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Publicado el 29 de diciembre de 2025

Best Day Trips from Copenhagen: Kronborg Castle & More

Copenhagen is a vibrant city, but its strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring a wealth of Danish history, stunning natural landscapes, and even a neighboring country. Venture beyond the capital to discover ancient castles, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and breathtaking coastal views, all within easy reach.

Discover Denmark Beyond Copenhagen's City Limits

While attractions like Nyhavn,Tivoli Gardens, and The Little Mermaid offer a quintessential Copenhagen experience, the surrounding region holds treasures that promise unique and enriching adventures. From medieval fortresses to dramatic cliffs, the options for a memorable day trip are plentiful and cater to diverse interests.

Kronborg Castle: Hamlet's Royal Residence

Undoubtedly one of Denmark's most iconic landmarks,Kronborg Castle in Helsingør (Elsinore) is a must-see day trip. This magnificent Renaissance castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famously immortalized as Elsinore in William Shakespeare's play,Hamlet.

History and Shakespearean Lore

Kronborg's strategic position at the narrowest point of the Øresund Strait made it crucial for controlling sea traffic between the Baltic Sea and the North Sea. For centuries, ships passing through paid a toll to the Danish Crown, enriching the kingdom. Built in the 16th century, the castle's opulent design reflected Denmark's wealth and power. While Shakespeare never actually visited Kronborg, the castle's dramatic architecture and history perfectly suited the tragic tale of the Prince of Denmark.

Fun Fact:Legend has it that Holger Danske (Ogier the Dane), a mythical Danish hero, sleeps in the casemates beneath Kronborg Castle. He will awaken to defend Denmark should the country ever face a serious threat.

What to See and Do at Kronborg

  • The Royal Apartments:Explore the beautifully restored chambers, including the grand Ballroom, which once hosted lavish banquets and celebrations.
  • The Chapel:A stunning example of Renaissance architecture, miraculously preserved after a devastating fire in 1629.
  • The Casemates:Venture into the dark, subterranean passages where soldiers once bunkered down. This is where you'll find the statue of Holger Danske.
  • The Cannon Tower:Climb for panoramic views of the Øresund Strait and the Swedish coast.
  • Guided Tours:Join a guided tour to delve deeper into the castle's history, hear tales of royalty, and learn about its role in Danish history. During summer, actors often portray characters from Hamlet, adding a theatrical touch to your visit.

Getting to Helsingør

Helsingør is easily accessible by train from Copenhagen Central Station (København H). The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, offering scenic views along the coast. Once in Helsingør, Kronborg Castle is just a short walk from the station.

Beyond the Castle: Exploring Helsingør

While Kronborg is the main draw, Helsingør itself is a charming town worth exploring. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, visit the Maritime Museum of Denmark (located in a former dry dock), or enjoy a meal at one of the many cafes.

Frederiksborg Castle: A Baroque Masterpiece

Nestled amidst serene lakes and lush gardens in Hillerød,Frederiksborg Castle is another breathtaking Danish castle that makes for an excellent day trip. Often referred to as "the Versailles of the North," this impressive Renaissance-era castle, later transformed into a Baroque masterpiece, houses the Museum of National History.

A Royal History and Grand Architecture

Built by King Christian IV in the early 17th century, Frederiksborg Castle was intended to be the most magnificent royal residence in Scandinavia. Its distinctive red brick and sandstone facade, elaborate gables, and towering spires are a testament to the era's grand architectural ambitions. Inside, the castle is adorned with intricate carvings, stunning tapestries, and portraits that tell the story of Denmark through the centuries.

Highlights of Frederiksborg

  • The Great Hall (Riddersalen):Marvel at the opulent decorations and the sheer scale of this ceremonial hall.
  • The Chapel:A stunning, richly decorated space where Danish monarchs were once crowned. It was remarkably spared from a devastating fire in 1859.
  • The Baroque Garden:Designed in the French Baroque style, these terraced gardens feature cascades, fountains, and perfectly manicured hedges, offering a peaceful retreat and fantastic photo opportunities.
  • The Museum of National History:Explore the vast collection of paintings, furniture, and artifacts that trace Denmark's history from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Getting to Hillerød

To reach Frederiksborg Castle, take an S-train (line A) from Copenhagen Central Station to Hillerød. The journey typically takes around 40-50 minutes. From Hillerød station, you can either enjoy a pleasant 15-20 minute walk to the castle or take a local bus.

Roskilde: Ancient Capital and Viking Heritage

Just a short train ride from Copenhagen, the historic city of Roskilde offers a deep dive into Denmark's past. Once the capital of Denmark, Roskilde is famous for its majestic cathedral and its fascinating Viking heritage.

Roskilde Cathedral: A UNESCO Gem

The centerpiece of Roskilde is its magnificent Roskilde Cathedral, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This brick Gothic masterpiece is the traditional burial place for Danish monarchs, with 39 kings and queens interred within its walls. The cathedral's unique architecture showcases various periods and styles, as chapels and additions were made over centuries to accommodate new royal burials.

Did You Know?The construction of Roskilde Cathedral began in the 12th century, making it one of the earliest examples of Gothic architecture in Scandinavia.

The Viking Ship Museum

Adjacent to the fjord, the Viking Ship Museum is a captivating attraction that brings Denmark's Viking past to life. Here, you can see five original Viking ships, salvaged from the Roskilde Fjord, which were deliberately sunk over 1,000 years ago to protect Roskilde from enemy attacks. The museum also features exhibitions on Viking life, shipbuilding, and maritime history, and during summer, you can even experience traditional Viking boat building demonstrations.

Getting to Roskilde

Roskilde is easily reachable by regional train from Copenhagen Central Station. The journey is quick, taking only about 20-25 minutes. Both the cathedral and the Viking Ship Museum are within walking distance or a short bus ride from Roskilde station.

Møns Klint: Denmark's White Cliffs

For those seeking natural beauty and dramatic landscapes, a day trip to Møns Klint offers a stark contrast to the historical grandeur of castles. Located on the island of Møn, these stunning white chalk cliffs rise majestically from the turquoise Baltic Sea, creating a breathtaking vista.

Spectacular Nature and Hiking Trails

Møns Klint stretches for over 6 kilometers and reaches heights of up to 128 meters. The area is a designated Geopark and offers numerous hiking trails that wind through ancient beech forests and along the cliff tops, providing spectacular viewpoints. Descending the wooden stairs to the beach below allows for a unique perspective of the towering cliffs and the opportunity to search for fossils.

GeoCenter Møns Klint

Start your visit at the GeoCenter Møns Klint, an interactive exhibition center that explains the geological history of the cliffs, dating back 70 million years. It's a great place to learn about the formation of the chalk, the local flora and fauna, and to plan your exploration of the area.

Getting to Møns Klint

Reaching Møns Klint requires a bit more planning than the other destinations. While it's possible by public transport (train to Vordingborg, then a bus), renting a car is often the most convenient option for flexibility and to explore the surrounding beautiful island of Møn.

Beyond Denmark: A Quick Trip to Malmö, Sweden

Thanks to the impressive Øresund Bridge, which connects Copenhagen with Malmö, Sweden, you can easily add an international dimension to your Danish holiday. Malmö is Sweden's third-largest city and offers a vibrant mix of historic charm and modern design.

Exploring Malmö's Delights

  • Lilla Torg:A picturesque cobblestone square lined with half-timbered houses, cafes, and restaurants – perfect for fika (Swedish coffee break).
  • Malmöhus Castle:The oldest preserved Renaissance castle in Scandinavia, now housing several museums, including the Malmö Art Museum and the City Museum.
  • Turning Torso:Admire the iconic twisting skyscraper, a landmark of modern Scandinavian architecture.
  • Västra Hamnen (Western Harbor):A sustainable, modern district with stunning waterfront views and innovative architecture.

Getting to Malmö

Frequent trains depart from Copenhagen Central Station and cross the Øresund Bridge directly to Malmö Central Station. The journey typically takes around 35-40 minutes. Remember to bring your passport or a valid ID, as you will be crossing an international border.

Practical Tips for Your Copenhagen Day Trips

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable day trip, consider these practical tips:

  • Transportation:Denmark has an excellent public transport system. Trains are generally efficient and comfortable for most major destinations. Consider purchasing aCopenhagen Cardif you plan on visiting multiple attractions and using public transport extensively, as it often includes free entry to many sites and unlimited travel.
  • Comfortable Footwear:You'll likely do a lot of walking, especially at castles and natural sites.
  • Weather Preparedness:Danish weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and be prepared for rain, even in summer.
  • Food & Drink:While many sites have cafes, packing some snacks and water can be a good idea, especially for longer trips like Møns Klint.
  • Check Opening Hours:Always verify the opening hours and any special event closures for your chosen attractions before you set out.

Conclusion

Copenhagen may be a treasure trove of experiences, but venturing just a little further afield unlocks an even broader spectrum of Danish (and even Swedish) wonders. From the dramatic history of Kronborg Castle and the royal splendor of Frederiksborg Castle to the ancient sagas of Roskilde and the natural majesty of Møns Klint, these day trips promise to enrich your understanding and appreciation of this captivating Nordic region. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare to explore!