Slottshagen Park and Kärnan Tower, Helsingborg

A historic hilltop park wrapped around Kärnan tower, blending roses, rare trees, playgrounds and open-air concerts with sweeping views over the Öresund.

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Slottshagen

Slottshagen is Helsingborg’s classic hilltop park, wrapped around the medieval Kärnan tower and gazing out over the Öresund towards Denmark. Designed in the early 1900s as an English-style landscape garden, it blends sweeping lawns, winding paths and rare trees with a romantic rose garden, a large outdoor stage and one of Sweden’s most imaginative medieval-themed playgrounds.

A brief summary to Slottshagen

Stortorget 16, Helsingborg, 252 23, SE
+4642105000
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

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

Time your visit for late afternoon or early evening on a clear day to enjoy golden light over the Öresund and memorable sunset views towards Denmark.
Seek out the Rosenträdgården in the northeastern part of the park for a quieter atmosphere, structured hedges and some of the best benches with a view.
If visiting with children, plan extra time at the Medeltidslekan playground, which includes a mini Kärnan tower and accessible equipment for different abilities.
Bring a light jacket: the hilltop position catches breezes from the strait, which can feel cool even on bright, sunny days.
Check upcoming summer event schedules in advance if you prefer either the quiet side of the park or the lively concert atmosphere around Grytan.

Getting There

On foot from central Helsingborg

From Helsingborg Central Station and the harbor area, allow 10–15 minutes to walk up to Slottshagen. The route involves a noticeable elevation gain, with stairs and sloping paths as you ascend from the waterfront to the ridge, so it may be challenging for some visitors with limited mobility. Surfaces are a mix of paved streets and park paths, and the walk is suitable in most weather conditions with sturdy footwear.
Local bus within Helsingborg

Several city bus lines stop near Stortorget and the surrounding streets below Slottshagen, typically within a 5–10 minute ride from other central districts. A single adult ticket within Helsingborg generally costs around 25–35 SEK when bought via app or ticket machine, and services run frequently during the day with reduced frequency in late evenings and on weekends. From the bus stops, expect a further 5–10 minute uphill walk through the city streets to reach the park edge.
Taxi from central areas

A taxi from most central Helsingborg locations to the vicinity of Slottshagen usually takes about 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic. Typical daytime fares within the inner city range from roughly 120–200 SEK for a standard car, with supplements at night and on weekends. Taxis can drop passengers close to the park entrances, which is helpful for those avoiding the steep walk, though vehicle access inside the park itself is restricted.
Driving within Helsingborg

If arriving by car from elsewhere in Helsingborg or the surrounding region, plan 10–20 minutes of city driving to reach central streets near Slottshagen, depending on starting point and traffic. Public parking is available in nearby areas such as around Drottning Margaretas gata and other central car parks, typically paid by the hour with rates in the range of 15–30 SEK per hour. Spaces can be limited at busy times, and from the parking areas you will still need to walk uphill 5–10 minutes to enter the park.

Slottshagen location weather suitability

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Discover more about Slottshagen

Hilltop green heart of historic Helsingborg

Slottshagen crowns the ridge above central Helsingborg, a broad swath of lawns and trees wrapped around the solitary medieval tower of Kärnan. From the edge of the park the ground drops steeply to Stortorget and the harbor, giving panoramic views across the Öresund strait to the Danish coast. This elevated setting has anchored the city’s story since at least Viking times, when the first fortifications and settlement clustered around the castle on this height. Today, the earthworks and traces of former walls are softened by grass and flowerbeds, but you still sense the strategic perch that once controlled one of northern Europe’s busiest sea lanes. The contrast between the rugged stone keep and the gentle, leafy parkland around it is part of Slottshagen’s distinctive appeal.

From fortress fields to a romantic city park

For centuries after the great fortress was demolished in the 1600s, this slope was used as farmland, with crops where the lawns now roll. In 1903, a major city exhibition spurred the transformation into a public park, and around 50 mature trees were planted to give instant structure. The present layout was created between 1909 and 1911 by city gardener Oskar Henrik Landsberg, who shaped Slottshagen as a turn-of-the-century English-style park. Curving paths thread through open meadows and denser plantings, inviting slow, meandering walks rather than straight-line crossings. Scattered among the more common species are unusual trees such as tulip trees, ginkgo and Siberian cork trees, reminders that this has always been a place where horticultural ambition meets everyday recreation.

Roses, statues and views over the Öresund

In the park’s northeastern corner, the Rosenträdgården offers a more intimate mood. Clipped yew hedges structure a series of rose beds, with pergolas framing carefully chosen vistas towards the sea. In summer the air here is scented and busy with bees, and it is one of the finest spots in the city for a quiet bench with a view of the harbor and ferries below. Elsewhere, art and memory are woven into the landscape. The bronze group Jakt, showing the hunting goddess Diana grasping a roe deer, adds a touch of drama among the greenery. A simple memorial plaque recalls the victims of an 18th-century plague epidemic buried in mass graves on this height, connecting the pleasant lawns with a more somber chapter in Helsingborg’s past.

