On fine pedestrian street
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Helsingør Old Town

4.6
·24 reviews·Helsingør, Denmark

Step back in time in Helsingør's enchanting Old Town, a historic Danish gem with cobblestone streets and the majestic Kronborg Castle.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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On fine pedestrian street

Helsingør Old Town

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time in Helsingør's enchanting Old Town, a historic Danish gem with cobblestone streets and the majestic Kronborg Castle.

4.6
(24 reviews)

"A charming Danish town, less than an hour from Copenhagen, and a must-visit! TikTok"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

Cobblestone streets abound! Pack comfy shoes for exploring the old town's charming lanes.

🚆 Easy Train Access

Just a 45-minute train ride from Copenhagen, making it a perfect day trip destination.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kronborg Castle

Kronborg Castle

Hamlet's Castle

The iconic setting for Shakespeare's Hamlet, this majestic Renaissance castle offers stunning sea views and rich history.

Stengade Street

Stengade Street

Main Pedestrian Street

Wander down this vibrant street lined with colorful, historic merchant houses and charming shops.

Helsingør City Hall

Helsingør City Hall

City Center

Admire the Neo-Gothic architecture of this 19th-century building with its distinctive brick facade and maritime-themed stained glass.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Cobblestones

Helsingør's Old Town is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes for its charming cobblestone streets. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, especially if you're aiming for a more relaxed experience.

Day Trip from Copenhagen

Easily accessible by train from Copenhagen (approx. 45 mins), Helsingør makes for a perfect day trip. Plan your train tickets in advance to save time and ensure a smooth journey to this historic Danish gem.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, longer days
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn Evenings
Why
Cozy charm, fewer tourists
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

You have to take a day trip to this charming Danish town while you’re in Copenhagen 😍 Helsingor (aka Elsinore) is less thsn an hour by train from Copenhagen and a must visit! #denmark #visitdenmark #helsingor #elsinore #kronborgcastle #hamlet
@goanniewhere
2.7K likes • 64.9K views

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

Cobblestone streets abound! Pack comfy shoes for exploring the old town's charming lanes. Instagram

🚆 Easy Train Access

Just a 45-minute train ride from Copenhagen, making it a perfect day trip destination. TikTok

Helsingør, located 1 hour by train north of Copenhagen, is a history rich place in Denmark. Having the nordics' most important Renaissance castle is just one bit of it. But a lot of the old housing is also still in town, and before leaving you can grab a bite at the indoor street food market. #helsingør #thingstodo #denmark #traveladventures #travel #adventure #adventures #travelling #traveling #...
holmstrupsonthetrail
5 likes • 239 views
Be swept up by tales of stone and sea while taking in murals and sculptures 🌊 Swipe to find out which places you'll visit when doing the Helsingør Old Town walking tour 🚶‍♀️ Download VoiceMap and explore Helsingør now📱 #voicemap #Helsingør #denmark #whyyoushouldvisit @how2liveindk
myvoicemap
29 likes • 3K views

🏰 Explore Hamlet's Castle

Don't miss Kronborg Castle, the inspiration for Shakespeare's Hamlet. Allow ample time! Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Self-Guided Walking Tour

Consider a voice-guided tour to uncover hidden stories and historical gems. Instagram

The medieval Danish town you must visit in 2023… Keeping watch over the northern mouth of the Øresund, the Danish town of Helsingør is one of the country’s top attractions, and is an easy 45 minute train ride from Copenhagen. Wandering its historic Old Town is nothing but magical, with its cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old merchant homes. Its appealing Rådhus (town hall) is a feast f...
drifter.dave
15 likes • 260 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

Cobblestone streets abound! Pack comfy shoes for exploring the old town's charming lanes. Instagram

🚆 Easy Train Access

Just a 45-minute train ride from Copenhagen, making it a perfect day trip destination. TikTok

🏰 Explore Hamlet's Castle

Don't miss Kronborg Castle, the inspiration for Shakespeare's Hamlet. Allow ample time! Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Self-Guided Walking Tour

Consider a voice-guided tour to uncover hidden stories and historical gems. Instagram

🛍️ Stroll Down Stengade

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and browse the shops along Helsingør's main pedestrian street. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(24 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Helsingør Old Town for its picturesque charm, historic architecture, and the iconic Kronborg Castle. The easy accessibility from Copenhagen and the pleasant atmosphere make it a highly recommended day trip destination. Some find parking challenging and note that attractions can have entrance fees.

"Helsingor City Hall is a historic building located in the heart of Helsingor, Denmark. Constructed in the 19th century, it showcases Neo-Gothic architecture with a distinctive brick facade and a castellated tower adorned with smaller turrets. The building's design features arched stained glass windows with maritime motifs, reflecting the city's rich seafaring heritage. Situated on Stengade, Helsingor's main shopping street, the City Hall is surrounded by a vibrant mix of shops, cafes, and cultural attractions, making it a central landmark in the city's bustling center."

S. Jensen

"Nice old city hall in brick gothic style. Located in the center of the old town - on Stengade street."

Irina Kravchuk

"I got married here, it was beautiful and the employees were extremely friendly and kind!"

Alexa Laharty

What People Like

Charming historic streets
Kronborg Castle's grandeur
Easy day trip from Copenhagen

What People Dislike

Parking can be difficult
Attraction entry fees

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach Helsingør Old Town from Copenhagen is by train. Trains depart frequently from Copenhagen Central Station and take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. The station is conveniently located near the old town, making it a straightforward journey. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Helsingør Old Town is very walkable. Its charm lies in its compact size and cobblestone streets, perfect for exploring on foot. Wear comfortable shoes! Instagram

Driving is possible, but parking in the old town can be challenging and expensive. Public transport, especially the train, is highly recommended for a stress-free visit. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy a self-guided walking tour, taking in the historic architecture and atmosphere. Some also opt for guided tours or audio guides to learn more about the history. Instagram

While the old town has cobblestone streets which can be uneven, many main areas are accessible. It's advisable to check specific accessibility for attractions like Kronborg Castle if needed.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Old Town itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You only need tickets for specific attractions within or near the old town, such as Kronborg Castle. Instagram

The Old Town is always accessible. However, individual shops, cafes, and attractions will have their own operating hours, which are generally longer during peak tourist seasons. Instagram

Visiting the Old Town is free. Costs will be incurred if you choose to enter Kronborg Castle, dine at restaurants, or shop. Instagram

Helsingør occasionally hosts events, especially during summer and holidays. It's worth checking local event listings closer to your visit. Instagram

Yes, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets for Kronborg Castle online in advance to save time and potentially secure your entry, especially during busy periods. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Look for picturesque cobblestone streets, colorful merchant houses, views of the Øresund strait, and of course, Kronborg Castle. Stengade and the harbor area offer great opportunities. Instagram+1

The charming architecture and seaside setting make it relatively easy to capture beautiful photos. Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can offer particularly magical light. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals. Inside Kronborg Castle, some areas might have specific photography rules. Instagram

A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the streets and a telephoto for distant castle views. Instagram

The views from the harbor and the ramparts of the castle itself are spectacular. You can also get great shots from across the water, looking back towards the castle. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a mix of traditional Danish cuisine, seafood, and international options. Many cafes offer pastries and light lunches, while restaurants provide more substantial meals. Instagram

Yes, there are several cafes and restaurants in the vicinity of Kronborg Castle, offering convenient options for a meal before or after your visit. Instagram

Look for smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches), fresh seafood, and traditional Danish pastries. Many places offer a taste of local flavors. Instagram

Yes, Helsingør has an indoor street food market that offers a variety of culinary options in a casual setting, perfect for trying different foods. Instagram

