Frederiksborg Castle (Frederiksborg Slot), Hillerød

A grand Renaissance island palace north of Copenhagen, Frederiksborg Castle blends royal drama, national history and sculpted gardens in one unforgettable lakeside setting.

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Frederiksborg Castle

Rising from the waters of a tranquil lake in Hillerød, Frederiksborg Castle is Denmark’s grand Renaissance showpiece and home to the Museum of National History. Built mainly under King Christian IV in the early 1600s, the red-brick palace occupies three small islands linked by bridges and courtyards, framed by ornate towers, copper spires and sculpted gables. Inside, lavish halls, the preserved royal chapel and Denmark’s national portrait collection trace the story of the Danish kingdom. Outside, formal Baroque parterres and romantic landscape gardens complete one of Scandinavia’s most atmospheric castle ensembles.

A brief summary to Frederiksborg Castle

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

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

Local tips

Allow at least 2–3 hours to combine the castle interiors with a stroll through both the Baroque terraces and the romantic landscape gardens.
Check seasonal opening hours in advance; winter visiting times are shorter, and interior light is more atmospheric but dimmer for photography.
Consider using the Copenhagen Card, which typically covers both admission and public transport from Copenhagen to Hillerød.
In summer, take the small lake ferry for a short cruise that gives striking views of the castle’s façades and the Baroque garden axis.
Wear comfortable shoes; floors inside are often historic wood or stone, and exploring the multi-level gardens involves gentle slopes and steps.

Getting There

Train from central Copenhagen

From central Copenhagen, take S-train line A towards Hillerød; the ride typically takes 35–40 minutes. From Hillerød Station it is about a 15-minute level walk through town or along the lake to the castle. Standard single tickets covering the zones between Copenhagen and Hillerød usually cost around 50–75 DKK one way, and trains run several times per hour during the day.
Regional bus within North Zealand

If you are already in North Zealand, regional buses connect nearby towns such as Helsingør and Gilleleje with Hillerød in about 30–60 minutes depending on the route. From Hillerød bus terminal, it is a short onward walk to the castle. Bus fares within the region generally fall in the 24–50 DKK range per journey, with services running more frequently on weekdays than late evenings and weekends.
Car or taxi from Copenhagen area

Driving from the Copenhagen area to Hillerød usually takes 35–50 minutes, depending on traffic. Paid parking is available close to the castle, with additional free spaces a little farther out in the park area; check local signs for time limits. A metered taxi from central Copenhagen typically costs in the region of 600–900 DKK one way, varying with traffic and exact starting point.

Frederiksborg Castle location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Cold Weather
Rain / Wet Weather

Discover more about Frederiksborg Castle

A royal island palace on the castle lake

Frederiksborg Castle sits like a mirage on three low islands in Slotssøen, the Castle Lake, its copper spires and sandstone ornaments mirrored in the still water. Conceived as a statement of power and prestige, it was largely created in the early 17th century by Christian IV, Denmark’s great builder-king. The approach leads you across bridges and through gateways into a sequence of cobbled courtyards, dominated by richly decorated façades and the central Neptune Fountain, a symbol of royal control over the seas. The castle’s red-brick walls are laced with pale sandstone, reliefs and coats of arms, blending North European Renaissance forms with local craftsmanship. Multiple wings and towers enclose intimate inner courts, so even in a large complex you often find sheltered corners with views across the lake or up towards intricate rooflines. In every direction, sculpted figures, heraldic beasts and Latin inscriptions remind you this was as much a political manifesto as a residence.

From royal residence to reborn national symbol

Frederiksborg replaced a more modest hunting lodge owned by Frederik II and quickly became the preferred royal residence and ceremonial backdrop for the Oldenburg dynasty. For generations, Danish monarchs were crowned and anointed in the castle chapel, underscoring its role at the heart of state ritual. In 1859, a devastating fire destroyed much of the interior, leaving only the outer walls and a few key spaces standing. The castle’s rebirth is a story in itself. Industrialist J. C. Jacobsen, founder of Carlsberg Breweries, financed a meticulous reconstruction that respected the original Renaissance outlines while updating the interiors. At the same time, the concept of a Museum of National History took shape here, turning a once-private palace into a public chronicle of Denmark. Today, wandering its galleries, you move through centuries of political intrigue, royal reforms, wars and cultural change, all housed within this carefully restored monument.

Gallery of a nation: art, portraits and interiors

Inside, Frederiksborg functions both as a palace and a museum. The Great Hall stretches under carved beams and glittering chandeliers, its walls hung with vast history paintings depicting key scenes from Danish history. Nearby, the Audience Chamber and richly inlaid Marble Gallery conjure court life in the 17th century, with gilded ornament, painted ceilings and polished floors that still echo with the sense of ceremony. The Museum of National History holds Denmark’s main national portrait collection, from stern kings in ruffs to modern political figures and cultural icons. As you move from room to room, portraits are interwoven with furniture, tapestries and decorative arts, so the storyline of the country unfolds in both faces and objects. The chapel, remarkably spared by the fire, preserves original Renaissance woodwork and gilded galleries; it is still used for royal ceremonies, a living link between past and present.

Baroque geometry and romantic parkland

Step outside the palace walls and the experience continues in the gardens. On one side, strict Baroque terraces descend towards the lake, their clipped hedges, parterres and royal monograms forming intricate patterns best appreciated from the upper levels. Water cascades down a central axis, and long, straight paths frame carefully controlled vistas of the castle and its reflections. Beyond this formal set-piece, a romantic landscape garden spreads out with winding paths, groves of mature trees and viewpoints that reveal the palace from more intimate angles. Here you might stumble upon the smaller Bathhouse Castle tucked among greenery, or pause on a bench to watch the little ferry glide across the lake in summer. Between the sculpted terraces and the freer parkland you get two very different expressions of garden art in a single visit.

Exploring, seasonal moods and practical rhythm

Frederiksborg rewards unhurried exploration. It is easy to spend several hours moving between grand state rooms, quieter museum galleries and the open air of the gardens. Seasonal changes add their own character: low Nordic winter light slants through tall windows, while in summer the courtyards buzz gently with activity and the gardens are at their greenest. Spring blossoms and autumn colours make the lakeside paths particularly photogenic. Despite its scale, there are plenty of smaller details to seek out: carved doorframes with tiny mythological scenes, inscriptions tucked above archways, or perspectives where the towers align just so over the water. Exhibitions rotate within the museum, so the narrative of Danish history is periodically refreshed, but the core architectural experience remains constant: a complete royal complex where palace, chapel, galleries and gardens weave into a single, immersive historic landscape.

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.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Frederiksborg Castle (Frederiksborg Slot), Hillerød

A brief summary to Frederiksborg Castle

Local tips

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

Getting There

Train from central Copenhagen

Regional bus within North Zealand

Car or taxi from Copenhagen area

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 royal island palace on the castle lake

From royal residence to reborn national symbol

Gallery of a nation: art, portraits and interiors

Baroque geometry and romantic parkland

Exploring, seasonal moods and practical rhythm

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

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