Top Castles Near Copenhagen

Home to the oldest royal family in the world, Amalienborg Palace is also known for its beautiful palace square and its royal guard, the Den Kongelige Livgarde. Experience the Changing of the Guard daily as they march from their barracks at Rosenborg Castle through the streets of Copenhagen to Amalienborg Palace. Tour the palace museum to get a glimpse into the life of the royal family.

The Dutch Renaissance–style Rosenborg Castle, originally built as a country summerhouse in 1606, is a prime example of King Christian IV’s many architectural projects. Today visitors can learn about Danish history and culture while touring the castle and the impressive possessions—including the dazzling Crown Jewels—of the king and his descendants. The castle garden is the oldest and most visited park in Copenhagen.

Originally a hunting seat for King Frederik IV in the early 18th century, this palace—set in a beautiful park bordering Esrum Lake—is often the setting for the royal family’s important life events. The queen also receives visiting heads of state at Fredensborg.

Built by King Christian IV in the 1600s, this magnificent Renaissance-style castle just north of Copenhagen is now a national historical museum, holding treasures of painting, tapestry, porcelain, silver, and furniture.

Head north through the Danish countryside and you’ll reach Kronborg Castle, a magnificent Renaissance castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Made famous as the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the castle sits at the head of Oresund Sound near the town of Helsingor and hosts a Shakespeare Festival each summer.