Kronborg Castle Copenhagen
Explore Shakespeare's Hamlet at Kronborg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site guarding the Øresund Strait.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Kronborg Castle Copenhagen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Shakespeare's Hamlet at Kronborg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site guarding the Øresund Strait.
"This has been the best castle experience by far! Such a fresh take on history."
🎯 Train to Helsingør is easy
Direct trains from Copenhagen Central take ~45 mins. A short walk from the station to the castle.
🎭 Actors bring history alive
Look out for performers in character, especially during peak season. They make the experience unforgettable!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hamlet's Casemates
Beneath the castle
Explore the dark, eerie stone tunnels where soldiers once sheltered, bringing history to life.
Holger Danske Statue
The crypts
Discover the legendary warrior said to sleep beneath the castle, ready to defend Denmark.
Royal Chambers & Banqueting Hall
Main castle floors
Step back in time to witness the grandeur of Danish royalty with beautifully preserved rooms.
Hamlet Performances
Ballroom/Courtyard
Experience Shakespeare's famous play brought to life by actors in full character.
Planning Your Visit
Day Trip Logistics
Embrace the Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Train to Helsingør is easy
Direct trains from Copenhagen Central take ~45 mins. A short walk from the station to the castle.
🎭 Actors bring history alive
Look out for performers in character, especially during peak season. They make the experience unforgettable!
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! You'll want 2-3 hours to explore the castle, casemates, and exhibits.
🚶♀️ Walk the exteriors
Even if short on time, the exterior views and moat are stunning and free to admire.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Train to Helsingør is easy
Direct trains from Copenhagen Central take ~45 mins. A short walk from the station to the castle.
🎭 Actors bring history alive
Look out for performers in character, especially during peak season. They make the experience unforgettable!
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush! You'll want 2-3 hours to explore the castle, casemates, and exhibits.
🚶♀️ Walk the exteriors
Even if short on time, the exterior views and moat are stunning and free to admire.
🏛️ Combine with Maritime Museum
The adjacent MS Maritime Museum is highly recommended and can easily fill out your day.
🧥 Dress for the weather
It can be windy and cold, especially near the sea. Layers are key!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kronborg Castle for its impressive atmosphere, historical significance, and engaging, interactive exhibits. The castle's connection to Shakespeare's Hamlet is a major draw, enhanced by live actors bringing history to life. The casemates and the legend of Holger Danske are particularly memorable. While the exterior views are stunning, many recommend dedicating ample time to explore the interior.
"Kronborg Castle is one of the most impressive and atmospheric places I visited in Denmark. Overlooking the Øresund Strait, this UNESCO World Heritage site is not only visually stunning, but also packed with history and character. Known worldwide as “Hamlet’s Castle,” it fully lives up to its fame.
The rooms and royal chambers are beautifully preserved, giving you a real sense of the grandeur of the Danish monarchy in the Renaissance era. But the highlight for me was exploring the dark, eerie casemates — the old military barracks beneath the castle. Walking through those damp, stone tunnels really brings the past to life. You can almost feel the presence of the soldiers who once took shelter there.
And then there's Holger Danske, the legendary statue deep in the basement. According to Danish folklore, this mythical warrior sleeps under Kronborg Castle and will rise to defend Denmark in her time of need. Seeing the statue in the dim light down there added a magical, almost mythological touch to the whole experience.
If you're into history, legends, or just want to explore a magnificent fortress with great views and an unforgettable atmosphere, Kronborg is absolutely worth the visit. Take your time — there’s a lot to discover."
Dmitry Zinger
"Good:
✅ This is THE attraction in town. Beautiful property, castle, and engaging museum.
✅ Tailored visits. With a few hours on hand, pay admission and see it all. If short on time, walk the exteriors (amazing views) at no cost. Either journey is at your own pace.
✅ Well organized. There are sections of the castle with color-coded entrances from the main courtyard. A color-coded map is provided making it easy to make choices—see what you want.
Caution:
❌ Obviously, a rainy day will alter the outdoor experience. However, for those paying admission, there is still so much to see inside.
Summary:
Aside from the adjacent cobblestone streets meandering through a charming cluster of shops and restaurants (an attraction on its own), the Kronborg Castle is the star attraction in town. An exploration will not disappoint."
Troy Windhorst
"Kronborg is wonderful and easy day trip from Copenhagen on the train. It exceeded all expectations. The castle is gorgeous. The exhibits are fantastically interactive and engaging. The Hamlet characters coming to life was a highlight. The views of the sea are incredible. Also, great town to explore
.."
Sean Moriarty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by train from Copenhagen Central Station to Helsingør. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and trains run frequently. From Helsingør station, it's a pleasant 15-minute walk to Kronborg Castle. 
Yes, Kronborg Castle is located in Helsingør, which is about 30-45 minutes north of Copenhagen by train, making it a very accessible day trip.
