Hørsholm Arboretum (Arboretet), North Zealand

A tranquil university-run arboretum in Hørsholm, showcasing 2,000 tree and shrub species in a spacious park of winding paths, ponds and seasonal colour.

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Hørsholm Arboretum is a serene “living museum” of trees and shrubs managed by the University of Copenhagen in North Zealand. Laid out as a spacious park and experimental forest, it holds around 2,000 species from across the globe, woven together by gravel paths, ponds and open glades. Open daily from early morning to sunset and free to enter, it is ideal for unhurried walks, plant spotting, quiet contemplation and seasonal colour, from rhododendron blooms in late spring to fiery foliage in autumn.

A brief summary to Arboretum

Arboretvej 1, 4, Hørsholm, 2970, DK
+4535331500
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 7:30 am-8 pm
Tuesday 7:30 am-8 pm
Wednesday 7:30 am-8 pm
Thursday 7:30 am-8 pm
Friday 7:30 am-8 pm
Saturday 7:30 am-8 pm
Sunday 7:30 am-8 pm

Local tips

Plan your visit for late May or early June if you want to see the rhododendron collection and many ornamental shrubs in peak bloom, but expect beautiful foliage in autumn as well.
Wear comfortable walking shoes; most paths are gravel and easy, but the area is larger than it first appears, and you may end up walking several kilometres.
Bring water and a light snack, as there are no cafés inside the arboretum; use bins where available and pack out any rubbish to help protect the plant collections.
Check the closing time relative to sunset before heading in, especially in winter when daylight is short, to avoid being in the park after it closes.
Dogs are not permitted inside the arboretum, so arrange pet care in advance if you are travelling with animals.

Getting There

Regional train and bus from central Copenhagen

From central Copenhagen, take a regional train toward Helsingør or Nivå and get off at Hørsholm or Kokkedal, a journey of about 25–35 minutes with departures several times per hour. A standard adult single ticket within this zone range typically costs around 60–80 DKK. From the station area, continue by local bus toward Hørsholm, which usually adds 10–15 minutes of travel time. Buses run regularly during the day but less frequently in the evening and on weekends, so it is worth checking schedules in advance.
Local bus within North Zealand

If you are already staying in North Zealand towns such as Hillerød or Helsingør, use the regional bus network to reach Hørsholm. Typical travel times range from 25 to 45 minutes depending on your starting point and route, with most buses operating at least twice per hour on weekdays. A single adult bus ticket generally costs around 30–60 DKK depending on distance and zones. Buses are comfortable and suitable in most weather, though services may be slightly reduced in late evenings and on public holidays.
Car or taxi from Copenhagen region

Travelling by car from the wider Copenhagen area usually takes about 25–35 minutes in normal traffic, using main routes toward Hørsholm. There is typically free outdoor parking near the arboretum, but spaces can become limited on sunny weekends and during peak spring flowering. If you prefer not to drive, taxis from central Copenhagen can complete the journey in a similar time, at a cost often in the range of 500–800 DKK each way depending on traffic and exact pickup location.
Cycling from nearby coastal towns

For a more active option, you can cycle from nearby towns such as Rungsted or Kokkedal, which usually takes about 20–35 minutes at a relaxed pace. The terrain is mostly gentle with some small inclines, and there are paved cycle paths along many main routes, making this an appealing choice in mild, dry weather. Keep in mind that Danish traffic rules apply on bike paths and that cycling can be less comfortable in heavy rain, strong winds or icy winter conditions.

Arboretum location weather suitability

Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Any Weather
Hot Weather
Cold Weather

Discover more about Arboretum

A living library of trees in North Zealand

Hørsholm Arboretum, known locally as Arboretet, is a vast tapestry of trees and shrubs spread over former royal hunting grounds just north of Copenhagen. Operated by the University of Copenhagen, it functions both as an outdoor laboratory and a public park, where scientific plant collections are presented in an accessible, inviting landscape. Instead of rigid rows or formal beds, the arboretum unfolds as a sequence of woodland rooms and open lawns. Collections are grouped by geography and plant family, so you move from North American conifers to East Asian maples, then on to European oaks and rare ornamental shrubs, all within a gentle stroll.

Botanical treasures from around the world

With around 2,000 species of trees and bushes, this is Denmark’s largest woody plant collection. Many specimens are labelled, allowing you to match unfamiliar foliage with names and origins as you wander. You might pause under towering conifers, examine peeling birch bark at eye level, or compare the shapes of different oaks and beeches. One of the highlights is the renowned rhododendron collection, which bursts into colour in late spring. Winding paths thread between banks of bloom in shades from delicate pastels to deep magenta. Elsewhere, magnolias, flowering cherries and hydrangeas ensure that almost every season brings another botanical performance.

Seasonal moods and changing colours

The arboretum rewards repeat visits throughout the year. In spring, fresh green leaves and blossoms brighten the woodland edges. Summer brings deep shade, birdsong and the quiet hum of insects above the ponds and meadows. Autumn is particularly dramatic, when maples, larches and other deciduous trees ignite in vivid reds, oranges and golds, reflected in still water and carpeting the paths. Even winter has its appeal, with clear views through bare branches, intricate silhouettes and the subtle greens of conifers against low Nordic light.

Paths, quiet corners and gentle exploration

Most of the network of trails consists of broad gravel paths, making it easy to explore large parts of the site at your own pace. Benches and informal resting spots appear by ponds, in glades and along wooded edges, inviting you to stop, listen to the wind in the canopy and watch the play of light through leaves. There are no playgrounds or loud attractions here; the atmosphere is calm and contemplative. The scale of the park means you can quickly leave other visitors behind and feel as though you have a private forest to yourself, whether you are walking, jogging or simply sitting with a book.

Research heritage and gentle guidelines

Beyond its beauty, Hørsholm Arboretum has a long history as a research and teaching site for forestry, dendrology and horticulture. Many trees are part of long-running scientific trials, and discreet signs share information about planting dates, provenance and species characteristics. To protect this living collection, a few simple rules apply. The arboretum is open daily from early morning until sunset, and entry is free. Dogs are not allowed inside, helping to safeguard wildlife, young plantings and delicate understory vegetation. Visitors are encouraged to treat the grounds as both a garden and a field laboratory: stay on paths where requested, avoid picking plant material and leave only footprints behind.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Hørsholm Slotshave

0.7 km

A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.

Henriksholm

3.6 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.

Furesø

10.1 km

Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.

Lyngby Storcenter

11.0 km

Discover a world of shopping and dining at Lyngby Storcenter, one of Denmark's largest malls, offering a vibrant mix of international brands and local favorites in the heart of Kongens Lyngby.

Bagsværd Kirke

12.6 km

A modest suburban shell concealing Jørn Utzon’s luminous “cloud” church, where Nordic minimalism, sculpted concrete and tranquil courtyards create a serene urban sanctuary.

Hillerød St.

13.6 km

North Zealand's essential transport hub connecting Copenhagen, regional destinations, and Frederiksborg Castle.

Country Market

13.8 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.

Hillerød Rectory

14.0 km

Discover the Befrielsessten in Høgsholt, Vejle—a serene memorial park honoring Denmark's journey to freedom amidst lush landscapes.

Old town hall

14.1 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

14.1 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.

Kirppu Hillerød

15.3 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.

Memorial Park

16.3 km

A tranquil, evocative memorial park in Hellerup near Østerbro, honoring Danish resistance fighters with monuments, peaceful gardens, and profound historical resonance.

Tuborgflasken

17.0 km

A 26‑metre green beer bottle by the Hellerup waterfront, Tuborgflasken blends quirky novelty architecture with the living history of Copenhagen’s brewing past.

Grundtvig’s Church

17.2 km

A monumental brick cathedral of Nordic minimalism and light, Grundtvig’s Church fuses expressionist form with Gothic scale on a quiet Copenhagen hillside.

Danish Museum of Science and Technology

17.3 km

Explore Denmark's technological heritage at this interactive museum, showcasing everything from vintage vehicles to groundbreaking inventions and offering hands-on experiences for all ages.

Unmissable attractions to see

Elleskovstien

2.3 km

A raised wooden boardwalk leads you into Hørsholm’s own “mini‑mangrove”: a quiet marsh and lakeside wetland where alder forest, reeds and artful details reward unhurried wandering.

Kongeegen i Vedbæk

2.6 km

A quietly impressive old oak on the edge of Vedbæk’s houses and greenery, offering a brief, grounding pause in everyday surroundings.

Karen Blixen Museum Rungstedlund

2.9 km

Intimate author’s home on the Øresund, where Karen Blixen’s preserved rooms, bird sanctuary and woodland grave reveal the world behind Out of Africa.

Rungsted Harbour

3.1 km

Lively Øresund marina where sleek yachts, waterfront cafés, and wide coastal views blend into a relaxed Danish seaside atmosphere all year round.

Usserød Å

4.0 km

A gentle North Zealand stream weaving a green, everyday escape through Kokkedal’s neighbourhoods, perfect for unhurried walks, fresh air and simple nature moments.

Sommer's Automobile Museum

6.0 km

A three-storey Danish car haven where Jaguars, Volvos and rare home-built specials tell a vivid story of 20th‑century motoring and mechanical passion.

Vaserne

6.0 km

Sheltered between Birkerød and Sjælsø, Vaserne is a protected wetland reserve of reeds, swamp forest and bird-filled lakes offering quietly immersive nature on the city’s edge.

Bøllemosen

6.2 km

Ancient peat bog and beech forest with boardwalk trails, nature playground, and bonfire facilities near Copenhagen.

Nivågård’s Malerisamling

6.4 km

An intimate North Zealand art museum where Renaissance masters, Dutch Baroque painters and Danish Golden Age canvases meet in a romantic garden by the Øresund coast.

Nivå Bugt Strandenge

6.7 km

Low, windswept coastal meadows where Øresund meets the Nivå river, offering tranquil paths, wide skies and remarkably rich birdlife just south of Nivå.

Store Donse Dam

6.8 km

A tranquil forest-fringed lake in North Zealand where calm water, simple shelters and soft Danish light invite slow walks, campfires and quiet reflection.

Geels Skov

7.3 km

An accessible Copenhagen-edge woodland of beech trees, clear trails and cosy fire pits, Geels Skov is where everyday life slips easily into fresh-air forest time.

Kongedyssen

8.0 km

Immerse yourself in Denmark’s most interactive monkey park on the outskirts of Hillerød, offering close encounters, family fun, and a focus on primate welfare.

Open Air Museum

8.5 km

One of the world’s largest open‑air museums, Frilandsmuseet gathers centuries of Danish rural life into a single village of farms, mills, animals and gardens.

Jægersborg Dyrehave

8.6 km

UNESCO-listed royal deer park just north of Copenhagen, where ancient oaks, open meadows and free-roaming herds create a vast, car-free escape from the city.

Essential places to dine

Bistro No. 22

3.1 km

Relaxed harbourfront bistro on Rungsted Havn, serving comforting Nordic brasserie dishes with marina views from light-filled interiors and a lively waterfront terrace.

MASH Rungsted Havn

3.3 km

Harbourfront steakhouse indulgence at Rungsted Havn, where prime cuts, a serious wine list and a broad terrace meet white sails and Øresund views.

Søllerød Kro

6.3 km

Historic thatched Danish inn turned Michelin-starred dining destination, where refined French-inspired cuisine, deep wines and warm village charm meet by a tranquil pond.

Gl. Humlebæk Kro

11.6 km

Historic Danish kro since 1740, serving traditional smørrebrød and coastal hospitality.

Restaurant Nysøgaard ApS

11.7 km

Homely Danish cooking in a farmhouse‑style setting on the edge of Hillerød, ideal for relaxed lunches and family meals after exploring Frederiksborg Castle.

Lakeside Restaurant

11.7 km

Casual dining on the edge of Simons Golf Club, where generous Danish-inspired dishes meet wide green views and a calm North Zealand countryside setting.

Latini Hjørnet

12.9 km

Casual corner pizzeria and burgerhouse in suburban Hillerød, serving hearty pizzas, pastas and fast‑food favourites for easy eat‑in or takeaway meals.

Hong Kong Bistro & Grill

13.4 km

Unfussy Chinese‑Thai grill and wok spot in Hillerød serving hearty noodles, curries, steaks and spareribs in a simple, relaxed neighborhood setting.

Lpm Restauranter v/Lars Peter Mølvang

13.4 km

Contemporary Nordic dining in the heart of Hillerød, open daily for lunch and dinner.

Cafe Station Pizza Bar

13.6 km

Casual, station‑side pizza and café classics in the heart of Hillerød’s transport hub, ideal for quick bites, easy dinners and relaxed, no‑frills stopovers.

You Sushi

13.6 km

Casual Japanese-inspired sushi spot by Hillerød station, blending open-kitchen theatrics, ad libitum feasts and easy takeaway for locals and visitors alike.

Gourmet Sushi

13.9 km

Compact sushi specialist by Hillerød station, serving fresh rolls and generous gourmet platters with a relaxed, takeaway‑first vibe and a few informal seats.

Thai 4 You - Thai Restaurant og Take Away

14.0 km

Authentic Thai flavors prepared by professional chefs in central Hillerød.

Thai 4 You - Thai Restaurant og Take Away

Tô Tô Kitchen

14.0 km

Cozy Vietnamese flavors and casual evening dining on Østergade, bringing fresh herbs, noodles and warm atmosphere to the heart of Hillerød.

Patats Kebab & Grill

14.0 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.

Scandi high-street fashion and denim-focused style for women, conveniently located inside Hillerød’s Slotsarkaderne shopping centre.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Oddies Beach Bar

3.0 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.

Jernstangen

13.6 km

Old-school Hillerød pub opposite the station, with billiards, darts, dice games and live music nights in a laid‑back, locals-first atmosphere.

Crane Brothers

14.1 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

14.1 km

Intimate tiki-style lounge bar off Hillerød’s central square, blending cocktails, small-stage events and private parties in a cozy tropical hideaway.

The Old Irish Pub

14.2 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.

Møllen

14.4 km

A welcoming Danish bodega in Hillerød's heart, where locals gather for drinks, snacks, and authentic social connection.

Kardusen

17.2 km

Casual wine bar in central Helsingør offering relaxed evenings and accessible pricing.

Gotland - Café & Vinbar

18.1 km

Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.

Kompasset Ølbar

18.4 km

Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.

Bubbles Bar

18.8 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bubbles Bar, Copenhagen's chic nightlife destination for tourists and locals alike.

Tap10

18.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Tap10, a cozy bar in Østerbro offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Head/Foam

19.2 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.

Chevy's

19.3 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Chevy's in Østerbro, Copenhagen—where delicious drinks and good company create unforgettable nights.

Østerbros Perle Pub

19.4 km

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Østerbros Perle Pub in København Ø, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and laughter.

Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer

19.4 km

Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer, where craft beers and fine whiskies await in a vibrant atmosphere.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Socialz

14.5 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.

SIGURD CPH

18.8 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.

Afrobeat Palace Nightclub

19.0 km

Discover the energetic Afrobeat Palace Nightclub in Copenhagen, where music, dance, and multicultural vibes unite for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

Rustik

19.2 km

Helsingør's premier weekend nightclub with craft cocktails and high-energy dancing until dawn.

Retro

19.5 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.

RUST Natklub

20.2 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

20.3 km

Discover the energetic vibe of Temple Bar in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, where great drinks and lively entertainment meet.

Falafelberg

20.5 km

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Frederiksberg at Falafelberg, a night club offering delicious falafel and electrifying music for an unforgettable experience.

Culture Box

21.0 km

Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.

Moon Club

21.2 km

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Copenhagen at Moon Club, where electrifying beats and vibrant energy create unforgettable nights.

Mirage

21.4 km

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.

Arch

21.4 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.

Mini Bar

21.5 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.

The Zoo

21.6 km

Intimate late-night nightclub on Sværtegade in Copenhagen’s historic center, blending a compact dance floor, DJ-driven beats and a casual, social bar atmosphere.

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Hørsholm Arboretum (Arboretet), North Zealand

A brief summary to Arboretum

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Regional train and bus from central Copenhagen

Local bus within North Zealand

Car or taxi from Copenhagen region

Cycling from nearby coastal towns

Arboretum location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Arboretum

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Arboretum

A living library of trees in North Zealand

Botanical treasures from around the world

Seasonal moods and changing colours

Paths, quiet corners and gentle exploration

Research heritage and gentle guidelines

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Hørsholm Slotshave

Henriksholm

Furesø

Lyngby Storcenter

Bagsværd Kirke

Hillerød St.

Country Market

Hillerød Rectory

Old town hall

Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød

Kirppu Hillerød

Memorial Park

Tuborgflasken

Grundtvig’s Church

Danish Museum of Science and Technology

Unmissable attractions to see

Elleskovstien

Kongeegen i Vedbæk

Karen Blixen Museum Rungstedlund

Rungsted Harbour

Usserød Å

Sommer's Automobile Museum

Vaserne

Bøllemosen

Nivågård’s Malerisamling

Nivå Bugt Strandenge

Store Donse Dam

Geels Skov

Kongedyssen

Open Air Museum

Jægersborg Dyrehave

Essential places to dine

Bistro No. 22

MASH Rungsted Havn

Søllerød Kro

Gl. Humlebæk Kro

Restaurant Nysøgaard ApS

Lakeside Restaurant

Latini Hjørnet

Hong Kong Bistro & Grill

Lpm Restauranter v/Lars Peter Mølvang

Cafe Station Pizza Bar

You Sushi

Gourmet Sushi

Thai 4 You - Thai Restaurant og Take Away

Tô Tô Kitchen

Patats Kebab & Grill

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Late Morning Post Photographer

Lumi Op Shop

Shoppen

Mothers' Aid Op Shop

Rodes

Vinbutikken

GEjSER ApS

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NEW YORKER

JeansStore

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