Hillerød

Home to the magnificent Frederiksborg Castle, one of Scandinavia's largest palaces set on three islands in a beautiful lake with baroque gardens. The town is a perfect day trip featuring royal history, art museums, and scenic surroundings.

Things to do

• Frederiksborg Castle — Explore one of Scandinavia's largest palaces set on three islands with opulent rooms, royal collections, and the National History Museum spanning Danish history from 1500 onwards.
• Baroque Gardens at Frederiksborg — Stroll through meticulously restored 17th-century formal gardens with sculptures, fountains, and scenic lake views reflecting classical European garden design.
• Hillerød Town Center — Wander the charming pedestrian streets lined with cafés, boutique shops, and historic half-timbered buildings that preserve the town's medieval character.
• Lake Arresø — Denmark's largest freshwater lake offers lakeside walks, picnic spots, and views of the castle reflected in the water, ideal for a peaceful afternoon.
• Frederiksborg Castle Chapel — Visit the stunning baroque chapel within the castle featuring original 17th-century decorations and an ornate organ, still used for royal ceremonies.
• Royal Kitchen Exhibition — Discover how Danish royalty dined through an exhibition showcasing kitchen history, royal menus, and culinary traditions spanning centuries.

Food to try

• Smørrebrød — Try traditional open-faced rye bread sandwiches with toppings like pickled herring, roast beef, or egg and shrimp, a Danish staple found in local cafés.
• Fresh Arresø Fish — Sample pike-perch or freshwater fish caught from nearby Lake Arresø, often prepared simply grilled or pan-fried in local restaurants.
• Danish Pastries — Enjoy flaky wienerbrød (Danish pastries) from local bakeries, filled with custard, chocolate, or jam, best consumed fresh with coffee.
• Game Dishes — Experience regional venison or duck preparations reflecting the surrounding North Zealand hunting traditions, particularly available in autumn months.
• Kransekage — Taste this traditional Danish tower cake made of almond-filled rings stacked in a cone, often served at celebrations and available in local patisseries.

Local customs & good to know

• Royal Etiquette Matters — As a royal residence town, locals take pride in the castle's significance; be respectful when visiting and avoid pointing cameras at guards or restricted areas.
• Plan for Weather — North Zealand weather is changeable; bring layers and waterproof jackets, as rain is common even in summer, and the castle grounds are best explored in dry conditions.
• Castle Visiting Hours — Frederiksborg Castle has specific opening times and may close for royal events; check ahead and arrive early during peak summer season to avoid crowds and ensure entry.
• Danish Cycling Culture — Rent a bicycle to explore Hillerød like locals do; the town and surrounding lakeside areas are designed for cycling with dedicated paths and bike-friendly infrastructure.