A stage under open skies

At the center of Slottshagen lies Grytan, a natural bowl adapted into a large outdoor stage and audience area. The sloping ground forms a grassy amphitheater that can hold many thousands during concerts and performances. In July, a long-running summer program of music and entertainment fills the park with sound on certain evenings, turning this normally tranquil space into a festive arena. Even outside event days, Grytan’s broad steps and edges double as informal seating, popular for picnics or simply pausing with a takeaway coffee. The combination of historic setting, open sky and views makes this one of Helsingborg’s most atmospheric venues for outdoor culture.

Playful medieval echoes for children

Slottshagen has been associated with play for more than a century; a public playground has existed here since 1906. The current facility, Medeltidslekan, takes its cue from the neighboring tower, with a miniature Kärnan, wooden "village" structures and ramped walkways that invite imaginative games of knights, sieges and royal courts. The equipment includes accessible swings, ramps and adapted picnic tables, aiming to make the park fun and usable for children of different ages and abilities. For families, this corner of Slottshagen is a destination in its own right, softened by nearby trees and lawns so that adults can relax while children explore.

Practical comforts in a central oasis

Despite its sense of escape, Slottshagen is framed by the dense city: Stortorget, the neo-Gothic city hall and shopping streets lie just below the ridge. Within the park you find basic amenities, including public toilets in the southwestern part and seasonal kiosks selling ice cream, with cafés and restaurants just beyond the gates. A lift links the upper park to the square below, easing the steep transition for those who prefer not to tackle stairs. Paths vary from gently sloping gravel to steeper sections, but many routes are manageable for wheelchairs and strollers. With its mix of viewpoints, shaded corners, open lawns and cultural features, Slottshagen works equally well as a quick scenic detour, a long, lazy afternoon or a backdrop to exploring Helsingborg’s wider historic core.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Helsingborg City Hall

0.4 km

A monumental red-brick city hall and coastal gateway, where neo-Gothic towers, National Romantic detail and civic stories overlook the Øresund in central Helsingborg.

Kronborg Castle Church

4.9 km

Renaissance sanctuary that miraculously survived fire, preserving royal religious heritage within Hamlet's legendary castle.

Heracles and the Hydra

5.1 km

Mythological bronze warrior frozen in eternal combat on Helsingør's historic waterfront.

Helsingør harbour

5.4 km

Where maritime heritage meets Shakespeare's legacy at Denmark's gateway to Sweden.

Odd Fellow Logerne Helsingør

5.4 km

A dynamic hub for contemporary and experimental art in the heart of Roskilde, showcasing thought-provoking exhibitions and interactive creative experiences.

'The Middle Ages and the Sound Dues' mural

5.5 km

A vivid gable mural that turns Helsingør’s medieval tolls and ship traffic into a richly detailed open-air history lesson in the heart of the old town.

'The Middle Ages and the Sound Dues' mural

'Time of the shipyard' mural

5.5 km

A hyper-realistic tribute to Helsingør's legendary shipyard, painted by American master Garin Baker.

Helsingor

5.5 km

Dynamic exhibitions, daring performances, and boundary-pushing installations in Roskilde’s historic royal palace—discover Denmark’s vibrant contemporary art scene.

Elsinore Cemetery

6.0 km

Historic burial ground where 16th-century roots meet artistic legacy in Denmark's literary heartland.

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

13.1 km

Experience world-class modern art where architecture and nature meet in perfect harmony, offering breathtaking views and a serene escape just north of Copenhagen.

Observationsvärn nr 741

13.3 km

Explore the historical significance and scenic beauty of Observationsvärn nr 741 in Viken, a captivating landmark steeped in military history and stunning views.

Hornbæk Batteri

14.4 km

WWII coastal fortress commanding the Øresund strait from Denmark's dramatic northern cliffs.

Ven

15.1 km

Discover Ven: A Swedish island gem in the Öresund Strait, blending history, nature, and tranquility for an unforgettable escape between Sweden and Denmark, steeped in astronomical history.

Hornbaek beach

16.2 km

Discover Hornbæk Beach, the gem of the Danish Riviera, offering pristine sands, clear waters, and a charming seaside atmosphere perfect for relaxation and unforgettable summer memories.

Falkonergården

18.5 km

Explore the enchanting Falkonergården Zoo in Fredensborg, a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families seeking adventure in nature.

Unmissable attractions to see

St. Mary Church

0.3 km

Medieval brick Gothic church in Helsingborg’s old town, where centuries of Danish and Swedish history meet in a serene, light-filled Lutheran parish interior.

Öresundsparken

0.5 km

Leafy hillside park above Helsingborg with rich tree life, quiet lawns and far-reaching views across rooftops and the Öresund strait toward Denmark.

