Amalienborg Palace Copenhagen
A stunning Rococo palace complex, home to the Danish Royal Family, famous for its daily Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Changing of the Guard
Amalienborg Palace Copenhagen
Best Time
Changing of the Guard
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Rococo palace complex, home to the Danish Royal Family, famous for its daily Changing of the Guard ceremony.
"This elegant royal square delivers a perfect slice of Danish monarchy without the crowds."
🎯 Arrive Early for Guard Change
Get to the square by 11:15 AM for a prime spot to watch the daily noon Changing of the Guard. :iphone:
👑 Explore Royal History
Don't miss the Amalienborg Museum for a deep dive into Danish royal lives and artifacts. :museum:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Changing of the Guard
Amalienborg Palace Square
Witness the majestic daily ceremony with marching guards and royal fanfare. A quintessential Copenhagen experience.
Amalienborg Museum
Christian VIII's Palace
Step inside royal apartments and discover personal artifacts of Danish monarchs. Rich history awaits.
Palace Square Architecture
Amalienborg Palace Square
Admire the stunning Rococo facades of the four identical palaces surrounding the grand square.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Changing of the Guard
Explore Beyond the Courtyard
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Guard Change
Get to the square by 11:15 AM for a prime spot to watch the daily noon Changing of the Guard. :iphone:
👑 Explore Royal History
Don't miss the Amalienborg Museum for a deep dive into Danish royal lives and artifacts. :museum:
TIL that if you stand long enough at amalienborg palace at night a royal guard will come and kick you out (story below)
🚶♀️ Walkable from Central Station
Amalienborg is an easy 20-minute walk from Copenhagen Central Station. :train2:
📸 Great Photo Opportunities
The palace square offers stunning architectural views, perfect for memorable photos. :camerawithflash:
Some advice before our trip (mostly about transport)
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Guard Change
Get to the square by 11:15 AM for a prime spot to watch the daily noon Changing of the Guard. :iphone:
👑 Explore Royal History
Don't miss the Amalienborg Museum for a deep dive into Danish royal lives and artifacts. :museum:
🚶♀️ Walkable from Central Station
Amalienborg is an easy 20-minute walk from Copenhagen Central Station. :train2:
📸 Great Photo Opportunities
The palace square offers stunning architectural views, perfect for memorable photos. :camerawithflash:
👑 Spot Actual Royals
If the flag is raised, a royal is in residence! You might even see them. :crown:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Amalienborg Palace is praised for its stunning Rococo architecture and the captivating daily Changing of the Guard ceremony. Visitors appreciate the historical insights offered by the Amalienborg Museum, particularly its personal royal artifacts. While compact, it provides an authentic glimpse into Danish royal life and is easily accessible.
"Amalienborg Palace is a must-visit for anyone interested in Danish history and royalty. The exhibits inside the museum were beautifully curated — full of rich detail, personal artifacts, and fascinating stories from the lives of the Danish royal family. The staff were friendly, polite, and happy to answer questions, which made the visit even more enjoyable.
As someone originally from Russia, I was especially moved by the rooms and stories dedicated to Empress Dowager Maria Feodorovna (Dagmar of Denmark). Learning about her life, her connection to both the Danish and Russian royal families, and seeing some of her personal items on display was truly special. It felt like a personal connection to history.
The palace itself is quite nice, both inside and out, and standing in the courtyard surrounded by its majestic architecture is a great experience. Whether you're a history lover or just want a deeper glimpse into Denmark's royal heritage, Amalienborg delivers on all fronts.
I cannot give them a five-star review due to a smaller size of the palace open to visitors. I wish they had a larger collection, like Swedish Royal Palaces, for example."
Dmitry Zinger
"A must-visit in Copenhagen!
Amalienborg is not just beautiful—it’s full of history and royal charm. The highlight of our visit was definitely the Changing of the Guard ceremony. It happens every day at noon, and it’s such a majestic and well-organized event. Watching the royal guards march through the square in their traditional uniforms was truly a memorable experience. The timing, discipline, and music create a magical atmosphere.
The architecture of the palace buildings is stunning, and the square offers great photo opportunities. It’s also nice that the area is spacious and clean, perfect for walking around and soaking in the royal vibe. Highly recommended if you’re in Copenhagen—make sure to time your visit with the Changing of the Guard!"
Komal Lakandri
"Amalienborg: Royal Charm in Copenhagen
This elegant royal square delivers a perfect slice of Danish monarchy without the crowds. The four identical palaces create a stunning rococo backdrop, while the noon changing of the guard adds just enough pageantry. The museum offers genuine insights into royal life, and the whole complex feels refreshingly accessible – you might even spot actual royals.
What makes it special is how naturally it fits into Copenhagen life. Locals treat it as their neighborhood square while tourists soak up the history. Quick to explore but memorable, it’s an easy win that pairs perfectly with nearby Nyhavn.
Worth it?Absolutely. Compact, beautiful, and authentically Danish."
Maged Shahin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Amalienborg Palace is conveniently located within a 20-minute walk from Copenhagen Central Station. You can also take public transport; look for buses heading towards the city center.
Yes, Amalienborg Palace is easily accessible by public transport. Several bus lines stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from major city landmarks. The DOT app can provide real-time information.
Absolutely! Nyhavn is just a short and scenic walk away from Amalienborg Palace, making it easy to combine visits to both popular attractions.
