Christiansborg Tower Copenhagen
Soaring tower offering free, breathtaking 360° views of Copenhagen's skyline and historic landmarks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Shorter queues for free views
Christiansborg Tower Copenhagen
Best Time
Shorter queues for free views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soaring tower offering free, breathtaking 360° views of Copenhagen's skyline and historic landmarks.
"Beautiful views for free? Yes, please! The tower is part of a large museum, but visitors can ascend to the top of the tower at no cost."
Free Entry, Worth the Wait
Ascend the tower for free! Follow signs under the tower for the queue. Waits can be 30-60 mins, but shorter on weekdays. :ticket:
Elevator Access
Two elevators and some stairs will take you to the top. Security checks are similar to airport style. :arrow_up:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Viewing platform
Soar 106 meters high for breathtaking 360-degree views of Copenhagen's iconic landmarks and beyond.
Historic Architecture
Tower interior
Admire the plaster sculptures and the 'secret' attic on your way up, showcasing the tower's rich history.
Tårnet Restaurant
Top floor
Experience upscale Danish cuisine with unparalleled city views in this exclusive, elegant dining spot.
Planning Your Visit
Free Views, Potential Queues
Elevated Dining Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry, Worth the Wait
Ascend the tower for free! Follow signs under the tower for the queue. Waits can be 30-60 mins, but shorter on weekdays. :ticket:
Elevator Access
Two elevators and some stairs will take you to the top. Security checks are similar to airport style. :arrow_up:
See Sweden on Clear Days
On a sunny day, you can spot landmarks like the Marble Church, Tivoli, and even Sweden from the top! :iphone:
Dress for Wind
It can get cold and windy at the top, so bring layers even on a nice day. :cloud:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry, Worth the Wait
Ascend the tower for free! Follow signs under the tower for the queue. Waits can be 30-60 mins, but shorter on weekdays. :ticket:
Elevator Access
Two elevators and some stairs will take you to the top. Security checks are similar to airport style. :arrow_up:
See Sweden on Clear Days
On a sunny day, you can spot landmarks like the Marble Church, Tivoli, and even Sweden from the top! :iphone:
Dress for Wind
It can get cold and windy at the top, so bring layers even on a nice day. :cloud:
Book Tårnet in Advance
The restaurant Tårnet offers a unique dining experience with amazing views. Reservations are essential. :knifeforkplate:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the free, breathtaking panoramic views from Christiansborg Tower, calling it a must-see for any Copenhagen trip. The convenience of elevator access and the opportunity to see landmarks like Sweden on clear days are frequently highlighted. While queues can be a factor, most agree the wait is worthwhile for the spectacular vistas.
"Beautiful views for free? Yes, please! The tower is part of a large museum, but visitors can ascend to the top of the tower at no cost. Follow the signs underneath the tower to find the waiting queue. Visitors often report a 30-60 minute (a fair caveat for a free attraction)—we visited in the late afternoon on a weekday and only experienced a 15 minute wait. The journey will include two elevators and a few stairs. Wonderful view from the top on all four sides."
Troy Windhorst
"Dinner at Tårnet in Copenhagen is a memorable experience, set in the historic tower of Christiansborg Palace, it offers a unique blend of Danish heritage and modern cuisine. As you dine beneath the vaulted ceilings, you’re treated to beautifully crafted dishes made from seasonal, local ingredients. The atmosphere is elegant yet warm, with panoramic views of the city adding a magical touch to an unforgettable evening."
rahul verma
"Christianborg Palace has luxury restaurants on its lower floors. It's a building with a beautifully preserved historical texture. You can climb the tower and enjoy the city view, but it's not very good. You can go up there for free, and you can use an elevator."
Sky
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Christiansborg Palace is centrally located in Copenhagen. You can easily reach it by public transport, walking, or cycling. The tower is part of the palace complex, so follow signs for the tower entrance once you're there.
While there isn't direct parking at the tower, there are several public parking garages within walking distance in the city center. Cycling is also a very popular and convenient option in Copenhagen.
Yes, several bus lines stop near Christiansborg Palace. Check local public transport schedules for the most convenient route from your location.
The nearest metro station is Gammel Strand, which is a short walk from Christiansborg Palace. From there, you can easily find the tower.
Many visitors find it easiest to walk or cycle to the palace. The tower entrance is clearly marked beneath the main structure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The best part? Visiting the viewing platform of Christiansborg Tower is completely free! 
No, advance booking is not required for the free tower visit. However, be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The tower is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times, as it's often open until 9 PM.
There is no specific dress code for visiting the tower. However, it can be windy and cooler at the top, so dressing in layers is advisable.
Yes, there are airport-style security checks before ascending the tower, as it's part of the Danish Parliament.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
From the 106-meter high tower, you'll get stunning 360-degree views of Copenhagen. You can spot landmarks like the Marble Church, Tivoli Gardens, the Øresund Bridge, and even Sweden on a clear day.
The actual time spent at the top is relatively short, but factor in potential waiting times for security and elevators, which can range from 15 minutes to an hour.
Yes, there are two elevators that take you up to the viewing platform, making it accessible for most visitors.
Yes, children can enjoy the views and the elevator ride. It's a great educational experience about the city's layout and history.
On your way up, you'll pass through an attic space that has been opened to the public, showcasing historical elements and plaster sculptures.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is an upscale restaurant called Tårnet located on the floor above the Danish Parliament, within the tower itself.
Tårnet offers modern Danish cuisine, focusing on seasonal and local ingredients, with an elegant atmosphere and panoramic city views.
Reservations are highly recommended for Tårnet restaurant due to its popularity and exclusive setting.
Dining at Tårnet is considered a splurge and can be expensive, but many find the experience, food, and views to be well worth the cost.
Absolutely! The tower viewing platform is free to access independently of the restaurant.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire viewing platform offers incredible 360-degree photo opportunities of Copenhagen. Capture iconic landmarks and cityscapes.
Yes, photography is encouraged! Capture panoramic shots of the city, including churches, canals, and the surrounding architecture.
Yes, as demonstrated by @christiannielsenmedia, it's possible to recreate historical photos from the tower, offering a unique perspective on Copenhagen's past and present.
Late afternoon or early evening can offer beautiful golden hour light. Evenings provide stunning city lights.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. Professional or commercial photography might require special permits, so it's best to check in advance if you have specific needs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as options at the very top are limited to the upscale restaurant. The security checks are efficient and part of the experience, so explain this to children beforehand. The historical context of the palace itself can also spark curiosity about Denmark's government and royal past.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1 While there might be a wait, it's a small price to pay for such an incredible experience. Pack your own snacks and water to save money, and enjoy the stunning cityscape without spending a dime on admission. For an even more budget-friendly experience, skip the upscale Tårnet restaurant and focus on the free viewing platform. The visual reward is immense, and it allows you to allocate your funds to other Copenhagen attractions or delicious local eateries.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both sweeping panoramas and details of specific landmarks. The ability to recreate historical shots adds another layer of creative possibility. Just be mindful of other visitors and the wind, which can affect stability.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tower's History and Significance
Beyond its architectural merit, Christiansborg Palace itself is historically significant as it houses all three branches of Denmark's government: the executive (Prime Minister's Office), legislative (Parliament), and judicial (Supreme Court). This makes the tower not just a viewpoint, but a symbol of Danish governance and history, offering visitors a glimpse into the nation's political heart.
For those interested in historical context, the tower's construction period reflects early 20th-century architectural styles and the aspirations of the time. Recreating historical photographs from the tower, as seen in some social media content, further highlights its enduring presence and connection to Copenhagen's past.
Experiencing the Views: What to Expect
+1The journey to the top is facilitated by two elevators, ensuring accessibility for most visitors. While the ascent is smooth, it's important to note that the exposed nature of the viewing platform means it can be quite windy and cooler than at ground level. Travelers often advise dressing in layers to ensure comfort during their visit, especially if planning to linger and soak in the scenery.
This free access to such a commanding viewpoint makes it a must-visit for tourists and locals alike. The ability to see the city laid out before you, from its historic buildings to its modern infrastructure, provides a comprehensive understanding of Copenhagen's layout and charm.
Dining at Tårnet: A Culinary Viewpoint
+1The atmosphere at Tårnet is described as elegant and warm, with vaulted ceilings and antique touches that complement the historic architecture. The panoramic city views serve as a magical backdrop, making it a popular choice for special occasions or a memorable evening out. Reservations are essential, and it's advisable to book well in advance due to its popularity and limited seating.
While the restaurant offers a premium experience, it's worth noting that it represents a significant cost. For budget-conscious travelers, enjoying the free views from the tower's public platform is a fantastic alternative. However, for those seeking an unforgettable culinary journey combined with spectacular scenery, Tårnet presents a compelling option.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit