The Danish Castle Centre & Goose Tower
Where medieval Danish kings ruled from a fortress that still commands the landscape.
Perched on the ruins of medieval Vordingborg Castle, the Danish Castle Centre is a striking modern museum that brings 800 years of Danish royal history to life. The iconic 36-meter Goose Tower—Denmark's best-preserved castle tower—dominates the landscape, while the wedge-shaped museum building with its distinctive rust-red corten steel exterior seamlessly integrates with the historic site. Interactive iPad guides, underground exhibitions, and immersive audiovisual experiences transport visitors back to the era of powerful kings like Valdemar the Great.
A brief summary to Goose Tower
- Slotsruinen 1, Vordingborg, 4760, DK
- +4570701236
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Rent the iPad guide for the full experience—it transforms the ruins by allowing you to visualize the castle as it appeared in the 1300s and unlocks interactive games and detailed historical information.
- Allow at least 2–3 hours to explore both the outdoor ruins and the underground museum exhibition; families with children may want to dedicate extra time to the Children's Castle Centre activities.
- Visit the castle grounds early in the day or during shoulder seasons to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more contemplative experience of the ruins and the Goose Tower.
- The museum café, housed in the restored 1673 half-timbered building, offers refreshments including coffee, beer, wine, and light snacks—a pleasant spot to rest between exploration.
- The castle bank is free to explore year-round; visit it even if you don't purchase museum admission to experience the Goose Tower and ring wall ruins in their landscape setting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train from Copenhagen
Regional trains depart Copenhagen Central Station approximately every 30–60 minutes, with a journey time of 50–70 minutes to Vordingborg Station. The castle centre is a 10–15 minute walk from the station through the town centre. Return trains run until late evening. Ticket prices range from approximately 100–150 DKK (13–20 EUR) for a standard single journey.
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Car from Copenhagen
Drive south from Copenhagen via the E20 motorway toward Vordingborg, a distance of approximately 50 kilometers taking 50–70 minutes depending on traffic. Follow signs for Vordingborg town centre and the castle ruins. Parking is available at the castle site and in surrounding streets; parking is typically free or low-cost. The drive is straightforward on well-maintained highways.
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Guided tour from Copenhagen
Several tour operators offer full-day excursions from Copenhagen that include transport, museum admission, and guided interpretation of the castle and surrounding region. Tours typically depart in the morning and return by evening, with prices ranging from approximately 800–1200 DKK (107–160 EUR) per person including all transport and entrance fees.
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Bicycle from Vordingborg town centre
If arriving by train, rent a bicycle from shops near Vordingborg Station for approximately 100–150 DKK (13–20 EUR) per day. The castle centre is accessible via flat, well-marked cycling routes through town, taking 15–20 minutes. Denmark's extensive cycle infrastructure makes this a pleasant and practical option.
Goose Tower location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Goose Tower
A Castle of Kings and Medieval Power
Vordingborg Castle stands as one of Denmark's most significant historical sites, once serving as the political and military heart of the medieval kingdom. Built in 1160 by King Valdemar the Great, the castle witnessed the reign of three legendary Valdemars—Valdemar I, Valdemar II (the Victorious), and Valdemar IV (Atterdag)—who shaped the destiny of Denmark during its most powerful era. It was within these walls that Denmark's first constitution, the Codex Holmiensis, was ratified in 1241, cementing Vordingborg's role as the seat of royal authority. The castle's 710-meter ring wall, once 8 meters high, enclosed what was then the country's largest royal fortress, defended by nine towers and surrounded by the waters that made it strategically impregnable.The Legendary Goose Tower
Rising 36 meters above the landscape, the Goose Tower (Gåsetårn) is the castle's most iconic survivor and Denmark's finest preserved medieval tower. Constructed in the 1360s during the reign of Valdemar IV, the tower's golden goose weathervane crowning its peak carries a tale of royal wit and defiance. The king placed the golden goose atop the tower as a mockery of the German Hanseatic League, with whom he was at war. When questioned about his fearlessness, Valdemar famously declared he was more afraid of a flock of cackling geese than of the entire German Confederation—a jest that has echoed through the centuries. Today, only the Goose Tower and the southern ring wall remain visible above ground, yet they command the landscape with undeniable presence and historical gravitas.Modern Architecture Meets Medieval Ruins
The Danish Castle Centre, completed in 2014, represents a masterpiece of contemporary museum architecture that respects rather than dominates its historic setting. The building's distinctive wedge shape, clad in corten steel that has weathered to a rust-red patina, echoes the red bricks of the original castle and appears to emerge from or sink into the terrain itself. This deliberate design philosophy ensures the modern structure remains subordinate to the ruins, preserving the landscape's historical integrity while providing essential exhibition space. The museum's footprint was carefully constrained by conservation regulations, underground archaeological remains, and the site's topography. A dramatic full-width staircase descends into the underground exhibition level, creating a theatrical transition from the castle park above to the immersive experiences below. Adjacent to the modern museum stands a half-timbered building from 1673, lovingly restored to house the museum café, bridging centuries of architectural heritage.Interactive Storytelling and Immersive Experiences
The Danish Castle Centre transforms medieval history into an engaging, multi-sensory experience through cutting-edge technology and thoughtful curation. Visitors are equipped with iPad guides that unlock layers of historical knowledge, allowing them to visualize the castle as it stood in the 1300s while standing amid its ruins. The exhibition explores the themes of power, kingship, and queenship through authentic medieval artifacts, including weapons, jewelry, and religious objects that illuminate the lives of those who ruled from this fortress. The underground exhibition space features intriguing projections and street art installations that create an almost magical atmosphere, while a custom soundtrack accompanies visitors throughout, shifting and evolving as they move through different areas. For younger visitors and the young at heart, the Children's Castle Centre offers interactive activities including Ghost Hunt, an action-packed game where players chase medieval monsters and spirits through the ruins, and the opportunity to dress as knights or princesses and experience life in the castle.The Castle Grounds and Free Access
The castle bank itself remains completely free to visit, offering an accessible entry point to this historic landscape. Visitors can wander the grassy ruins, enjoy panoramic views over the water, and absorb the atmosphere of a place where Danish destiny was shaped. The site's open-air setting provides a contemplative experience, with the Goose Tower serving as a constant visual anchor and reminder of the fortress's former grandeur. The combination of free outdoor access and paid museum entry allows visitors to tailor their experience to their interests and budget, whether seeking a leisurely historical walk or a comprehensive deep dive into medieval Danish power.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kong Asgers Høj
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Genforeningssten i Næstelsø
22.8 km
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Restaurant pizzeria Delfino
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Rose Stege Restaurant
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Discover the authentic tastes of Denmark at Rose Stege Restaurant, where delicious pizzas and local dishes await in a cozy atmosphere.
Hans-Jørgen Færks Plads
25.0 km
Medieval market town square where Danish history, culture, and modern commerce converge in southern Zealand.
Bellinge House- Bed & Breakfast. Wellness.
25.3 km
Discover tranquility and wellness at Bellinge House, a charming bed & breakfast in Nykøbing Falster, Denmark, offering holistic treatments and serene accommodations.
Hotel Falster
25.5 km
Experience Danish hospitality at Hotel Falster in Nykøbing Falster, offering comfortable accommodations, on-site dining, and easy access to local attractions and the South Sea Islands.
Pomle Nakke Traktørsted
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Experience Danish coastal charm at Pomle Nakke Traktørsted, where stunning Baltic Sea views meet locally sourced cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience on Falster.
Visit Sydsjælland & Møn
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Discover the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Sydsjælland & Møn, a unique Danish destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Næstved Station
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Bjørnebrønden
26.7 km
Granite bear, flowing water and royal history converge in this compact fountain that anchors Nykøbing Falster’s main square and its stories.
Touristinformation
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Explore the charm and rich culture of Nykøbing Falster, a delightful coastal town perfect for your next Danish adventure.
Museum Obscurum
26.8 km
Discover the mysteries of history at Museum Obscurum in Nykøbing Falster, where captivating exhibits reveal the secrets of the past.
Guldborgsund Zoo & Botanisk Have
26.8 km
Discover the enchanting world of wildlife and gardens at Guldborgsund Zoo & Botanisk Have, a perfect family-friendly destination in Nykøbing Falster.
Næstved Museum
26.9 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Copenhagen at Nyhavn, where colorful history meets lively modern culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vordingborg Castle
0.1 km
Evocative castle ruins, the golden Goose Tower and a cutting-edge museum reveal how Vordingborg once stood at the center of Denmark’s medieval power.
Danmarks Borgcenter
0.1 km
Medieval Danish power brought to life through ruins, towers, and cutting-edge digital storytelling.
Museum Sydøstdanmark
0.1 km
Regional cultural history museum headquartered at Vordingborg’s castle ruins, weaving together royal power, archaeology and everyday life across South and East Zealand.
Masnedø Fort
3.0 km
Grassy island stronghold turned cultural venue, Masnedø Fort blends coastal views, underground corridors and pivotal 20th‑century history near Vordingborg.
Stensby Møllebæk (Malling's Gorge)
7.9 km
A small, hidden ravine where a lively mill stream, steep wooded slopes and traces of local history create a quiet, atmospheric pause in the South Zealand countryside.
Brombaergaarden B&B
11.8 km
Charming Danish countryside retreat with exceptional hospitality and homemade breakfasts in a picturesque stone house.
Oremandsgaard Gods & Destilleri
12.0 km
Denmark's pioneering estate distillery where five generations of organic farming meet award-winning handcrafted spirits.
Kalvehave Labyrintpark
12.8 km
Navigate mind-bending mazes and brain-teasing games across 20,000 square meters of outdoor puzzle paradise.
Jættestuen Hulehøj
13.1 km
Sweeping sands, gentle surf, and Baltic breezes await at Rødvig Beach—South Zealand’s tranquil harbor escape and a gateway to Stevns Klint’s dramatic cliffs.
Stubbekøbing Camping & Cottages
14.9 km
Serene waterfront camping with views of Grønsund Strait, peaceful Danish hospitality, and easy access to island exploration.
Crocodile Zoo, Falster
16.0 km
Danmarks eneste rene krokodille-zoo, hvor du i tropisk varme kommer helt tæt på verdens krokodiller, kæmpeslanger og andre eksotiske dyr på landlige Falster.
Falster
16.1 km
A gentle Danish Baltic island of long beaches, quiet farmland, small harbor towns and big skies, where laid-back coastal holidays meet everyday rural life.
Danmarks Traktormuseum
16.6 km
A multi-storey journey through Danish agricultural history, showcasing beautifully preserved tractors and engines inside a pioneering early 20th‑century industrial building.
Vennerslund
18.1 km
Historic Falster manor estate where centuries of Danish rural life, traditional architecture and gentle gardens meet the waterside landscape of Guldborgsund.
Smykkemuseum.dk
18.9 km
A working jewelry studio and intimate museum celebrating handcrafted artistry across centuries.
Essential places to dine
Gæsteriet
14.5 km
Intimate Danish brasserie in the village of Mern, serving homely seasonal cooking and drinks in a relaxed South Zealand countryside setting.
Fiskebrættet
15.3 km
Harbour-side fish shack and seafood counter in a little red hut on Stubbekøbing Harbour, serving fresh local catch with relaxed outdoor seating by the water.
Cafe Mocca
15.3 km
Relaxed harborfront café-restaurant on Præstø Fjord, serving hearty classics, brunch and drinks with wide fjord views and an easygoing small-town atmosphere.
Restaurant Sommers
15.4 km
Relaxed harbourfront restaurant in Præstø serving generous Danish comfort dishes and seafood, with bright Nordic interiors and a terrace overlooking the marina.
Frederiksminde hotel og restaurant
15.6 km
Romantic fjordside pavilion in Præstø where classic Danish charm meets New Nordic fine dining, intimate gardens and slow, atmospheric escapes from everyday life.
Motel Højmølle Kro
16.9 km
Classic Danish roadside kro on rural Falster, pairing honest comfort and hearty local food with easy parking and quick access to the main north–south route.
Muldiverset
17.2 km
Organic farmhouse restaurant and regenerative garden by the sea, where slow-paced Nordic cooking, wild greenery and a curated eco shop reconnect you with nature.
Restaurant GastrÖ
18.4 km
Nordic fine dining on a quiet island, where seasonal ingredients and technical precision create unforgettable meals.
Noorbohandelen
18.4 km
Atmospheric island deli and spirits specialist in Nyord’s car‑free village, combining tastings, gourmet shelves and a cosy café stop on the edge of Møn.
Restaurant Lolles Gaard ApS
18.5 km
Traditional Danish cuisine in an idyllic island garden where heritage and hospitality flourish.
Damme Kro
18.6 km
Authentic Danish comfort food in a historic countryside inn on the island of Møn.
Færgemandens Hus.
19.2 km
A former ferryman’s house turned cosy waterfront grill-restaurant on Møn, serving hearty Danish comfort food in snug rooms and by the bay.
Cocomarie, Bistro & Café
19.5 km
Historic farmhouse bistro serving locally sourced cuisine and craft coffee in Guldborg.
Fjordkroen
19.5 km
Cosy fjordside country inn on South Zealand, blending classic Danish kro charm, water‑view rooms and traditional cooking in a peaceful rural setting.
Fanefjord Skovpavillon
22.4 km
Historic woodland pavilion on Møn offering classic Danish cuisine with a modern touch, surrounded by tranquil Fanefjord forest and gentle countryside charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fiskeri & Fritid Stubbekøbing
15.4 km
Harborfront fishing and outdoor shop in Stubbekøbing, equipping locals and visitors alike for Baltic Sea angling, coastal weather and life by the water.
Rosengaarden antik
18.3 km
Rural Danish antique treasure trove on Møn, where barns and sheds brim with vintage furniture, glass, chinaware and curios along the road to Stege.
Nyord Ø Handel
18.4 km
Tiny island shop with a big heart: local groceries, crafts, coffee and ice cream at the friendly center of everyday life on tranquil Nyord.
Vibækgård
18.8 km
Rural farm shop on Møn blending fresh local produce, animal feed and thoughtful gifts in a laid-back courtyard setting between fields and Stege Bay.
