Helsingør Cemetery
Historic burial ground where 16th-century roots meet artistic legacy in Denmark's literary heartland.
Helsingør Cemetery is a historic burial ground in the heart of Denmark's most famous literary town, founded in the second half of the 16th century as a burial place for the poor before becoming the city's principal cemetery in the 1820s. Located adjacent to the ferry terminal and close to the medieval town center, it serves as both a peaceful green space and a repository of local history, featuring notable monuments including sculptor Rudolph Tegner's bronze family memorial.
A brief summary to Elsinore Cemetery
- Møllebakken 5, Helsingør, 3000, DK
- +4549210589
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekday morning hours (9:00 AM–1:00 PM) when the cemetery is officially open and crowds are minimal, allowing for peaceful exploration of monuments and sculptures.
- Seek out Rudolph Tegner's bronze family memorial, one of Denmark's finest sculptural works, located within the grounds—a masterpiece of late 19th-century commemorative art.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions: St. Olai's Church (550 meters east), St. Mary's Church with its medieval Carmelite Monastery (nearby), and Helsingør's historic town center with Renaissance architecture.
- Bring a camera for architectural and sculptural photography; the mature trees and historic monuments create compelling compositions, especially during soft morning or late afternoon light.
- Stop at the nearby Helsingør Tourist Information (Kulturværftet, Allegade 2) to obtain detailed maps and historical context about the cemetery and town before or after your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Train from Copenhagen
Direct regional trains depart Copenhagen Central Station (København H) to Helsingør Station approximately every 20 minutes. Journey time is 45–50 minutes. From Helsingør Station (620 meters southeast of the cemetery), follow signs toward the town center and harbor; the cemetery entrance is at Møllebakken 5, a 10–12 minute walk through the historic town streets. Train tickets cost approximately 85–110 DKK (11–15 EUR) for a single journey.
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Bus from Copenhagen
Regional bus services operate from Copenhagen to Helsingør, with journey times of 60–75 minutes depending on route and stops. Buses arrive at Helsingør Bus Terminal, immediately adjacent to the cemetery (less than 100 meters). Fares range from 70–95 DKK (9–13 EUR). Bus frequency varies seasonally but typically runs every 30–60 minutes during daytime hours.
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Car from Copenhagen
Drive north from Copenhagen via the E47 motorway toward Helsingør, approximately 45 kilometers. Journey time is 45–60 minutes depending on traffic. The cemetery is located at Møllebakken 5 in central Helsingør. Limited street parking is available nearby; the Kulturværftet (Culture Yard) parking facility is approximately 200 meters away. Parking fees typically range from 30–50 DKK (4–7 EUR) per hour.
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Bicycle from Helsingør Town Center
If already in Helsingør, the cemetery is easily reached by bicycle or on foot from the town center. The flat terrain and well-maintained cycle paths make cycling an ideal option. From Kronborg Castle or the harbor area, the journey takes 5–10 minutes by bicycle. Bike rentals are available throughout Helsingør at rates of approximately 80–150 DKK (11–20 EUR) per day.
Elsinore Cemetery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Elsinore Cemetery
A Cemetery Born from Necessity, Evolved into Heritage
Helsingør Cemetery emerged in the second half of the 16th century, initially serving a practical purpose as a burial ground for the poor during a period when Helsingør was rapidly expanding as a prosperous trading port. The Sound Dues—tolls collected from ships passing through the Øresund Strait—had transformed the town into one of Northern Europe's wealthiest settlements, yet not all residents could afford private burial grounds. By the 1820s, as the cemetery's grounds expanded and its significance grew, it was formally designated as the city's principal cemetery, a role it has maintained for nearly two centuries.Artistic Legacy and Notable Monuments
The cemetery is home to some of Denmark's most significant sculptural works, most notably the bronze family memorial created by renowned sculptor Rudolph Tegner for his mother, Signe Tegner, who died in 1899. This striking monument exemplifies the artistic ambitions of late 19th-century Danish commemorative sculpture. The Tegner family is represented in multiple locations throughout the grounds, making the cemetery an open-air gallery of Nordic artistic achievement. Beyond the Tegner monuments, the cemetery contains numerous gravestones and memorials spanning centuries, each telling stories of Helsingør's maritime merchants, craftspeople, and civic leaders.Setting Within Medieval Helsingør
The cemetery occupies a central location within Helsingør's historic fabric, positioned immediately adjacent to the ferry terminal and bus station that connect the town to Sweden across the Øresund Strait. This proximity to modern transport infrastructure contrasts sharply with the cemetery's timeless character, creating a unique intersection of contemporary travel and historical reflection. The surrounding area is dominated by the town's medieval architecture—narrow cobblestone streets, colorful Renaissance townhouses, and Gothic stone buildings that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. St. Olai's Church, one of Denmark's most significant religious buildings, stands approximately 550 meters to the east, while the town center's pedestrian streets lie within easy walking distance.Tranquility Amid Urban Activity
