Augustenborg Palace
Denmark's largest baroque palace complex overlooking the fjord, where ducal history meets timeless gardens.
A magnificent Rococo-style palace overlooking Augustenborg Fjord on Als Island, Denmark. Built between 1770–1776, this baroque masterpiece served as the residence of the ducal family for over a century. Today, visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, visit the palace chapel, and discover a small museum dedicated to the palace's rich history and the House of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Augustenburg.
A brief summary to Augustenborg Palace
- Augustenborg Slot, Augustenborg, 6440, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the palace gardens during spring mornings when blossoms are at their peak and crowds are minimal, offering the most serene experience and optimal photography conditions.
- Explore the memorial linden tree where Hans Christian Andersen drew inspiration for his fairy tales, and discover the nearby Ice Hill, a fascinating remnant of 18th-century ice storage technology.
- Access the palace gardens via multiple routes: from the palace itself, along Palævej, or via the beautiful fjord-side promenade that connects the gardens to the harbour and town.
- Time your visit to coincide with the palace chapel's summer opening hours to experience the exquisite Rococo interior, or check for special cultural events and concerts held in the gardens.
- Visit the mini-museum in the gatehouse for a comprehensive overview of the ducal family's history and the palace's architectural evolution before exploring the grounds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Picnic Areas
Getting There
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By Car
From Sønderborg (approximately 15 km south), take Route 8 northbound toward Augustenborg. Follow signs to the town centre and palace. Parking is available near the palace grounds. Journey time is approximately 20–25 minutes. The palace and gardens are well-signposted throughout the town.
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By Bus
Regional bus services connect Augustenborg to Sønderborg and surrounding towns. Journey times vary from 25–40 minutes depending on the route and service frequency. Check local bus schedules in advance, as services may be limited on weekends and holidays. Buses typically stop near the town centre, from which the palace is a short walk.
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By Bicycle
Als Island has a well-developed cycling network. From Sønderborg, the journey to Augustenborg is approximately 20 km and takes 1–1.5 hours on flat terrain. Bicycle paths are clearly marked, and the route offers scenic views of the island's landscape. Bike rentals are available in nearby towns.
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Walking from Town Centre
From Augustenborg town centre, the palace gardens are accessible via multiple walking routes. The main approach via Palævej takes approximately 10–15 minutes on level ground. An alternative scenic route follows the fjord-side promenade from the harbour, offering waterfront views and taking approximately 15–20 minutes. All routes are clearly marked and accessible year-round.
Augustenborg Palace location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Augustenborg Palace
A Baroque Masterpiece on the Baltic
Augustenborg Palace stands as one of Denmark's most complete and impressive baroque complexes, commanding a prominent position on Als Island in southern Denmark. The present palace was constructed between 1770 and 1776, replacing an earlier half-timbered manor house built in 1660–1664 by Ernest Günther, the first Duke of Augustenborg. The three-winged main building exemplifies Late Baroque architecture in full symmetry, while the surrounding red-roofed outbuildings, added from 1733 onwards, create a harmonious ensemble that overlooks the narrow waters of Augustenborg Fjord, an arm of the Baltic Sea.The Ducal Legacy and Historical Transformations
The palace owes its name to Duchess Auguste (1633–1701) and became the seat of the House of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Augustenburg, one of Denmark's most prominent noble families. Duke Christian August II, the last member of the ducal family to reside in the palace, departed in 1848 following the First Schleswig War due to his close ties with Germany. After the ducal family's departure, the palace underwent dramatic transformations: it served first as military barracks, then from 1878 as a seminary for women. In 1921, the Danish state purchased the property, converting it into a hospital in 1927–1928. For more than 80 years, significant portions functioned as a psychiatric hospital until the facility relocated to nearby Aabenraa in 2015. Today, the palace houses the Danish Agency for Agriculture, which has undertaken extensive renovations of the main building.Gardens and Landscape Design
