Frederiksborg Castle

A storybook Renaissance castle on an island-laced lake, Frederiksborg pairs royal history, grand interiors and art with sculpted Baroque gardens and romantic parkland.

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Frederiksborg Castle

Frederiksborg Castle rises from the mirrored surface of Castle Lake in Hillerød, its copper spires and red-brick Renaissance façades forming one of Denmark’s most dramatic historic skylines. Built mainly under Christian IV in the early 1600s, the castle today houses the Museum of National History and the Danish National Portrait Gallery, set within lavishly restored state rooms, the ornate chapel, and extensive galleries tracing centuries of Danish history. Outside, formal Baroque parterres and romantic landscape gardens invite slow walks, views back to the castle’s storybook profile, and moments of quiet away from Copenhagen’s bustle.

A brief summary to Frederiksborg Castle

Frederiksborg Slot 10, Hillerød, 3400, DK
+4548260439
Visit website
Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 10 am-3 pm
Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
Thursday 10 am-3 pm
Friday 10 am-3 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Allow at least 3 hours to combine the castle interiors with a relaxed walk through both the Baroque terraces and the romantic landscape gardens.
Check seasonal opening hours in advance; winter days offer a quieter atmosphere but a shorter visiting window inside the museum.
Start your visit at opening time to explore the state rooms and chapel before the main tour groups arrive, then move out to the gardens after lunch.
Bring a light layer even in summer; some of the thick-walled interiors and chapel can feel cool compared with the gardens and lakefront paths.
If you enjoy photography, plan time late in the day when low light reflects the castle in the lake and emphasizes the geometry of the Baroque garden.

Getting There

Train from central Copenhagen

From central Copenhagen, take S-train line A towards Hillerød; the ride typically takes about 35–40 minutes and is covered by standard zone tickets or city passes. A single adult ticket for the necessary zones usually costs around 80–110 DKK. Trains run frequently throughout the day, including weekends. From Hillerød station it is roughly a 15–20 minute level walk through town and along the lake to reach the castle, manageable with a stroller but slower for those with limited mobility.
Regional bus within North Zealand

If you are already in North Zealand, regional buses connect nearby towns to Hillerød in about 20–40 minutes, depending on the starting point. Local bus fares are generally in the 24–48 DKK range per adult, using the same ticketing system as trains. Services are less frequent in the evenings and on Sundays, so check departure times in advance. From the central bus stops near Hillerød station, allow 15–20 minutes on foot to reach the castle or use a short local bus hop if walking is challenging.
Car from Copenhagen area

Driving from the Copenhagen area to Hillerød typically takes 35–50 minutes in normal traffic via the main motorway. There is paid parking close to the castle and additional free or lower-cost parking areas a short walk away; expect typical parking costs in the range of 10–20 DKK per hour near the main entrance. Weekend afternoons and school holidays can be busier, so allow extra time to find a space and to walk from more distant car parks through the surrounding parkland.

Frederiksborg Castle location weather suitability

Mild Temperatures
Clear Skies
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Hot Weather

Discover more about Frederiksborg Castle

Royal visions on the waters of Castle Lake

Frederiksborg Castle stands on three small islands in Hillerød’s Castle Lake, its towers, gables and copper roofs reflected in the still water. The first royal residence here was built for Frederik II, but it was his son Christian IV who transformed the site in the early 1600s into the monumental Renaissance complex you see today. Approaching across the outer courtyards, you pass the richly sculpted Neptune Fountain and façades crowded with statues and sandstone ornament that project royal power as much as beauty. The castle’s setting is carefully choreographed. From almost every angle the red brick contrasts with green roofs and the blue of the lake, giving Frederiksborg a theatrical, almost fairy-tale quality. Yet this was always a working royal residence and a stage for political life: an architectural manifesto for a kingdom looking outward to Europe, inspired by Dutch and German Renaissance trends but scaled to Danish royal ambition.

From royal residence to national museum

A devastating fire in 1859 destroyed much of the castle’s interior, sparing mainly the chapel and some stonework. The reconstruction that followed, financed largely by brewer J. C. Jacobsen of Carlsberg, reshaped Frederiksborg into a national monument. Today it is home to the Museum of National History and the Danish National Portrait Gallery, using the restored rooms to tell the story of Denmark from the Middle Ages to the present. As you move through the Great Hall, the Audience Chamber and the Hall of Knights, richly carved ceilings, tapestries and painted panels frame an enormous portrait collection. Kings and queens, reformers, scientists, writers and contemporary figures line the walls, allowing you to walk chronologically through changing styles of dress, power and identity. Temporary exhibitions add another layer, spotlighting themes from royal rituals to modern political life.