Despite its central location, the cemetery provides a serene refuge from the bustle of Helsingør's harbor district and tourist attractions. The grounds are planted with mature trees and vegetation that create natural corridors and quiet spaces for reflection. Visitors often find themselves alone or in small groups, even during peak tourist seasons, as the cemetery remains primarily a place of local significance rather than a major tourist destination. The peaceful atmosphere is enhanced by the absence of commercial activity—no shops, cafés, or entertainment venues intrude upon the grounds, preserving the contemplative character essential to a burial place.Connection to Hamlet and Literary Tourism
While Helsingør is internationally famous as the setting for Shakespeare's Hamlet and home to Kronborg Castle (the inspiration for Elsinore Castle), the cemetery itself holds a particular fascination for literary enthusiasts. Though Hamlet is a fictional character, the cemetery has become a point of pilgrimage for Shakespeare scholars and fans seeking to connect with the town's literary heritage. This intersection of fact and fiction—real graves and monuments alongside the imagined tomb of a literary prince—adds a layer of cultural significance that extends beyond conventional cemetery tourism.Practical Access and Contemporary Use
The cemetery remains an active burial ground serving the parishes of St. Olai, St. Mary, Vestervang, and Sthen. It is accessible during designated hours (Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM), allowing visitors to explore the grounds and pay respects to family members or historical figures. The location at Møllebakken 5 places it within the town's walkable core, making it accessible to those exploring Helsingør's medieval streets and historic monuments. The cemetery's integration into the town's daily life—as both a place of remembrance and a historical landmark—reflects its enduring importance to Helsingør's identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Elsinore Cemetery
0.0 km
Historic burial ground where 16th-century roots meet artistic legacy in Denmark's literary heartland.
'Time of the shipyard' mural
0.5 km
A hyper-realistic tribute to Helsingør's legendary shipyard, painted by American master Garin Baker.
'The Middle Ages and the Sound Dues' mural
0.6 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.
Helsingør harbour
0.7 km
Where maritime heritage meets Shakespeare's legacy at Denmark's gateway to Sweden.
Odd Fellow Logerne Helsingør
0.7 km
A dynamic hub for contemporary and experimental art in the heart of Roskilde, showcasing thought-provoking exhibitions and interactive creative experiences.
Helsingor
0.7 km
Dynamic exhibitions, daring performances, and boundary-pushing installations in Roskilde’s historic royal palace—discover Denmark’s vibrant contemporary art scene.
Heracles and the Hydra
1.0 km
Mythological bronze warrior frozen in eternal combat on Helsingør's historic waterfront.
Kronborg Castle Church
1.1 km
Renaissance sanctuary that miraculously survived fire, preserving royal religious heritage within Hamlet's legendary castle.
Helsingborg City Hall
5.6 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.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
8.4 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.
Hornbæk Batteri
9.9 km
WWII coastal fortress commanding the Øresund strait from Denmark's dramatic northern cliffs.
Hornbaek beach
11.4 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.
Observationsvärn nr 741
12.1 km
Explore the historical significance and scenic beauty of Observationsvärn nr 741 in Viken, a captivating landmark steeped in military history and stunning views.
Falkonergården
12.6 km
Explore the enchanting Falkonergården Zoo in Fredensborg, a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families seeking adventure in nature.
Esrum Kloster & Møllegård
14.1 km
Discover the captivating history and serene beauty of Esrum Kloster & Møllegård, a former Cistercian monastery nestled in the heart of North Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Reberbaneparken
0.3 km
Waterfront park hosting seasonal events and cultural performances in historic Helsingør.
Erik af Pommerns Mindebrønd
0.4 km
Compact yet grand, this memorial fountain on Axeltorv turns a busy Helsingør square into a vivid snapshot of royal power, maritime trade and urban ambition.
i Helsingør
0.4 km
Compact tourist information hub on historic Stjernegade, perfectly placed to plan your exploration of Helsingør’s old town, harbour culture sites and North Zealand.
Arte callejero
0.5 km
Industrial-era Helsingør splashed across a gable wall: a bold shipyard mural that fuses street art style with the town’s maritime past on Allegade 7B.
'The maritime history' mural
0.5 km
A harbour gable transformed into a sweeping, collage-like tribute to 300 years of Danish seafaring, anchoring Helsingør’s shipyard era in vivid colour and form.
Dancer's fountain
0.5 km
A delicate bronze trio of Royal Danish Ballet dancers, Danserindebrønden is a quiet green-corner fountain where Helsingør’s everyday life meets timeless grace.
St. Mary's Church
0.5 km
Historic public square at the heart of Roskilde, home to markets, festivals, and community life, framed by centuries-old buildings and vibrant Danish tradition.
History of the churches
0.6 km
A storytelling gable in Helsingør’s old town, this mural compresses centuries of church history into a single vivid scene between two medieval sanctuaries.
SOUL OF THE WALLS
0.6 km
Immersive bronze sculpture depicting Greek mythology at the gates of Kronborg Castle, offering a unique photo spot and cultural layer to Helsingør’s historic landscape.
Kongens Have Helsingør
0.6 km
Historic royal gardens spilling down towards the Øresund, where formal lawns, sea views and Marienlyst Castle create Helsingør’s most quietly elegant green escape.
Elsinore Public Museums
0.6 km
Three interconnected museums preserving 600 years of Elsinore's maritime, commercial, and industrial heritage in Denmark's historic city center.
Saint Olai Church
0.6 km
Discover Saint Olai Church, Helsingør's majestic cathedral, where centuries of Danish history and Gothic elegance meet amid soaring vaults and maritime heritage.
Øresund Aquarium
0.6 km
Intimate saltwater aquarium on the Helsingør waterfront, offering hands-on touch pools, a harbor Water Laboratory and sea safaris focused on Øresund’s rich marine life.
Gl.Færgestræde
0.7 km
Iconic bronze sculpture of Heracles battling the Hydra, set beside Kronborg Castle, connecting ancient mythology with Helsingør’s dramatic seaside history.
Fyrskibet nr. XVII
0.7 km
A 19th-century Danish lightship turned floating monument, Fyrskibet nr. XVII “Gedser Rev” brings Helsingør’s maritime and Cold War history vividly to life on the harbor.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant OE
0.3 km
Modern Asian cooking with a Nordic touch in the heart of Helsingør’s old town, mixing fragrant Thai flavors, cozy design and an intimate, relaxed dining room.
Café Chaplin
0.3 km
Cozy, Chaplin‑themed café in Helsingør’s old town, serving hearty brunches and relaxed daytime meals in a warm, unpretentious neighbourhood setting.
Chums Vinbar & Bistro, Helsingør
0.3 km
Cosy wine bar and bistro in Helsingør’s old streets, known for baked cheeses, tarte flambée and well-chosen European wines in an intimate, candlelit setting.
Restaurant MOS
0.3 km
Fine-dining Nordic cuisine in an intimate Helsingør setting with gastronomic ambitions and artistic presentation.
Bao Takeaway
0.3 km
Fast, flavourful Asian takeaway in the heart of Helsingør’s old town, serving budget-friendly Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese-style comfort food for easy evenings.
Gæstgivergården
0.4 km
Cosy Helsingør gastropub serving traditional Danish comfort food, a changing daily dish and relaxed drinks in a central old‑town setting.
Restaurant Dansk
0.4 km
Cosy, low-key spot in Helsingør’s old town serving straightforward Danish comfort food in a lived‑in, neighbourhood setting.
joud alsham
0.4 km
Unpretentious Syrian shawarma, falafel and grills served with Levantine warmth on a cozy corner of Helsingør’s historic Torvegade.
Axelbar
0.4 km
Cozy brasserie-bar in Helsingør’s historic centre, serving generous comfort dishes, brunch and drinks in a relaxed, grown-up atmosphere close to the harbour.
Om Indian
0.4 km
Authentic Indian home cooking with family recipes, open kitchen views, and genuine hospitality in cozy Helsingør.
Sachi Sushi
0.4 km
Cozy Japanese fusion spot in Helsingør’s old town, serving colorful sushi rolls, generous combo menus and convenient takeaway from a central Stjernegade address.
Martinellis
0.4 km
Neighbourhood-style Italian deli and pizzeria in central Helsingør, serving crisp-based pizzas, classic pasta and hearty sandwiches in a relaxed, takeaway-friendly setting.
The Eatery of Jan & Christian
0.4 km
Contemporary Danish cooking in a welcoming neighbourhood setting on Helsingør's central street.
Restaurant Torvet
0.4 km
Casual, family-friendly dining in the heart of Helsingør, serving classic comfort dishes and café staples just steps from the town’s historic streets.
Café Olai
0.4 km
Traditional Danish smørrebrød and hearty comfort food served with true Helsingør hygge in a snug, family-run restaurant on atmospheric Sct Olai Gade.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Danmission Op Shop
0.2 km
Ethical treasure-hunting in Helsingør’s old town, where ever-changing second-hand finds support Danmission’s humanitarian work far beyond Denmark.