Yes, driving is an option, and it takes about 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic. There is parking available near the castle. However, many visitors prefer the train for its convenience and to avoid parking hassles.
It's possible but ambitious. You'd need to start very early and be efficient. Kronborg closes earlier in the afternoon, so prioritize it. Consider focusing on one for a more relaxed experience.
The most recommended method is taking a direct train from Copenhagen Central Station. It's efficient, scenic, and drops you within walking distance of the castle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for adults are typically around DKK 125 (approximately €17). It's advisable to check the official Kronborg Castle website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
You can walk around the exterior of the castle and its grounds for free, offering great photo opportunities and views of the Øresund Strait. However, to explore the interior, royal chambers, and casemates, an admission ticket is required.
Look into the Copenhagen Card, which often includes free admission to Kronborg Castle and other attractions, as well as free public transport. Check the card's benefits before purchasing. [^SEO keyword: kronborg castle copenhagen card]
Opening hours vary seasonally. Generally, the castle is open from 11 AM to 4 PM or 5 PM. It's crucial to check the official website for the exact hours during your planned visit, especially in winter when it closes earlier.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance online can save you time, especially during peak tourist seasons. This allows you to skip potential ticket queues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Kronborg Castle is world-renowned as the inspiration for Elsinore in William Shakespeare's famous play, Hamlet. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a magnificent example of Renaissance military architecture.
Inside, you'll find beautifully preserved royal chambers, the grand banqueting hall, the atmospheric casemates (old military barracks), and the legendary statue of Holger Danske. Many exhibits are interactive and engaging. [^SEO keyword: copenhagen kronborg castle]
Yes, guided tours are often available and can provide deeper insights into the castle's history and legends. Check the castle's schedule upon arrival or their website for tour times and themes.
Absolutely! The interactive exhibits, the legend of Holger Danske, and the chance to explore the casemates are usually a hit with kids. Actors often bring characters to life, adding to the fun.
The castle offers stunning panoramic views of the Øresund Strait, the sea, and the coast of Sweden. The strategic location was key to its historical importance.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior shots with the moat and ramparts are iconic. Don't miss the views from the battlements overlooking the sea. Inside, the grand halls and dimly lit casemates offer unique photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed inside the castle for personal use, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the exhibits. Always look for signage.
Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds. Late afternoon can also be beautiful, especially if you catch the golden hour light on the castle walls.
While you can't stage photos in the exact locations from the play, capturing the castle's imposing architecture and the dramatic sea views evokes the atmosphere of Elsinore.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for both wide exterior shots and interior details. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the halls and casemates. A tripod might be helpful in low-light interior areas, but check if they are permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 Literature & History Buffs
+1 History enthusiasts will appreciate the castle's Renaissance architecture, its strategic importance in controlling the Øresund Strait, and the well-preserved royal chambers. 📸 Photographers
Inside, the grand halls and the atmospheric, dimly lit casemates provide unique and dramatic subjects. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hamlet Connection
+1 This makes it a must-visit for literature enthusiasts and anyone interested in the enduring legacy of Shakespeare. [^SEO keyword: copenhagen hamlet castle]Exploring the castle, you can almost feel the presence of Prince Hamlet and the other characters. The dark, atmospheric casemates beneath the castle, in particular, lend themselves to the play's brooding themes. The castle's historical role as a fortress guarding the Øresund Strait also adds a layer of dramatic tension, mirroring the political intrigue within the play.
Beyond the direct Shakespearean links, the castle itself is a testament to Danish power and wealth during the Renaissance. Its construction and strategic position were crucial for collecting Sound Dues from passing ships, contributing significantly to the Danish crown's coffers. This historical context enriches the visitor experience, offering a glimpse into a pivotal era of Danish history. [^SEO keyword: copenhagen kronborg castle]
Exploring the Casemates and Holger Danske
Deep within these subterranean levels lies the legendary statue of Holger Danske (Ogier the Dane). According to Danish folklore, this mythical warrior sleeps beneath Kronborg Castle and will awaken to defend Denmark should the nation ever be in grave peril.
This underground exploration is a highlight for many visitors, offering a sense of adventure and a deeper understanding of the castle's multifaceted history. It’s a reminder that Kronborg was not just a royal residence but also a vital military stronghold.
A Day in Helsingør
Adjacent to Kronborg Castle is the MS Maritime Museum of Denmark. This award-winning museum, housed in a former dry dock, offers a fascinating look into Denmark's seafaring history. Its unique architecture and engaging exhibits make it a worthwhile addition to your day trip.
For those looking for more, Helsingør also boasts the National Museum of Denmark's Technical Museum, which showcases a range of scientific and technological advancements. The town's proximity to Sweden also makes it a convenient starting point for a quick cross-border excursion, though most day-trippers focus on Helsingør itself.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit