Fredensborg Palace: The Royal Northern Retreat
Fredensborg Palace is a regal masterpiece of Danish Baroque, famous for its royal heritage, breathtaking gardens, and captivating lakeside setting north of Copenhagen.
Fredensborg Palace, nestled on the shores of Lake Esrum near Fredensborg, is the Danish royal family’s elegant spring and autumn residence. Renowned for its Baroque architecture, the palace is celebrated for its grand formal gardens, royal greenhouses, and statuary avenues. While much of the palace itself remains private, visitors can explore the meticulously landscaped grounds and the ornate chapel, immersing themselves in centuries of regal tradition.
A brief summary to Fredensborg Palace
- Slottet 1B, Fredensborg, 3480, DK
- +4533403187
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit in spring or summer when the private royal gardens open for limited guided tours—these periods offer rare behind-the-scenes access.
- The Baroque gardens can be explored most of the year for free, but check special exhibition times and occasional closures for royal events.
- Photography is permitted in the gardens but generally not inside the palace interiors during guided tours.
- Pack a picnic or enjoy a lakeside café after your visit—the palace parklands are especially scenic in the late afternoon light.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Travelers from Roskilde can reach Fredensborg Palace by boarding a regional train bound for Hillerød, a prominent town known for its Renaissance castle. From Hillerød Station, local trains continue to Fredensborg, with the journey offering views of woodland and lakes en route. The palace is a comfortable walk from Fredensborg's compact town center, with signs pointing toward the palace parklands. Public transport fares for the full journey average 90–110 DKK one way. Trains run regularly, making the route easy year-round, and the approach through Fredensborg town offers the chance for refreshments or café stops before entering the palace grounds.
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Driving
Driving from Roskilde takes about 35–50 minutes in typical traffic, guiding visitors north through the gently rolling landscapes of Zealand. Parking is available at designated lots close to the palace park entrance, but spaces may fill quickly during weekends or palace events. Expect to pay around 20–30 DKK per hour at municipal meters. No tolls apply on the standard approach. The palace is clearly visible from the surrounding roads, making orientation straightforward for arriving drivers.
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Taxi
Taxis provide a direct and comfortable option from Roskilde, especially for small groups or those needing door-to-door service. The ride takes around 40–55 minutes depending on traffic and typically costs 600–850 DKK each way. Taxi drop-off points are situated by the main palace park entrance.
Discover more about Fredensborg Palace
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Country Market
0.4 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.
Hillerød Rectory
8.2 km
Discover the Befrielsessten in Høgsholt, Vejle—a serene memorial park honoring Denmark's journey to freedom amidst lush landscapes.
Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød
8.3 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
8.8 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.
Royal Stage
9.0 km
Experience world-class events and versatile facilities at Royal Stage in Hillerød, North Zealand's premier venue for concerts, conferences, sports, and cultural experiences.
Elleskovstien
12.9 km
Escape to the tranquility of Elleskovstien in Hørsholm, Denmark. Discover lush woodlands, open meadows, and serene walking paths in this natural haven perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Hørsholm Slotshave
13.6 km
Discover the serene beauty and royal history of Hørsholm Slotshave, once home to the 'Versailles of the North,' now a tranquil park with echoes of a regal past.
Arboretum
14.2 km
Discover a world of trees and shrubs at the Arboretum in Hørsholm, a tranquil escape offering botanical exploration and natural beauty just north of Copenhagen.
Rungsted Harbour
14.3 km
Discover Rungsted Harbour: Denmark's charming coastal gem with boutique shops, diverse dining, and the Karen Blixen Museum, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and culture.
Elsinore Cemetery
14.3 km
Hestebrønden in Roskilde blends history and everyday life, recalling horse markets gone by while serving as a modern meeting point at the city’s vibrant core.
Danhostel Helsingør
14.5 km
Explore Roskilde’s Museum of Contemporary Art – a leading destination for experimental exhibitions, sound installations, and innovative performances in Denmark.
Helsingor
14.7 km
Dynamic exhibitions, daring performances, and boundary-pushing installations in Roskilde’s historic royal palace—discover Denmark’s vibrant contemporary art scene.
'The Middle Ages and the Sound Dues' mural
14.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Brillesøerne, Esbjerg's hidden nature preserve with picturesque lakes and diverse wildlife.
Saint Olaf's Church
14.8 km
Experience the artistic and cultural heart of Roskilde at Hestebrønden, a historic fountain nestled in the vibrant Hestetorvet square.
'The maritime history' mural
14.8 km
Explore Esbjerg's 27-meter mosaic mural celebrating the UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea's biodiversity.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fredensborg Slotshave
0.3 km
Explore Søborg Slotsruin, an atmospheric medieval castle ruin outside Gilleleje, blending royal history, dramatic legends, and rustic Danish countryside scenery.
Falkonergården
1.7 km
Experience the ancient art of falconry amidst the natural beauty of Fredensborg at Falkonergården.
Gribsø
5.7 km
Explore Stendysse's ancient burial mounds in Hillerød, Denmark, and connect with prehistoric history amidst serene natural beauty.
Esrum Kloster & Møllegård
7.0 km
Explore Northern Europe's largest aquarium, Den Blå Planet, and dive into a world of aquatic wonders in Copenhagen.
Parforcejagtlandskabet i Store Dyrehave UNESCO World Heritage
7.1 km
Experience LEGO magic at LEGOLAND Hotel & Conference in Billund, offering themed rooms, direct park access, and top-tier conference facilities.
Kongernes Nordsjælland
7.2 km
Explore Hornbæk Batteri: Denmark's WWII coastal defense site amidst scenic North Zealand landscapes.
Frederiksborg Castle Gardens
7.5 km
Denmark’s premier Baroque gardens with lakes, terraces, and castle views—a masterpiece of royal landscape design at Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød.
Batzke's Hill
7.6 km
Monkey World is a captivating animal park near Hillerød, Denmark, where visitors enjoy interactive primate encounters and family-friendly wildlife adventures in natural surroundings.
Hillerød City Museum & Graphic Museum
7.7 km
Experience LEGO magic at the LEGOLAND Hotel & Conference in Billund, offering themed rooms and direct park access.
Gavlkunst
7.9 km
Experience the perfect fusion of LEGO® charm and modern comfort at LEGOLAND® Hotel & Conference in Billund.
The Museum of National History
7.9 km
Experience LEGO-themed hospitality steps away from LEGOLAND® Billund Resort.
Frederiksborg Castle
7.9 km
Discover the enchanting world of Hans Christian Andersen through immersive exhibits in Copenhagen's heart.
Frederiksborg Castle Chapel
7.9 km
Experience LEGO magic at LEGOLAND Hotel & Conference in Billund, offering themed rooms and top-tier conference facilities.
Island of imagination
8.0 km
Experience the ultimate LEGO-themed stay at LEGOLAND Hotel & Conference in Billund, Denmark.
Store Dyrehave
8.1 km
Store Dyrehave is a UNESCO World Heritage royal hunting forest in North Zealand, famed for its geometric trails, ancient trees, and free-roaming deer.
Essential places to dine
Skipperhuset Fredensborg
0.9 km
Experience exquisite Danish cuisine at Skipperhuset Fredensborg - where every meal tells a story.
Hong Kong Bistro & Grill
7.2 km
Discover delicious Chinese and Thai cuisine at Hong Kong Bistro & Grill in Hillerød - a must-visit for food lovers seeking authentic flavors.
Lpm Restauranter v/Lars Peter Mølvang
7.3 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Lpm Restauranter in Hillerød, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Piccola Italia Pizzaria 3400
8.0 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Piccola Italia Pizzaria in Hillerød - the perfect spot for pizza lovers seeking quality and taste.
Rabarbergaarden Slottet
8.0 km
Discover Rabarbergaarden Slottet: A charming restaurant near Frederiksborg Slot serving exquisite Danish cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
Unkai
8.0 km
Discover Unkai in Hillerød: where fresh ingredients meet authentic Japanese flavors in a cozy atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
You Sushi
8.2 km
Experience exquisite sushi at You Sushi in Hillerød - where freshness meets creativity in every bite.
Royal Taste
8.2 km
Experience the essence of Japan with fresh sushi and authentic Asian dishes at Royal Taste in Hillerød.
Gourmet Sushi
8.2 km
Experience exquisite sushi and authentic Japanese flavors at Gourmet Sushi in Hillerød – where every bite is a culinary delight.
Cafe Vivaldi, Hillerød
8.3 km
Discover the cozy charm of Café Vivaldi in Hillerød – where delicious meals meet warm Danish hospitality.
Nyu Sakura Hillerod
8.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine with fresh sushi and traditional dishes at Nyu Sakura Hillerød, located in the heart of Hillerød.
Gonzales Cantina
8.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Gonzales Cantina in Hillerød - where family-friendly dining meets delicious flavors.
Sushi Mura
8.4 km
Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Sushi Mura, Hillerød's premier sushi destination.
Restaurant Teddy /by Bjørn
8.4 km
Experience exquisite Danish cuisine at Restaurant Teddy in Hillerød, where local flavors meet contemporary culinary artistry.
Frederiksborgcentret's Restauranter ApS
8.5 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Frederiksborgcentret's Restauranter ApS in Hillerød.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SlotsArkaderne
8.5 km
Modern shopping center in the heart of Hillerød, featuring 60+ stores, eateries, and events just steps from Frederiksborg Castle and the scenic city center.
Mercuri
14.4 km
Discover Mercuri: Helsingør's Premier Boutique for Scandinavian Fashion and Local Craftsmanship
Vandkanten Ilse Jacobsen Outlet
14.6 km
Experience Danish design at Vandkanten Ilse Jacobsen Outlet in Helsingør, offering stylish apparel and accessories at attractive outlet prices.
Ide Nyt
14.7 km
Discover authentic Danish crafts and souvenirs at Ide Nyt, a charming boutique in Helsingør's historic district.
Helsingør Vinhandel
14.7 km
Discover a world of fine wines at Helsingør Vinhandel, where quality meets passion in the heart of Helsingør.
Red Cross Op Shop
33.3 km
A vibrant Østerbro thrift store where sustainable shopping, Danish design, and community spirit support Red Cross humanitarian work.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
33.4 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.
Nørrebrogade
33.5 km
Nørrebrogade in Nørrebro embodies multicultural Copenhagen—a bustling boulevard of global eats, indie shops, street art, and local vibrance at the city’s creative edge.
Jægersborggade
33.6 km
Discover Copenhagen’s Jægersborggade: a vibrant, creative street in Nørrebro packed with innovative eateries, hip boutiques, and local character.
PRAG Nørrebro
34.2 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
Butik Bungalow
34.3 km
Colorful Danish-Indian design shop in Nørrebro offering hand-printed homeware, unique gifts, and stylish paper goods in a cozy, creative boutique setting.
McKorman
34.4 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
Frederiksberg Centret
34.5 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.
Royal Copenhagen - Outlet
34.7 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.
TorvehallerneKBH
34.9 km
A vibrant marketplace in the heart of Copenhagen, TorvehallerneKBH blends Danish culinary tradition with global flavors across over 60 food and drink stalls.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cafe Vivaldi
8.2 km
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Crane Brothers
8.2 km
Experience Hillerød's vibrant nightlife at Crane Brothers, a bar renowned for its eclectic decor and inventive cocktails.
Torvets Café og Vinbar
8.3 km
Elegant brasserie and wine bar on Hillerød’s main square, renowned for its Scandinavian flavor, curated wines, and inviting local atmosphere.
Café Valentin
8.3 km
A buzzing café in Hillerød’s historic center, Valentin is known for all-day brunch, inventive burgers, and a stylish bar with castle views beside the lake.
Head/Foam
14.4 km
Vibrant modern bar in Helsingør offering craft beers, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere near Kronborg Castle and the historic waterfront.
Oddies Beach Bar
14.5 km
Experience the charm of Oddies Beach Bar, a tropical-inspired retreat on Rungsted Strand offering delightful refreshments and vibrant summer events.
Axelhus Udeservering
14.6 km
Experience Danish hospitality at Axelhus Udeservering, a cozy bar in Helsingør offering a curated selection of drinks and vibrant outdoor seating.
Axelhus
14.7 km
Classic Danish bar in central Helsingør, Axelhus is renowned for its unpretentious ambience, friendly locals, low prices and regular live music events.
Strejf
14.7 km
Stylish Nordic and international dining in Helsingør’s central square, featuring seasonal cuisine, fine wines, and a welcoming cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Holger
14.8 km
Traditional Danish bodega-style bar in Helsingør’s historic district, offering affordable drinks, classic pub games, and an inviting local vibe just steps from Kronborg Castle.
Gotland - Café & Vinbar
32.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.
Kompasset Ølbar
32.4 km
Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.
Bubbles Bar
32.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bubbles Bar, Copenhagen's chic nightlife destination for tourists and locals alike.
Tap10
32.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Tap10, a cozy bar in Østerbro offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer
33.1 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.