"Ejendommens" lille vejbod
20.6 km
A tiny countryside honesty stall on Hannenovvej where homemade preserves and seasonal produce offer a delicious, everyday taste of rural Falster.
Tjørnemosegaard Julebutik & Møn honning
21.1 km
Cosy farm shop on Møn blending year-round Christmas charm with golden local honey and rural flavours in a warm, hygge-filled countryside setting.
Lammehave Økologi v/Jacob Isling Jørgensen
22.1 km
Organic farm and 24/7 self-service shop on eastern Falster, where diverse crops, home-milled grains and local meat meet a quiet, trust-based countryside atmosphere.
Møn Bolcher, Møn Dragée & Harms Chocolat
22.3 km
Danish dragées and artisanal chocolates crafted at the source in Nykøbing Falster.
Coma Horreby v/Henrik Jensen
23.2 km
Local discount supermarket on Nykøbingvej, keeping Horreby and passing Falster travelers stocked up with everyday essentials at budget-friendly prices.
Møns Antikvariat
23.5 km
Atmospheric second-hand and antiquarian bookshop on Møn, where shelves of used books, comics and curiosities invite slow, serendipitous browsing just outside Stege.
SuperBrugsen
23.7 km
A convenient one-stop supermarket in Lendemark, Stege, ideal for stocking up on groceries and essentials before exploring the island of Møn and its coastal landscapes.
Lene Evers Chocolate
23.8 km
Artisan Danish chocolates crafted in a cozy cellar boutique on Stege’s main street, offering small-batch pralines and sweet souvenirs from the island of Møn.
Liza's Gallery
23.9 km
Intimate artist-run gallery in a historic Stege courtyard, blending Møn’s coastal atmosphere with contemporary Danish and international art and distinctive design pieces.
Møns Vævehus
23.9 km
Working textile studio, weaving classes, and yarn shop in historic Stege
Nicolegarn
23.9 km
A cosy yarn shop on Stege’s main street, packed with colour, texture and friendly advice for knitters and crocheters exploring the island of Møn.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rådhus Pub'en
0.6 km
Authentic Danish pub on the historic town square, where locals and travelers gather for genuine hospitality.
Nr. Alslev Bodega ApS
12.3 km
Laid-back neighborhood bodega in Nørre Alslev, pouring inexpensive beers and small-town Danish charm from late morning until midnight on weekends.
Biblioteket
15.3 km
Casual neighborhood bar in central Stubbekøbing with extended hours and genuine local character.
Sussis Bodega ApS
16.9 km
Rural Danish bodega in an 1800s house along Stavreby Strandvej, offering simple drinks, informal company and a quietly coastal countryside atmosphere.
Kaspers landsted
22.8 km
A cosy 19th‑century villa turned intimate rock and party venue, where Sakskøbing’s locals gather for house‑party vibes, live music and laid‑back nights.
Pub Dyssen
23.7 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bar in Næstved where Danish hygge, cold beer, and local conversation come together in a simple, welcoming setting.
Ba'ryhl Bar & Café
24.1 km
Cosy café by day, intimate cocktail bar by night, Ba'ryhl brings small‑town warmth, good drinks and relaxed conversation to the heart of Stege on Møn.
Mølleporten Øl- og Vinstue
24.1 km
A classic Danish “brown pub” on Stege’s main street, pairing local atmosphere, simple drinks and small-town charm just down from the town’s medieval gate.
5'eren
25.8 km
Laid-back neighborhood beer hall in Næstved, where cold beer, conversation and local charm matter more than cocktails or design.
Slap A'
26.0 km
Unpretentious local bar in Nykøbing Falster with pool tables, inexpensive drinks and a relaxed neighborhood vibe from daytime quiet to late-night chatter.
Cafe Nutiden V/ Brian Ipsen
26.2 km
A classic Danish bodega-style bar in central Nykøbing Falster, serving simple drinks and plenty of local atmosphere from midday through the late evening.
FUND BAR
26.3 km
Waterfront cocktails, Nordic design and a smoke-free, sociable atmosphere on Nykøbing Falster’s marina-facing Slotsbryggen promenade.
Grønvej 2 Næstved ApS
26.3 km
Unpretentious neighborhood bodega in Næstved serving cold beer, simple spirits and everyday local atmosphere on a quiet side street off the town’s commercial core.
Bodega Dueslaget
26.3 km
Traditional Danish neighborhood bodega in Næstved, serving cold beers, simple drinks and plenty of local atmosphere from morning until late on weekends.
Vinoteque Marittima
26.6 km
Floating wine and coffee bar on Nykøbing Falster’s harbor, blending intimate maritime charm with carefully chosen drinks, small plates and sunset-ready deck seating.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Adventurous
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly