Frederiksborg Castle

Denmark's Renaissance jewel on three islands, where royal grandeur meets national heritage in gardens of baroque precision and romantic beauty.

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Frederiksborg Castle

A magnificent Renaissance castle built on three islands in Castle Lake, Frederiksborg stands as Denmark's answer to Versailles. Home to the Museum of National History and the National Portrait Gallery, this 17th-century masterpiece showcases opulent rooms, royal portraits, and decorative arts spanning centuries. The castle is surrounded by two distinct gardens: a formal Baroque garden with geometric precision and a romantic landscape garden with woodland paths. Located just 35 minutes from Copenhagen by train, it's an ideal day trip combining architectural grandeur, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Frederiksborg Castle

Frederiksborg Slot 10, Hillerød, 3400, DK
+4548260439
Visit website
Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Budget
Mixed
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 10 am-3 pm
Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
Thursday 10 am-3 pm
Friday 10 am-3 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Allocate at least 2–3 hours to explore both the castle interior and gardens. The vast rooms, artwork, and outdoor spaces reward unhurried exploration. Winter visits (November–March) offer fewer crowds and a more contemplative atmosphere, though daylight is limited.
Don't miss the Audience Chamber, which survived the 1859 fire and features a remarkable 1692 elevator used by Christian V. The castle chapel is also essential—it remains the site of Danish royal anointing ceremonies.
Visit the Baroque Garden in late spring or summer (May–October) when the cascade and fountains are active. The optical illusions in the garden design are particularly striking when viewed from the top of the waterfall looking toward the lake.
Book tickets online in advance to skip queues, especially during peak summer months. Tickets are valid for 3 months from the selected date and provide access to all permanent exhibitions and special displays.
Take The Little Ferry across Castle Lake (May–September) for a scenic approach to the castle and gardens. The 25-minute journey offers unique photo opportunities and a memorable arrival experience.

Getting There

S-train from Copenhagen

Take the S-train line A from Copenhagen Central Station directly to Hillerød Station. Journey time is approximately 35–40 minutes, with trains departing every 10–20 minutes throughout the day. From Hillerød Station, walk 15 minutes through the city's pedestrian streets toward the castle, or board local bus 301 or 302 toward the castle entrance. A 24-hour all-zones transport ticket costs approximately 130 DKK and covers your entire journey from Copenhagen to Hillerød and return.
Local bus from Hillerød

From Hillerød Station, take bus 301 toward Ullerød or bus 302 toward Sophienlund and alight at the stop Frederiksborg Slot. Journey time is approximately 5–10 minutes. Buses run regularly throughout the day. This option is convenient if you prefer not to walk or are traveling with luggage or young children.
The Little Ferry from Hillerød town square

During summer months (12 May–15 September, Monday–Saturday 11 am–5 pm, Sunday 1–4 pm), board The Little Ferry M/F Frederiksborg from Hillerød town square. The scenic 25-minute cruise crosses Castle Lake with stops at the castle and Baroque Garden. Tickets cost 30 DKK for adults and 10 DKK for children; cash only. Ferries depart every 30 minutes. This option offers a memorable and picturesque arrival experience.
Walking from Hillerød Station

A pleasant 15-minute walk from Hillerød Station leads to the castle through the city's charming pedestrian streets, which feature cafes, shops, and local character. The route is flat and well-signposted. You can walk along Castle Lake for part of the journey, offering scenic views. This option is ideal for those who enjoy exploring the surrounding town.

Frederiksborg Castle location weather suitability

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Discover more about Frederiksborg Castle

A Renaissance Masterpiece Born from Royal Ambition

Frederiksborg Castle represents one of Northern Europe's finest examples of Renaissance architecture. Built originally by King Frederik II and dramatically expanded by his son Christian IV in the early 1600s, the castle embodies the power and ambition of Denmark's Golden Age. The structure rises majestically from three islands in Castle Lake, its towers and spires reflecting in the water below, creating an enchanting sight that has captivated visitors for centuries. The castle's architectural design blends Dutch and Italian Renaissance influences, evident in its symmetrical facades, ornate decorations, and commanding presence. The castle's interior reveals rooms of extraordinary splendor, each telling stories of royal life and Danish history. The Great Hall, the Audience Chamber, and the Hall of Angels showcase original decorations and furnishings that survived or were meticulously restored after the devastating fire of 1859. The Marble Gallery in the King's Wing stands as a testament to Christian IV's refined taste, while the castle chapel—one of the few spaces that survived the fire intact—continues to serve as the site where Danish kings and queens are anointed in coronation ceremonies to this day.

From Catastrophe to Cultural Institution

The fire of 1859 nearly destroyed Frederiksborg's interior, but the castle's fate changed when J.C. Jacobsen, the visionary owner of the Carlsberg Breweries, undertook a comprehensive restoration. Rather than simply rebuilding, Jacobsen transformed the castle into a museum dedicated to preserving Danish national history and cultural heritage. Today, Frederiksborg houses the Museum of National History and the National Portrait Gallery, making it far more than a historic building—it's a living archive of Danish identity. The museum's permanent collection includes masterworks by renowned artists such as Jens Juel, Karel van Mander, Wilhelm Marstrand, and P.S. Krøyer. Visitors encounter royal portraits, historical paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts that illuminate Denmark's past from the Renaissance through the modern era. The museum regularly presents changing special exhibitions that complement the permanent displays, ensuring that each visit offers fresh perspectives on Danish culture and history.

Gardens of Symmetry and Romance

The castle gardens represent two contrasting philosophies of landscape design. The Baroque Garden, recreated in the 1990s based on designs from the 1720s, descends in four terraces toward Castle Lake. Characterized by geometric precision, neatly clipped hedges, shaped topiaries, and royal monograms, this garden exemplifies mankind's control over nature. A dramatic cascade flows through the center, and the entire composition is designed with optical illusions that make the landscape appear more expansive than it actually is. The fountain and cascade operate daily from May through October, adding movement and sound to the formal design. Contrasting sharply with the Baroque Garden's rigid order, the Landscape Garden embraces romantic freedom. Winding streams, free-growing woods, and the idyllic Bathhouse Castle from the 1580s create an intimate, naturalistic atmosphere. Together, these gardens form a unique synthesis of formal art and natural beauty, offering visitors multiple ways to experience the castle's grounds. The gardens remain open year-round, providing different seasonal perspectives—from spring blossoms to autumn colors to winter's stark beauty.

Culinary and Recreational Experiences

The castle grounds offer more than visual splendor. The farm-to-table restaurant Rabarbergaarden Slottet transforms local ingredients from Royal North Zealand into distinctive gastronomic experiences, allowing visitors to dine within the castle's historic walls. Café Havehuset, located in the gardens, provides refreshments and features an exhibition detailing the gardens' 400-year history alongside a detailed model of the Baroque Garden. During summer months, The Little Ferry M/F Frederiksborg offers scenic 25-minute cruises across Castle Lake, departing from Hillerød's town square and stopping at the castle and gardens—a charming alternative to walking and a memorable way to approach the castle.

Accessibility and Visitor Practicalities

Frederiksborg's location in Hillerød makes it exceptionally accessible for Copenhagen visitors. The S-train line A connects downtown Copenhagen to Hillerød Station in approximately 35 minutes, with frequent service throughout the day. From the station, a pleasant 15-minute walk through Hillerød's pedestrian streets—lined with cafes and shops—leads to the castle, or local buses provide direct service to the castle entrance. The castle is open every day of the year, including Mondays, Christmas, and New Year's Days, making it a reliable destination regardless of when you visit. Wheelchair accessibility is available, and the museum provides information boards and guided tours in multiple languages.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Old town hall

0.6 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

0.7 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

0.7 km

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

Hillerød St.

1.0 km

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

Kirppu Hillerød

1.1 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

6.9 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

7.8 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.

Hørsholm Slotshave

14.1 km

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

Auderødlejren

14.7 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

17.2 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

18.9 km

Discover Denmark's enchanting Tisvilde Hegn: A coastal forest where history whispers through ancient pines and scenic trails lead to breathtaking Kattegat views.

Danish Museum of Science and Technology

19.0 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.

Heather Hill (Rågelejevej), Vejby

19.8 km

Discover Heather Hill in Vejby: A unique Danish landscape with heather-clad hills, stunning coastal views, and rich history, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.

Vejby Strand

19.8 km

Discover Vejby Strand: A picturesque Danish coastal escape with dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, and a wealth of natural and historical attractions in North Zealand.

Unmissable attractions to see

The Museum of National History

0.0 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 Chapel

0.0 km

Experience LEGO magic at LEGOLAND Hotel & Conference in Billund, offering themed rooms and top-tier conference facilities.

Posen

0.3 km

A small, leafy pause between Hillerød’s bustling Slotsgade and the storybook views of Frederiksborg Castle and its lake.

Fisketorvet

0.4 km

Experience the vibrant heart of Hillerød at Fisketorvet, where history, shopping, and culture converge in North Zealand's premier market square.

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.

Frederiksborg Castle Gardens

0.5 km

Sweeping Baroque terraces and romantic woodland paths framing a lake island castle, Frederiksborg Castle Gardens blend royal theatre with everyday green escape.

Hillerød City Museum & Graphic Museum

0.5 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

0.5 km

A string of vivid murals along Helsingørsgade that turns central Hillerød into a small, free open‑air gallery of local stories and color.

Slotsgade

0.6 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.

Hillerød Church

0.7 km

A light-filled modern parish church in the heart of Hillerød, carrying centuries of local worship history in a calm, contemporary Danish setting.

Genforeningssten i Hillerød

0.7 km

Experience intimate encounters with rescued animals in the serene Japanese gardens of Monkey World Hillerød.

Elværket Hillerød - Museum Nordsjælland

0.8 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

1.5 km

North Zealand's premier multi-purpose arena hosting concerts, sports, and cultural events for up to 2,000 guests.

Island of imagination

1.8 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.

AdventurePark

2.4 km

80,000 m² of outdoor action in Hillerød’s forests, blending paintball, obstacle courses and group games with relaxed grill areas and flexible event packages.

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

A cosy women’s fashion boutique on Hillerød’s historic Slotsgade, blending Scandinavian style, curated clothing and accessories with a relaxed, personal atmosphere.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Møllen

0.5 km

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

The Old Irish Pub

0.6 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.

Tahonga Lounge

0.7 km

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

Crane Brothers

0.7 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.

Jernstangen

1.0 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

16.3 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

19.3 km

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

12`er Pubben

21.3 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

21.3 km

Unpretentious neighbourhood bar in Helsingør offering classic Danish bodega atmosphere, simple drinks and a relaxed glimpse into everyday local life.

Head/Foam

22.0 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

22.2 km

Historic theatre and bar hosting live concerts, exhibitions, and dinner events in central Elsinore.

Banana joe

22.3 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.

Axelhus Udeservering

22.3 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.

Pitten Sport Bar

22.3 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

22.3 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

0.4 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

18.0 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

19.8 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

22.0 km

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

Retro

22.3 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

29.8 km

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

SIGURD CPH

30.2 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

31.1 km

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

RUST Natklub

31.5 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

31.6 km

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

Haven - Events

32.2 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

32.4 km

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

Culture Box

32.8 km

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

Mirage

32.8 km

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

Arch

32.8 km

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

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Frederiksborg Castle

A brief summary to Frederiksborg Castle

Local tips

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

Getting There

S-train from Copenhagen

Local bus from Hillerød

The Little Ferry from Hillerød town square

Walking from Hillerød Station

Frederiksborg Castle location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Frederiksborg Castle

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Frederiksborg Castle

A Renaissance Masterpiece Born from Royal Ambition

From Catastrophe to Cultural Institution

Gardens of Symmetry and Romance

Culinary and Recreational Experiences

Accessibility and Visitor Practicalities

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Old town hall

Skänk øl, vin & madbar Hillerød

Hillerød Rectory

Hillerød St.

Kirppu Hillerød

Kulsvierstenen

Country Market

Hørsholm Slotshave

Auderødlejren

Furesø

Henriksholm

Tisvilde Hegn

Danish Museum of Science and Technology

Heather Hill (Rågelejevej), Vejby

Vejby Strand

Unmissable attractions to see

The Museum of National History

Frederiksborg Castle Chapel

Posen

Fisketorvet

Batzke's Hill

Frederiksborg Castle Gardens

Hillerød City Museum & Graphic Museum

Gavlkunst

Slotsgade

Hillerød Church

Genforeningssten i Hillerød

Elværket Hillerød - Museum Nordsjælland

Royal Stage

Island of imagination

AdventurePark

Essential places to dine

Rabarbergaarden Slottet

Royal Taste

Restaurant Royal Style

Ninos Pizza

Rib House

Roberto's 51

Jensens Bøfhus

Big Mamma Gastronomia

Café Valentin

Patats Kebab & Grill

Gonzales Cantina

Unkai

Piccola Italia Pizzaria 3400

Montalbano

Tô Tô Kitchen

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Red Cross Op Shop

Tingstedet

Boutique Munck

HL Mode Hillerød

Holm Hillerød

Frk. Fie

Lumi Op Shop

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Men's Shop

Idé nyt

Jan Ehlers