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The Tranquil Retreat of the Garden of the Royal Library

A serene, historic oasis nestled between Copenhagen’s iconic Royal Library buildings, offering lush gardens, sculptures, and tranquil space for relaxation just steps from the city center.

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Hidden behind the imposing Black Diamond and classical structures of Denmark’s National Library, the Garden of the Royal Library offers visitors a serene oasis steeped in history. Once part of the old naval port, this lush urban retreat surrounds an ornamental pond and is filled with seasonal blooms, classical statues, and secluded benches—a secret world where Copenhageners and travelers alike come to reflect or enjoy a peaceful break amid the city’s bustle.

A brief summary to Frederiksberg Gardens

  • Frederiksberg, 2000, DK
  • Monday 6 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-5 pm
  • Friday 6 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or later in the evening for a truly peaceful atmosphere with minimal crowds.
  • The garden’s benches offer excellent views of both classic and modern architecture—perfect for a quiet lunch or sketching session.
  • Look for the Hans Christian Andersen statue and other hidden sculptures scattered throughout the grounds.
  • Bring a book or borrow one from the neighboring Royal Library to fully embrace the literary ambiance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Hillerød, travelers can take a regional train toward Copenhagen’s main station (København H), a journey typically taking 35–50 minutes with tickets averaging 84 DKK one-way. Once in Copenhagen, the garden is a pleasant walk from the central station area, passing by Tivoli Gardens and the National Museum. From the city center hub, the garden entrance lies just behind the striking Black Diamond building, easily visible near the portside canals.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from Hillerød to Copenhagen offer a comfortable door-to-door route, taking roughly 40–60 minutes depending on traffic. Fares usually range from 650 to 900 DKK. Drop-off points near Slotsholmen make for a short walk past government buildings to the tranquil gardens.

  • Driving

    For those driving, parking in the central Copenhagen area can be challenging, especially around Slotsholmen—expect meter rates of approximately 37–55 DKK per hour. Several multi-storey public car parks are located within a brief walk of the Royal Library complex.

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Discover more about Frederiksberg Gardens

In the heart of Copenhagen, nestled quietly between monumental library buildings and historic government offices, the Garden of the Royal Library—known locally as Det Kongelige Biblioteks Have—provides a tranquil green space on Slotsholmen. Once a bustling site connected to the city’s seventeenth-century naval history, the grounds have since been transformed into a graceful public garden, ingeniously bridging centuries of Danish culture and landscape design. Arriving from bustling city arteries, visitors are welcomed by meticulously clipped hedges, towering old trees, and a stately ornamental pool at the garden's center. The garden is framed by the old red-brick Royal Library to the north and the sleek, modern Black Diamond extension to the south. Throughout late spring and summer, the lawns burst with vibrant tulips, roses, and blooming perennials, while birdsong mixes with the gentle trickle of the central fountain. Students and locals sprawl on the grass as suited professionals savor coffee or lunch in the shadow of ancient stonework. A low-key highlight is the Hans Christian Andersen sculpture, watching serenely over the water, and classical statues that nod toward Copenhagen’s literary and artistic traditions. Quiet, contemplative pockets offer a chance to read or simply unwind, while sun and shade alternate throughout the day. The garden is free to enter and thoughtfully maintained, making it a beloved—yet often overlooked—sanctuary for visitors exploring Denmark’s capital. Though small in size, the Garden of the Royal Library’s atmosphere is subtly charged with creative inspiration. It stands as an enduring testament to Copenhagen’s ability to blend living heritage, contemporary culture, and everyday relaxation, mere steps away from the city’s most iconic institutions.

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