The palace grounds showcase exceptional landscape architecture, with the original Baroque-style garden transformed during the 19th century into an expansive landscaped park. Elegant grass terraces descend toward the fjord, framed by carefully sculpted topiary hedges and mature trees. The garden's design creates a visual illusion where the manicured landscape appears to merge seamlessly with the natural landscape beyond, a hallmark of sophisticated 18th-century estate design. Accessible trails wind through the grounds, offering visitors multiple perspectives of the palace and fjord views.Structures and Hidden Stories
The palace complex includes several notable secondary buildings, each with distinct historical significance. The House of Prince, built in 1765 for Emil August (younger brother of Duke Frederick Christian I), served as a hermitage for the retired general until his death in 1786. The palace chapel, constructed in the Rococo style, now functions as the parish church of Augustenborg and opens to the public during summer months. Within the park grounds stands a memorial plaque beneath an ancient linden tree, marking the spot where poet Hans Christian Andersen is said to have found inspiration for some of his most celebrated fairy tales, including "The Little Match Girl." The Ice Hill, located north of the linden tree, preserves the remains of a five-meter-deep cellar constructed from large boulders, originally used to store ice blocks for the palace household during winter months.Contemporary Access and Cultural Significance
While the main palace building remains closed to the public due to its current institutional use, the grounds and gardens are freely accessible year-round, making it an essential destination for understanding Danish ducal history and baroque architecture. The palace chapel remains open to visitors during its special opening hours when no services are scheduled. A small museum located in the gatehouse provides insight into the ducal family's history and the palace's architectural evolution. The palace gardens have hosted major cultural events, including concerts by internationally renowned artists such as Elton John, Eric Clapton, and Bryan Adams, as well as the popular family concert series "A Sunday on Als." The surrounding town of Augustenborg, with its 13 statutory listed buildings and 29 locally listed buildings, forms a protected historic preservation area that reflects the palace's dominant influence on regional development during the 18th and 19th centuries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mindesten for korporal Hammerström og konstabel Frederiksen
5.9 km
A modest stone on Sønderborg’s former shooting range honouring two fallen wartime servicemen, inviting a brief but powerful pause for remembrance and reflection.
Sønderborg Kommunale Kommandocentral
6.1 km
Hidden beneath Kongevej lies Sønderborg’s former Cold War nerve center, an underground command bunker built to keep the city running in times of crisis.
Memory stone
6.4 km
A modest monument on Sønderborg’s town-hall square, the Memory Stone offers a quiet pause for reflection amid the everyday bustle of this historic border town.
Papirgalleriet v/Gitte Kristjansen
6.4 km
A vibrant family-friendly playground in central Roskilde, Byparkens Legeplads offers open-air fun, creativity, and relaxation in the heart of the city’s beloved Byparken.
Iskonditoriet
6.6 km
Byparkens Legeplads in Roskilde fuses creative play equipment and green park scenery for a free, family-friendly experience in the heart of the historic Danish city.
Windmill
6.6 km
Denmark's iconic windmill and national symbol of resilience, rebuilt after war and transformed into a living museum of history.
Gedenkstein für hingerichtete Widerstandskämpfer
6.8 km
Discreet harborfront memorial in Sønderborg honoring eleven young German sailors executed for mutiny in 1945, inviting quiet reflection on conscience and war.
Mindesten for Røde Kors
8.4 km
A quiet memorial to the world's first Red Cross observers amid Denmark's most historic battlefield.
King's Redoubt
8.5 km
A preserved 1864 military fortress symbolizing Danish resilience and regional heritage.
Tysk skanse X
8.5 km
Stille jordvolde på Dybbøl Banke, hvor en tysk skanse fortæller om tiden efter 1864 og fæstningsringen, der engang omklamrede Sønderborg.
Genforeningsmærke på Dybbøl Skanse II
8.9 km
Memorial marker honoring Danish reunification and the 1864 battle's fallen defenders on a historic fortification site.
Befrielsessten i Vester Sottrup
11.0 km
A quiet stone marking Denmark's liberation and Vester Sottrup's wartime legacy.
Bregninge Kirke
28.8 km
Medieval island church on a gentle Ærø hillside, where whitewashed stone, quiet fields and seafaring stories meet in a calm, contemplative setting.
Forladt skorsten
29.9 km
A haunting brick ruin marking Ærø's vanished industrial era, standing silent on the island's edge.
Holstenshuus
33.3 km
Discover Holstenshuus, a historic estate near Faaborg, Denmark, offering a serene Rococo garden, rich history dating back to 1314, and a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Augustiana Kunstpark & Kunsthal
0.4 km
A historic white palace turned contemporary art hub, surrounded by a free, all‑day sculpture park that flows from manicured lawns to the shores of Augustenborg Fjord.
Vollerup
2.3 km
Relaxed, family-friendly hostel with play areas and mini-golf in the quiet suburb of Vollerup on Sønderborg’s green eastern fringe.
Kongevejsparken
5.7 km
A small historic neighborhood park in central Sønderborg, where former hospital gardens, mature trees and a playground create a relaxed everyday green escape.
Mølleparken
5.7 km
Grassy amphitheatre and open-air stage, where Sønderborg’s quiet green slopes transform into a vibrant summer concert arena under the evening sky.
Lysvang Vandtårn
5.8 km
A modest 1930s water tower in a quiet Sønderborg neighborhood, blending industrial heritage, wartime stories and occasional panoramic views over town and fjord.
Center for Verdensmål
5.9 km
Open-air sustainability landscape in Sønderborg where nature, simple installations and Kær Vestermark’s big skies bring the UN’s 17 Global Goals to life for all ages.
Rønhaveplads
5.9 km
A peaceful, local-favorite park offering tranquil ponds, leafy lawns, and family-friendly relaxation just outside Sønderborg’s city center. Free, welcoming, and authentic.
Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig
6.0 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Sønderborg at Deutsches Museum Nordschleswig, where history and interactive exhibits come to life.
Sønderborghus
6.0 km
Cosy cultural house in central Sønderborg, blending live music, creative workshops and a welcoming café into one relaxed, community-focused venue.
Selfiebænken - Big yellow
6.1 km
Sønderborg's cheerful yellow bench—a playful symbol of local creativity and the perfect photo moment.
Støvlen
6.1 km
A 12‑metre‑high boot‑shaped picnic house and lookout tower born from a giant scout camp, blending quirky design, open countryside views and cosy shelter.
Rønhaves museum
6.2 km
A cosy attic museum on a 14th‑century farm, where tools, toys and grain samples bring everyday rural life on Als vividly back to life.
Ringridermuseet i Sønderborg
6.3 km
Danmarks eneste ringridermuseum i et bindingsværkshus fra 1643, hvor lanser, medaljer og lokale fortællinger bringer Sønderborgs festlige tradition til live.
Hønekilden
6.4 km
A tiny harbor-side spring where pure water, royal engineering and whispering legends blur into a tranquil urban nook of art and history.
Rådhustorvet
6.4 km
Historic town square with a 16th‑century former town hall, Rådhustorvet is a compact, atmospheric hub in Sønderborg’s old quarter.
Essential places to dine
Bone's Sønderborg
4.4 km
American-style ribs, burgers and salad bar in a lively, family-friendly setting on the edge of Sønderborg.
Restaurant The Grill Sønderborg
4.4 km
All‑you‑can‑eat grill buffet and easygoing dining inside Sønderborg’s Bowl’n’Fun and Maximum entertainment complex, ideal for families, groups and relaxed nights out.
Carl's Jr.
4.5 km
Flame-grilled American burgers made fresh to order, served daily in Sønderborg's Bilka shopping center.
Sunset Boulevard
4.6 km
Danish-style fast food with burgers, sandwiches and coffee in a bright, casual setting on Grundtvigs Allé, perfect for a quick, reliable stop in Sønderborg.
Maestro Falafel & Döner
5.5 km
Casual Mediterranean kebab and falafel spot in Sønderborg serving generous wraps and plates, ideal for a quick, affordable meal between city sights.
Det Libanesiske Køkken Pizza og Grill
5.9 km
Casual Lebanese grill and classic pizza on Sønderborg’s main street, serving generous plates, stone-baked slices and easy takeaway in a relaxed, everyday setting.
Kislings
6.0 km
A cozy Sønderborg café and specialty coffee bar blending Danish hygge, craft roasting and a hidden courtyard oasis right on bustling pedestrian Perlegade.
Jensens Bøfhus
6.1 km
Family-friendly Danish steakhouse serving grilled beef and comfort food in central Sønderborg.
Milas & Malthe’s FOODCOURT Sønderborg
6.1 km
Casual burgers, salads and cocktails in a relaxed food court–style hangout on Sønderborg’s main shopping street, ideal for easy lunches, laid-back dinners and drinks.
The Burger Concept - Burger i Sønderborg
6.2 km
Casual Danish burger bar inside Sønderborg’s Borgen center, serving classic patties, crispy fries and shakes in a bright, urban fast-casual setting.
Dining By Kretzmann ApS
6.2 km
Inventive Nordic-inspired fine dining in an intimate, relaxed space on Sønderborg’s main pedestrian street, where seasonal menus turn an evening out into a culinary journey.
Sushi & More... Sushi
6.2 km
Central Sønderborg spot for easygoing sushi, Asian hot dishes and reliable takeaway, ideal for a quick lunch stop or relaxed, no‑fuss dinner.
Sønderborg Pizza og Grill
6.2 km
Central Sønderborg pizzeria and grill serving classic Danish‑style pizzas, burgers and takeaway favorites in a simple, no‑frills setting on Jernbanegade.
Rainbow Sushi v/Thi Trinh
6.2 km
Compact, central Sønderborg sushi restaurant and takeaway serving fresh, generous rolls and classic nigiri in a relaxed, low-key setting on Jernbanegade.
KING FOOD SØNDERBORG
6.2 km
Quality döner and burgers in Sønderborg's vibrant city center, open late for hungry diners.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sunrice.dk
3.8 km
Compact Indian grocery in Sønderborg, packed with rice, spices, frozen specialties and vegetarian staples that bring the flavors of South Asia into Danish kitchens.
Guldhammer
4.1 km
Cozy village boutique on Als where Scandinavian everyday style, personal outfit advice and a relaxed pace turn clothes shopping into a warm local experience.
DanChurchSocial Op Shop
4.3 km
A spacious Kirkens Korshær thrift warehouse in Sønderborg, where budget-friendly furniture and second-hand finds fund vital local social work.
dansk Sønderborg
4.4 km
Functional family clothing outlet in Sønderborg, ideal for picking up affordable layers and everyday wear between coastal walks, castle visits and town sightseeing.
JYSK
4.6 km
Scandinavian home furnishings at accessible prices, with free trailer rental and wheelchair access.
Red Cross Op Shop
4.9 km
Volunteer‑run Red Cross thrift shop in Sønderborg, where low‑priced fashion, furniture and homeware meet sustainable shopping and support for humanitarian work.
Scandinavian Scents
4.9 km
An intimate Sønderborg boutique where Nordic-inspired candles and home fragrances bring the region’s calm forests, sea air and hygge simplicity into everyday life.
Huset Torre
6.0 km
Curated fashion, home décor, and wine experiences in Sønderborg's vibrant pedestrian quarter.
Outdoor In City Centre
6.0 km
Expert outdoor and fishing gear in Sønderborg's pedestrian heart.
Butik Schlott
6.0 km
Independent men’s fashion boutique on Sønderborg’s main street, offering curated international brands, classic tailoring and personal service in a relaxed setting.
in mood
6.0 km
Stylish women's fashion in the heart of Sønderborg's city center.
Janne K Sønderborg
6.1 km
Colorful Danish womenswear with Italian-made fabrics in the heart of Sønderborg’s main shopping street on the island of Als.
Butik Gemakker
6.1 km
Intimate Nordic lifestyle store in central Sønderborg, curating timeless homeware, textiles and fashion with a focus on quality, calm aesthetics and lasting design.
Juhl Bolighus A / S
6.1 km
A vast Danish design furniture house in Sønderborg’s historic center, blending showroom and museum to showcase timeless craftsmanship and iconic interiors.
Vero Moda
6.1 km
Contemporary Scandinavian women’s fashion inside Borgen Shopping, offering wearable trends, layering pieces and accessories in Sønderborg’s central retail district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Posthuset
5.0 km
Historic post office transformed into Sønderborg's beloved social hub for drinks, conversation, and Danish nightlife.
Værtshus Chr. Iv
5.8 km
Classic brown beer hall on Sønderborg’s main street, serving simple drinks, local atmosphere and everyday Danish hygge from late morning into the evening.
Restaurant Viking - Pool and billiards Sønderborg
5.8 km
Authentic Danish neighborhood pub where locals gather for affordable drinks, billiards, and genuine community atmosphere.
Den Lille Vinbar
6.2 km
Cosy fromagerie-style wine bar on Perlegade, pairing carefully selected bottles with generous cheese tapas in an intimate, continental-feeling corner of Sønderborg.
the tea house
6.2 km
South Jutland's premier bubble tea destination with customizable flavors and signature boba varieties.
New Orleans Jazz I Sønderborg
6.3 km
Intimate, association-run jazz club in central Sønderborg, serving up New Orleans–inspired live music, close-up performances and a friendly, community atmosphere.
Bar' Vinbar
6.3 km
Central Sønderborg’s relaxed corner wine bar, pouring around 50 wines by the glass plus cocktails, coffee and light bites in a warm, informal atmosphere.
Heidi's Bier Bar Sønderborg
6.4 km
Loud alpine-themed beer hall and late-night party bar bringing après-ski energy, big steins and sing-along hits to Sønderborg’s central Rådhustorvet.
Freia Bar & Lounge
6.4 km
Harbourfront hotel bar with Nordic myth touches, crafted drinks and hygge-rich lounge seating overlooking Sønderborg’s Alssund and skyline.
Old Danish Pub
6.4 km
Classic hygge-filled pub near Sønderborg’s main square, with affordable drinks, games, sports on screen and lively karaoke evenings on two cosy floors.
SKAAL Sønderborg
6.4 km
Modern craft beer bar and kitchen on Sønderborg’s main square, pouring rotating Danish brews and serving hearty comfort food in a stylish, urban setting.
Penny Lane Sønderborg
6.5 km
Lively late‑night bar in central Sønderborg serving cocktails, beer and loud tunes from evening warm‑up to near‑club energy on weekend nights.
Rabalder Bar - Sønderborg
6.5 km
Tiny in size but big on volume, Rabalder Bar Sønderborg packs sing‑along hits, simple drinks and late‑night energy into one compact old‑town party den.
Nebula.dk ApS
6.5 km
Atmospheric shisha lounge and cocktail bar in Sønderborg’s historic center, offering intimate lighting, cozy seating and slow-paced evenings for adults.
Visselulles Vinbar
6.6 km
Intimate waterfront wine bar showcasing world-class vintages and French-inspired ambiance in historic Sønderborg.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kaizen ApS
6.5 km
Compact disco-style nightclub in central Sønderborg, pulsing with late-night beats, colourful lights and a straightforward bar for an unpretentious night out.
Dance All Over
10.3 km
Sønderborg’s sociable dance hub, where fitness, swing and party-ready moves come together in energetic, community-driven classes across the city.
Ærø Whiskey Destilleri
35.3 km
Experience the artisanal charm of Ærø Whisky Distillery in Ærøskøbing, where local ingredients and traditional methods create unique island whiskies.
Ærø Jazzfestival
35.4 km
Experience the soul of Danish jazz at Ærø Jazzfestival, where international rhythms meet island heritage in the historic harbor of Ærøskøbing each summer.
Ommel
40.4 km
A small, sociable island nightspot near Marstal where locals and travelers share quiet drinks, simple music and the easygoing charm of Ærø after dark.
Crazy Daisy Svendborg
49.2 km
Compact, high-energy weekend nightclub in central Svendborg, serving mainstream beats, drinks and a sociable dance floor until the early hours.
Ela-Ela Schleswig
49.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Schleswig at Ela-Ela, where music and dancing come alive in an unforgettable disco experience.
VILLA PRESTIGE Schleswig
50.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at VILLA PRESTIGE Schleswig, a lively night club perfect for dancing and socializing until dawn.
TANZ-FABRIK / Tanzlokal
51.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Schleswig at TANZ-FABRIK, where music and dance create unforgettable memories every Saturday night.
Klähblatt Pub Schleswig
51.9 km
Discover Klähblatt Pub, a cozy Irish haven in Schleswig, offering great drinks, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Kasket karl
54.0 km
Discover authentic Danish hospitality and local color at Kasket Karl, Rudkøbing’s beloved bodega on Langeland—a lively gathering spot offering drinks, history, and community.
Langelands Jazzklub
54.8 km
Experience the vibrant local jazz scene at Langelands Jazzklub in Rudkøbing, where live music and island hospitality meet in one of Denmark’s most charming settings.
Discothek Vineta
55.6 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Busdorf at Discothek Vineta, where vibrant music and dancing await in a welcoming atmosphere.
Dance Odense, Funen Square Dance Club
59.5 km
Community-driven square dancing in a cozy Odense neighborhood hall, where callers, patterns and shared rhythm turn an ordinary evening into a friendly social event.
Carlsens Kvarter
59.6 km
Atmospheric pub in Odense C, offering unmatched hygge, an impressive selection of craft beers, and a welcoming local vibe in a characterful historic setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access