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!

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

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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!

Things to See When Visiting Kronborg Castle

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1. The Royal Chambers – Explore the beautifully restored rooms where Danish royalty once resided.
2. The Ballroom – One of the largest Renaissance halls in Northern Europe, used for grand events.
3. The Chapel – Admire the intricately carved woodwork and original pews from the 1580s.
4. The Casemates – Venture into the dark, damp underground passages where soldiers were stationed.
5. The Statue of Holger Danske – See the legendary figure said to awaken and defend Denmark in times of need, located in the casemates.
6. The Ramparts – Walk the extensive fortress walls for panoramic views of the Øresund Strait and Sweden.
7. The Maritime Museum – Located nearby, this museum offers insights into Denmark’s maritime history, which is closely linked with Kronborg.
8. 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.

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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!

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!

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