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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 02 January, 2023
Expert travel writer: Sarah Marshall

Frederiksborg is one of Europe’s most magnificent Renaissance castle-palaces, its iconic russet and mint-green frontage rising up above immaculate formal gardens.

It was built in the 17th century by King Christian IV, to show off and enhance Christian’s reputation as a powerful European monarch.

Rich in art and unusual decorative touches, the building now houses the Museum of National History, which traces the nation’s history through portraits, paintings, furniture and decorative arts, with a section aimed at children.

Outside the expansive gardens surround a vast boating lake, with regular concerts held in the baroque castle church.

Price from: £10
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

The castle is located in Hillerod, a 40-minute train journey north of Copenhagen. Take the S-train line E to Hillerod station. From there it’s a ten-minute walk through the town centre. Tickets can be purchased online in advance (dnm.dk) and free audio guides in multiple languages are available at the ticket office or as a free download via the iTunes store.

When to do it

The museum is open daily all year round, and the palace is enjoyable at any time of the year. The gardens are at their most beautiful in late spring and summer, but in the winter months there are less tour groups and cruise crowds.

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