Heracles and the Hydra: Mythic Sculpture by Kronborg
Striking mythological sculpture facing Kronborg Castle, blending Greek legend with Helsingør’s historic waterfront for a memorable photo and storytelling stop.
Set against the backdrop of Helsingør’s iconic Kronborg Castle, the ‘Heracles and the Hydra’ sculpture invites visitors into a vivid tableau from Greek mythology. This striking bronze work, located at Kronborgvej 5, depicts the legendary hero Heracles locked in combat with the multi-headed Hydra, symbolizing the eternal struggle between courage and chaos. Its waterfront position, open access, and dramatic artistry make it a compelling stop for photo opportunities and a moment of reflection amid the city’s historical landscape.
A brief summary to Heracles and the Hydra
- Kronborgvej 5, Helsingør, 3000, DK
Local tips
- Visit during quieter morning or late afternoon hours for unobstructed photos with the castle in the background.
- Combine your visit with a stroll around Kronborg’s grounds for a rich blend of art, history, and sea views.
- Bring children along—many enjoy the dramatic poses and the fantastical story behind the scene.
Getting There
-
Walking
From Helsingør’s central station or main square, it’s a pleasant 10–15-minute walk toward the waterfront, with Kronborg Castle’s towers visible as your landmark most of the way. The sculpture stands on the promenade leading to the castle entrance, making it easy to spot beside the flow of visitors. The route is largely flat and stroller accessible; there are no entrance barriers or fees.
-
Taxi
A short taxi ride from Helsingør’s center takes 5–8 minutes, dropping you just beyond the main castle parking area. Expect fares of DKK 80–120, depending on traffic. Plenty of space is available for drop-off, but parking can be limited during summer weekends.
-
Public Transport
Local buses connect the central station to the Kronborg area in 6–10 minutes; single adult tickets are typically DKK 24–30. From the bus stop near the castle, the sculpture is in clear view along the pedestrian approach—no additional fees or passes required.
Discover more about Heracles and the Hydra
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Heracles and the Hydra
0.0 km
Striking mythological sculpture facing Kronborg Castle, blending Greek legend with Helsingør’s historic waterfront for a memorable photo and storytelling stop.
Odd Fellow Logerne Helsingør
0.3 km
A dynamic hub for contemporary and experimental art in the heart of Roskilde, showcasing thought-provoking exhibitions and interactive creative experiences.
Helsingor Statshavn
0.3 km
Experience avant-garde art in dynamic spaces with Roskilde's nomadic Museum of Contemporary Art.
Saint Olaf's Church
0.4 km
Experience the artistic and cultural heart of Roskilde at Hestebrønden, a historic fountain nestled in the vibrant Hestetorvet square.
'The Middle Ages and the Sound Dues' mural
0.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Brillesøerne, Esbjerg's hidden nature preserve with picturesque lakes and diverse wildlife.
Helsingor
0.4 km
Dynamic exhibitions, daring performances, and boundary-pushing installations in Roskilde’s historic royal palace—discover Denmark’s vibrant contemporary art scene.
Kronborg Castle Church
0.4 km
Renaissance-era chapel within Kronborg Castle, celebrated for its ornate woodwork, unique historical preservation, and role in Helsingør’s royal and theatrical heritage.
Helsingør harbour
0.4 km
Brillesøerne offers a tranquil nature retreat with interconnected lakes, scenic footpaths, and abundant wildlife—an oasis for relaxation and outdoor exploration in Esbjerg.
Elsinore Public Museums
0.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Brillesøerne, Esbjerg's hidden natural sanctuary.
Kronborg Slot
0.5 km
Explore Kronborg Castle, the iconic Renaissance fortress and UNESCO site that inspired Shakespeare's 'Hamlet.'
'The maritime history' mural
0.6 km
Explore Esbjerg's 27-meter mosaic mural celebrating the UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea's biodiversity.
Elsinore Cemetery
1.0 km
Hestebrønden in Roskilde blends history and everyday life, recalling horse markets gone by while serving as a modern meeting point at the city’s vibrant core.
Danhostel Helsingør
2.0 km
Explore Roskilde’s Museum of Contemporary Art – a leading destination for experimental exhibitions, sound installations, and innovative performances in Denmark.
Helsingborg City Hall
4.7 km
Ledreborg Park combines regal Baroque landscaping with sweeping views, tranquil woodland walks, and a rich sense of Danish history near Roskilde.
Observationsvärn nr 741
12.5 km
Explore the historical significance and scenic beauty of Observationsvärn nr 741 in Viken, a captivating landmark steeped in military history and stunning views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wibroe Plads
0.3 km
Discover the historic ruins and medicinal gardens of Æbelholt Kloster, Scandinavia's largest Augustinian monastery.
