Scandinavia's largest Renaissance palace, set on three lake islets, housing the Museum of National History, 40 minutes from Copenhagen by S-train.
Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød, about 35 km north of Copenhagen, is Scandinavia's largest Renaissance palace and houses the Museum of National History. The castle was built by Christian IV on three islets in a lake, and visitors cross the moat to explore the chapel, the Great Hall and the rooms telling five centuries of Danish history. The Baroque Garden terraces behind the castle are free to enter. Adult admission is about DKK 125 (about USD 19) with discounts for students and seniors and free entry for under-18s, according to recent listings; check frederiksborg.dk for the current rate. The castle is open daily, 10:00-17:00 from April to October and shorter hours in winter. The S-train line A or E from København H takes about 40 minutes to Hillerød, then it is a 15-20 minute walk along the lake. Allow 2-3 hours at the castle plus time for lunch in Hillerød and a walk around the lake.
| Distance | About 35 km north of Copenhagen |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 40 minutes by S-train plus 15-20 minutes walk |
| Getting there | S-train line A or E from København H to Hillerød station, then walk to the castle |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Frederiksborg Slot, Slotsherrensvej 1, 3400 Hillerød |
How to get there
- Mode
- S-train (lines A and E)
- Cost
- DKK 70-90 (about USD 11-14)
- Frequency
- Every 10-20 minutes
- Mode
- Car via Hillerødmotorvejen
- Cost
- Fuel about DKK 60 (about USD 9) plus parking
- Frequency
- About 45 minutes
Location
Frederiksborg Slot, Slotsherrensvej 1, 3400 Hillerød
55.9369, 12.3003 View on map
Highlights
- Renaissance palace on three lake islets
- Museum of National History with portraits and state rooms
- Baroque Garden terraces, free to enter
- Easy S-train link from the centre
Tips for visiting
- Check frederiksborg.dk for opening hours; winter hours are shorter.
- Allow 2-3 hours for the museum and 45 minutes for the garden.
- Take S-train line A or E from København H towards Hillerød.
- The garden is free and best in summer.
When to visit
May to September for the garden; the palace is worth visiting year-round.
Accessibility
The museum has lifts to the main floors, but some historic rooms and the chapel involve steps.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Frederiksborg Castle?
Take S-train line A or E to Hillerød (about 40 minutes) and walk 15-20 minutes.
How much is entry?
About DKK 125 (about USD 19) for adults; under-18s are free. Check frederiksborg.dk.
Is the garden free?
Yes, the Baroque Garden is free to enter.