Street parking is available in the surrounding areas, but it can be limited and metered. It's often easier and more convenient to use public transport or walk.
Amalienborg Palace is about a 30-40 minute journey from Copenhagen Airport (CPH) via public transport, typically involving a metro or train ride followed by a short walk or bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Amalienborg Palace, specifically the museum within Christian VIII's Palace, is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, with hours usually from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (or 5:00 PM in summer). It's always best to check the official website for the most current hours.
Admission fees apply for the Amalienborg Museum. Prices are generally reasonable and offer great value for the historical insights provided. Check the official website for current ticket prices.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to avoid queues and ensure entry. This is particularly true if you plan to visit during popular times.
Yes, the Amalienborg Palace Square itself and the exterior of the palaces are freely accessible to the public at all times. Entry to the Amalienborg Museum requires a ticket.
The Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily at 12:00 PM in the Amalienborg Palace Square. It's a popular event, so arriving early is advised.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To get a good view of the Changing of the Guard, aim to arrive at the Palace Square by 11:15 AM. This gives you time to find a good vantage point before the ceremony begins at noon.
Inside Amalienborg, you can visit the Amalienborg Museum in Christian VIII's Palace, which features royal apartments, historical artifacts, and exhibits detailing the lives of Danish monarchs.
Children can enjoy the spectacle of the Changing of the Guard. The museum offers historical context, but younger children might find it less engaging than other attractions.
Photography is generally allowed in the Amalienborg Palace Square. Inside the museum, photography rules may vary, so check for signage.
The flag flying above Amalienborg Palace indicates that a member of the royal family is currently in residence.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within Amalienborg Palace itself. However, the surrounding area and nearby Nyhavn offer numerous dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining.
You'll find a wide array of eateries near Amalienborg, especially along the waterfront towards Nyhavn. For a budget-friendly option, consider trying Bouillon in Frederiksberg, known for good French cuisine.
Copenhagen offers diverse culinary experiences. Near Amalienborg, you can find traditional Danish smørrebrød, fresh seafood, and international cuisine.
Yes, while Nyhavn can be pricier, exploring side streets or heading slightly further afield can reveal more budget-friendly options. Street food markets like Reffen are also a great choice for affordable eats.
While there aren't designated picnic areas within the immediate palace square, you can find pleasant spots in nearby parks or along the waterfront to enjoy a picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Amalienborg Palace Square offers fantastic photo opportunities with its symmetrical architecture. The area around the equestrian statue of Frederick V is particularly popular.
Yes, you can take photos and videos of the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing views.
Photography is generally permitted in the public square. Inside the Amalienborg Museum, check for specific signage regarding camera use.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light for photographing the palace exteriors. Midday is best for capturing the action of the Changing of the Guard.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the grand architecture and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the square, and a telephoto lens can be handy for the guards.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider timing your visit to coincide with the noon ceremony. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options directly at the palace are limited. The proximity to other family-friendly attractions like Tivoli Gardens makes Amalienborg a good starting point or a brief, enriching stop on a family day out in Copenhagen.
🚶 Budget Travelers
For a budget-friendly meal, explore the side streets around the palace or head towards areas like Reffen street food market for affordable and diverse food options.
👑 History Buffs & Royalty Enthusiasts
Witnessing the Changing of the Guard adds a living dimension to the historical experience. The architectural grandeur of the palace square itself is also a significant draw, showcasing exquisite Rococo design. Exploring Amalienborg offers a comprehensive understanding of Denmark's royal heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Changing of the Guard: A Royal Spectacle
To ensure the best viewing experience, it's highly recommended to arrive at the square by 11:15 AM. This allows ample time to find a good vantage point, as popular spots fill up quickly. While the ceremony itself is free to watch, the sheer number of spectators means strategic positioning is key. The guards' uniforms, the crisp march, and the ceremonial handover are all part of the captivating spectacle.
It's worth noting that the ceremony can be canceled in severe weather conditions. However, on most days, it proceeds as scheduled, offering a consistent and memorable experience for those visiting Copenhagen. The presence of the flag flying above the palace also signifies that the Queen or another royal is in residence, adding an extra layer of significance to the event.
Inside Amalienborg: A Glimpse into Royal Life
A particularly poignant aspect of the museum is its dedication to Empress Dowager Maria Feodorovna, a Danish princess who became Empress of Russia. Her story, her connection to both royal families, and her personal items on display offer a unique historical perspective. The exhibits are described as beautifully curated, rich with detail and personal stories, making the history feel accessible and engaging.
While some visitors might wish for a larger collection akin to other European royal palaces, the Amalienborg Museum offers a concentrated and authentic experience. It provides genuine insights into royal life without feeling overwhelming, making it a worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts and those curious about Denmark's royal heritage.
Amalienborg Palace Square: More Than Just a Royal Residence
Locals often use the square as a thoroughfare and a place to gather, while tourists soak in the historical atmosphere. The central equestrian statue of King Frederick V stands as a majestic focal point. The spaciousness of the square allows for comfortable exploration, and it serves as an excellent backdrop for photography, especially during the golden hours.
Amalienborg's accessibility is a key feature. It's easily reachable on foot from other major attractions like Nyhavn and the Little Mermaid, making it a natural stop on any Copenhagen itinerary. The palace complex feels refreshingly open, offering a sense of connection to the royal family without feeling overly exclusive.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit