kronborg castle tour

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• 1. Shakespeare used Kronborg Castle in Hamlet!
• 2. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• 3. You can meet famous Danish statue, Holger the Dane.
• 4. It’s only an hour north of Copenhagen.
• 5. Helsingør and the Maritime Museum nearby are also fun to explore!

Kronborg Castle – aka Hamlet's Castle!

Put Hamlet’s Castle, Kronborg, on your list of things to see whilst in Denmark! Whether you’re looking for things to do near Copenhagen or have more time to explore, there's time enough to visit Denmark’s most famous castle, immortalised by Shakespeare back in the 1600s.

Kronborg Castle – Home of Hamlet

This is it – the actual castle that Shakespeare set Hamlet in! There are many mysteries surrounding Shakespeare and whether or not he ever visited Kronborg Castle is one of them. In Hamlet, Shakespeare called Kronborg Castle Elsinore. This has become the English name for Helsingør, the town where you can visit Kronborg.

Photo : Jens Herrndorff

The history of Kronborg Castle (Elsinore)

Kronborg Castle has existed at Helsingør (Elsinore) since 1420. It’s been burned to the ground and rebuilt since, but always maintained its vital position at the head of the Øresund Sound. Ships passing into the Baltic Sea paid tolls at Kronborg Castle and Helsingør was once one of the most important towns in Europe. In 2000, Kronborg Castle became a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Inside Hamlet’s Castle: Guided tours of Kronborg

You can learn the rich history of Kronborg Castle (Elsinore) on guided tours every day. There are 3 different tours of different lengths and some are free once you’ve paid to get into the castle. Find out  times and prices of guided tours here .

Helsingør's Holger the Dane (Holger Danske)

Exploring the creepy crypts and catacombs of Kronborg Castle is a great experience. Hidden deep down under the castle you’ll meet  Holger the Dane  (Holger Danske), an imposing stone statue. Holger the Dane is a legendary figure in Danish culture. If Denmark is ever in trouble, he’ll wake from his rock throne under Helsingør and defend her!

Shakespeare Festival at Hamlet’s Castle

Each summer, you can enjoy live performances of Shakespeare’s greatest plays from Danish and international companies, including the  Royal Shakespeare Company . There are Shakespeare events for all the family at  HamletScenen’s Shakespeare Festival  at Kronborg Castle. It's a great summer day out from Copenhagen.

Photo : Daniel Overbeck - VisitNordsjælland

Practical information

3000 Helsingør

Longitude : 12.621725

Latitude : 56.038966

How to get to Kronborg Castle

If you go by car from Copenhagen , you’ll find Kronborg Castle about  an hour's drive up the motorway .

You can also go by train from Copenhagen. Take a DBS train to Helsingør, 45 minutes from Copenhagen Central Station .

If you are coming from Sweden, you can take the Sweden to Denmark ferry between Helsingør and Helsingborg.

Find out more about Kronborg Castle in Helsingør

Look here for more info on opening times or go directly to the official website of VisitNorthSealand .

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How To Take A Kronborg Castle Day Trip From Copenhagen

If you’re in Copenhagen and have time for a day trip, I highly recommend visiting Kronborg Castle! It’s just a 45-minute train ride away, making it super easy to fit into your plans.

I love visiting old castles, and I was really excited to walk around and take a guided tour of Kronborg Slot. I’ve been to this castle twice and learned new things each time!

In this post, I’ll share all the details you need for an easy and enjoyable trip to “Hamlet’s Castle.”

Whether you’re planning your visit or just curious about what it’s like, I’m here to help. Get ready for a day full of history and adventure!

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link, we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

The History of Kronborg Slot

Kronborg Slot is a famous castle located in the city of Helsingør in Denmark. Built in the early 1600s it is an iconic landmark of the Danish city and famous for more than one reason.

Originally built as a fortified castle to defend any entrance to the area, then later a royal residence to King Frederik II in 1658.

During the reign of the king, the castle was given the nickname “Kongens Nytorv” or Kings’s New Square.”

Then in the late 17th century, the castle was turned into a tourist attraction by King Christian IV. The attraction was then known as “The Queen of Scandinavia.”

In 1807, Kronborg Slot was taken over by the British during the Napoleonic Wars and was used as a prison and headquarters. After the wars, it became a tourist attraction again around 1819.

In the year 2000 Kronborg Slot became a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural significance.

Why Is it Also Called Hamlet’s Castle?

Kronborg Castle is also referred to as Hamlet’s Castle or Elsinore Castle . And if you are wondering why it’s because it was the castle that William Shakespeare used in his world-famous Hamlet play!

Shakespeare refers to the castle town as “Elsinore”. The word Elisnore is the English word for Helsingør which is the actual town of the castle.

Best Time To Visit Kronborg Castle

Anytime is a good time to visit this iconic castle. Denmark’s winters can be very cold, so ideally you would want to avoid winter.

The exception would be the month of December the town and castle are decorated for Christmas!

How to Get to Kronborg Castle From Copenhagen

To visit Kronborg Castle from Copenhagen, start at Copenhagen Central Station and take a regional train to Helsingør Station.

The journey typically takes around 45 minutes.

Once you arrive at Helsingør Station, Kronborg Castle is just a 15-minute walk away. Follow the signs or use a map to navigate through the town center to reach the castle.

If you purchase the Copenhagen Card the train fare is free, as well as your entrance to the castle.

The train ride fare without the Copenhagen Card is 11€. There is a train every 30 minutes, but double-check before you go.

🚂 Here is the Copenhagen to Kronborg castle train schedule or download and find it on the official train app 📲 DSB App for Apple and Android

Rent A Car in Copenhagen

If you want to visit more of Denmark and prefer to drive, check out my best tips for renting a car in Copenhagen .

It can be the best way to see multiple castles in one day if you aren’t joining a tour!

Castle Ticket Prices

Children under 18 are free! Students enjoy a reduced entrance fee of 135 DKK (June, July, and August) and 85 DKK for the rest of the year.

Adults pay 145 DKK ( June, July, and August) and 95 DKK for the rest of the year.

Get the Copenhagen Card and get free entrance to the castle and 87 museums!

• Jan. 2 – March 22
• Tuesday – Sunday 11:00 – 16:00
• March 23 – May 31
• every day 10:00 – 17:00
• June 1 – incl. Sep 1
• every day 10:00 – 18:00
• Sep 2. – Oct. 31
• Nov. 1. – 30. dec .

Things to See When Visiting Kronborg Castle

• The Royal Chambers – Explore the beautifully restored rooms where Danish royalty once resided.
• The Ballroom – One of the largest Renaissance halls in Northern Europe, used for grand events.
• The Chapel – Admire the intricately carved woodwork and original pews from the 1580s.
• The Casemates – Venture into the dark, damp underground passages where soldiers were stationed.
• The Statue of Holger Danske – See the legendary figure said to awaken and defend Denmark in times of need, located in the casemates.
• The Ramparts – Walk the extensive fortress walls for panoramic views of the Øresund Strait and Sweden.
• The Maritime Museum – Located nearby, this museum offers insights into Denmark’s maritime history, which is closely linked with Kronborg.
• The Gardens – Stroll through the castle gardens, which provide a serene escape and lovely views of the surrounding architecture.

Located near the castle is the famous Han Statue which is known as the Little Brother to the Little Mermaid statue.

Should You Take A Tour to Kronborg Castle?

Visiting Kronborg Castle from Copenhagen via a day tour offers numerous benefits. It’s the perfect way to unwind as everything is planned for you.

Opting for a tour is the most efficient way to explore multiple attractions in a single day without needing a car.

For solo travelers in Copenhagen , joining a small group can be an excellent opportunity to meet new people. On the day of the tour, all you need to do is bring your camera phone and enjoy the experience!

The truth is all three of these castle tours from Copenhagen below are great! Depending on your group size and time restraints you have options!

3 Best Kronborg Castle Day Trip Tours From Copenhagen

Grand Day Trip Around Copenhagen Private Hamlet Castle Tour From Copenhagen Kronborg Slot & North Zealand Castle Tour

Final Thoughts on Visiting Kronborg Castle on a Day Trip

Don’t miss Kronborg Castle when you’re in Copenhagen . It’s a special place with lots of history. If it’s your first time in the city, a tour can make the visit even better—they’ll tell you all the cool stories.

And if you’re going around Denmark, try to see Aarhus too. It’s got lots of art and history, just like Kronborg, and it’s a great spot to learn more about what makes Denmark unique. Have a great trip!

Yes, you can visit Kronborg Castle on your own without a guide. The admission ticket is 95 DKK (Danish Kroner) for adults, except for June, July, and August, tickets are 145 DKK. Children under 18 are free! The admission ticket gives you access to explore the grounds and crypts

Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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Hamlet’s Castle in Denmark: A Visit to Kronborg Slot

Did you know that Hamlet’s Castle is an actual place you can visit in Denmark? Kronborg Castle is less than an hour’s drive from Copenhagen, making it an easy day trip from Copenhagen and a must-visit for anyone interested in literary travel.

Shakespeare fans, there are many pilgrimages for you to take on your Shakespeare Travel Bucket List (including some Shakespeare sites in the US !) but today I’m here to add one more. Denmark’s Kronborg Castle in Helsingor is a real-life Hamlet castle and one location not to miss for its literary and historical significance. In fact, Kronborg has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site.

As a side note, I’d call it a pretty ballsy move on Shakespeare’s part to set his play at Kronborg Castle, considering historians can find no evidence that Shakespeare ever actually visited the castle. It’s akin to Emily Dickinson writing poems about the ocean when she really never left her apartment. So much for “write what you know!” Ah, well, it seems to have worked out for both of them. Let’s continue.

Read on to learn what you can see at Kronborg Castle, how to watch Hamlet AT Hamlet’s Castle, tips for visiting, how to get to Kronborg Castle, and another major literary connection you’ll find in the basement!

And don’t forget to pin this post for later:

In This Post

As always, this post may contain affiliate links, which means at no additional cost to you, shopping from them may generate small commissions to support the operations of this blog.