Sundstorget

0.6 km

Historic harbourfront square turned modern urban plaza, Sundstorget bridges Helsingborg’s mercantile past, underground infrastructure and open-air city life by the Öresund.

Dunkers

0.6 km

Helsingborg's waterfront beacon of contemporary art, history, and creative expression.

Tropical Beach

0.9 km

Scandinavia's unexpected tropical paradise: palm-fringed urban beach with ferry views and summer vibes.

Brewski

1.7 km

Sweden's celebrated craft brewery and taproom, home to the international Brewskival festival.

Sofiero Palace

4.7 km

Former royal summer palace above the Öresund, famed for its vast rhododendron ravines, elegant flower gardens and relaxed parkland just north of Helsingborg.

Kronborg beach

4.8 km

Renaissance castle views meet sandy shores in this tranquil Danish coastal escape.

Kronborg Lighthouse

4.9 km

Step into early 20th-century rural Denmark at Flynderupgård Museet, where historic farm buildings, gardens, and animals bring local heritage to life in Espergærde.

Kronborg Castle

4.9 km

Hamlet’s legendary Elsinore: a UNESCO‑listed Renaissance fortress where royal grandeur, sea power and Danish myth meet above the Øresund Strait.

Holger Danske castillo copado

4.9 km

The legendary sleeping warrior beneath Kronborg Castle, waiting to awaken and defend Denmark in its darkest hour.

M/S Maritime Museum

5.3 km

Award‑winning underground museum in a historic dry dock, where cutting‑edge design and interactive exhibits bring Denmark’s maritime heritage vividly to life.

The Culture Yard

5.3 km

Glittering glass sails over an old shipyard, The Culture Yard fuses award‑winning library, stages and harbourfront café with unforgettable views of Kronborg Castle.

Udsigtsplateau

5.3 km

A dramatic sculpture marking Kronborg Castle’s entrance, 'Heracles and the Hydra' merges Greek mythology with Danish heritage for an unforgettable arrival in Helsingør.

Helsingør harbor promenade

5.3 km

A breezy waterfront ribbon along the Øresund, linking Helsingør’s working harbor, cultural quarter and Kronborg Castle with open sea views and everyday local life.

Historic Danish bodega where centuries of harbor culture meet smørrebrød and live music.

Curated Scandinavian boutique in historic Helsingør, where literary heritage meets contemporary design.

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

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Retro

5.6 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.

Rustik

5.9 km

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

Walther's grillkylling og svuppeklub

10.2 km

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

Socialz

28.1 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.

SIGURD CPH

39.4 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.

Afrobeat Palace Nightclub

40.1 km

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

RUST Natklub

40.7 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

40.9 km

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

Culture Box

40.9 km

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

Mini Bar

41.4 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.

The Zoo

41.5 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.

Lusso

41.5 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.

Mirage

41.5 km

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

Arch

41.6 km

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

Falafelberg

41.6 km

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

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Slottshagen Park and Kärnan Tower, Helsingborg

A brief summary to Slottshagen

Local tips

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

Getting There

On foot from central Helsingborg

Local bus within Helsingborg

Taxi from central areas

Driving within Helsingborg

Slottshagen location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Slottshagen

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Slottshagen

Hilltop green heart of historic Helsingborg

From fortress fields to a romantic city park

Roses, statues and views over the Öresund

A stage under open skies

Playful medieval echoes for children

Practical comforts in a central oasis

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Helsingborg City Hall

Kronborg Castle Church

Heracles and the Hydra

Helsingør harbour

Odd Fellow Logerne Helsingør

'The Middle Ages and the Sound Dues' mural

'Time of the shipyard' mural

Helsingor

Elsinore Cemetery

Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

Observationsvärn nr 741

Hornbæk Batteri

Ven

Hornbaek beach

Falkonergården

Unmissable attractions to see

St. Mary Church

Öresundsparken

Sundstorget

Dunkers

Tropical Beach

Brewski

Sofiero Palace

Kronborg beach

Kronborg Lighthouse

Kronborg Castle

Holger Danske castillo copado

M/S Maritime Museum

The Culture Yard

Udsigtsplateau

Helsingør harbor promenade

Essential places to dine

M/S Café

Spisehuset i Kulturværftet

HEY DARLING - Street Kitchen

The Fish Project

Suki Ramen

Bistro Francophile

Arabi Food

Ofelia Bar

Café Kronborg

Værftets Madmarked

The black olive

Restaurant Kaj

Sundkroen

Strejf

Borgerkroen

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Souvenir shop

Butik hos Anna & Sofie

Helsingør Vinhandel

Helsingør Kaffe og Thehus ApS

Ide Nyt

Jørgensen & Co.

Levende Lys

Vandkanten Ilse Jacobsen Outlet

Østens Perle

Jutebar Denmark ApS