Butik Chaplin
0.4 km
A cosy Helsingør boutique brimming with handmade jewelry, retro interiors and knitwear, where every carefully chosen piece tells a small, colourful story.
Krystallen
0.4 km
Helsingør's premier crystal and mineral shop with expertly curated specimens and atmospheric presentation.
Normal
0.4 km
Smart, budgetvenligt pitstop i Helsingør Bycenter, hvor du hurtigt fylder kurven med beauty, rengøring og snacks til hverdagen og weekendturen.
Intersport Helsingør
0.4 km
Centrally located in Helsingør Bycenter, this locally run Intersport blends big-brand sports gear with practical advice for active days in town, forest and along the Øresund.
HL Mode A/S
0.5 km
Contemporary Danish fashion retailer offering curated brands and personalized styling in Helsingør's vibrant shopping district.
Levende Lys
0.5 km
A cosy, colour-filled fashion and lifestyle boutique in the heart of Helsingør, blending contemporary women’s clothing with playful home décor and gift ideas.
Jutebar Denmark ApS
0.5 km
Small Helsingør boutique specialising in stylish, sustainable jute bags and gifts, blending Scandinavian design sensibility with everyday practicality.
Happy Gifts & Souvenirs
0.5 km
Compact, cheerful and central, Happy Gifts & Souvenirs is Helsingør’s easy stop for Danish-themed keepsakes and Kronborg-inspired mementos after a day of exploring.
Dark Blue
0.5 km
Independent Helsingør skate and surf hub blending quality boards, cold‑water gear and streetwear in a compact, characterful old‑town shop.
Østens Perle
0.5 km
Colourful Indian-inspired gift and handicraft shop in historic Helsingør, filled with hand-picked textiles, spiritual objects and cosy home décor since 2001.
Ophelia
0.5 km
Curated Scandinavian boutique in historic Helsingør, where literary heritage meets contemporary design.
Ide Nyt
0.5 km
A contemporary women’s fashion boutique on lively Bjergegade, Ide Nyt blends Scandinavian style, quality brands and a calm atmosphere in Helsingør’s historic heart.
Imerco
0.5 km
Compact Scandinavian home store on Helsingør’s main street, packed with kitchenware, tableware and cosy design gifts for practical living and stylish souvenirs.
ONLY
0.5 km
Central Helsingør outpost of Danish fashion brand ONLY, mixing trend-led denim, dresses and everyday essentials with plus-size and sports-inspired womenswear.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Axelhus Udeservering
0.4 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.
Hold-An
0.4 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.
Axelhus
0.4 km
Casual bodega and burger bar in Helsingør's old town, open late on weekends with beer and Danish comfort food.
Pitten Sport Bar
0.4 km
Straightforward sports, cold beer and local Helsingør character in a relaxed neighbourhood bar just a short stroll from the harbour and historic centre.
Helsingør Musikteater
0.5 km
Historic theatre and bar hosting live concerts, exhibitions, and dinner events in central Elsinore.
Banana joe
0.5 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.
Head/Foam
0.6 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.
Holger
0.6 km
Cozy cellar bodega on Helsingør’s Stengade, pouring inexpensive beers and spirits, with live music nights and a laid-back local crowd deep into the night.
Strandborg
0.6 km
Waterfront bar and restaurant where Helsingør's harbor views meet casual Nordic dining and evening social scene.
Joker Bar
1.0 km
Relaxed Danish bar offering casual drinks and friendly conversation in historic Helsingør.
12`er Pubben
1.1 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
1.1 km
Unpretentious neighbourhood bar in Helsingør offering classic Danish bodega atmosphere, simple drinks and a relaxed glimpse into everyday local life.
Kardusen
2.8 km
Casual wine bar in central Helsingør offering relaxed evenings and accessible pricing.
Oddies Beach Bar
17.5 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.
Jernstangen
22.0 km
Old-school Hillerød pub opposite the station, with billiards, darts, dice games and live music nights in a laid‑back, locals-first atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Retro
0.5 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
0.6 km
Helsingør's premier weekend nightclub with craft cocktails and high-energy dancing until dawn.
Walther's grillkylling og svuppeklub
4.2 km
Intimate neighborhood nightclub in Helsingør with loud music, simple drinks, and a playful local vibe behind an unassuming facade on Rødegårdsvej.
Socialz
22.3 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
37.2 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.
Afrobeat Palace Nightclub
37.7 km
Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
RUST Natklub
38.5 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
38.7 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
Culture Box
39.0 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Falafelberg
39.2 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
Mini Bar
39.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Den Dansende Viking
39.5 km
High-energy suburban nightclub in Egedal Centret, serving packed dance floors, late-night DJ sets and budget-friendly drinks for party-focused weekends.
Mirage
39.6 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
39.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Moon Club
39.6 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
