Frederiksborg Castle: Denmark’s Most Majestic Renaissance Landmark

Located in the charming town of Hillerød, just 40 kilometers north of Copenhagen, Frederiksborg Castle is a spectacular Renaissance masterpiece set on three islands in the middle of a serene lake. With its majestic towers, intricate spires, grand halls, and tranquil Baroque gardens, this castle is not just a royal residence—it’s a vivid journey through centuries of Danish history and culture.
 

As the largest Renaissance castle in Scandinavia and the home of the Museum of National History, Frederiksborg Castle is one of Denmark’s top attractions, drawing travelers with its stunning architecture, art collections, and fairytale ambiance.

📍 Location and Access

🏠 Address: Frederiksborg Slot 10, 3400 Hillerød, Denmark

🚆 40-minute train ride from Copenhagen

🌅 Surrounded by lakes and woodlands in North Zealand

🕰️ A Glimpse into History

Origins and Royal Legacy

Constructed by King Christian IV between 1600 and 1620

Built on the site of an older castle, transformed into a monument to Danish power and pride

Inspired by Dutch and German Renaissance architecture

Used for royal coronations and ceremonies for centuries

Fire and Restoration

In 1859, a devastating fire destroyed large parts of the castle

Carlsberg brewery founder J.C. Jacobsen funded its restoration

Became the Museum of National History in 1878

Today, Frederiksborg Castle not only reflects royal grandeur but also the resilience of Denmark’s cultural legacy.

🖼️ What to See Inside Frederiksborg Castle

1. The Chapel of Orders (Slotskirken)

Miraculously survived the 1859 fire

A masterpiece of gilded woodwork, vaulted ceilings, and pipe organs

Still used today for ceremonies, including royal weddings and baptisms

Home to Denmark’s highest order: the Order of the Elephant

2. The Great Hall (Riddersalen)

A majestic space adorned with chandeliers, tapestries, and portraits

Reconstructed to reflect the original Renaissance splendor

Hosts major events and royal celebrations

A breathtaking blend of architecture and artistry

3. Portrait Galleries

As the home of the Museum of National History, Frederiksborg Castle houses:

The largest portrait collection in Denmark

Royal family portraits dating back to the 16th century

Political figures, scientists, artists, and modern icons

A visual timeline of Danish society and identity

4. Temporary Exhibitions

The museum regularly features rotating exhibitions focusing on:

Danish history and democracy

Contemporary portraiture

Special themes like women in politics, war heroes, or royal fashion

5. Castle Interiors

Each room is uniquely designed with:

Historical furniture

Intricately carved wooden panels

Baroque ceilings and grand staircases

Artifacts such as jewelry, weapons, royal robes, and manuscripts

🌳 The Castle Gardens

1. Baroque Garden

A stunning geometric garden designed in the 18th century

Symmetrical flower beds, clipped hedges, and decorative sculptures

Excellent panoramic views of the castle across the lake

2. Romantic English-Style Garden

Lush greenery, winding paths, and shaded spots

Ideal for peaceful walks and picnics

A small neoclassical pavilion and swan-filled lakes add to the charm

📸 Top Photo Spots

Reflections of the castle on the lake at sunrise or sunset

The Neptune Fountain in front of the main entrance

Inside the Great Hall and Chapel

Bird’s-eye views of the Baroque garden from the balcony

Courtyard panoramas with towers and copper spires

🍽️ Dining & Nearby Amenities

Frederiksborg Castle Café

Located near the entrance

Offers traditional Danish lunches like smørrebrød

Coffee, cakes, and wine with garden or lake views

Open year-round, with indoor and outdoor seating

🎟️ Visitor Information

Opening Hours:

April to October: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily

November to March: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (closed on Mondays)

Ticket Prices:

Adults: DKK 110–125 (~€15–17)

Children under 18: Free

Students/Seniors: Discounted rates

Group and family passes available

Accessibility:

Most of the museum is wheelchair accessible

Elevators and ramps available

Wheelchair rental upon request

🚆 How to Get There

From Copenhagen:

🚆 Take the S-train Line A toward Hillerød from Copenhagen Central Station

🕒 Journey time: ~40 minutes

🚶 From Hillerød Station: 15-minute scenic walk through the old town and lakeside park

By Car:

Approx. 40 minutes from Copenhagen

Paid parking available near the entrance

💡 Travel Tips

📱 Download the Frederiksborg Museum App for a free audio guide

🕐 Visit early in the day or on weekdays to avoid crowds

🧥 Bring a jacket — gardens and lakeside paths can be breezy

📸 Allow at least 3–4 hours to explore the full museum and gardens

🎫 Combine your visit with tickets to Kronborg Castle or other Zealand attractions

🧭 Other Attractions Nearby

Kronborg Castle – UNESCO-listed castle in Helsingør (30 mins away)

Fredensborg Palace – The Danish royal family's spring and autumn residence

Esrum Abbey – A former Cistercian monastery with a nature park

Gribskov Forest – Great for hiking and nature walks

🏁 Final Thoughts

Frederiksborg Castle isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to feel history come alive. From regal portraits and grand halls to its serene gardens and lake reflections, it offers a complete and immersive royal experience. Whether you’re captivated by European castles, fascinated by art, or simply looking for a beautiful escape from the city, Frederiksborg is a must-visit gem in Denmark’s crown.