Explore Frederiksberg Gardens – A Peaceful Retreat in the Heart of Copenhagen

Introduction to Frederiksberg Gardens

If you're seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg Gardens (Frederiksberg Have) is the perfect destination. Located just west of the city center, this historic royal park blends romantic landscapes, classical architecture, and lush greenery, making it one of Denmark’s most beautiful public gardens.
 

As your travel guide, I’ll walk you through everything from its royal heritage to the best picnic spots, perfect photo angles, and hidden gems within this enchanting park.


📍 Where Is Frederiksberg Gardens?

Location: Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark

Main Entrance: Frederiksberg Runddel

Nearby: Frederiksberg Palace, Copenhagen Zoo, Søndermarken

🚇 Easily accessible by metro—just a few minutes from Frederiksberg Station.


🏛️ A Brief History of Frederiksberg Gardens

👑 Royal Origins

Frederiksberg Gardens was established in the late 1690s as a Baroque-style garden to accompany Frederiksberg Palace, a summer residence for King Frederik IV. Over the decades, it was transformed into an English-style Romantic landscape garden, reflecting trends in 18th-century park design.

Highlights:

1699: Palace and original garden completed

1795–1804: Redesigned into a Romantic garden with lakes and canals

1865: Opened to the public

📜 The garden is now protected as a historical monument and cherished green space.


🧭 What to See & Do at Frederiksberg Gardens

🏰 1. Frederiksberg Palace

Perched on a hill overlooking the park is Frederiksberg Palace, a yellow Italian Baroque structure built in 1699.

Originally a royal summer residence

Today, home to the Royal Danish Military Academy

Not open for regular tours, but the exterior is stunning for photos

Offers panoramic views over the gardens below

📸 Great photo spot from the staircase leading down to the park!


🌿 2. The Romantic Landscape Garden

Winding paths, rolling lawns, and peaceful lakes define the garden’s layout. Inspired by English-style landscape design, it feels like stepping into a living painting.

What to explore:

Meandering canals and small bridges

Open lawns perfect for picnics or sunbathing

Secluded wooded areas and flower-lined paths

Wildlife, including ducks, swans, and free-roaming peacocks

🛶 In summer, you can rent small rowing boats to explore the canals.


🛕 3. The Chinese Pavilion

Tucked away along the canal is the Chinese Pavilion, a decorative 18th-century folly.

Built in 1803 in Chinese-inspired architectural style

A symbol of the Romantic fascination with the “Orient”

Often surrounded by water lilies and chirping birds

Ideal spot for quiet reflection and photographs

🌸 One of the most photographed features in the garden.


🎭 4. Classical Sculptures & Monuments

As you wander through the park, you’ll encounter numerous neoclassical sculptures and monuments.

Highlights include:

The Obelisk – a nod to ancient architecture

Statue of King Frederik VI – who loved the gardens dearly

Several mythological and allegorical figures placed throughout the park

🗿 These elements add a touch of grandeur to your walk.


🦚 5. Wildlife Encounters

Frederiksberg Gardens is home to free-roaming peacocks, which are a delight for visitors.

Often found near the palace hill or shady groves

Known for their vibrant colors and loud calls

Children and photographers love spotting them

🐦 Please admire from a distance and avoid feeding the wildlife.


🧺 Picnics, Relaxation & Recreation

Frederiksberg Gardens is a favorite among locals for picnics, jogging, tai chi, and yoga. Here’s how to make the most of your leisure time:

Bring a picnic blanket and basket

Relax by the main lake or under a grove of trees

Enjoy ice cream from nearby vendors

Sunbathe on the lawn near the canal bridges

🍦 There’s a cozy café by the entrance and seasonal snack stands throughout the park.


🎟️ Entry, Opening Hours & Facilities

🕒 Opening Hours

Open daily all year round

6:00 AM – 9:00 PM (spring/summer)

7:00 AM – sunset (autumn/winter)

💰 Entry Fee

Free entry to all visitors

🚻 Facilities

Public restrooms located near the main entrance

Benches and trash bins throughout the garden

Water fountains and occasional food stalls


🧒 Family-Friendly Attractions

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Ideal for Kids

Frederiksberg Gardens is perfect for families:

Large grassy areas for playing

Wildlife watching opportunities

Boat rentals (in season)

Close proximity to Copenhagen Zoo and Søndermarken playgrounds

🎡 Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Copenhagen Zoo, accessible through a special garden gate.


🚲 Getting There

🚇 By Metro:

Frederiksberg Station (M1, M2): 7-min walk

Fasanvej Station (M1, M2): 10-min walk

🚌 By Bus:

Bus lines 7A, 31, and 4A stop near the entrance

🚲 By Bike:

Plenty of bike parking at the main gate

Rent bikes through Bycyklen or Donkey Republic


📸 Best Photo Spots

📷 From the palace hill, looking down over the canal

🪞 Chinese Pavilion framed by willow trees

🌅 Golden hour at the main bridge over the lake

🦚 Close-up of a peacock against classic architecture

🏞️ Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full grandeur of the landscape.


🍽️ Nearby Cafés & Restaurants

After your garden stroll, grab a bite at:

Mielcke & Hurtigkarl – fine dining in a garden setting

Frederiksberg Chokolade – perfect for dessert and gifts

Café Sokkelund – cozy bistro-style dishes

Ipsen & Co. – popular for brunch and coffee

🥐 Many options for both casual snacks and elegant dining nearby.


🧭 Nearby Attractions

Combine your visit to Frederiksberg Gardens with other top spots:

🦁 Copenhagen Zoo – Right next door!

🌳 Søndermarken – A wilder park with walking trails and cisterns museum

🏛️ Frederiksberg Palace – Iconic exterior view and garden history

🎭 Royal Danish Theatre’s Aveny-T Stage – For performances and cultural events


🧠 Fun Facts About Frederiksberg Gardens

The gardens were once reserved for royalty, and guards would remove "undesirable" visitors

The underground cisterns in nearby Søndermarken have been turned into a contemporary art space

The canal layout was inspired by gardens in Versailles and English estates

The Chinese Pavilion was originally a teahouse


🏁 Final Thoughts – Why Visit Frederiksberg Gardens?

Frederiksberg Gardens is far more than a city park—it's a living blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re taking a romantic stroll, picnicking with friends, or photographing the elegance of 18th-century design, this park offers a peaceful escape from the urban bustle.

It’s one of Copenhagen’s most beloved green spaces, a place where locals and travelers alike come to breathe, explore, and reconnect with nature.