Christiansborg Palace: Denmark’s Riches Revealed Under Royal Towers
Historic palace in central Copenhagen featuring lavish royal halls, government chambers, ancient ruins, and sweeping tower views in the heart of Indre By.
Step through the gates of Christiansborg Palace—an island fortress that bears the weight of Denmark’s political and regal history. With foundations reaching back to a medieval stronghold of the 12th century, the present palace gleams as a Neoclassical marvel completed in the early 20th century, following two catastrophic fires. The complex hosts the Danish Parliament, Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister’s Office, making this the only building in the world where all three branches of government reside—while still reserving magnificently maintained state rooms for royal pageantry. Inside, ornate salons and audience chambers show the legacy of absolute monarchy. The Great Hall is bejeweled with 17 monumental tapestries handwoven to commemorate 1,000 years of Danish history, their scenes a riot of kings, sieges, and discoveries. Beneath the palace, dimly lit ruins reveal remnants of Bishop Absalon’s 1167 castle and the once-mighty Copenhagen Fortress. Climb the palace tower—the highest in central Copenhagen—for unrivalled vistas across red rooftops and waterways. Beyond formal grandeur, see quirky touches: royal horses cavort in the historic stables, quirky kitchen displays illustrate centuries of banquet etiquette, and secret passages wind below. Classical sculpture, intricate parquet floors, and gilded stucco recall an age when this was the ceremonial center of the Danish realm. Expect a lively blend of visitors—school groups, global travelers, and locals drawn by rotating exhibitions or the rare chance to spot government workings or a royal event. Comfortable visitor amenities, open hours daily, and multilingual signage ensure a welcoming experience in one of Scandinavia’s most storied powerhouses.
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and have quiet access to the palace halls and tower.
- Admission is free to the tower lookout, but separate tickets are required for state rooms and ruins.
- Audio guides and printed materials are available in multiple languages at the entrance.
- The Royal Stables are included with a combination ticket and are a highlight for families.
- Combine your palace visit with a stroll around the neighboring canals or the lively Christianshavn district.
A brief summary to Christiansborg Palace
- Prins Jørgens Gård 1, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1218, DK
- +4533926492
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Indre By, it’s an easy walk that takes around 10–15 minutes, passing through bustling squares filled with cyclists, street musicians, and classic Danish cafés. The palace’s tower is visible above rooftops, providing an unmistakable landmark to head towards as you traverse Copenhagen’s historic core. Well-paved routes make it accessible for most visitors, but those with mobility issues may want to plan for some cobblestones near the main courtyard.
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Public Transport
Several buses and city metro lines connect central Indre By with stops very close to the palace. Using the metro, expect a ride of just 2–4 minutes from hub stations in the city center. A standard adult city single fare costs approximately 24 DKK. The final approach from public transport stops offers clear sightlines to the palace, and the area is well signposted for visitors.
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Taxi
A short taxi ride from central Indre By’s major hotels or squares to Christiansborg Palace typically takes less than 10 minutes. Fares usually range from 75–120 DKK, depending on traffic and time of day. Taxis can drop guests directly at the main entrance in the palace courtyard.
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Driving/Parking
Parking in the heart of Indre By is limited and metered; expect to pay around 38 DKK per hour. The dedicated parking area near the palace fills quickly, especially during weekends or events. Be aware there are no tolls for reaching the palace, but it is advisable to use public transport or walking due to central congestion and narrow streets.
