Frederiksberg Gardens (Frederiksberg Have)
A sprawling royal park of lakes, lawns and pavilions around hilltop Frederiksberg Palace, offering relaxed picnics, canalside walks and seasonal boat rides.
Frederiksberg Gardens is one of Copenhagen’s largest and most elegant green spaces, an 18th‑century royal park wrapped around hilltop Frederiksberg Palace in the independent municipality of Frederiksberg. Laid out in romantic English landscape style, it weaves lakes, canals, sweeping lawns and shady groves together with follies such as the Chinese Pavilion and ornate bridges. Today it is a beloved oasis for slow walks, picnics and seasonal boat trips, with glimpses of elephants from the neighbouring zoo.
A brief summary to Frederiksberg Gardens
- Frederiksberg, 2000, DK
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- 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
- Aim for a morning or late‑afternoon visit in spring or summer when light is soft and the gardens feel calm; flowers at the main entrance are especially impressive in early spring.
- Bring a picnic blanket and supplies, but use the many trash bins provided—this is a cherished urban green space and keeping it clean makes a real difference.
- If you visit in the warmer months, consider a canal boat tour or rowboat hire to see Frederiksberg Palace, bridges and the Chinese Pavilion from the water.
- Families should look for the pacifier tree north of the Chinese Pavilion, a sweet Danish tradition where children hang up their dummies when they are ready to give them up.
- Combine a lap of the gardens with a walk over to neighbouring Søndermarken for a slightly wilder landscape and, if you wish, a separate visit to Copenhagen Zoo.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Metro from central Copenhagen
From central Copenhagen, take the M1 or M2 metro to Nørreport and change to line M3 or M4 toward Frederiksberg; ride to Frederiksberg or Fasanvej Station and walk about 10–15 minutes through the neighbourhood to reach the main entrances. The journey typically takes 20–30 minutes door to gate, with metros running every few minutes. A standard 2‑zone ticket costs around 20–25 DKK, and all stations and trains are step‑free, making this the most convenient option in most weather.
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Bus from the inner city
Several city bus routes link the centre with Frederiksberg; for example, frequent services along major streets toward the zoo and Frederiksberg Town Hall stop within a 5–10 minute walk of the gardens. Travel time is usually 20–35 minutes depending on traffic. A single bus ticket within the city zones costs roughly 20–25 DKK, and you board at the front and validate or buy from the driver. Buses can be crowded at rush hour, but they offer a good above‑ground view of neighbourhoods on the way.
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Bicycle within Copenhagen and Frederiksberg
For those comfortable on two wheels, cycling to Frederiksberg Gardens from central districts typically takes 15–25 minutes on dedicated bike lanes almost the entire way. The terrain is flat and there are multiple bike racks near the main entrances rather than inside the park. You can use a city bike scheme or standard rental from 100–150 DKK per day. This option is best in dry conditions and moderate winds, and riders should be confident navigating busy Danish cycling traffic and junctions.
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Taxi from central areas
Licensed taxis are easy to find in the city centre and can take you directly to the perimeter of Frederiksberg Gardens in about 10–20 minutes, depending on traffic and starting point. Typical fares fall between 120 and 220 DKK one way within central Copenhagen and Frederiksberg. This is the most straightforward choice for travellers with limited mobility or those visiting in bad weather, though cars must drop you outside the park as general vehicle access is not allowed inside the gardens.
Frederiksberg Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Hot Weather
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Frederiksberg Gardens
A royal landscape at the edge of Copenhagen
Frederiksberg Gardens spreads out as a broad swathe of green at the western edge of central Copenhagen, in the separate municipality of Frederiksberg. Conceived in the early 18th century as the palace park for Frederiksberg Palace, it was gradually reshaped into a romantic English landscape garden with curving lawns, serpentine lakes and meandering paths rather than rigid baroque geometry. Today the garden forms one of the city’s largest contiguous green areas, flowing almost seamlessly into the slightly wilder Søndermarken park across the road. From almost anywhere in the gardens your eye is drawn up to Frederiksberg Palace on its hilltop, a golden‑yellow baroque silhouette that anchors the entire composition. The palace is no longer a royal residence, but it still provides a stately backdrop and a sense of historical grandeur. The relationship between palace, water and rolling ground is what gives the gardens their distinctive character: formal yet relaxed, regal yet inviting.Palace stories, canals and a Chinese teahouse
Royal history is written into the garden’s details. At the main entrance, a statue of King Frederik VI gazes over the lawns; he was particularly fond of this park and famously enjoyed being rowed along its canals to greet citizens on shore. The network of waterways still curls through the gardens, crossed by low arched bridges that frame views of willow trees dipping into the water. One of the most eye‑catching structures is the Chinese Pavilion, built in 1799 as a royal teahouse on a small island. With its delicate ornamentation and exotic inspiration, it reflects the era’s fascination with Asian art. Scattered elsewhere are grottos, small temples and viewpoints that were added as the park shifted from baroque formality to picturesque romanticism, inviting visitors to wander and discover rather than march down straight avenues.Everyday life in a grand green oasis
Despite its royal origins, Frederiksberg Gardens feels thoroughly lived‑in and local. Wide lawns slope gently to the lakes, ideal for blankets, books and picnic baskets when the weather cooperates. Around the paths you may spot joggers and dog walkers threading between families pushing prams and friends out for a stroll. In spring the entrances are framed by carpets of crocuses and other bulbs, while summer brings dense tree canopies that cast welcome shade. One corner of the gardens borders Copenhagen Zoo, and from designated viewpoints you can sometimes catch sight of elephants moving in their landscaped enclosure just across the fence. Birdlife thrives on the lakes, where swans, ducks and herons share the water with small rental boats in season. A playground and occasional kiosks or nearby cafés make it easy to linger for hours without leaving the parkland atmosphere.Boats, traditions and hidden curiosities
From late spring to early autumn, a historic boat service rows visitors along the canals, loosely echoing the king’s favourite pastime. The round‑trip journeys are short but revealing, gliding under stone bridges and past reed beds while offering shifting perspectives on both palace and pavilions. Rowboat rentals and narrated tours are a gentle way to experience how the landscape was designed to unfold from the water. The gardens also hide small curiosities that tell quieter cultural stories. North of the Chinese Pavilion stands a venerable tree whose branches are hung with children’s pacifiers tied on colourful ribbons, part of a Danish tradition marking a toddler’s farewell to their dummy. Nearby, the ornamental grounds of the Royal Horticultural Society at the main entrance showcase carefully tended flowerbeds and rare plants, a contrast to the more naturalistic planting elsewhere in the park.Planning your visit through the seasons
Frederiksberg Gardens is a public park with free admission and is generally open from early morning until around sunset, with closing times extended later on light summer evenings and shortened in winter. That makes it equally suitable for an early‑morning walk under misty trees, a midday picnic by the water or an unhurried afternoon exploring paths between here and Søndermarken. Even on cooler days the park has appeal, with bold silhouettes of mature trees and clear views across the lakes to the palace. There are restrooms and seating areas scattered around the grounds, as well as trash bins that make it straightforward to leave no trace. Mobile reception is typically good throughout, and the mainly flat paths mean large parts of the gardens are accessible for wheelchairs and prams, though some slopes near the palace can be a little steeper. Whether you come for an hour or an entire day, the combination of open space, layered history and gentle scenery makes Frederiksberg Gardens an easy place to slow down in the middle of the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Frederiksbergmuseerne
0.4 km
Explore Frederiksberg's cultural gems: Cisternerne, Bakkehuset, STORM, and Møstings, each offering unique art and history experiences.
Storm P. Museum
0.4 km
Delve into the world of Danish humor and satirical art at the Storm P. Museum, where whimsical cartoons, eccentric inventions, and cultural history come alive in Frederiksberg.
Møstings Hus
0.4 km
Explore contemporary art in a historic neoclassical villa at Møstings Hus, Frederiksberg's cultural gem.
Frederiksberg Town Hall
0.5 km
Brick-clad beacon of Frederiksberg’s independence, this 1950s functionalist town hall blends civic power, mid‑century Danish design and views across leafy Copenhagen.
Elefantporten
0.9 km
Four monumental granite elephants carry a historic brewery tower on their backs, blending whimsy, symbolism and industrial heritage in the heart of Carlsberg Byen.
Enghaveparken
1.4 km
Historic art deco park with rose gardens, community events, family-friendly spaces, and a vibrant local atmosphere at the heart of Vesterbro, Copenhagen.
CWGC Krigsgrave, CWGC Graves
1.4 km
Scandinavia's largest cemetery: a 54-hectare landscape of history, architecture, and remembrance in Copenhagen.
Folkets Park
2.3 km
Grassroots community spirit, creative play areas, vibrant street art, and urban oasis charm in the heart of Nørrebro’s multicultural Copenhagen.
Frihedsstøtten
2.4 km
Statuesque tribute to Danish freedom: Frihedsstøtten stands as a majestic milestone marking the abolition of serfdom at the vibrant gateway to Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
Nørrebroparken - Playground
2.4 km
Vivid and multicultural, Nørrebroparken Playground is Nørrebro’s lively green heart—offering creative play, open lawns, and vibrant local community energy year-round.
Copenhagen Visitor Service
2.4 km
Central, modern orientation center offering expert advice, resources, and insider tips for exploring Copenhagen’s sights, culture, and neighborhoods.
Copenhagen Central Station
2.5 km
Historic brick-and-timber rail hub at the heart of Copenhagen, combining grand architecture, everyday convenience and instant access to the city’s main sights.
The Tube
2.5 km
Experience 17 immersive rooms of sensory adventure at The Tube in Copenhagen Central Station.
Rutschebanen
2.6 km
Iconic 1914 wooden roller coaster in Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens, offering nostalgic thrills and hands-on history amid the city’s legendary amusement park.
Nørrebrogade
2.6 km
Copenhagen's creative heartbeat: independent design, multicultural energy, and authentic Nordic cool.
Unmissable attractions to see
Frederiksberg Palace
0.3 km
Renaissance splendor, regal treasures, and royal intrigue await within Rosenborg Castle, set amid the enchanting King’s Garden in central Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Zoo
0.4 km
Historic canal in Indre By weaving past royal palaces, stately bridges, and cultural icons—offering tranquil walks and quintessential Copenhagen views.
Søndermarken
0.5 km
Former royal hunting grounds turned semi-wild city park, Søndermarken blends forested paths, meadows and an underground art world beneath Frederiksberg’s leafy streets.
Cisterns in Søndermarken
0.6 km
Discover Danish celebrity history and culture under the trees of Frederiksberg Allé, where handprints and names honor the stars of Denmark’s stage and screen.
The Hill House Museum
0.8 km
Step into a preserved Danish Golden Age home where intimate rooms, a romantic garden and literary memories of Hans Christian Andersen bring 19th‑century Frederiksberg to life.
Frederiksberg Walk of Fame
0.9 km
Explore the Frederiksberg Walk of Fame, where Denmark's cultural legends are celebrated along a historic, tree-lined avenue.
Frederiksberg Allé
1.0 km
Copenhagen’s historic royal boulevard, where linden trees, theatres and elegant facades lead from city bustle to the green calm of Frederiksberg Gardens.
Carlsberg Brewery Tours
1.2 km
Step into the original 1847 Carlsberg brewery for immersive beer history, interactive exhibits, courtyard drinks and encounters with the brewery’s iconic draught horses.
Landbohøjskolens Have
1.2 km
A 19th‑century university horticultural garden in Frederiksberg, where scientific plant collections and everyday park life blend into a calm green refuge.
Falkonerbrønden
1.3 km
A star-studded stroll in Copenhagen: the Frederiksberg Walk of Fame celebrates Danish legends along one of the city’s most iconic boulevards.
