Frederiksborg Castle Gardens
Sweeping Baroque terraces and romantic woodland paths framing a lake island castle, Frederiksborg Castle Gardens blend royal theatre with everyday green escape.
Wrapping around the island-set Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød, the Frederiksborg Castle Gardens marry strict Baroque geometry with a softer, romantic landscape. Terraced parterres, cascading water features and royal monograms align perfectly with the Renaissance castle, while woodland paths, lakes and the tiny Bathhouse Castle offer a gentler, storybook contrast. Free to enter and open year-round, this is one of Denmark’s most evocative historic gardens.
A brief summary to Frederiksborg Castle Gardens
- Frederiksborg Slot, Hillerød, 3400, DK
- +4533954200
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Plan at least 1–2 hours just for the gardens so you can walk both the formal Baroque terraces and the more relaxed romantic landscape without rushing.
- Come between spring and early autumn to see the cascade and fountains running; they typically operate daily during daylight hours in this period.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the area is extensive, with gravel paths, gentle slopes and stairs between Baroque terraces.
- Bring a picnic or snack to enjoy on the lawns or benches, and use the café area near the gardens for restrooms and additional refreshments.
- For classic photos, stand on the upper Baroque terrace or by the cascade to capture the perfect axial view towards Frederiksborg Castle.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train from Copenhagen
From central Copenhagen, take an S-train on line A towards Hillerød; the journey typically takes about 35–40 minutes and runs several times per hour during the day. A standard adult single ticket covering the zones between Copenhagen and Hillerød usually costs around 80–110 DKK, depending on ticket type. From Hillerød Station, expect a pleasant 15–20 minute walk on generally level paths through town and along the lake to reach the castle and its gardens; the route is suitable for most fitness levels, though surfaces are mainly cobblestone and gravel.
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Regional bus within North Zealand
If you are already in North Zealand, several regional buses connect nearby towns to central Hillerød, with typical travel times of 15–40 minutes depending on the starting point. Bus fares within the region are usually in the range of 30–60 DKK for adults, payable with travel cards or mobile tickets. Services run regularly during the day but may be less frequent in the evenings and on weekends. From the main bus stops near Hillerød Station, it is about a 15–20 minute walk on mixed paved and gravel surfaces to the castle gardens.
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Car from Copenhagen area
Driving from Copenhagen to Hillerød generally takes 35–45 minutes outside rush hour via major highways. There are both paid and free parking options around the castle gardens; paid areas near the main approaches typically charge in the region of 12–20 DKK per hour, while some car parks a little further away offer limited-time free spaces. From the parking areas, you should be prepared for a 5–15 minute walk on gently sloping paths. Surfaces vary from asphalt to gravel, and parking can be tight on sunny weekends and school holidays.
Frederiksborg Castle Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Frederiksborg Castle Gardens
Royal landscape framing a Renaissance island castle
The Frederiksborg Castle Gardens form a grand green frame around one of Denmark’s most dramatic castles, set on islands in the Castle Lake at Hillerød. From almost anywhere in the grounds, views pull your eye back to red-brick spires, copper roofs and mirror-still water, creating a near-theatrical backdrop for a walk. The gardens are not just an add-on to the castle; they were conceived as an essential finishing touch, extending its power and splendour into the landscape. You enter a world shaped by centuries of royal ambition. Christian IV had his own earlier garden here, but the layout you see today was largely defined in the early 18th century and then painstakingly brought back to life in the late 20th century. The result is a rare opportunity to wander through two distinct garden philosophies in a single visit.Baroque terraces, cascades and royal monograms
On the castle’s axial line, the Baroque Garden announces itself with strict symmetry, clipped hedges and a powerful central cascade stepping down towards the lake. Designed in the 1720s by royal gardener J. Krieger for Frederik IV, it follows the Baroque ideal of demonstrating human control over nature: straight avenues, geometric parterres and carefully disciplined trees all work together to create a sense of order. The garden is laid out on four descending terraces. From the upper levels you can look down over ornamental beds and pools that form intricate patterns. On the lowest plateaus, box-edged parterres shape the monograms of four monarchs—Frederik IV, Christian VI, Frederik V and Queen Margrethe II—linking the original creation and the 1990s restoration in living greenery. When the cascade and fountains are running from spring through autumn, water and light animate the strict geometry.Romantic woodland paths and the Bathhouse Castle
In deliberate contrast, the romantic landscape garden stretches to the side of the Baroque axis. Here, straight lines soften into curving paths, shrubberies and irregular tree plantings. Small lakes and meadows invite slower wandering, with views opening and closing as you move, rather than being presented in a single formal vista. Hidden among the trees stands the small Bathhouse Castle, dating back to the late 16th century. This miniature building beside the water once served as a pleasure retreat and today adds a fairy-tale touch to the scene. The romantic section was created to evoke moods rather than impress with power: reflections on still water, rustling leaves, and glimpses of the big castle through branches all create a more intimate atmosphere.Seasonal moods and everyday escapes
Because much of the gardens are freely accessible all year, they function as both royal showpiece and local green refuge. In spring, the terraces and borders come alive with fresh foliage and the first flowers, while the cascades and fountain return to life. Summer highlights the precise structure of the Baroque parterres, their patterns etched in green against bright sky. Autumn brings fiery colours to the romantic woodland, with drifting leaves carpeting paths and lakesides. Even in winter, the skeletal geometry of hedges and the sharp outline of the terraces against a dusting of frost or snow reveal the underlying design. Throughout the year, lawns and more secluded corners lend themselves to picnics, quiet reading, or simply watching the changing light on the castle.Exploring on foot, by lake and with a deeper lens
Most visitors explore the gardens on foot, tracing the main axis for classic castle views before meandering into the more naturalistic sections. Gently sloping paths and broad gravel avenues make it easy to choose either a short circuit or a longer ramble. Photography opportunities are constant: reflections in the lake, the powerful perspective from the head of the cascade, or close-ups of carefully clipped greenery. In the warmer months, a small ferry crosses the Castle Lake, linking town, castle and the Baroque Garden. Seen from the water, the terraces and façades line up in dramatic layers. Near the garden café, an exhibition model explains the Baroque layout and restoration in miniature, adding context to what you see outside. Combined with a visit inside Frederiksborg Castle and its Museum of National History, the gardens complete a rich day of Danish history, art and landscape design.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old town hall
1.0 km
A dignified brick landmark on Hillerød’s main square, the Old Town Hall anchors the town’s civic heart between cobbled streets, cafés and castle views.
Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød
1.0 km
Experience Danish craft beers, global wines, and tasty tapas at Skänk in Hillerød, a cozy spot with castle views and a welcoming atmosphere on Torvet square.
Hillerød Rectory
1.0 km
Discover the Befrielsessten in Høgsholt, Vejle—a serene memorial park honoring Denmark's journey to freedom amidst lush landscapes.
Hillerød St.
1.2 km
North Zealand's essential transport hub connecting Copenhagen, regional destinations, and Frederiksborg Castle.
Kirppu Hillerød
1.4 km
Discover unique vintage finds and support sustainable shopping at Kirppu Hillerød, Denmark's largest flea market supermarket, offering a treasure trove of pre-loved goods and community spirit.
Kulsvierstenen
6.5 km
A modest forest boulder in Gribskov that marks a dramatic World War II resistance firefight, blending North Zealand’s tranquil woodland with powerful memory.
Country Market
7.4 km
Experience the charm of Fredensborg at Country Market, a vibrant marketplace offering local delicacies, artisan products, and a cozy café atmosphere in the heart of town.
Hørsholm Slotshave
14.1 km
A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.
Auderødlejren
14.8 km
Once a busy Danish Navy barracks, today a quiet, semi‑abandoned camp on Arrenæs where stark military architecture meets lakeside nature and recent history.
Furesø
17.5 km
Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.
Henriksholm
18.1 km
A quiet Vedbæk hillside where Stone Age burials, villa culture and Cold War command history meet in a leafy coastal neighbourhood north of Copenhagen.
Tisvilde Hegn
18.8 km
Discover Denmark's enchanting Tisvilde Hegn: A coastal forest where history whispers through ancient pines and scenic trails lead to breathtaking Kattegat views.
Geels Skov
18.9 km
Discover Geels Skov: An enchanting forest near Copenhagen with scenic trails, historical sites, and abundant wildlife, perfect for hiking, biking, and nature lovers.
Ølstykke bypark - Bebyggelsen Søhøj Park ligger nord for byparken, fjern ALT med Søhøj også naturlegeplasen
18.9 km
Discover Ølstykke Bypark, a green haven offering tranquility and recreation in the heart of Ølstykke, perfect for families, nature lovers, and community events.
Hornbaek beach
19.5 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Batzke's Hill
0.4 km
A gentle grassy rise above Frederiksborg’s gardens, Batzke’s Hill offers quiet views, local park life and a softer, slower perspective on royal Hillerød.
The Museum of National History
0.5 km
A grand Renaissance castle on an island lake, housing Denmark’s Museum of National History with 500 years of portraits, power and palace splendor.
Frederiksborg Castle
0.5 km
Denmark's Renaissance jewel on three islands, where royal grandeur meets national heritage in gardens of baroque precision and romantic beauty.
Frederiksborg Castle Chapel
0.5 km
Experience LEGO magic at LEGOLAND Hotel & Conference in Billund, offering themed rooms and top-tier conference facilities.
Hillerød City Museum & Graphic Museum
0.6 km
Step behind Frederiksborg Castle into an intimate town museum where historic shops, crafts and letterpress printing bring everyday Hillerød vividly back to life.
Gavlkunst
0.8 km
A string of vivid murals along Helsingørsgade that turns central Hillerød into a small, free open‑air gallery of local stories and color.
Posen
0.8 km
A small, leafy pause between Hillerød’s bustling Slotsgade and the storybook views of Frederiksborg Castle and its lake.
Fisketorvet
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Hillerød at Fisketorvet, where history, shopping, and culture converge in North Zealand's premier market square.
Hillerød Church
1.0 km
A light-filled modern parish church in the heart of Hillerød, carrying centuries of local worship history in a calm, contemporary Danish setting.
Slotsgade
1.0 km
Hillerød’s colourful Slotsgade links castle views, everyday shops and cosy cafés in a compact, walkable street at the heart of Denmark’s classic castle town.
Genforeningssten i Hillerød
1.0 km
Experience intimate encounters with rescued animals in the serene Japanese gardens of Monkey World Hillerød.
Elværket Hillerød - Museum Nordsjælland
1.2 km
A beautifully preserved 1909 power station turned museum, where industrial architecture and changing exhibitions illuminate 10,000 years of North Zealand history.
Royal Stage
1.9 km
North Zealand's premier multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sports, and cultural events for up to 2,000 guests.
Island of imagination
1.9 km
A tiny forest island on Breddam Lake where a king’s romantic retreat has crumbled into suggestive ruins, inviting you to complete the fairy tale with your own imagination.
Parforcejagtlandskabet i Store Dyrehave UNESCO World Heritage
2.7 km
A royal forest where straight, star-shaped hunting roads, old stone walls and quiet woodland trails reveal how Danish kings once turned nature into a stage for power.
Essential places to dine
Rabarbergaarden Slottet
0.6 km
Organic farm-to-table dining in Frederiksborg Castle’s former carriage house, where seasonal North Zealand produce meets calm Scandinavian design and royal surroundings.
Big Mamma Gastronomia
0.7 km
Casual Italian pizzeria and pasta spot in central Hillerød, serving generous, ingredient-led comfort food for eat-in or takeaway in a relaxed local setting.
Royal Taste
0.7 km
Generous sushi ad libitum and colourful Asian plates in a relaxed, modern setting on Hillerød’s historic Slotsgade, ideal for cosy dinners and sociable feasts.
Restaurant Royal Style
0.7 km
Casual Asian comfort food with dim sum, bao and ramen just steps from Frederiksborg Castle in the heart of Hillerød’s historic Slotsgade.
Ninos Pizza
0.8 km
Casual pizzeria serving Italian, Mexican, and American fare in central Hillerød with friendly service and extended hours.
Rib House
0.8 km
Hearty ribs and steaks in a relaxed, family-friendly steakhouse just steps from Frederiksborg Castle on historic Slotsgade in central Hillerød.
Jensens Bøfhus
0.8 km
Casual Danish steakhouse on Hillerød’s main street, offering family-friendly comfort food and easy castle-side convenience from lunchtime through evening.
Roberto's 51
0.8 km
Straightforward pizzas and burgers on Hillerød’s main street, serving solid comfort food from lunchtime until late on weekend nights.
Patats Kebab & Grill
0.8 km
Casual Turkish-style kebab and grill in central Hillerød, serving generous, inexpensive plates, pitas and durums just a short walk from the town’s main sights.
Piccola Italia Pizzaria 3400
0.8 km
Busy neighborhood pizzeria in central Hillerød serving hearty pizzas, pastas and quick takeaway just a short stroll from Frederiksborg Castle and the lake.
Unkai
0.9 km
All-you-can-eat, made-to-order sushi and Japanese bites in a modern, laid-back setting on Hillerød’s central Helsingørsgade.
Tô Tô Kitchen
0.9 km
Cozy Vietnamese flavors and casual evening dining on Østergade, bringing fresh herbs, noodles and warm atmosphere to the heart of Hillerød.
Montalbano
0.9 km
Authentic Sicilian pizzeria run by an Italian family in the heart of Hillerød.
Café Valentin
0.9 km
All‑day Danish café on Hillerød’s main street, blending generous brunches, comfort food and cocktails with a lively terrace near Frederiksborg Castle.
Thai 4 You - Thai Restaurant og Take Away
0.9 km
Authentic Thai flavors prepared by professional chefs in central Hillerød.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Red Cross Op Shop
0.8 km
Hyggelig Røde Kors genbrugsbutik i Hillerøds hovedgade, hvor du finder billige fund til garderobe og hjem – og samtidig støtter lokalt og internationalt hjælpearbejde.
Tingstedet
0.8 km
Curated vintage and retro treasures near Frederiksborg Castle since 1996.
Lumi Op Shop
0.9 km
Cosy Hillerød charity thrift store and café where vintage furniture, second-hand finds and lakeside castle views meet to support meaningful mission projects.
Boutique Munck
0.9 km
Intimate Scandinavian womenswear boutique in central Hillerød, blending curated Nordic fashion, warm styling advice and a relaxed, local neighborhood feel.
Shoppen
0.9 km
A local tattoo studio woven into Hillerød’s main pedestrian street, where custom ink sessions sit just steps from cafés, shops and everyday Danish life.
HL Mode Hillerød
0.9 km
Neighbourhood-style women’s fashion and lingerie on historic Slotsgade, offering Scandinavian everyday elegance a short stroll from Hillerød’s castle and lake.
Holm Hillerød
0.9 km
Locally owned menswear boutique on Hillerød’s main shopping street, offering curated smart-casual clothing and accessories just a short stroll from Frederiksborg Castle.
Frk. Fie
1.0 km
Cosy women’s fashion boutique on Hillerød’s atmospheric Slotsgade, offering curated Scandinavian-inspired styles in an intimate, friendly setting near the historic town centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.0 km
Colorful Danish design on a budget, Flying Tiger Copenhagen in SlotsArkaderne Hillerød offers playful gifts, stationery and homeware in a bright, easygoing mall setting.
Idé nyt
1.0 km
Contemporary fashion boutique inside Hillerød’s covered Slotsarkaderne arcade, blending everyday Scandinavian style with a relaxed, browse-friendly atmosphere.
Men's Shop
1.0 km
A straightforward menswear stop inside Hillerød’s SlotsArkaderne mall, ideal for quick wardrobe updates during a castle-side shopping day in North Zealand.
Jan Ehlers
1.0 km
Established family-run jeweler and watch specialist on Hillerød’s Slotsgade, blending modern boutique style with goldsmith craftsmanship and curated Danish design.
Spejder Sport
1.0 km
Denmark's largest outdoor chain where expert staff and quality gear prepare you for every adventure.
Gine
1.0 km
A compact, Scandinavian-inspired womenswear boutique on historic Slotsgade, perfect for a relaxed browse between castle views, coffee stops and city-center strolls.
JeansStore
1.0 km
Denmark's premier denim specialist offering authentic Lee and Wrangler collections with expert guidance.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Møllen
0.9 km
A welcoming Danish bodega in Hillerød's heart, where locals gather for drinks, snacks, and authentic social connection.
The Old Irish Pub
1.0 km
Lively Irish-style bar and late-night dance venue on Hillerød’s central square, pouring pints, playing hits and catering to a sociable, mature party crowd.
Crane Brothers
1.0 km
Cosy cocktail bar on Hillerød’s main square, blending inventive drinks, warm design and a relaxed, grown-up atmosphere with access to the adjacent Tahonga Lounge.
Tahonga Lounge
1.0 km
Intimate tiki-style lounge bar off Hillerød’s central square, blending cocktails, small-stage events and private parties in a cozy tropical hideaway.
Jernstangen
1.3 km
Old-school Hillerød pub opposite the station, with billiards, darts, dice games and live music nights in a laid‑back, locals-first atmosphere.
Oddies Beach Bar
16.2 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.
Kardusen
18.9 km
Casual wine bar in central Helsingør offering relaxed evenings and accessible pricing.
12`er Pubben
20.9 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
20.9 km
Unpretentious neighbourhood bar in Helsingør offering classic Danish bodega atmosphere, simple drinks and a relaxed glimpse into everyday local life.
Head/Foam
21.6 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.
Helsingør Musikteater
21.8 km
Historic theatre and bar hosting live concerts, exhibitions, and dinner events in central Elsinore.
Axelhus Udeservering
21.9 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.
Banana joe
21.9 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.
Pitten Sport Bar
21.9 km
Straightforward sports, cold beer and local Helsingør character in a relaxed neighbourhood bar just a short stroll from the harbour and historic centre.
Hold-An
21.9 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Socialz
0.8 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.
Walther's grillkylling og svuppeklub
17.6 km
Intimate neighborhood nightclub in Helsingør with loud music, simple drinks, and a playful local vibe behind an unassuming facade on Rødegårdsvej.
Den Dansende Viking
20.3 km
High-energy suburban nightclub in Egedal Centret, serving packed dance floors, late-night DJ sets and budget-friendly drinks for party-focused weekends.
Rustik
21.6 km
Helsingør's premier weekend nightclub with craft cocktails and high-energy dancing until dawn.
Retro
21.9 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.
Afrobeat Palace Nightclub
30.1 km
Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
SIGURD CPH
30.4 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.
Falafelberg
31.3 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.
RUST Natklub
31.8 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
31.8 km
Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.
Haven - Events
32.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Haven, Frederiksberg's top night club, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Moon Club
32.7 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.
Culture Box
33.0 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Mirage
33.0 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Arch
33.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Romantic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- TikTok-Friendly
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