The chapel and ceremonial heart

One of Frederiksborg’s most atmospheric spaces is the castle chapel, which survived the 1859 fire almost intact. Gilded galleries, intricate woodcarving and a profusion of coats of arms create a dense tapestry of symbolism. The chapel has long been used for royal ceremonies; Danish monarchs have been anointed here, rooting the building firmly in the country’s constitutional history. Beyond its royal role, the chapel houses historic organs and carved choir stalls that reward closer inspection. Light filters in through tall windows, picking out details in gold leaf and painted shields. It is a space where the layers of time feel unusually close, with Renaissance craftsmanship still framing modern state occasions.

Gardens of symmetry and romance

Step outside and the experience shifts from stone to greenery. On the far side of the lake stretches the formal Baroque garden, originally laid out in the 1720s and later meticulously recreated. Terraced parterres descend towards the water, their clipped hedges forming royal monograms and geometric patterns best appreciated from the higher paths. A central cascade draws the eye downhill, combining sound and movement with strict symmetry. To the east and north, a romantic landscape garden offers a deliberate contrast. Winding paths lead through groves and meadows, past streams and viewpoints that frame the castle’s silhouette between tree trunks. Small pavilions and the picturesque Bathhouse Castle add focal points, inviting you to pause, sit on a bench or spread a picnic blanket while the main castle glows across the lake.

Experiencing a day at the castle

Most visitors spend several hours here, dividing their time between interiors and gardens. Inside, there is plenty of scope to linger: detailed wall texts and room sequences mean you can follow Danish history in depth, while the sheer number of portraits encourages slow looking. Seasonal exhibitions and occasional events bring fresh perspectives to familiar rooms. Around the castle and in the gardens, small cafés offer refreshments, and boat trips on the lake operate in the warmer months, giving an alternative view of the architecture from the water. Whether you focus on art and history, architecture, or simply the pleasure of wandering between manicured terraces and shady woodland, Frederiksborg Castle offers a richly layered insight into Denmark’s royal past within an easy day’s reach of Copenhagen.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Old town hall

0.6 km

A dignified brick landmark on Hillerød’s main square, the Old Town Hall anchors the town’s civic heart between cobbled streets, cafés and castle views.

Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød

0.7 km

Experience Danish craft beers, global wines, and tasty tapas at Skänk in Hillerød, a cozy spot with castle views and a welcoming atmosphere on Torvet square.

Hillerød Rectory

0.7 km

Discover the Befrielsessten in Høgsholt, Vejle—a serene memorial park honoring Denmark's journey to freedom amidst lush landscapes.

Hillerød St.

1.0 km

North Zealand's essential transport hub connecting Copenhagen, regional destinations, and Frederiksborg Castle.

Kirppu Hillerød

1.1 km

Discover unique vintage finds and support sustainable shopping at Kirppu Hillerød, Denmark's largest flea market supermarket, offering a treasure trove of pre-loved goods and community spirit.

Kulsvierstenen

6.9 km

A modest forest boulder in Gribskov that marks a dramatic World War II resistance firefight, blending North Zealand’s tranquil woodland with powerful memory.

Country Market

7.8 km

Experience the charm of Fredensborg at Country Market, a vibrant marketplace offering local delicacies, artisan products, and a cozy café atmosphere in the heart of town.

Hørsholm Slotshave

14.1 km

A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.

Auderødlejren

14.7 km

Once a busy Danish Navy barracks, today a quiet, semi‑abandoned camp on Arrenæs where stark military architecture meets lakeside nature and recent history.

Furesø

17.2 km

Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.

Henriksholm

18.1 km

A quiet Vedbæk hillside where Stone Age burials, villa culture and Cold War command history meet in a leafy coastal neighbourhood north of Copenhagen.

Tisvilde Hegn

18.9 km

Discover Denmark's enchanting Tisvilde Hegn: A coastal forest where history whispers through ancient pines and scenic trails lead to breathtaking Kattegat views.

Danish Museum of Science and Technology

19.0 km

Explore Denmark's technological heritage at this interactive museum, showcasing everything from vintage vehicles to groundbreaking inventions and offering hands-on experiences for all ages.

Heather Hill (Rågelejevej), Vejby

19.8 km

Discover Heather Hill in Vejby: A unique Danish landscape with heather-clad hills, stunning coastal views, and rich history, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.

Vejby Strand

19.8 km

Discover Vejby Strand: A picturesque Danish coastal escape with dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, and a wealth of natural and historical attractions in North Zealand.

Unmissable attractions to see

The Museum of National History

0.0 km

A grand Renaissance castle on an island lake, housing Denmark’s Museum of National History with 500 years of portraits, power and palace splendor.

Frederiksborg Castle Chapel

0.0 km

Experience LEGO magic at LEGOLAND Hotel & Conference in Billund, offering themed rooms and top-tier conference facilities.

Posen

0.3 km

A small, leafy pause between Hillerød’s bustling Slotsgade and the storybook views of Frederiksborg Castle and its lake.

Fisketorvet

0.4 km

Experience the vibrant heart of Hillerød at Fisketorvet, where history, shopping, and culture converge in North Zealand's premier market square.

Batzke's Hill

0.4 km

A gentle grassy rise above Frederiksborg’s gardens, Batzke’s Hill offers quiet views, local park life and a softer, slower perspective on royal Hillerød.

Frederiksborg Castle Gardens

0.5 km

Sweeping Baroque terraces and romantic woodland paths framing a lake island castle, Frederiksborg Castle Gardens blend royal theatre with everyday green escape.

Hillerød City Museum & Graphic Museum

0.5 km

Step behind Frederiksborg Castle into an intimate town museum where historic shops, crafts and letterpress printing bring everyday Hillerød vividly back to life.

Gavlkunst

0.5 km

A string of vivid murals along Helsingørsgade that turns central Hillerød into a small, free open‑air gallery of local stories and color.

Slotsgade

0.6 km

Hillerød’s colourful Slotsgade links castle views, everyday shops and cosy cafés in a compact, walkable street at the heart of Denmark’s classic castle town.

Hillerød Church

0.7 km

A light-filled modern parish church in the heart of Hillerød, carrying centuries of local worship history in a calm, contemporary Danish setting.

Genforeningssten i Hillerød

0.7 km

Experience intimate encounters with rescued animals in the serene Japanese gardens of Monkey World Hillerød.

Elværket Hillerød - Museum Nordsjælland

0.8 km

A beautifully preserved 1909 power station turned museum, where industrial architecture and changing exhibitions illuminate 10,000 years of North Zealand history.

Royal Stage

1.5 km

North Zealand's premier multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sports, and cultural events for up to 2,000 guests.

Island of imagination

1.8 km

A tiny forest island on Breddam Lake where a king’s romantic retreat has crumbled into suggestive ruins, inviting you to complete the fairy tale with your own imagination.

AdventurePark

2.4 km

80,000 m² of outdoor action in Hillerød’s forests, blending paintball, obstacle courses and group games with relaxed grill areas and flexible event packages.

Cozy Vietnamese flavors and casual evening dining on Østergade, bringing fresh herbs, noodles and warm atmosphere to the heart of Hillerød.

A cosy women’s fashion boutique on Hillerød’s historic Slotsgade, blending Scandinavian style, curated clothing and accessories with a relaxed, personal atmosphere.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Møllen

0.5 km

A welcoming Danish bodega in Hillerød's heart, where locals gather for drinks, snacks, and authentic social connection.

The Old Irish Pub

0.6 km

Lively Irish-style bar and late-night dance venue on Hillerød’s central square, pouring pints, playing hits and catering to a sociable, mature party crowd.

Tahonga Lounge

0.7 km

Intimate tiki-style lounge bar off Hillerød’s central square, blending cocktails, small-stage events and private parties in a cozy tropical hideaway.

Crane Brothers

0.7 km

Cosy cocktail bar on Hillerød’s main square, blending inventive drinks, warm design and a relaxed, grown-up atmosphere with access to the adjacent Tahonga Lounge.

Jernstangen

1.0 km

Old-school Hillerød pub opposite the station, with billiards, darts, dice games and live music nights in a laid‑back, locals-first atmosphere.

Oddies Beach Bar

16.3 km

Relaxed beach bar on the sand at Rungsted Havn, blending Nordic coastal charm with a hint of tropical island mood and sweeping Øresund sea views.

Kardusen

19.3 km

Casual wine bar in central Helsingør offering relaxed evenings and accessible pricing.

12`er Pubben

21.3 km

Unpretentious neighborhood bodega in Helsingør with billiards, sports on TV and cold beers, offering an authentic slice of Danish local bar life.

Gefion Bodega

21.3 km

Unpretentious neighbourhood bar in Helsingør offering classic Danish bodega atmosphere, simple drinks and a relaxed glimpse into everyday local life.

Head/Foam

22.0 km

Modern neighbourhood bar near Helsingør’s historic centre, pouring craft beer and cocktails from midday to the early hours in a lively, social setting.

Helsingør Musikteater

22.2 km

Historic theatre and bar hosting live concerts, exhibitions, and dinner events in central Elsinore.

Banana joe

22.3 km

Compact late-night bar above Helsingør’s nightlife strip, serving straightforward drinks, warm lighting and a relaxed local vibe long after the streets quieten.

Axelhus Udeservering

22.3 km

Open-air corner bar on Bjergegade, where simple food, cold beer and Axeltorv’s street life come together in the historic heart of Helsingør.

Pitten Sport Bar

22.3 km

Straightforward sports, cold beer and local Helsingør character in a relaxed neighbourhood bar just a short stroll from the harbour and historic centre.

Hold-An

22.3 km

Unfussy beer hall and local bar in central Helsingør, pouring cold brews, simple bites and everyday Danish hygge from late morning to late night.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Socialz

0.4 km

Intimate cocktail bar and nightclub in the heart of Hillerød, blending shisha lounge vibes, late-night DJ sets and a compact dance floor on lively Slotsgade.

Walther's grillkylling og svuppeklub

18.0 km

Intimate neighborhood nightclub in Helsingør with loud music, simple drinks, and a playful local vibe behind an unassuming facade on Rødegårdsvej.

Den Dansende Viking

19.8 km

High-energy suburban nightclub in Egedal Centret, serving packed dance floors, late-night DJ sets and budget-friendly drinks for party-focused weekends.

Rustik

22.0 km

Helsingør's premier weekend nightclub with craft cocktails and high-energy dancing until dawn.

Retro

22.3 km

High-energy weekend nightclub in central Helsingør, mixing big-room beats, bright lights and a young crowd in what calls itself the largest club north of Copenhagen.

Afrobeat Palace Nightclub

29.8 km

Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

SIGURD CPH

30.2 km

Discover the pulse of Copenhagen's nightlife at SIGURD CPH, where vibrant dancing, fine wines, and pachinko gaming come together for an unforgettable experience.

Falafelberg

31.1 km

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.

RUST Natklub

31.5 km

Discover the pulsating heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at RUST Natklub, where eclectic beats and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.

Temple Bar

31.6 km

Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.

Haven - Events

32.2 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Haven, Frederiksberg's top night club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.

Moon Club

32.4 km

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.

Culture Box

32.8 km

Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.

Mirage

32.8 km

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.

Arch

32.8 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Frederiksborg Castle

A brief summary to Frederiksborg Castle

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Train from central Copenhagen

Regional bus within North Zealand

Car from Copenhagen area

Frederiksborg Castle location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Frederiksborg Castle

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Frederiksborg Castle

Royal visions on the waters of Castle Lake

From royal residence to national museum

The chapel and ceremonial heart

Gardens of symmetry and romance

Experiencing a day at the castle

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Old town hall

Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød

Hillerød Rectory

Hillerød St.

Kirppu Hillerød

Kulsvierstenen

Country Market

Hørsholm Slotshave

Auderødlejren

Furesø

Henriksholm

Tisvilde Hegn

Danish Museum of Science and Technology

Heather Hill (Rågelejevej), Vejby

Vejby Strand

Unmissable attractions to see

The Museum of National History

Frederiksborg Castle Chapel

Posen

Fisketorvet

Batzke's Hill

Frederiksborg Castle Gardens

Hillerød City Museum & Graphic Museum

Gavlkunst

Slotsgade

Hillerød Church

Genforeningssten i Hillerød

Elværket Hillerød - Museum Nordsjælland

Royal Stage

Island of imagination

AdventurePark

Essential places to dine

Rabarbergaarden Slottet

Royal Taste

Restaurant Royal Style

Ninos Pizza

Rib House

Roberto's 51

Jensens Bøfhus

Big Mamma Gastronomia

Café Valentin

Patats Kebab & Grill

Gonzales Cantina

Unkai

Piccola Italia Pizzaria 3400

Montalbano

Tô Tô Kitchen

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Red Cross Op Shop

Tingstedet

Boutique Munck

HL Mode Hillerød

Holm Hillerød

Frk. Fie

Lumi Op Shop

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Men's Shop

Idé nyt

Jan Ehlers

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