Whenever possible, I recommend buying books at local bookshops or through Bookshop.org , because shopping there puts the profits right into the hands of indie bookstores all over the country.

What is Hamlet About?

If you’ve never managed to read or watch a production of Hamlet (it is, after all, Shakespeare’s longest work), here are the basics: Hamlet’s father, the King of Denmark, has been killed. After getting tipped off by his dead father’s ghost, Hamlet comes to suspect his Uncle Claudius, of being responsible for his death. Claudius doesn’t exactly exude innocence, having taken on his brother’s throne and his wife, Gertrude, along with it.

In many ways, it’s a classic tale of revenge, and yet Hamlet spends the vast majority of the play wondering if his uncle is really guilty, trying unsuccessfully to trick him into confessing, and musing on the meaning of life and the nature of madness.

Apart from Hamlet’s numerous soliloquies, the secondary characters and their plot lines are quite rich. Let’s take Ophelia, for example. The tragic Ophelia loves Hamlet but, suffering at the hands of Hamlet’s likely feigned madness descends into a genuine madness herself, pushed over the edge by Hamlet’s famous explosion at her, “Get thee to a nunnery!” (and maybe his accidental murdering of her father contributed as well).

This father is quite the character, too: Polonius is the character who speaks many of the famous adages even non-Shakespeare readers will recognize, such as “To thine own self be true,” and “Neither a borrower nor a lender be.”

Ghosts, murder, unrequited love, revenge, madness. It might be 4+ hours long, but this play is famous for good reason!

Hamlet is based on a Norse legend, though the exact source is still debated. Shakespeare’s theatrical rendition of the legend gained popularity immediately after he first wrote it for his acting troupe, the Chamberlain’s Men, in 1600 or 1601. Its popularity has hardly been flagged since. Famous actors and actresses have vied for roles in the play since Shakespeare’s own time.

Related: Did you know the only full-scale replica of Shakespeare’s first theatre, the Blackfriar’s Theatre, is in the US ?

Visiting Hamlet’s Castle: Kronborg Slot

Although in Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet’s castle is called Elsinore, Kronborg Slot is the name of the real Hamlet Castle, which you can tour in an easy day trip from Copenhagen.

Something is rotten in the state of Denmark Marcellus, in Hamlet, Act I Scene IV

After visiting the opulent nearby Fredericksborg Castle, the best word I could use to describe Kronborg by comparison is, “understated.” This is not a castle with artwork and adornments covering every square inch of wall or ceiling, like many other royal palaces. By comparison, it’s rather modest.

In fact, as the convenient placards explain in both English and Danish, the royal families who spent time in this castle would economize by carrying their dishes and silverware from one castle to the next. Practically impoverished, right?

Denmark’s Kronborg Castle is a military fortress turned into a palace. Having visited quite a few castles in my time, I’d say something that makes this castle stand out from among others is how well it informs tourists of the day-to-day life of the royals who lived there. Placards throughout the castle highlight how they lived in and used each room, and give specific information about the royal family’s history.

All in all, Hamlet’s Castle absolutely gets my personal recommendation. Go on and roam the halls wondering if you should be or not be (maybe skip musing whether or not to kill your uncle, though. Odds are, he’s probably nice).

Here are some highlights from my favorite rooms and areas of Kronborg Castle that you won’t want to miss on your visit:

The King’s Chamber

Decorated relatively simply with painted ceilings, this room was one of the most important in the castle. It’s where the king would hold important meetings about the future of Denmark with his trusted advisors as well as the occasional party with his buddies.

From the bay window, the king could look down at the front door of the castle to see who was arriving (like a dignified, pre-technology Ring doorbell, with a much more impressive view).

Shakespeare fans can imagine King Claudius plotting the death of his nephew, Hamlet, with his advisors, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern in this room. You can also imagine Polonius’s speeches dragging on and on and on during his advisory visits (though “since brevity is the soul of wit, and tediousness the limbs and outward flourishes, I will be brief,” he would have first assured them).

The Ballroom/Throne Room

Once the largest ballroom in Northern Europe, it’s hard to capture the magnitude of this room in pictures or words. It’s over 200 feet long and 40 feet wide, but suffice it to say, it feels large enough to host a full-scale football match.

When Kronborg Castle was occupied by the royal family, this room served as a storage room for fruits and vegetables, dried meat, and even building materials when they weren’t actively entertaining. However, on the occasion that a feast or ball would be held, this room would really shine.

An enormous table would be placed down the center of the room around which guests were seated for an impressive many-course feast. Centerpieces on the table would’ve been a boar’s head or a stuffed peacock or the like. And the party would last for days!

I like to imagine that this might have been the room in which the culminating action occurs in Shakespeare’s Hamlet in Act 5 Scene 2, aka the scene in which Hamlet finally does something after all that pondering. When you visit, you can picture the famous ending (spoiler alert), in which Hamlet and Laertes duel before the court, Queen Gertrude gets (accidentally) poisoned to death, Hamlet kills his uncle King Claudius as well as Laertes, and then dies as well (tell my story!).

When a fire destroyed much of Kronborg Castle in 1629, the Chapel was one of the only rooms to be spared. The pews, decorative panels, gallery, and altar are all original (though for a while, the furniture was moved out to use this room as a gymnasium while the castle functioned as an army barracks).

When visiting this room of Hamlet’s Castle, you can picture Claudius falling to his knees to pray, guilt-ridden at having killed his brother. Imagine Hamlet, hiding behind a pillar. He has come with the intention of avenging his father but decides to wait; if he kills Claudius during his prayer, then Claudius will go to heaven. Hamlet decides to wait to kill him while he’s sinning so that Claudius will spend eternity in hell. Logic!

The Casemates

While certainly not the dream destination of a claustrophobic person, the casemates of Kronborg Castle are both creepy and interesting to visit. You can walk your way around this maze of gloomy, low-ceilinged passageways where soldiers have hidden for weeks on end while the castle is under siege.

While you’re down there, check out another literary landmark: the statue of Holger the Dane, or Holger Danske. Who was Holger the Dane, you ask? Holger (also spelled Ogier) is a figure prominent in Danish mythology. The legendary stories of Holger the Dane have made him a national hero in Denmark.

Holger Danske’s tales date back to the 11th century, and legend has it that he awaits here in the basement of Kronborg Castle and will awaken should the time come that he is needed once again to defend Denmark.

This makes Kronborg a literary travel destination for another reason in addition to Hamlet. Holger not only features in oral myths but Hans Christian Andersen also wrote a fable called Holger Danske :

But the most beautiful sight of all is old Kronborg, and in a deep, dark cellar beneath it, where no one ever goes, sleeps Holger Danske. He is clad in iron and steel and rests his head on his strange arms; his long beard hangs down over the marble table and has grown through it. He sleeps and dreams, and in his dreams he sees all that happens here in Denmark. Every Christmas Eve one of God’s angels comes to him and tells him that what he had dreamed is true; he may sleep again, for no real peril threatens Denmark. But should real danger come, old Holger Danske will rise in his fury, and the table itself will burst as he wrenches his beard from it, and the mighty blows he strikes for Denmark will be heard throughout the world. Hans Christian Andersen

Climbing up the narrow steps to Kronborg Castle’s roof rewards you with stunning views. From up here, you can see all the way to Sweden (and understand the strategic advantage of having a stronghold at this particular location). Here, the channel between the two countries is only 4 km (2.5 miles) wide.

Spend some time up here enjoying the breeze, and take heed lest a ghostly visitor should come to you as he did to Hamlet and the castle guards in Act I, asking you to avenge his death. (While it might not have been the roof of Hamlet’s castle where that scene takes place, walking around up here it does seem like just the spot where it could happen).

Travel Tip: When I’m visiting anywhere in Europe, Rick Steves is my favorite guidebook to use. You can find one on Copenhagen and the best of Denmark , or this Rick Steves book on Scandinavia that includes Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Estonia. Always make sure to buy the most recent edition of this or any guidebook, because you don’t want to plan your trip with out-of-date information, particularly in the post-COVID travel world.

Watch Hamlet at Kronborg Castle

When you’ve got a Renaissance castle in which the most famous playwright of all time sets one of the most famous plays of all time, of course, you can expect to find some live theater performances there. Specifically, you can see the story. of Hamlet reenacted in Hamlet’s castle!

Every summer from June until August, Kronborg Castle hosts “ Hamlet’s Wonderful World ” daily from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. While I got there in October and missed seeing this, it sounds like a lot of fun. Each famous scene of the play is performed in various locations as the actors move the play around the castle and its grounds.

When they are not performing, the characters move about the castle carrying on with their ordinary lives and interacting with visitors. It’s less of a chronological retelling than a living reenactment of the story in which visitors take part.

Live productions of Hamlet have been taking place every August here for two hundred years. In fact, it is the oldest continuous Shakespeare performance in the world. In 1937, Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh starred as Hamlet and Ophelia and really set a trend for other big-name actors to join in future years.

Additionally, a movie version of the play by the BBC starring Christopher Plummer was shot at Kronborg Castle in 1963.

Travel tip: Before your visit, make sure to check the Kronborg Castle website for the most up-to-date information on seeing Hamlet at Kronborg Castle, as COVID may have changed the normal operations of this annual summer event.

Related: Traveling elsewhere in Europe? Amsterdam is a short flight from Copenhagen. Check out my list of the best Amsterdam bookshops to visit while you’re there.

Tips for visiting Kronborg Castle

Tickets for kronborg castle.

Tickets can be pre-purchased online or bought in person at their box office.

Ticket prices change depending on which season you come and cost more during Hamlet’s Wonderful World. Children under 18 are free year-round. There is a discount for students showing an ID.

Feel free to book tickets online in advance to skip the ticket line. Even if you’re unsure on your exact dates, tickets are valid for one year from the date of purchase (except June, July, and August due to Hamlet’s Wonderful World).

Getting to Kronborg Castle:

By car : Take about a 30-minute drive from Copenhagen on the E47 highway or the longer but more scenic coastline drive. Check car rentals on Kayak.

