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The King's Garden: Copenhagen's Historic Green Oasis

The King’s Garden in central Copenhagen is a Renaissance-era green space encircling Rosenborg Castle, famed for its manicured lawns, blooming flowerbeds, and historic pavilions.

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The King's Garden, also known as Kongens Have, is Denmark’s oldest and most-visited public park, located around the stately Rosenborg Castle in the heart of Indre By, Copenhagen. With its manicured Renaissance lawns, blooming flowerbeds, and romantic pavilions, the garden offers both tranquil beauty and a glimpse into royal history, attracting locals and tourists for leisurely strolls, picnics, and open-air events.

A brief summary to The King's Garden

Local tips

  • Arrive early in the morning for a quieter experience and the best light for castle photos.
  • Pack a picnic in summer and find a spot under the iconic lime trees—a favorite activity for locals.
  • Look for the playful sculptures and the ornate Hercules Pavilion, which often hosts art exhibits or a small café.
  • Public toilets are available near the northern entrance; plan ahead, as amenities are limited.
  • Don’t miss the seasonal rose garden, which bursts into spectacular color from late spring through summer.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The King’s Garden is centrally positioned within Indre By, making it easily accessible on foot from major downtown landmarks such as Nørreport Station or the bustling shopping streets. Most city-center hotels, museums, and key attractions are within a 5–15 minute stroll, and you’ll spot the spires of Rosenborg Castle rising above the trees as a clear orientation point. Entry to the gardens is free, and there’s no admission charge for strolling the grounds.

  • Public Transport

    Numerous city buses and the M1 and M2 metro lines serve Nørreport Station, which sits just west of The King’s Garden. From the station, the garden is just a short walk away and well signposted by the castle’s silhouette. A standard adult metro or bus ticket within the central zone costs DKK 24 (about €3.20). Both the metro and buses operate frequently throughout the day.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from anywhere within central Indre By can drop you near one of the main gated entrances to the garden. A short ride within the city center typically costs between DKK 70 and DKK 110 (approximately €9–15), depending on distance and traffic.

  • Driving/Parking

    Parking directly beside The King’s Garden can be very limited, especially in peak hours. Paid public parking lots are available in the vicinity; rates typically start at DKK 38 per hour. No special tolls or reservations are required, but most visitors find walking or public transport more convenient due to the area’s busy, central setting.

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Discover more about The King's Garden

Spread across the grounds of Rosenborg Castle, The King’s Garden (Kongens Have) is one of Copenhagen’s crown jewels—a living testament to the city’s royal heritage and a beloved sanctuary for locals and travelers alike. Commissioned by King Christian IV in the early 17th century, this historic park was initially designed in the Renaissance style, reflecting the king’s ambitions for opulent gardens that blended artistry with functionality. Today, the garden’s meticulously maintained avenues of lime trees, fragrant rose borders, and trimmed boxwood hedges maintain much of that original splendor. The geometric flowerbeds, particularly stunning in late spring and summer, provide a picturesque foreground to the fairytale silhouette of Rosenborg Castle. The playful Hercules Pavilion stands as a whimsical architectural accent, while meandering paths and spacious lawns invite both casual wanderers and those seeking a peaceful picnic spot. Seasonally, the garden becomes animated with outdoor art exhibitions, concerts, and even puppet shows, endearing it further as a lively social hub. For history enthusiasts, The King’s Garden offers more than just pleasant views. The park hosts Denmark’s oldest preserved Renaissance garden, and some surviving elements—like the historic cascades and ornamental ironwork—whisper stories of royal festivities and lavish parades. In the cooler months, locals still flock here to enjoy the tranquility or marvel at the frosted topiary. The gardens are freely accessible, making it an essential pause for anyone exploring Copenhagen’s city center. Centrally located yet perfectly composed, The King’s Garden exudes a blend of regal elegance and everyday Danish coziness.

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