraza
2.0 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Miami Bar
2.0 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Zefside
2.1 km
Intimate cocktail den turned late-night dance spot, Zefside blends crafted drinks, DJ beats and canal-side charm in the heart of central Copenhagen.
Dorsia
2.1 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
