Christiansborg Palace Copenhagen
A working royal palace and the heart of Danish democracy, blending history, government, and stunning city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Christiansborg Palace Copenhagen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A working royal palace and the heart of Danish democracy, blending history, government, and stunning city views.
"A rewarding and educational visit, especially for those interested in history, architecture, and politics."
🎟️ CPH Card Holders
Pre-booking might be needed for CPH Card entry. Check their website or inquire onsite for the best way to secure your spot.
🧳 Bag Policy
You'll need to use lockers for your bags, so pack only essentials.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Royal Reception Rooms
Main Palace Building
Lavish halls adorned with modern tapestries, still used for state functions. A true glimpse into Danish royal life.
The Tower
Central Tower
Ascend for breathtaking, free panoramic views of Copenhagen. A must-do for any visitor.
Palace Ruins
Underground
Explore the remnants of medieval castles, offering a fascinating journey through centuries of history.
Royal Stables
Ground Level
Discover the impressive stables and learn about the royal horses and their care.
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Your Visit
Beyond the Royal Rooms
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ CPH Card Holders
Pre-booking might be needed for CPH Card entry. Check their website or inquire onsite for the best way to secure your spot.
🧳 Bag Policy
You'll need to use lockers for your bags, so pack only essentials.
👟 Shoe Covers
Be prepared to wear protective shoe covers in certain areas to preserve the palace floors.
👑 Royal Audiences
Catch glimpses of royal life as ambassadors are received in the Throne Hall. 
How to pre-book Christiansborg Palace using CPH Card?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ CPH Card Holders
Pre-booking might be needed for CPH Card entry. Check their website or inquire onsite for the best way to secure your spot.
🧳 Bag Policy
You'll need to use lockers for your bags, so pack only essentials.
👟 Shoe Covers
Be prepared to wear protective shoe covers in certain areas to preserve the palace floors.
👑 Royal Audiences
Catch glimpses of royal life as ambassadors are received in the Throne Hall.
🏙️ Tower Views
The tower offers stunning, free panoramic views of Copenhagen. Don't miss it!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Christiansborg Palace is lauded for its unique blend of royal splendor and governmental significance, offering a fascinating glimpse into Danish history and democracy. Visitors appreciate the stunning architecture, the panoramic views from the Tower, and the historical depth of the ruins. Some find the number of rooms to see limited, and the requirement for shoe covers and bag lockers can be an adjustment.
"Christiansborg Palace is a unique and fascinating destination in Copenhagen, blending royal splendor with the seat of modern democracy. It’s one of the only buildings in the world that houses all three branches of a country’s government — the Danish Parliament, Supreme Court, and Prime Minister’s Office — all within a former royal palace. That alone makes it worth visiting.
Architecturally, Christiansborg is an imposing and elegant structure built in Neo-Baroque style with touches of Neo-Classicism, especially visible in its formal reception halls. The current palace is actually the third iteration — previous versions were destroyed by fire in 1794 and again in 1884. What you see today is the result of a rebuild completed in the early 20th century, blending old grandeur with modern sensibilities. The tall central tower is the highest in Copenhagen and offers free public access with panoramic city views.
Inside, the Royal Reception Rooms are a highlight, especially the Great Hall with its striking modern tapestries depicting Danish history, designed by artist Bjørn Nørgaard. The Queen still uses these rooms for official state functions, adding a sense of living history to the experience. You can also explore the Royal Stables, the Royal Kitchen, and the underground ruins, where remnants of the medieval Bishop’s Castle and earlier palaces have been preserved.
In short, Christiansborg may not have the romantic fairy-tale look of some other castles, but it offers something deeper — a powerful connection between Denmark’s royal past and its modern democracy. A rewarding and educational visit, especially for those interested in history, architecture, and politics."
Dmitry Zinger
"Such a beautiful building on the inside and out. There aren't loads and loads of rooms to see but each one is unique and has its own charm. The tapestries in the great hall were particularly interesting and super colourful. This palace definitely felt worth it!"
Coralie Pattenden
"Worth visiting although because, i guess, parliament , number of rooms to see is not too many. Still those to see are great !
Nice view from the Tower.
Kitchen is also Worth a visit - watch short film to learn how they prepare meals for big parkiem."
Jacek Myrcha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Christiansborg Palace is conveniently located within a 20-minute walk from Copenhagen Central Station. You can also take various bus routes that stop nearby. For those staying in Malmö, it's a manageable journey via train to Copenhagen Central Station, followed by a short walk.
Yes, Christiansborg Palace is very accessible by public transport. Numerous bus lines stop in the vicinity, and it's a pleasant walk from the central train station. The DOT app can provide detailed public transport information.
The Copenhagen Card covers entry to Christiansborg Palace's Reception Rooms, but it doesn't directly cover transportation to the palace. You'll need to use public transport or walk to reach it.
If you're coming from Malmö, take the train to Copenhagen Central Station. From there, Christiansborg Palace is a short walk away. The DOT app can help you plan your journey.
While there might be limited street parking in the surrounding areas, it's generally recommended to use public transport due to the central location and potential parking challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you typically need to purchase tickets for most areas of Christiansborg Palace, including the Royal Reception Rooms and the Ruins. The Tower, however, offers free public access.
Yes, the Copenhagen Card grants free entry to the Royal Reception Rooms at Christiansborg Palace. However, it's advisable to check if pre-booking is required for cardholders.
According to traveler experiences, pre-booking with a Copenhagen Card might not always be straightforward online. It's best to inquire directly at the palace or check their official website for the most current procedure.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and specific areas of the palace. It's crucial to check the official Christiansborg Palace website for the most up-to-date information before your visit, as some areas might be closed for royal events.
No, access to the Tower at Christiansborg Palace is free and does not require a separate ticket. It's a great way to enjoy panoramic views of the city.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside Christiansborg Palace, you can explore the opulent Royal Reception Rooms, the historic Palace Ruins, the Royal Stables, and the Royal Kitchen. The Tower offers spectacular city views.
Yes, audio guides are available to enhance your experience in the various sections of the palace, including the Reception Rooms and the Kitchen.
Photography rules can vary within the palace. Generally, photography is allowed in most public areas, but it's always best to check for specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Be prepared to wear shoe covers in certain areas to protect the historic floors.
Yes, lockers are available at Christiansborg Palace for visitors to store their bags. You cannot take large bags into the palace.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't extensive dining within the palace itself, the Royal Kitchen offers a glimpse into historical food preparation. Nearby cafes and restaurants in Copenhagen offer a wide range of dining experiences.
No, eating and drinking are not permitted in the Royal Reception Rooms to preserve the historic interiors.
The Royal Kitchen exhibit showcases how meals were prepared for royal events. You can watch a short film to learn about their culinary history.
Yes, the area around Christiansborg Palace has numerous cafes and restaurants offering various cuisines and price points.
While you can tour the rooms where state banquets are held, experiencing a full royal banquet is typically reserved for official state guests.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in most public areas of Christiansborg Palace, but always look for specific signage. Flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibits.
The Royal Reception Rooms with their grand tapestries, the view from the Tower, and the historic Palace Ruins offer excellent photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around government buildings for security reasons. It's best to assume drone photography is not allowed.
While general photography is allowed, be mindful of any specific restrictions posted within the palace. Sharing your experiences on social media is encouraged!
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for exterior shots, while interior lighting varies. The Tower offers great views throughout the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan your visit to include breaks, as exploring multiple sections can be tiring. The audio guides can help keep older children engaged with stories and facts. Consider focusing on the most visually stimulating areas like the Reception Rooms and the Tower to maintain their interest.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the opportunity to understand the palace's role as the seat of government. Learning about the Parliament, Supreme Court, and Prime Minister's Office within a former royal residence provides a unique perspective on Denmark's political evolution. The Royal Stables and Royal Kitchen also offer historical context on royal daily life.
👑 Royal Watchers
Keep an eye out for any scheduled ambassadorial receptions, where you might catch a glimpse of the King. While you can't tour the private royal residences, the Royal Stables provide a tangible link to the royal household's traditions and the importance of horses in royal life. Understanding these aspects offers a fuller picture of the monarchy's enduring presence.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Seat of Danish Power
The current palace is the third structure on the site, with previous iterations succumbing to fire. The rebuild, completed in the early 20th century, showcases Neo-Baroque and Neo-Classical architectural styles. The imposing central tower, the highest in Copenhagen, provides a free vantage point for stunning city panoramas.
Beyond its governmental functions, the palace retains its royal heritage. The Royal Reception Rooms are still used by the monarch for official events, and you can witness the grandeur of these spaces, including the impressive tapestries by Bjørn Nørgaard. This dual role as a seat of power and a royal residence is what makes Christiansborg Palace a truly remarkable destination.
A Journey Through Time: Ruins and Royal Stables
Adjacent to the main palace, the Royal Stables offer a different, yet equally captivating, experience. Here, you can learn about the care and history of the royal horses, and admire the impressive facilities that have been maintained for generations. It's a glimpse into the practicalities of royal life that often goes unseen.
For those interested in the culinary history of the palace, the Royal Kitchen is a must-visit. This exhibit details the immense effort and scale involved in preparing meals for royal banquets and events. A short film provides further context, making it an engaging and informative stop.
Capturing the Essence: Photography Tips
The Tower provides an unparalleled backdrop for cityscapes. Visiting during the 'golden hour' before sunset can yield stunning light for your photos. The exterior architecture of the palace itself, especially the central tower and its surrounding courtyards, also makes for impressive shots. Consider different angles and perspectives to capture the palace's grandeur.
When exploring the Palace Ruins, focus on the textures and historical details. The contrast between the ancient stone and the modern palace above can create compelling visual narratives. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the historical significance of the site while capturing your memories.
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