Frederiksberg Gardens (Frederiksberg Have)
A grand former royal palace park turned romantic landscape garden, Frederiksberg Gardens is Copenhagen’s leafy retreat of canals, lawns, pavilions and palace views.
Frederiksberg Gardens is one of Copenhagen’s largest and most romantic green spaces, wrapped around the baroque Frederiksberg Palace in the independent municipality of Frederiksberg. Laid out in the early 18th century as a royal palace park and later reshaped as an English landscape garden, it blends sweeping lawns, lakes and canals, island pavilions, temples and grottoes. Today it is a beloved urban oasis for picnics, slow strolls, rowing-boat rides and glimpses into the neighbouring Copenhagen 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
- Arrive early on sunny weekends to enjoy the quieter side of the park and claim a good picnic spot with clear views of Frederiksberg Palace and the lakes.
- Plan at least one loop that includes the Chinese Pavilion, the pacifier tree and the palace hill to experience the gardens’ mix of architecture, history and local traditions.
- In summer, consider a short boat tour on the canals for a different vantage point on the gardens and to appreciate how closely the water weaves through the landscape.
- Combine your visit with nearby sights such as Copenhagen Zoo or Søndermarken park if you want a full day in Frederiksberg’s green belt without moving far from the gardens.
- Paths are mostly flat and well maintained, but bring comfortable shoes; the park is large and it is easy to clock up several kilometres without noticing.
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 to Frederiksberg Station; from there it is an easy 10–15 minute walk along broad, well-paved streets to the main entrance. Trains run every few minutes throughout the day, and the entire journey typically takes 15–25 minutes depending on your starting point. A single-zone ticket within the city normally costs around 20–25 DKK, and all stations and carriages are step-free, making this the most straightforward option for visitors with luggage, strollers or wheelchairs.
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Bus within Frederiksberg and Copenhagen
Several city bus routes connect inner Copenhagen with the Frederiksberg Gardens area in roughly 15–30 minutes of travel time, depending on traffic. Buses stop along the main roads bordering the park, so you reach the lawns within a short, level walk on city pavements. Standard city bus tickets cost about 20–25 DKK, and services usually run every 10–20 minutes during the day, with less frequent departures in the late evening. Low-floor buses make boarding easier, though they can be busy at rush hour.
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Bicycle from central neighbourhoods
Cycling is one of the most popular ways to reach Frederiksberg Gardens from areas such as Vesterbro, Nørrebro or the historic centre, with typical journey times of 10–25 minutes along dedicated bike lanes. The terrain is almost entirely flat and well signed, but you share space with many other cyclists, especially in the morning and late afternoon peaks. You can bring your own bike or rent a city bike for roughly 20–40 DKK per hour. Bicycle access is generally restricted inside the park itself, so be prepared to dismount and walk once you reach the entrances.
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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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Frederiksberg Gardens
Royal beginnings on the slopes of Frederiksberg Hill
Frederiksberg Gardens began life as the private park of Frederiksberg Palace, the baroque summer residence raised by King Frederik IV in the early 1700s on the gentle rise of Valby Hill. From the start it was conceived as a statement of royal prestige, with formal terraces falling away from the ochre-yellow palace towards the lowlands. The royal family came here to escape the bustle of the city, enjoying fresh air and open views over the surrounding countryside that has since grown into metropolitan Copenhagen. The original layout followed continental fashion with precise geometry and ornamental cascades, but maintaining that elaborate parterre proved difficult in Denmark’s climate. Over the following decades, the gardens were redesigned several times, gradually softening into the flowing landscape that defines the park today. What has remained constant is the sense of entering a cultivated royal domain, still presided over by the palace high above the lawns.A romantic English landscape in the heart of the city
By the late 18th century Frederiksberg Gardens had been transformed into an English-style landscape park, with winding paths, sinuous canals and artfully grouped trees replacing strict baroque order. Lakes were shaped to resemble a natural river looping through the grounds, crossed by picturesque bridges that frame ever-changing views of palace, water and woodland. Meandering along these paths is central to the experience: there are long sightlines one moment and intimate, shaded corners the next. This romantic reimagining also brought ornamental features such as grottos, follies and small temples, giving the park an air of gentle fantasy. Seasonal change is striking here. In spring, carpets of crocuses and other bulbs brighten the main entrance, while in summer the lawns fill with picnickers and the leafy canopy offers cool shade. Autumn paints the mature trees in deep reds and golds, and even winter has a quiet charm, when bare branches reveal the full drama of the palace hill.Palace views, pavilions and playful traditions
Several architectural highlights punctuate the greenery. Frederiksberg Palace itself forms the great backdrop, its long baroque façade perfectly poised on the ridge above the water, today housing the Royal Danish Military Academy. Down by the canals, the small Chinese Pavilion sits on an islet, a late 18th-century teahouse whose bright detailing hints at far-off inspirations. Nearby, classical-style structures such as the Apis Temple add to the park’s theatrical atmosphere. At the main entrance a statue of King Frederik VI welcomes visitors, commemorating a monarch who famously enjoyed being rowed along the canals to greet citizens. One of the park’s most endearing features is the so-called pacifier tree, where families hang their children’s outgrown pacifiers with ribbon and notes as a gentle rite of passage. Scattered sculptures, quiet memorials and carefully placed benches all contribute to a sense of long, layered history intertwined with everyday life.Everyday green escape for locals and visitors
Despite its royal roots, Frederiksberg Gardens has long served as an accessible escape for city dwellers. Wide lawns invite casual games and relaxed sunbathing, while shaded paths offer space for runners, dog walkers and contemplative wanderers. The extensive canal system is busy with birdlife; herons often stand statuesque in the shallows, while ducks, geese and swans patrol the water looking for crumbs from picnics. Families gravitate to play areas and open spaces that feel safely removed from traffic, and there are several cozy corners for coffee, ice cream or a simple packed lunch. On fine days informal gatherings unfold across the park—from quiet reading spots under old trees to large group picnics celebrating birthdays or simply good weather. Even when busy, the gardens are big enough to find your own patch of grass or a peaceful bench with a view.Canals, boats and a glimpse of the zoo
Water shapes much of the visitor experience. In the warmer months, small rowing boats and guided canal tours ply the lakes, gliding under low bridges and past reed-fringed banks. From the water you gain a different angle on the palace, pavilions and gently rolling lawns, echoing the royal boat rides of earlier centuries. Reflections of trees and architecture shimmer on the surface, and the soft splash of oars adds to the calm atmosphere. At the northern edge of the gardens, the boundary with Copenhagen Zoo is almost seamless. From certain viewpoints you can look directly into the zoo’s elephant enclosure, a surprising meeting of urban park and wildlife habitat. Nearby, the neighbouring park of Søndermarken and several small museums extend the green and cultural landscape, making Frederiksberg Gardens a natural anchor point for a full day of gentle exploration in this leafy part 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
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