Skibsklarerergaarden
0.3 km
Explore the tranquil, atmospheric ruins of Søborg Castle in North Zealand—a medieval stronghold steeped in royal intrigue, legendary escapes, and centuries-old history.
Memorial stone for fallen Helsingorans
0.3 km
Experience authentic Danish rural life at Flynderupgård Museum, a living history farm near Helsingør, featuring period gardens, heritage livestock, and hands-on cultural exhibits.
Gl.Færgestræde
0.4 km
Iconic bronze sculpture of Heracles battling the Hydra, set beside Kronborg Castle, connecting ancient mythology with Helsingør’s dramatic seaside history.
Saint Olai Church
0.4 km
Experience world-class concerts in Copenhagen’s iconic DR Koncerthuset, where cutting-edge design meets masterful acoustics in the heart of Ørestad.
Kronborg beach
0.4 km
Experience living Danish rural history at Flynderupgård Museum, where traditional farm life, gardens, animals, and immersive exhibits await just outside Helsingør.
SOUL OF THE WALLS
0.4 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.
History of the churches
0.4 km
Historic royal hunting forest with a star-shaped grid, diverse wildlife, cycling and hiking trails, and UNESCO World Heritage significance near Hillerød.
Holger Danske castillo copado
0.4 km
Explore Denmark's maritime and engine heritage at Maskinrummet in Skagen.
The Culture Yard
0.4 km
Explore Slottsträdgården, Malmö’s serene castle garden—an eco-friendly oasis of themed flowerbeds, canals, and heritage orchards beside historic Malmöhus Castle.
St. Mary's Church
0.4 km
Dive into Denmark’s maritime past at Helsingør’s award-winning, architectural wonder, blending cutting-edge design with immersive seafaring history and hands-on exhibits.
Kronborg Castle
0.5 km
Explore Kronborg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Helsingør where royal history, maritime power, and Shakespearean legend meet at the gateway to the Baltic.
Kronborg Lighthouse
0.5 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.
M/S Maritime Museum
0.5 km
Dive into Denmark’s rich maritime past at this spectacular, award-winning museum nestled beneath the iconic Kronborg Castle in Helsingør, minutes from the sea.
Dancer's fountain
0.6 km
Experience Denmark's falconry heritage through live demonstrations and educational insights at Falkonergården in Fredensborg.
Essential places to dine
Ofelia Bar
0.3 km
Stylish tapas bar and cocktail lounge offering inventive bites, curated drinks, and lively atmosphere—an essential stop for food and nightlife lovers in central Helsingør.
Borgerkroen
0.4 km
Experience genuine Danish coziness and traditional cuisine at Borgerkroen, an inviting local bodega and restaurant in the heart of historic Helsingør.
Spisehuset i Kulturværftet
0.4 km
Experience the culinary arts at Spisehuset i Kulturværftet in Helsingør—where family-friendly dining meets health-conscious cuisine.
Jellyfish
0.5 km
Jellyfish offers inventive, locally inspired Nordic cuisine in Helsingør’s vibrant old town, blending fresh Danish ingredients, creative plating, and a cozy-modern setting.
The Copenhagener
0.5 km
A lively and affordable beer garden in Helsingør’s historic center, The Copenhagener offers classic Danish comfort food, local beers, and an inviting community vibe.
Rådmand Davids Hus
0.5 km
Experience Helsingør’s past and present at Rådmand Davids Hus, a beloved café-restaurant blending historic charm, Danish fare, and a welcoming courtyard atmosphere.
San Remo
0.5 km
Experience the culinary delights of San Remo in Helsingør – where local flavors meet international cuisine in a cozy setting.
San Rock Restaurant & Grillbar
0.5 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine in the heart of Helsingør at San Rock Restaurant & Grillbar.
HEY DARLING - Street Kitchen
0.5 km
Customize your perfect meatball dish at Helsingør's vibrant HEY DARLING - Street Kitchen, located within the bustling Elsinore Street Food market.
Appetit
0.5 km
A vibrant Danish bistro in Helsingør’s old town, Appetit crafts modern Nordic small plates in a stylish, relaxed setting close to top local attractions.
Restaurant Torvet
0.6 km
Discover Restaurant Torvet: A family-friendly gem in Helsingør serving fresh local dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Værftets Madmarked
0.6 km
Experience diverse culinary delights at Værftets Madmarked – where local flavors meet international cuisine in Helsingør's vibrant food market.
Rib House
0.6 km
Family-friendly steakhouse in Helsingør’s old town, serving classic grilled ribs, steaks, and burgers in a warm, American-Danish setting close to the city’s top sights.
Sachi Sushi
0.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Sachi Sushi in Helsingør - where every bite tells a story.
Café Olai
0.6 km
Historic brasserie in Helsingør’s beautifully preserved old town, serving Danish classics, smørrebrød, and French-inspired dishes in a welcoming, timbered setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Helsingør Vinhandel
0.4 km
Discover a world of fine wines at Helsingør Vinhandel, where quality meets passion in the heart of Helsingør.
Ide Nyt
0.5 km
Discover authentic Danish crafts and souvenirs at Ide Nyt, a charming boutique in Helsingør's historic district.
Vandkanten Ilse Jacobsen Outlet
0.5 km
Experience Danish design at Vandkanten Ilse Jacobsen Outlet in Helsingør, offering stylish apparel and accessories at attractive outlet prices.
Mercuri
0.7 km
Discover Mercuri: Helsingør's Premier Boutique for Scandinavian Fashion and Local Craftsmanship
SlotsArkaderne
23.2 km
Modern shopping center in the heart of Hillerød, featuring 60+ stores, eateries, and events just steps from Frederiksborg Castle and the scenic city center.
Red Cross Op Shop
37.1 km
A vibrant Østerbro thrift store where sustainable shopping, Danish design, and community spirit support Red Cross humanitarian work.
Nørrebrogade
38.2 km
Nørrebrogade in Nørrebro embodies multicultural Copenhagen—a bustling boulevard of global eats, indie shops, street art, and local vibrance at the city’s creative edge.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
38.3 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and timeless fashion in the heart of Nørrebro’s creative district at Perfectly Worn Vintage, Copenhagen’s haven for unique style.
Jægersborggade
38.4 km
Discover Copenhagen’s Jægersborggade: a vibrant, creative street in Nørrebro packed with innovative eateries, hip boutiques, and local character.
Butik Bungalow
38.7 km
Colorful Danish-Indian design shop in Nørrebro offering hand-printed homeware, unique gifts, and stylish paper goods in a cozy, creative boutique setting.
PRAG Nørrebro
38.7 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
McKorman
38.8 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
TorvehallerneKBH
39.2 km
A vibrant marketplace in the heart of Copenhagen, TorvehallerneKBH blends Danish culinary tradition with global flavors across over 60 food and drink stalls.
The Wilde Shop
39.3 km
A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
39.4 km
Henrik Vibskov Boutique: Explore boundary-pushing Danish design and avant-garde fashion in a gallery-inspired setting in central Copenhagen.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Holger
0.4 km
Traditional Danish bodega-style bar in Helsingør’s historic district, offering affordable drinks, classic pub games, and an inviting local vibe just steps from Kronborg Castle.
Strejf
0.4 km
Stylish Nordic and international dining in Helsingør’s central square, featuring seasonal cuisine, fine wines, and a welcoming cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Axelhus
0.5 km
Classic Danish bar in central Helsingør, Axelhus is renowned for its unpretentious ambience, friendly locals, low prices and regular live music events.
Axelhus Udeservering
0.6 km
Experience Danish hospitality at Axelhus Udeservering, a cozy bar in Helsingør offering a curated selection of drinks and vibrant outdoor seating.
Head/Foam
0.8 km
Vibrant modern bar in Helsingør offering craft beers, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere near Kronborg Castle and the historic waterfront.
Oddies Beach Bar
17.6 km
Experience the charm of Oddies Beach Bar, a tropical-inspired retreat on Rungsted Strand offering delightful refreshments and vibrant summer events.
Cafe Vivaldi
22.9 km
Cafe Vivaldi in Hillerød is a beloved local gathering place offering hearty fare, all-day brunch, and vibrant city-center views near Frederiksborg Castle.
Crane Brothers
22.9 km
Experience Hillerød's vibrant nightlife at Crane Brothers, a bar renowned for its eclectic decor and inventive cocktails.
Torvets Café og Vinbar
23.0 km
Elegant brasserie and wine bar on Hillerød’s main square, renowned for its Scandinavian flavor, curated wines, and inviting local atmosphere.
Café Valentin
23.1 km
A buzzing café in Hillerød’s historic center, Valentin is known for all-day brunch, inventive burgers, and a stylish bar with castle views beside the lake.
Middelgrundsfortet
35.1 km
A spectacular sea fortress island with sweeping Øresund views, blending Danish naval history, adventure stays, and immersive exploration just off Copenhagen’s coast.
Gotland - Café & Vinbar
35.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.
Kompasset Ølbar
36.3 km
Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.
Bubbles Bar
36.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bubbles Bar, Copenhagen's chic nightlife destination for tourists and locals alike.
Tap10
36.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Tap10, a cozy bar in Østerbro offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.