Værnedamsvej
1.5 km
Copenhagen’s “Little Paris”: a short, atmospheric street where historic food shops, French-inflected cafés and design boutiques create an intimate, everyday city buzz.
Legepladsen i Skydebanehaven
1.8 km
A colourful staffed playground tucked inside a historic walled park in Vesterbro, where giant parrots, paddling pools and lawns turn old shooting grounds into family fun.
Folkehuset Absalon
1.9 km
Copenhagen's beloved community gathering space where strangers share meals, create art, and build genuine connections.
Det Ny Teater
1.9 km
Historic Belle Époque playhouse turned musical powerhouse, Det Ny Teater blends gilded grandeur, modern stagecraft and big‑scale productions in the heart of Copenhagen.
Istedgade
2.0 km
Gritty, creative and endlessly watchable, Istedgade is Vesterbro’s main strip and Copenhagen’s classic showcase of everyday city life with an edge.
Essential places to dine
Hansens Gamle Familiehave
0.5 km
Hansens Gamle Familiehave—a historic Frederiksberg garden restaurant famed for classic Danish cuisine, family-friendly charm, and over 170 years of tradition in scenic surroundings.
Restaurant Frederiks Have
0.5 km
Frederiksberg’s cherished fine dining hub, blending Nordic tradition with modern cuisine in a welcoming, neighborhood setting—perfect for an authentic Danish gastronomic experience.
Ewalds Brasserie
0.6 km
Classic Danish-French brasserie in the heart of Frederiksberg, offering seasonal menus, a cozy atmosphere, and stunning garden views for an authentic local dining experience.
Enomania
0.6 km
Intimate Italian restaurant in Frederiksberg celebrated for expertly paired wine menus, exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, and an atmospheric, welcoming dining experience.
Café Lindevang
0.9 km
A beloved Frederiksberg institution, Café Lindevang serves up hearty Danish classics and authentic smørrebrød in cozy, vintage surroundings steeped in local charm.
Frederik the VI
1.2 km
Discover culinary delights at Frederik the VI - a vibrant restaurant and pub serving authentic Danish cuisine in Frederiksberg C.
Restaurant Polly København
1.3 km
A modern Nordic brasserie in the heart of Frederiksberg, blending Danish produce, creative cuisine, and relaxed elegance for a memorable city dining experience.
Restaurant Spuntino
1.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Restaurant Spuntino in Copenhagen - where flavors meet ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Bevi Bevi
1.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite wines at Bevi Bevi, a charming restaurant in the heart of Copenhagen.
Madklubben Vesterbro
1.7 km
A buzzing, design-forward restaurant in the heart of Vesterbro, known for great value fixed-price menus and a welcoming slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Delphine
1.9 km
Stylish Mediterranean small plates in a visually stunning Vesterbro setting.
JATAK
2.0 km
Intimate Nørrebro dining where New Nordic produce meets the bold, personal Asian flavors of chef Jonathan Tam in a calm, minimalist Michelin-starred setting.
Restaurant Radio
2.0 km
Seasonal Nordic fine dining with Michelin recognition, where great taste and genuine hospitality meet accessible excellence.
Maple Casual Dining
2.1 km
Intimate Copenhagen dinner spot on Vesterbrogade, serving polished home-style dishes, generous desserts and warm service in a cozy, modern neighborhood setting.
Cofoco
2.1 km
Cofoco in Vesterbro delights with accessible, innovative Danish and European tasting menus amid warm Scandinavian aesthetics and a true neighborhood spirit.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Royal Copenhagen - Outlet
0.5 km
Discover Danish porcelain heritage and timeless design at discounted prices in Frederiksberg’s celebrated Royal Copenhagen Outlet, close to the city’s green heart.
Frederiksberg Centret
0.9 km
Frederiksberg Centret offers a sleek, Scandinavian shopping experience with 90+ stores, cafés, and events in the chic heart of Frederiksberg, steps from the Metro.
Artikel København
1.7 km
Family-run Copenhagen atelier where timeless, unisex garments are designed, cut and sewn in an open workshop on historic Gammel Kongevej.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.7 km
Compact, colorful and full of playful Danish design, this Vesterbrogade shop turns everyday essentials, gifts and games into a fun, low-cost treasure hunt.
Funky Junky
1.9 km
Discover Vesterbro’s Funky Junky—a vibrant vintage store featuring retro furniture, unique fashion, and Danish design, perfectly reflecting Copenhagen’s creative soul.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
2.3 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.
C. G. Nordic clothing and gifts
2.4 km
A small Vesterbro boutique where Nordic clothing, cozy textiles and design-led gifts capture the understated charm of contemporary Scandinavian style.
Souvenir Gift Shop
2.5 km
Compact, central and colourful, this Vesterbrogade gift shop is a quick and easy stop for Copenhagen-themed souvenirs between Tivoli, Vesterbro and the Central Station.
PRAG Nørrebro
2.6 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
McKorman
2.6 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
Tivoli Gift Shop
2.7 km
A compact slice of Tivoli Gardens magic just outside the park gates, perfect for picking up Copenhagen souvenirs before or after your visit.
Fisketorvet Copenhagen Mall
2.7 km
Scandinavia's premier shopping destination with 120+ brands, world-class cinema, and waterfront charm.
København K
2.7 km
Hidden in a Latin Quarter courtyard, København K is a long-standing Copenhagen vintage shop packed with curated second-hand fashion, denim and quirky homeware finds.
Wonderful Souvenirs
2.8 km
Compact, colourful and central, Wonderful Souvenirs on Frederiksberggade is a one-stop Strøget shop for easy Copenhagen-themed gifts and keepsakes.
Carmen Copenhagen
2.8 km
Compact vintage treasure trove in Copenhagen’s Latin Quarter, where characterful clothes, curated racks, and cozy atmosphere turn slow browsing into a small adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Intime
0.5 km
Discover the charm of Cafe Intime, a cozy bar and cafe in Frederiksberg offering delightful drinks and a warm ambiance for every visitor.
Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar - Frederiksberg
0.8 km
Experience the craft of brewing at Bootleggers Craft Beer Bar, Frederiksberg's premier destination for beer lovers with an extensive selection and vibrant atmosphere.
Berlin Bar
0.8 km
Experience the eclectic vibe and creative mixology at Berlin Bar, the perfect spot for memorable nights in Frederiksberg.
bird
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg at Bird, where unique cocktails and a laid-back ambiance await you.
JOJO
1.2 km
Colourful neighbourhood cocktail bar in Vesterbro, serving freshly crafted drinks on tap in a relaxed, sociable setting that suits pre-drinks, dates and casual nights.
La Fée Verte
1.3 km
Discover La Fée Verte, a charming bar in Frederiksberg, offering exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Märkbar
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Märkbar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets an eclectic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
The House of Machines Copenhagen
1.4 km
Award-winning cocktail bar with industrial soul and live music in Copenhagen's Vesterbro.
Tap 21 Craft Beer
1.4 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Tap 21, a cozy Frederiksberg bar offering a wide selection of local and international brews in a welcoming atmosphere.
Gensyn Bar
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg C at Gensyn Bar, known for its innovative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
Amigo Bar
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Frederiksberg at Amigo Bar, where affordable drinks and a friendly atmosphere await you.
Riesen Bar
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Riesen Bar, where great drinks and lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable evening.
Lidkoeb
1.7 km
Discover Lidkoeb, a vibrant cocktail bar in Copenhagen, renowned for its innovative drinks and lively atmosphere, perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.
Frederiksberg Ølbar
1.7 km
Experience the best of Denmark's brewing heritage at Frederiksberg Ølbar, a cozy bar with a fantastic selection of local craft beers.
Duck and Cover - Cocktailbar
1.7 km
Experience exquisite cocktails in a stylish ambiance at Duck and Cover, Copenhagen's premier cocktail bar for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
