The King’s Garden in Copenhagen: Royal History Meets Urban Green Bliss

Introduction

Right in the heart of Copenhagen lies a place where royal history and everyday life intertwine—the King’s Garden (Kongens Have). Created over 400 years ago for King Christian IV, it is Denmark’s oldest and most visited public park. Today, locals and visitors alike gather here for picnics, leisurely strolls, and cultural events, making it a vibrant green heart of the city.

The garden’s mix of elegant Renaissance design, tree-lined avenues, and blooming flowerbeds reflects Copenhagen’s ability to honor its past while welcoming modern life. Children play in the shaded playgrounds, couples relax on the lawns, and art lovers admire sculptures that dot the grounds.

Whether you come for a morning jog, an afternoon of reading beneath the trees, or to marvel at Rosenborg Castle, which stands proudly inside the park, the King’s Garden offers an unforgettable escape. It is more than a park—it is a living chapter of Danish royal heritage, free and open to all.

What is the King’s Garden in Copenhagen famous for?

The King’s Garden is famous for being Denmark’s oldest royal garden, originally laid out in the early 1600s. It is celebrated for:

🌹 Magnificent flowerbeds and tree-lined pathways.

🏰 Rosenborg Castle, a fairy-tale Renaissance palace within the grounds.

🎭 Cultural events and open-air theater during summer.

🎨 Historic sculptures, including Hans Christian Andersen and other Danish icons.

🧺 A beloved spot for picnics and leisurely city breaks.

This unique blend of history and everyday charm makes it one of Copenhagen’s must-visit landmarks.

Why should you visit the King’s Garden?

Visiting the King’s Garden offers a chance to step back in time while enjoying modern Copenhagen life.

Discover the Renaissance heritage of Denmark while relaxing under leafy trees.

Visit Rosenborg Castle, home to the Crown Jewels and royal artifacts.

Enjoy free cultural activities, from outdoor art to lively festivals.

Experience Copenhagen like a local—families, students, and artists all gather here.

Whether you want history, nature, or a peaceful picnic spot, the King’s Garden delivers it all.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit the King’s Garden?

🌳 Opening hours

Daily: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Hours may shorten slightly in winter.

🌞 Best times to visit

Spring and summer: When the flowerbeds are bursting with color and festivals enliven the space.

Early morning: Perfect for a tranquil walk or a quiet coffee.

Evening: The park’s soft light and relaxed atmosphere are ideal for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

How much does it cost to visit the King’s Garden?

Completely free to enter.

Strolling the grounds, enjoying the sculptures, or having a picnic costs nothing.

Visiting Rosenborg Castle inside the garden requires a paid ticket, but exploring the park is always free of charge.

What can you see or do at the King’s Garden?

The King’s Garden is a feast for the senses and the soul:

🏰 Explore Rosenborg Castle: Step inside to view Denmark’s Crown Jewels and royal history.

🌸 Admire seasonal flowerbeds: Perfect for photography and relaxation.

🧺 Picnic on the lawns: A local tradition in spring and summer.

🎭 Enjoy cultural events: Outdoor theater performances and art installations bring the garden alive.

👧 Let children play: The large playground is a family favorite.

📸 Capture the sculptures: Including the famous Hans Christian Andersen statue.

What is the history behind the King’s Garden?

The King’s Garden was established in 1606 by King Christian IV, Denmark’s great Renaissance monarch. He envisioned a royal pleasure garden surrounding his new summer residence—Rosenborg Castle.

Originally a formal Renaissance garden with symmetrical layouts and ornamental flowerbeds, it evolved through the centuries into a public park. In the 18th century, as Copenhagen expanded, the garden opened to the public, becoming a cherished meeting spot for locals.

Today, the park retains its historic charm while welcoming modern Copenhageners and visitors from around the world. It’s a living monument to four centuries of Danish culture and leisure.

Where is the King’s Garden located and how do you get there?

📍 Address: Øster Voldgade 4A, 1350 Copenhagen K, Denmark

🚇 By Metro: Take the M1 or M2 to Nørreport Station, a short 5-minute walk.
🚲 By Bike: Easily accessible via Copenhagen’s excellent bike lanes.
🚶 On Foot: Only a 10-minute walk from Strøget shopping street and other city-center attractions.

Insider Tips for Visiting the King’s Garden

☕ Bring a picnic or takeaway coffee from a nearby café and enjoy it on the lawns.

📷 Visit early morning or late evening for the best light and fewer crowds.

🏰 Combine with Rosenborg Castle for a deeper royal experience—buy your castle ticket in advance to skip the line.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

While visiting the King’s Garden, you’re steps away from some of Copenhagen’s most beloved sites:

Rosenborg Castle – A Renaissance masterpiece and home to Denmark’s Crown Jewels.

Botanical Garden – A lush escape with exotic plants and historic greenhouses.

Torvehallerne Market – A food lover’s paradise for Danish delicacies and international bites.

The Round Tower – Climb the spiral ramp for sweeping views of the old city.

Strøget Shopping Street – Europe’s longest pedestrian street filled with shops and cafés.

Turn Your Visit into an Interactive Adventure

The King’s Garden is more than a park—it’s a living royal legacy. Every corner whispers stories of Danish kings, Renaissance art, and centuries of Copenhagen life.

👉 Discover its hidden secrets with a Questo quest. Solve puzzles, follow clues, and bring history to life as you wander its flower-filled paths. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, Questo transforms your visit into an unforgettable, interactive adventure in the heart of Copenhagen.