Kronborg Castle: Hamlet's Legendary Fortress on the Øresund
A UNESCO-listed Renaissance stronghold, Kronborg Castle commands the Øresund and the imagination—famed as Hamlet’s Elsinore and an icon of Danish royal power.
Kronborg Castle, perched at the tip of Helsingør, is one of Northern Europe’s most iconic Renaissance castles and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Famed as Elsinore from Shakespeare’s 'Hamlet,' it features grand halls, regal ramparts, and dramatic sea views across the Øresund. Visitors can explore lavish royal chambers, an atmospheric dungeon, and interactive exhibits that bring Denmark’s maritime past to life.
A brief summary to Holmen
- Copenhagen, Indre By, DK
Local tips
- Arrive early in summer to avoid crowds and catch the first Shakespeare performances.
- Don’t miss the atmospheric casemates; bring a sweater, as temperatures drop in the dungeons.
- Ferris wheel in the adjacent harbor area offers panoramic views of the castle and strait.
- Day tickets are usually around 145–160 DKK for adults, with reduced prices for students and children.
- Regular guided tours in English are included in the admission—ask upon arrival for timings.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From the heart of Hillerød, trains to Helsingør depart regularly and reach the seaside city in around 35–45 minutes. The fare is typically 90–100 DKK one way. Upon arrival at Helsingør Station, the castle comes into view beside the harbor—just a 5–10-minute walk through the bustling town square, with Kronborg’s spires visible as a landmark in the distance.
-
Taxi
Taxis from Hillerød’s center offer a comfortable, direct journey, usually taking 30–40 minutes depending on traffic. Expect a one-way fare of about 400–500 DKK. The castle stands prominently at the water’s edge—ask to be dropped off by the main courtyard for easiest access.
-
Driving
Visitors driving from Hillerød can follow signs toward Helsingør and the harbor area, with the castle visible well before arrival. Paid parking is available near the castle grounds, usually 18–22 DKK per hour. Parking can fill up by midday, especially in summer or during major events.
Discover more about Holmen
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nyholm Central Guardhouse
0.3 km
Discover Aarhus’s Latin Quarter, where historic charm meets a lively cultural scene, bustling cafés, artisan shops, and rich Danish heritage in the city’s oldest district.
ZinkGlobal by Kim Michael
0.7 km
Aarhus University Park blends modernist architecture, landscaped gardens, and tranquil lakes to create an inviting oasis at the heart of Denmark’s vibrant student city.
Iver Huitfeldt Memorial
0.8 km
Historic waterfront column honoring Admiral Iver Huitfeldt, set in Langelinie Park near Copenhagen’s iconic Little Mermaid and harbor views.
I am Queen Mary
0.9 km
Aarhus University Park fuses striking Danish architecture, lakeside tranquility, and lush greenery in an iconic academic setting treasured by locals and visitors alike.
The Old Execution site in Copenhagen 1946-1950
1.0 km
Explore the Old Execution Site in Copenhagen, a haunting historical landmark that reflects the complexities of Denmark's post-war era.
Our Fallen
1.0 km
A stunning fusion of royal splendor and modern democracy, Christiansborg Palace is Copenhagen’s iconic seat of power and a must-visit historic landmark for all.
Larsens Pl.
1.0 km
Experience the harmony of stately baroque gardens, rolling meadows, and centuries-old woodlands at Ledreborg Park, a natural jewel near historic Roskilde.
Monument to Denmark's international activities after 1948
1.0 km
Discover the Monument to Denmark's International Activities in Kastellet: A historical landmark celebrating Denmark's global contributions since 1948.
Maritime Monument
1.0 km
Honoring Denmark’s seafaring legacy, the Maritime Monument in Østerbro is a striking, evocative memorial nestled in the heart of Copenhagen’s leafy cityscape.
Amaliegade
1.1 km
Aarhus’ Latin Quarter is a colorful, bohemian neighborhood filled with cobbled streets, indie shops, lively cafés, and centuries-old Danish history in the city center.
Hans Christian Andersen plaque
1.4 km
Christiansborg Palace blends Danish royal heritage with contemporary political power at the heart of Copenhagen, offering grand halls, historic ruins, and sweeping city views.
Sankt Annæ Pl.
1.4 km
Discover North Atlantic House in Copenhagen, a vibrant cultural hub and art gallery spotlighting the heritage and creativity of Greenland, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands.
St. Paul's Church
1.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of St. Paul's Church in Copenhagen, a stunning Lutheran architectural gem featuring ornate designs and a tranquil atmosphere.
Nyhavnsbroen & Nyhavn
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Copenhagen at Nyhavn, where colorful history meets modern charm along the picturesque canal.
Bredgade 18
1.6 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Bredgade 18 in Copenhagen, a stunning example of classic Danish design and rich historical significance.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kongeskibet Dannebrog
0.5 km
Bohemian boutiques, gourmet food, urban art, and creative Danish spirit converge on Jægersborggade, the essential Nørrebro street for curious visitors in Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Contemporary
0.5 km
Architecturally bold and acoustically superb, Malmo Live Concert Hall is Malmö’s vibrant epicenter for music, the arts, and cultural gatherings just across from Copenhagen.
Langelinie Park
0.8 km
Explore Denmark's first public museum, showcasing the neoclassical masterpieces of Bertel Thorvaldsen in the heart of Copenhagen.
Langelinieparken
0.8 km
Explore Fisketorvet: Hillerød's historic market square blending rich history with modern charm.
Gefion Fountain
0.8 km
A mythic Norse goddess comes to life in central Copenhagen at the spectacular Gefion Fountain, an atmospheric park landmark steeped in legend and artistry.
Langelinie Pavillonen
0.9 km
Experience modernist elegance and panoramic harbor views at Copenhagen's iconic Langelinie Pavillonen.
St Alban's Church
0.9 km
Step into history and legend at Kronborg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed as Hamlet’s ‘Elsinore,’ overlooking the spectacular Øresund Strait.
The Little Mermaid
0.9 km
Stroll along Frederiksholms Kanal to experience Copenhagen’s historic heartscape—where tranquil waterways, classic architecture, and Danish heritage converge in Indre By.
Museum of Danish Resistance
0.9 km
A lively historic theater in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, home to comedy, modern Danish plays, and cabaret, capturing the city’s creative and multicultural spirit.
Copenhagen Opera House
1.0 km
UNESCO-listed Renaissance castle in Helsingør, famed as Elsinore from Shakespeare’s 'Hamlet', with iconic spires, lavish halls, and sweeping views across the Øresund Strait.
Kastellet
1.1 km
Explore Rosenborg Castle, Copenhagen's Renaissance masterpiece housing Denmark's crown jewels and royal regalia.
Amaliehaven
1.1 km
Frederiksholms Kanal is a scenic, historic canal in central Copenhagen, lined with grand buildings, embassies, and stately bridges, offering quiet urban charm.
Springvandet i Amaliehaven af Arnaldo Pomodoro
1.1 km
Explore Fyns Hoved, Funen’s northernmost peninsula, famed for its wild coastal views, flourishing birdlife, and windswept hikes through preserved Danish nature.
Designmuseum Danmark
1.2 km
Explore Denmark's design evolution at Designmuseum Danmark in Copenhagen's historic Frederiksstaden district.
Inugsuk
1.2 km
Discover one of Europe's oldest and most innovative zoos, home to over 4,000 animals and award-winning habitats in the leafy heart of Frederiksberg, Copenhagen.
Essential places to dine
La Banchina
0.1 km
A Nordic waterside retreat in Copenhagen, La Banchina is famed for its natural wines, wood-fired sauna, and locally sourced cuisine, set against harbor views.
Reffen - Skøjteøen
0.6 km
Explore cutting-edge street food, local craft drinks, and lively ice skating at this creative Copenhagen market on the scenic Refshaleøen waterfront.
Noma
0.6 km
Noma is a globally renowned restaurant on Copenhagen’s waterfront, famed for its avant-garde approach to New Nordic cuisine and multi-award-winning tasting menus.
Alchemist
0.6 km
Alchemist: Copenhagen’s groundbreaking fine dining venue blending gastronomy, art, and theatre on Refshaleøen, renowned for its avant-garde multi-sensory experiences.
Veve
1.4 km
A destination for innovative, plant-based fine dining in Østerbro, where Nordic purity meets global flavors for an unforgettable vegetarian tasting menu experience.
Barr
1.5 km
Discover authentic Scandinavian flavors at Barr in Copenhagen's scenic waterfront - where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Restaurant Barr
1.5 km
Experience Nordic culinary heritage at Restaurant Barr, where tradition meets innovation in a storied waterfront warehouse in the heart of Copenhagen.
Khun Juk
1.5 km
Upmarket Thai cuisine meets classic Copenhagen charm at Khun Juk, offering authentic flavors and canal-side elegance in the heart of historic Nyhavn.
Aoc
1.5 km
Discover AOC: An exquisite fine dining experience in Copenhagen featuring seasonal Nordic cuisine and exceptional wine pairings.
Restaurant Rebel
1.6 km
Experience the culinary fusion of local ingredients and innovative flavors at Restaurant Rebel, Copenhagen's top bistro destination.
Cap Horn
1.6 km
Experience authentic Danish and Scandinavian cuisine at Cap Horn in Copenhagen's iconic Nyhavn district, where tradition meets culinary artistry.
Kokkeriet
1.6 km
Experience the pinnacle of Danish fine dining at Kokkeriet in Copenhagen - where innovation meets tradition in every exquisite dish.
Restaurant Vita
1.7 km
A legendary Danish restaurant in Copenhagen's royal heart known for classic cuisine, elegant interiors, and decades of local history near Kongens Nytorv.
Restaurant Koefoed
1.7 km
Bornholm-inspired fine dining in the heart of Copenhagen, serving inventive Danish cuisine spotlighting local ingredients and the culinary spirit of the Baltic island.
Den Lille Fede
1.7 km
Den Lille Fede is a top-rated Copenhagen restaurant renowned for inventive Nordic tasting menus, cozy ambiance, and a playful yet elegant approach to Danish gastronomy.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Wilde Shop
1.7 km
A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Danish Souvenirs & luggages
1.9 km
Discover authentic Danish gifts, charming souvenirs, and practical luggage essentials at this longstanding shop on bustling Østergade in the heart of Copenhagen.
Magasin du Nord
2.0 km
Experience Danish elegance, international fashion, and gourmet food in Copenhagen’s historic Magasin du Nord—an iconic department store blending tradition and style since 1894.
Storm - design art fashion
2.0 km
Avant-garde design, progressive fashion, niche perfume, and rare art books unite at Copenhagen’s Storm—an iconic concept store in the city’s creative core.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
2.1 km
Henrik Vibskov Boutique: Explore boundary-pushing Danish design and avant-garde fashion in a gallery-inspired setting in central Copenhagen.
ILLUM
2.2 km
ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
2.3 km
Explore Danish history and craftsmanship at Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store, an iconic destination for hand-painted porcelain, elegant collectibles, and Nordic design.
Læderstræde
2.3 km
Læderstræde is a historic pedestrian street in central Copenhagen, offering a blend of independent boutiques, cozy cafés, and authentic Danish ambiance year-round.
Red Cross Op Shop
2.4 km
A vibrant Østerbro thrift store where sustainable shopping, Danish design, and community spirit support Red Cross humanitarian work.
Strøget
2.4 km
Strøget is Copenhagen’s vibrant pedestrian heart—Europe’s original walking street, lined with shops, cafés, historic facades, and street performers.
Studio Arhoj
2.4 km
Studio Arhoj fuses Scandinavian and Japanese influences into vibrant, hand-crafted ceramics, making it a unique design destination in central Copenhagen.
Time's Up Vintage
2.4 km
Discover curated vintage fashion, rare designer finds, and decades of style history at Time’s Up Vintage in Copenhagen’s bustling Indre By.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
2.6 km
Nestled on a lively Copenhagen shopping street, Det Gamle Apotek enchants visitors with nostalgic Danish gifts, festive decor, and whimsical home accessories year-round.
TorvehallerneKBH
2.7 km
A vibrant marketplace in the heart of Copenhagen, TorvehallerneKBH blends Danish culinary tradition with global flavors across over 60 food and drink stalls.
Quirky Lane
2.8 km
Discover unique vintage treasures at Quirky Lane, Copenhagen's eclectic boutique for sustainable fashion enthusiasts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black Swan
1.5 km
Experience a cozy fusion of traditional pub spirit and innovative Scandinavian craft beverages in Copenhagen’s Indre By at Black Swan cider and beer bar.
1105
2.0 km
Award-winning cocktail bar in central Copenhagen offering inventive signature drinks, a stylish Nordic-chic atmosphere, and a top-tier nightlife experience.
Eiffel bar
2.0 km
Experience the cozy atmosphere of Eiffel Bar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets affordable drinks in a charming setting.
Charlie's Bar
2.1 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
Chevy's
2.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Chevy's in Østerbro, Copenhagen—where delicious drinks and good company create unforgettable nights.
Bo-Bi Bar
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
K-Bar
2.2 km
Leading Copenhagen’s cocktail revolution, K-Bar blends innovative mixology, Scandinavian style, and canal-side ambiance for an unforgettable urban bar experience.
The Dubliner
2.3 km
Classic Irish pub atmosphere with live music, hearty food, sports broadcasts, and local camaraderie on lively Amagertorv square in central Copenhagen.
Balderdash
2.3 km
Whimsical cocktails, creative mixing, and historic vibes await at Balderdash, a celebrated Copenhagen bar bringing Nordic flair and surprises to the city’s vibrant nightlife.
ROOTS Vin Bar & Butik - Østerbro
2.3 km
Explore the finest wines at ROOTS Vin Bar & Butik in Østerbro, Copenhagen – where every sip tells a story.
Bar'Vin
2.3 km
Discover the charm of Bar'Vin, a cozy restaurant and wine bar in Copenhagen, offering exquisite wines and delicious Danish cuisine.
Østerbros Perle Pub
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Østerbros Perle Pub in København Ø, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and laughter.
Strøm
2.4 km
Discover Strøm, Copenhagen's chic cocktail bar, blending a vibrant social club atmosphere with exquisite wine selections for an unforgettable night out.
The Bird and The Churchkey
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
ØB
2.4 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen's nightlife at ØB, where great beer, tasty burgers, and a lively atmosphere come together.