Travel tip: Kronborg Castle is only about 30 minutes from the famous and beautiful Fredericksborg Castle. If you want a full day, you can visit one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

By train : Take a train from Copenhagen’s Central Station to Helsingor (45 min), then take a 15-20 minute walk to the castle. Check public transportation options on Omio .

By tour company: A number of local tour companies will take you to Kronborg Castle so you don’t have to worry about transportation.

Tours at Kronborg Castle

Types of tours available : Self-guided tours using the brochure at the front office or guided tours (included in ticket price) available. Check the website for current guided tour times.

Information for families : Because you can do a self-guided tour and most furniture and valuables are roped off, I’d say this is an okay tour to bring children to.

Languages : Plaques throughout the castle give information in English and Danish. During Hamlet’s Wonderful World, the characters speak in English.

Where to Stay Near Kronborg Castle

If your priority is to stay as close to Kronborg castle as possible, you can’t get much closer than the Hotel Hamlet , which offers affordable, clean, no-frills rooms and is popular with guests. This hotel is only a 10-minute walk from the beautiful Hamlet Castle.

As you look for somewhere to stay, I recommend checking for lodging on Hotels.com . I almost always book my accommodations through Hotels.com , because you can earn rewards for every night you stay without having to choose only one hotel chain to be loyal to. You can even book locally owned apart hotels and bed and breakfasts.

If you’re looking for privately owned vacation rentals, I recommend checking VRBO. I’ve personally had much better experiences with their owners and rentals than I have with their primary competitor.

Travel Resources At-A-Glance

All of the following are links to sites and services I actually use to book and plan my travel or to purchase books or travel gear.

For flights : Skyscanner is my number one go-to resource for booking flights. I love using the “explore” function to find the cheapest places I can fly during a given time or using the fare calendar to identify the cheapest days to fly.

For hotels and lodgings : For hotels, hotels.com , and for vacation rentals, VRBO.com . I’ve had much better experiences with private rentals through this website than through other popular private vacation rental websites.

For car rentals : Kayak allows comparisons across a wide range of booking agencies and lists reviews of companies as well. I’ve found this to be the most user-friendly and efficient way to compare car rental prices.

For tours & excursions : Viator and Get Your Guide are my top choices for booking excursions and tour experiences in a new destination.

For travel gear : Amazon.com and REI for more outdoorsy items. Check out my travel gear recs here.

For booking trains & buses : I find the Omio app and website to be the most easily navigable for comparing options for public transportation, especially in Europe,

Best travel credit card : My favorite travel rewards credit card for European travel has been the Chase Sapphire Rewards card . Visa is accepted just about everywhere in Europe, and there are no foreign transaction fees on the card. Some of the travel benefits I love on the Chase Sapphire include free TSA pre-check or Global Entry (worth it every time), an annual $200 travel credit, an annual $200 hotel benefit, built-in rental car, and trip insurance, and points are worth 50% more when used to book travel. I travel around Europe a LOT, and I end up with many free flights and hotel stays from using my points on my Chase Sapphire.

For books : Bookshop.org often has prices as good as Amazon or sometimes better, but profits go to indie bookstores all over the country. Whenever possible, consider buying your books from this online indie bookshop resource.

Well, that’s just about everything you need to know about visiting Hamlet’s castle in Denmark, the iconic Kronborg Castle.

What other destinations are on your literary travel bucket list? Drop them in the comments. And don’t forget to subscribe to my blog to get notified by email of new blog posts (I’ll never spam or sell email addresses!)

Pin this now to reference when you’re planning your next trip to Copenhagen.

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I'm Constance, an avid reader and traveler. I love tracking down the best literary sights everywhere I go, from the best indie bookstores to author's homes and fictional locations you can visit in real life. I'm also passionate about all things tea and chocolate. I have a BA in English literature and an MS in Nutrition Science.

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CPH-008 - Northern Zealand Private Day Trip with Kronborg & Frederiksborg Castle Visit

Head to the Danish Riviera of Northern Zealand for a day and discover Hamlet´s castle of Kronborg and Frederiksborg Castle on a guided visit.

Tour price per adult:

Tour includes

• 6h private guide services
• 6h private tour vehicle
• Panoramic Northern Zealand sightseeing tour
• Entrance & guided tour of Kronborg Castle
• Entrance & guided tour of Frederiksborg Castle
• Private round transfer from/to cruise port/hotel

Tour excludes

• Gratuities to the guide and driver are not included in the tour price.
• 00:00 – 01:00 Meet & greet at cruise port/hotel followed by scenic drive from Copenhagen to Frederiksborg Castle
• 01:00 – 02:15 Guided tour of Frederiksborg Castle & Gardens
• 02:15 – 02:45 Drive to Kronborg Castle
• 02:45 – 03:45 Free time for lunch or shopping
• 03:45 – 05:00 Guided tour of Kronborg Castle
• 05:00 – 06:00 Return transfer to Copenhagen

Additional information

While there is good access to the Castle Courtyard, Kronborg Castle is not accessible with wheelchairs and buggies.

Children’s Discounts: 3-year-old and under are free, 15% discount for ages 4-12.

Please note, the Kronborg Castle is closed on Mondays from October- April.

Frederiksborg Castle is open every day throughout the year: November – March: 11.00-15.00 April – October: 10.00-17.00

This tour can also start or end at the airport.

• North-Zealand Countryside
• Scenic seaside views
• Kronborg Castle - setting for Shakespeare's Hamlet
• Frederiksborg Castle & Park
• Town of Hillerød

Our day begins with a drive towards the  UNESCO World Heritage Site of King Christian V’s royal hunting grounds at North Zealand.

Arriving at picturesque countryside towns, we will visit the famous castles of  Frederiksborg  and  Kronborg Castle, home of Shakespeare’s Hamlet.

We will discover the many mysteries surrounding Shakespeare and whether or not he ever visited Kronborg Castle – Home of Hamlet . The castle, which has existed at Helsingør (Elsinore) since 1420, was once one of the most important towns in Europe.

On a comprehensive tour through the baroque castle, gardens and islets of Frederiksborg Castle, we will admire the castle built in Dutch Renaissance style at the beginning of the 1600s. The Museum of National History at Frederiksborg Castle  also exhibits the history of Denmark and houses a considerable collection of portraits, historical paintings and modern art.

After immersing ourselves to the Danish history in a very beautiful way, the day ends with a return transfer back to Copenhagen.

Book private tour

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You might also like, copenhagen private highlights tour with christiansborg palace, hamlet’s castle, countryside & copenhagen highlights private tour, panoramic copenhagen private tour with airport transfer, copenhagen private walking tour, reviews of our tours, northern zealand private day trip with kronborg & frederiksborg castle visit.

We didn’t book in advance, unfortunately, and there were cruise ships in Copenhagen when I contacted Nordic Experience. They worked very hard to put together a tour with a driver and knowledgeable guide that worked for us. Excellent experience all around.

United States (US), July 2023

Things to do in Copenhagen

Autumn is a perfect time to visit copenhagen, private accessible baltic shore excursions and tours, what to do in copenhagen on a layover, a perfect guided tour just for you and your family at the baltic sea.

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Kronborg Castle in Helsingør – Information for Visitors

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: April 24, 2020

Categories Denmark

Home / Europe / Denmark / Kronborg Castle in Helsingør – Information for Visitors

Kronborg Castle ( Danish: Kronborg Slot ) is one of the most impressive Renaissance castles in Northern Europe and one of the best places to visit in Denmark!

Home to royal chambers, a grand banquet hall, and with strong ties to William Shakespeare this 16th-century castle offers an insight into the country’s regal history.

Here’s a complete guide for visitors with information about entrance fees, opening hours, history and facts about Kronborg Castle in Helsingør. 

Ticket Info

The cost of general admission to the castle varies depending on the time of year but tickets can be booked online or on the day all year round. If you’re attending during the summer months (June, July, August), it’s recommended to pre-book tickets online to avoid queues at the ticket office.

Photo: Dennis Jacobsen / Shutterstock.com

Opening hours

• January – April: Tuesday – Sunday 11am – 4pm
• May – September: Daily 10am – 5pm
• October – December: Tuesday – Sunday 11am – 4pm

*Note that opening times can vary during school holidays and over Christmas and New Year. The castle is closed on December 24th, 25th, 31st, and January 1st.

History & more information

Kronborg Castle is a renaissance stronghold, and UNESCO World Heritage Site, found in the town of Helsingor in Denmark. The castle, which was built between 1574 and 1585, holds a strategic position between the North Sea and the Baltic.

The castle is best known for being re-imagined by William Shakespeare in the play Hamlet. The original use of the castle, before King Frederick II radically transformed the fortress into a Renaissance Castle, was to control the entrance to the Baltic Sea.

Photo: Andrey Shcherbukhin/Shutterstock

When Frederick took over, the castles working role diminished and it quickly became more palace-like. In 1629 a fire broke out and heavily damaged the fortification and much of the castle had to be reconstructed.

Today the castle still stands strong on the narrow promontory between the coasts of Denmark and Sweden, overlooking the surrounding land from its vantage point.

Photo: Jolanta Wojcicka / Shutterstock.com

Visitors of the castle can explore the West Wing, the Banquet Hall, and the Apartments which are adorned with Nerthlandish furniture from the 17th century, ceiling paintings, and more.

Due to the castles tie to Shakespeare, guests who time their visit well could land on a live performance of Hamlet which takes place in the courtyard multiple times over the summer.

Photo: Maria_Janus / Shutterstock.com

Points of Interest

The royal apartments.

On the first floor of the castle’s north wing sits the Royal Apartments which were originally furnished by King Frederick II in 1576!

The castle’s chapel sits in the south wing and boasts Renaissance interiors and woodcarvings.

The Great Ballroom

Head to the north wing of the castle and you’ll find the Great Ballroom / Knights Hall. The ballroom was once the largest hall in Northern Europe.

Little Hall

The Little Hall is adorned with tapestries portraying 100 Danish kings. The tapestries were commissioned by King Frederick II in 1580.

The castle’s west wing is home to more impressive tapestries.

Photo: Lepneva Irina/Shutterstock

How to get to Kronborg Castle

The castle is 46 kilometers from Copenhagen and the drive takes just under an hour by car. The castle car park sits on the corner of Nordhavnsvej and Kronborgvej and is just a five-minute walk from the castle.

Parking costs £1 per hour. Parking for the disabled is located to the left of the castle yard’s entrance.

From Copenhagen, take a train from Central Station to the town of Helsingor (Elsinore) and walk from here to the castle. The train ride takes 45-minutes and the walk is roughly 15-20-minutes from the train station in Helsingør.

For those traveling from Malmö or other parts of southern Sweden, you can also take a direct train to Helsingør. 

If you’re coming from Southern Sweden, you can take the ferry from Helsingborg to Helsingør, which takes just 20 minutes. 

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Kronborg castle is in the summer months of June, July, and August when the castle puts on a number of live performances of Hamlet.

Note, this period is particularly busy so expect crowds. If you’d prefer to skip the performances and avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons which run from February – May, and from September – November.

With that said, the castle is best enjoyed on a sunny day, which is most likely to happen during the summer months.

Photo: Stig Alenas / Shutterstock.com

Facts about Kronborg Castle

• Previously known as “Krogen”, or “The Hook”, the castle was built in the 1420s by Eric of Pomerania, who was the Danish king at the time.
• In 1629, a fire destroyed much of the castle (except for The Chapel, which maintained its original altar, gallery, and pews) needed to be reconstructed, but could never fully be restored to the majestic beauty it once was.
• Kronborg Castle is the place where William Shakespeare’s famous play Hamlet is supposed to have happened.
• The castle is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Helsingør , and it costs approximately $14 (U.S) for an adult to visit the castle; the price increases in the summer when it is busier.
• From 1738 to the 1900s the castle was used as a prison. Violent or “dishonest” criminals were forced to serve their time doing hard labor inside the walls of the castle, but inmates who were deemed “honest” ones, with minor convictions, were allowed to work outside.
• The castle ballroom, completed in 1582, was the largest hall in Northern Europe. It includes several large paintings originally made from 1618-1631 by a handful of artists.
• The castle is elevated 39 feet above sea level on the island of Zealand, located in the northeast of Denmark, as seen in the map on the right.
• The King’s Chamber was located directly above the main entrance to the castle, so he could keep an eye on visitors passing through.
• In the original castle, the floors had black and white tiles but were replaced with wooden floorboards in 1760.
• Moats and gates protect the route from nearby towns to the castle.

Photo: valeriiaarnaud / Shutterstock.com

FAQ’s (Things to know before you go)

How long should I set aside to visit Kronborg Castle?

Two hours should be sufficient to browse but those keen for an in-depth look at the castle’s history should allow 3 or more hours.

Is the castle wheelchair accessible?

There is good access to the castle courtyard but it’s not possible to move around inside with wheelchairs and buggies.

Can I bring my luggage inside Kronborg Castle?

Bags and luggage larger than 35 x 15 x 30 must be left in the cloakroom. Small handbags and day bags that can easily be carried on the body are permitted.

Is there WiFi?

Free wifi is available in the castle. You can use it to listen to stories about the castle’s main rooms by scanning the QR codes found on the window sills.

How old is the castle in Helsingør?

The original castle was built in the 15thcentury but the castle you see today underwent major renovations in the 17th century.

How far is Kronborg Castle from Copenhagen?

46 kilometers.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are not allowed inside Kronborg Castle but are free to roam outside the castle grounds. 

Do you have more questions before visiting Kronborg Castle in Helsingør? Leave a comment below!

Prices and opening hours

High season ticket prices 2024*.

Adult : 145 DKK .

Children under 18 - Free

Students - 135 DKK

Group ticket for min. 10 people - 135 DKK

*June - July - August

Tickets can be purchased on arrival.

We accept companion cards in person.

Copenhagen Card gives free access. No pre-registration.

Opening hours 2024

Jan. 2 - March 22 Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 - 16:00

March 23 - May 31 every day 10:00 - 17:00

June 1 - incl. Sep 1 every day 10:00 - 18:00

Sep 2. - Oct. 31 every day 10:00 - 17:00

Nov. 1. - 30. dec . Tuesday - Sunday 11:00 - 16:00

Opening hours during school holidays may be different.

For school and institution visits - read more here

Closed days

The castle is closed on January 1st and December 24th, 25th and 31st. 

Note: - All children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult. - Prices may change for special activities.

Practical information

Parking at Kronborg Castle

There is a parking lot located on the corner of Nordhavnsvej and Kronborgvej. It takes about 10 minutes to walk from the parking lot to the castle.

You can pay for parking at the pay stations or your mobile phone. If you buy a ticket at the pay station, it is important that you place your parking ticket visibly in the right corner of the windscreen. Make sure that the ticket has not moved when you close the car door. Buy a ticket via mobile You can use various mobile apps to pay for parking. Check the parking station at the parking lot for further instructions. Address for parking Nordhavnsvej 3000 Helsingør (Elsinore) Handicap parking Handicap parking is available inside the castle grounds to the left of the entrance to the castle courtyard. Entrance to the castle grounds is by appointment with Kronborg's administration on telephone number: +45 49 21 30 78, Monday-Friday 10 am-2 pm.

Accessibility in Kronborg Castle

Read about accessibility for people with disabilities at godadgang.dk

Here you can see Autism GoTo's presentation of Kronborg Castle. It can be helpful for you with autism who want to plan your visit to the castle.

Stairs There are a number of stairs at Kronborg and no elevators at the castle. Noise The acoustics at the castle, especially in the casemates, mean that even a normal noise level can be overwhelming. Toilet facilities There are toilets in Kronværksporten and in the castle courtyard. Disabled toilets are available in both Kronværksporten and the courtyard. Companion On presentation of a companion card, people with disabilities can bring a companion free of charge during their visit to Kronborg Castle. Service and guide dogs Service and guide dogs are welcome at the castle. Parking Disabled parking is available inside the castle grounds to the left of the entrance to the courtyard.

Entrance to the castle area is by appointment with Kronborg's administration on telephone number: +45 49 21 30 78, Monday-Friday 10 am-14 pm.

With a disabled sign in the car, you can also drive up to the castle in accordance with the map of parking spaces on the premises.

Toilet and baby changing facilities

Toilet facilities There are toilets in the Crown Work Gate'and in the castle courtyard. At both the Crown Work Gate and the castle courtyard there are access to disabled toilets. Baby changing facilities We have changing facilities in the toilets in the castle courtyard and in the ladies' toilet in the Crown Work Gate.

Smoking and WIFI

Smoking Smoking is not allowed in the castle or the castle courtyard. WIFI Kronborg has free wifi. Simply select KRONBORG-wifi.

Cloakroom, bicycles, pushchairs and prams

Cloakroom The castle offers free storage in the welcome centre. Bags and backpacks can be stored in our lockers at the red entrance.

For the sake of the exhibits, umbrellas are not allowed in the castle. Instead, we offer to store umbrellas in the racks at the entrances.

The castle is not liable for theft. Bicycles Bicycles are not allowed on the castle area nor the castle courtyard.

There are several bicycle parking facilities, for example on Kronborgvej and by the castle guard at the entrance to the caslte area. Bicycle parking is directed to the racks. Pushchairs and prams Pushchairs and prams must be parked according to staff instructions.

Children's room

As you go down the stairs from the Dansesal on the second floor, the children's room is on the first floor.

There are quite a few stairs at Kronborg and no lifts at the castle.

Dogs are not allowed in the castle nor in a bag. Service and guide dogs are exempt.

The Coastal Battery

The Coastal Battery area opens at sunrise - but no earlier than 6 am and closes at sunset, but no earlier than 5 pm.

Listen to exciting stories about the castle

You can download Useeum in your App Store and watch and listen to exciting stories about the castle and the "Royal History" exhibition.

Want to know more

Kronborg 3000 Helsingør (Elsinore) Phone: Monday-Friday +45 49 21 30 78 (10 am-2 pm). E-mail: [email protected]

Find your way

Address Kronborg Castle 3000 Helsingør (Elsinore)

Contact Phone: Monday-Friday +45 49 21 30 78 (10 am-2 pm). E-mail: [email protected] Find staff at Kronborg Castle.

By public transport You can take the train or bus to Helsingør (Elsinore) station. It takes less than an hour from Copenhagen. From Helsingør station it is about a 10-minute walk along the harbour to Kronborg. Plan your trip with the journey planner .

By car If you are driving to Kronborg, you can get directions with Google Maps. Find your way with Google Maps .

The Castle Shop

Welcome to Kronborg's architect-designed gift shop, where you'll be greeted by a service-minded shop team behind the iridescent green counter pieced together from parts of the castle's centuries-old copper roofs.

The shop's 300 m2 are divided into 3 rooms, each themed around Kronborg's main stories: Hamlet, Holger the Dane and Frederik II. The range includes souvenirs, home furnishings, toys and literature. In the latter category you will find, for example, Kronborg's guidebook, which is printed in 9 different languages and contributes knowledge and fun facts. Depending on the season, parts of the assortment vary, but the gift shop has an exclusive selection of Christmas goods all year round. When hunger strikes, the gift shop also offers a selection of sweets, ice cream, cold water & juices. A cosy drink at home with Kronborg's own whisky, tea or locally produced beer is also recommended.

The gift shop is located in the castle courtyard and follows the castle's opening hours.

Visit Kadettens café and bakery in the historic Second Lieutenant's School at Kronborg Castle. At Kadetten you can buy homemade dishes with a focus on ecology and good ingredients.

Contact Kadetten on telephone number +45 42 90 10 11, [email protected] or visit the café's website at: kadetten.dk

Strandvejsristeriet

Strandvejsristeriet roasts and sells coffee beans as well as ice cream, coffee and cake, soft drinks and specialties. Contact Strandvejsristeriet by phone +45 26 81 89 87, [email protected] or visit the roastery's website at: strandvejsristeriet.dk

Food brought along is enjoyed in the castle's lunch room

From the castle courtyard there is access to the lunch room where you can enjoy your own food. If the weather permits, you can also enjoy your food and drinks in the picnic areas.

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