Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen: Denmark’s Living Royal Residence

Introduction

In the heart of Copenhagen, overlooking the sparkling waterfront, lies Amalienborg Palace, the official residence of Denmark’s royal family. This elegant complex of four identical rococo palaces arranged around an octagonal courtyard is more than a beautiful landmark—it’s a living royal home where tradition meets daily life. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard, explore centuries of royal history, and even peek inside the lavish rooms once occupied by kings and queens.

Built in the 18th century, Amalienborg has witnessed coronations, state ceremonies, and moments of national celebration. Today it remains a symbol of Danish heritage and constitutional monarchy, inviting visitors to experience history in motion. Whether you’re drawn by architecture, pageantry, or the chance to glimpse royal life, Amalienborg Palace is a must-see in Copenhagen, perfectly blending regal elegance with warm Scandinavian charm.

What is Amalienborg Palace famous for?

Amalienborg Palace is renowned for:

👑 Being the official residence of the Danish royal family.

🎖️ The daily Changing of the Royal Guard at noon.

🏰 Elegant rococo architecture, designed by architect Nicolai Eigtved in the mid-1700s.

🖼️ Royal collections, including portraits, furniture, and historic artifacts displayed inside the Amalienborg Museum.

It’s a living palace, meaning the royals still reside here, making it a rare place where history and modern monarchy meet.

Why should you visit Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen?

A visit to Amalienborg is like stepping into the heart of Denmark’s royal traditions. You’ll:

Witness the majestic Changing of the Guard, a ceremonial highlight in Copenhagen.

Explore lavish interiors in the Amalienborg Museum, from royal salons to historic chambers.

Learn about centuries of Danish monarchy, including the reign of Queen Margrethe II and her predecessors.

Admire breathtaking waterfront views of the harbor and the nearby Marble Church.

Whether you’re passionate about history, photography, or cultural experiences, Amalienborg Palace offers an authentic royal encounter.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit Amalienborg Palace?

🕒 Typical Opening Hours (check current schedules before visiting):

Amalienborg Museum: Daily 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (May–September)

Reduced hours or seasonal closures in winter months.

The courtyard is open 24/7, so you can admire the architecture anytime.

🌞 Best Times to Visit

Arrive before noon to secure a good spot for the Changing of the Guard.

Visit in spring or summer for pleasant weather and beautiful harbor views.

Morning visits mean fewer crowds and peaceful photos of the square and palace façades.

How much does it cost to visit Amalienborg Palace?

🎟️ Admission Fees (subject to changes):

Adults: About 125 DKK (approx. €17 / $18 USD)

Children under 18: Free

Discounts available for students and Copenhagen Card holders.

💡 Good to know: Watching the Changing of the Guard is free, making it a perfect stop even if you don’t plan to tour the interiors.

What can you see or do at Amalienborg Palace?

Inside and around Amalienborg, there’s plenty to explore:

🎖️ Changing of the Royal Guard: Every day at noon, guards march from Rosenborg Castle to Amalienborg, ending with a ceremonial shift in the palace square.

🏛️ Amalienborg Museum: Step into royal history with grand rooms, portraits, and exhibitions about the Danish monarchy from the 18th century to today.

🌊 Harbor Views: Enjoy sweeping vistas of the Copenhagen waterfront and the striking Opera House across the canal.

📸 Frederik’s Church (Marble Church): Just behind the palace, this domed marvel offers stunning photo opportunities.

It’s an immersive way to experience Denmark’s living royal heritage.

What is the history behind Amalienborg Palace?

Amalienborg Palace owes its origins to a fire in 1794 that destroyed Copenhagen’s Christiansborg Palace, forcing the royal family to move. The complex itself was built earlier, around 1750, as a set of elegant aristocratic mansions commissioned by wealthy noble families.

When disaster struck, King Christian VII purchased the palaces for royal use. Since then, Amalienborg has been the primary residence of Danish monarchs, witnessing coronations, state events, and family milestones.

Its design—a harmonious octagonal square surrounded by four nearly identical rococo palaces—symbolizes both royal power and architectural balance, making it one of Europe’s finest examples of 18th-century city planning.

Where is Amalienborg Palace located and how do you get there?

📍 Address: Amalienborg Slotsplads 5, 1257 Copenhagen, Denmark

🚇 By Metro: Take the M3 or M4 line to Marmorkirken Station, a 5-minute walk.
🚌 By Bus: Lines 1A and 26 stop nearby.
🚲 By Bike: Copenhagen’s cycling lanes make biking to the palace easy and scenic.
🚶 On Foot: A 15-minute walk from Nyhavn or Kongens Nytorv.

Insider Tips for Visiting Amalienborg Palace

🎖️ Arrive by 11:30 a.m. to secure a front-row spot for the Changing of the Guard.

📸 Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full grandeur of the square and palaces.

💡 Combine with a canal tour starting from Nyhavn to enjoy a different view of the palace and harbor.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

Make the most of your royal Copenhagen day with these nearby sights:

Frederik’s Church (Marble Church) – A magnificent dome just steps from the palace.

Nyhavn – The city’s colorful harbor full of cafes and historic ships.

Rosenborg Castle & King’s Garden – Home to Denmark’s Crown Jewels.

Designmuseum Denmark – A short walk for lovers of art and Scandinavian design.

The Royal Danish Opera House – Visible across the water and striking at sunset.

Turn Your Visit into a Questo Adventure

Experience Amalienborg Palace beyond the guidebook. With a Questo quest, you’ll solve clues, uncover hidden royal stories, and explore Copenhagen’s royal heart in a fun, interactive way.

👉 Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Questo transforms your visit into a living adventure, where history, architecture, and royal tradition come alive around you.