Christiansborg Palace: Unveiling Royal Secrets in Copenhagen

Welcome to Christiansborg Palace, a true gem in the heart of Copenhagen that serves as the epicenter of Denmark’s government and monarchy. Nestled on the tiny island of Slotsholmen, this grand complex is unique: it houses the Danish Parliament (Folketinget), the Supreme Court, and the Prime Minister’s Office, while also remaining a royal palace used by the monarchy for state functions.
 

Rich in history and royal splendor, Christiansborg Palace offers a fascinating journey through Denmark’s past—from medieval ruins beneath the palace to the ornate Royal Reception Rooms, the Royal Stables, and beyond. Whether you’re a lover of European history, architecture, or royal tradition, this is a must-visit site in Copenhagen.

📍 Location and How to Get There

Address: Prins Jørgens Gård 1, 1218 København K, Denmark

Metro: Take the M3 Cityringen line to Gammel Strand Station (5-minute walk)

Bus: Lines 2A, 23, and 31 stop nearby

On foot: Located within walking distance of Nyhavn, Tivoli Gardens, and Strøget

🕰️ Opening Hours & Tickets

Opening Hours:

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Closed on Mondays (except public holidays)

Admission Fees:

Adults: DKK 175 (covers all visitable areas)

Children under 18: Free

Discounts available with the Copenhagen Card

Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online at the official website.

🧭 What to See Inside Christiansborg Palace

Christiansborg isn’t a single palace—it’s a complex of royal and governmental attractions. Here’s what not to miss:

1. 👑 The Royal Reception Rooms

Used by the monarch for state events and royal banquets, these rooms showcase:

The Great Hall, featuring the Danish monarchs’ 17-metre-long tapestry series

The Throne Room, where ambassadors present their credentials

Rich interiors of velvet, marble, gold, and crystal chandeliers

Access to the Queen’s Library, an opulent room of rare books and antiques

💡 Tip: Don’t miss the balcony overlooking the Marble Bridge—perfect for photos!

2. 🏇 The Royal Stables

Dating back to the 18th century, the stables are still home to royal white horses and include:

A display of historic carriages and harnesses

A chance to see the horses (often visible in their stalls)

Insight into royal equestrian traditions that are still upheld today

3. 🏛️ The Parliament and Supreme Court (Exterior Only or with Guided Tour)

While the Danish Parliament is fully functioning, visitors can join guided tours to:

Sit in the Folketinget chamber

Learn how Denmark’s democracy operates

See historic halls, meeting rooms, and public galleries

Advance registration or timed tickets are required for parliamentary tours.

4. ⚖️ The Supreme Court

Located on the same premises, the highest judicial authority in Denmark can be viewed from the outside or through special group tours.

5. 🏰 The Ruins Under Christiansborg Palace

Beneath the current palace lies a fascinating archaeological site:

Ruins of Bishop Absalon’s Castle (1167), the original fortification

Remains of the Medieval Copenhagen Castle

An underground experience that gives a literal foundation of Danish power

💡 Tip: This area is ideal for families and history lovers looking for a medieval touch.

6. 🖼️ The Royal Kitchen

Get a taste of royal culinary life with:

Original copper cookware and industrial-sized equipment

A detailed recreation of the preparation for King Christian X’s banquet

Multimedia exhibits showcasing royal menus and traditions

🌍 Historical Timeline

1167: Bishop Absalon builds a fortress on Slotsholmen Island

1370s: Becomes the residence of Danish kings

1731–1794: First Christiansborg Palace built and later destroyed by fire

1803–1884: Second palace also succumbs to fire

1907–1928: The third and current Christiansborg Palace is completed

Today: Serves as a unique combination of royal residence, government seat, and historic site

📸 Best Photo Spots

📷 Front courtyard with views of the imposing palace façade

📷 Marble Bridge and canal from Slotsholmen

📷 Royal Reception Rooms (especially the Throne Room and Tapestry Hall)

📷 Stables with horses and carriages

📷 View from the Tower—free access and one of the best panoramas in Copenhagen

🍽️ Dining at Christiansborg

Christiansborg Tower Restaurant (Tårnet)

Located inside the palace’s tower, the highest point in Copenhagen

Offers modern Danish cuisine using local and seasonal ingredients

Great for a meal with panoramic views of the city

💡 Tip: Make a reservation in advance to dine in this popular spot.

🧠 Fun Facts

Christiansborg is the only building in the world housing all three branches of a nation's government

The Royal Tapestries took 10 years to complete and depict 1,000 years of Danish history

The white horses of the Royal Stables are typically Kladrubers, a rare Czech breed

Visitors can access the Christiansborg Tower for free, making it one of the best free viewpoints in the city

🎟️ Combo Pass & Copenhagen Card Access

If you're visiting multiple royal attractions (e.g., Rosenborg Castle, Amalienborg), consider a Royal Copenhagen ticket combo or use the Copenhagen Card, which includes:

Free entry to Christiansborg Palace

Public transportation access

Discounts at restaurants and other museums

🏙️ Nearby Attractions

Thorvaldsens Museum – Neoclassical art museum next door

Børsen (Old Stock Exchange) – Iconic 17th-century building with a dragon-spire roof

National Museum of Denmark – Just across the street

Strøget Shopping Street – A short walk away

Nyhavn Harbor – Picturesque canal area filled with restaurants and historic boats

📅 Events and Activities

Check the official site for:

Seasonal exhibitions

Special guided tours (architecture, royal etiquette, Parliament)

Public debates and educational programs

Family workshops and children's tours on weekends and holidays

🏁 Final Thoughts

Christiansborg Palace is the beating heart of Danish history, royalty, and governance. It's one of the few places in the world where you can walk through royal halls, stand over medieval ruins, and peek into active government chambers—all in a single visit.

Whether you're exploring Copenhagen for a weekend or diving deep into Danish culture, Christiansborg offers a rich, immersive experience that bridges centuries of politics, pageantry, and power.