While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options at cafes, bakeries, and the street food market. Packing a picnic to enjoy by the water is also a great budget-friendly choice. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Helsingør Old Town offers a blend of history and charm that can be engaging for families. Kronborg Castle is a major draw, with its tales of Hamlet and impressive fortifications providing a sense of adventure. The open spaces around the castle and the nearby waterfront are great for kids to run around. Instagram

Exploring the cobblestone streets can be fun, but ensure children have comfortable shoes. Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as well as planning for breaks at cafes. The street food market offers a variety of options that might appeal to picky eaters. Instagram The train journey from Copenhagen is also usually an enjoyable experience for children. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Helsingør is a safe and welcoming destination for solo travelers. The compact nature of the old town makes it easy to navigate and explore at your own pace. You can immerse yourself in the history of Kronborg Castle or simply enjoy the atmosphere of the charming streets. Instagram

Consider joining a walking tour or using an audio guide to gain deeper insights into the town's past. The local cafes and street food market provide opportunities to interact with locals or other travelers in a relaxed setting. Instagram+1

💑 Couples

Helsingør offers a romantic backdrop with its historic architecture, seaside views, and charming streets. A day trip here provides a perfect escape from the city bustle, allowing for leisurely strolls hand-in-hand through the old town. Instagram

Enjoy a meal at one of the town's cozy restaurants, explore the romantic setting of Kronborg Castle, or simply find a scenic spot by the water to watch the sunset. The relaxed pace and picturesque scenery make it an ideal destination for a couples' getaway. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Kronborg Castle

Kronborg Castle, famously known as the setting for Shakespeare's Hamlet, is an absolute must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage site stands guard over the Øresund strait, a strategic location that has shaped its history. Originally built as a royal residence and fortress, it later became a prison before its current status as a historical monument. Visitors can explore its grand halls, the casemates deep beneath the castle, and imagine the tales of royalty and tragedy that unfolded within its walls. TikTokInstagram+1

The castle's architecture is a stunning example of Renaissance design, with its imposing ramparts and ornate interiors. The views from the castle walls, looking out over the sea towards Sweden, are breathtaking. Inside, you can learn about the castle's past, its role in Danish history, and its connection to the famous Danish prince. The sheer scale and historical significance make it a captivating experience for all ages. Instagram

Many visitors recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours to fully explore Kronborg Castle. Don't miss the Maritime Museum located in the dry dock beneath the castle, which offers a fascinating look into Denmark's seafaring history. Instagram

Wandering the Historic Streets

Helsingør's Old Town is a delightful labyrinth of cobblestone streets lined with beautifully preserved merchant houses dating back centuries. Wandering through these streets feels like stepping back in time. The colorful facades, intricate details, and charming courtyards create a picturesque atmosphere that's perfect for leisurely exploration. Instagram+1

Stengade, the main pedestrian street, is the heart of the old town, bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great place to soak in the local vibe, grab a coffee, or find unique souvenirs. Beyond Stengade, smaller side streets reveal hidden gems, quiet squares, and glimpses into everyday Danish life. Reddit

For those who enjoy a deeper dive into the history and stories of the town, consider a self-guided walking tour or an audio guide. These can point out architectural details and historical anecdotes you might otherwise miss, enriching your experience of the old town's heritage. Instagram

Culinary Delights in Helsingør

Helsingør offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Danish fare to international flavors. The old town is dotted with charming cafes perfect for a morning pastry and coffee, or a light lunch. Many establishments pride themselves on using fresh, local ingredients, offering a true taste of Denmark. Instagram

A highlight for food lovers is the indoor street food market, which provides a vibrant and casual dining experience. Here, you can sample a variety of dishes from different vendors, making it an ideal spot for groups with varied tastes or for those wanting to try multiple things. Instagram

When exploring, be sure to try classic Danish dishes like smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) or fresh seafood, given Helsingør's coastal location. For a more budget-friendly option, consider grabbing a picnic from a local bakery or market to enjoy by the waterfront. Reddit

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