The King’s Garden, or Kongens Have, is a public garden beside Rosenborg Castle in central Copenhagen. Laid out in 1606 for King Christian IV, it is Denmark’s oldest royal garden and a calm place to walk, picnic or pause on the grass. Follow the tree-lined paths past flowerbeds, fountains and sculptures, including a statue of Hans Christian Andersen, with views of the castle along the way. Summer brings the flowerbeds into bloom and can also bring concerts and other events.
A royal garden opened to the city
King Christian IV established the garden in 1606 as part of the grounds around Rosenborg Castle. For roughly a century, it was reserved for royal use. Today, Kongens Have is a public park in central Copenhagen, with the castle standing among its lawns and paths.
The garden retains a formal layout associated with Renaissance design. Straight avenues cross the grounds, and carefully arranged planting gives some areas a strong sense of order. The garden’s long history and its everyday use now sit side by side: people come to walk, relax on the grass and meet friends.
Paths, flowerbeds and sculptures
The grounds include broad lawns, tree-lined paths, fountains and planted borders. A rose garden and arches covered with roses add another route to explore, while sculptures are placed around the park. Among them is a statue of Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. The Hercules Pavilion is another landmark within the garden.
For a more geometrical planting scheme, visit Krumspringet, a Renaissance-style garden developed in 2001. The flowerbeds are a particular draw in summer, when they are in bloom. Different corners of the grounds provide views back towards Rosenborg Castle, so a walk through the garden also gives you several perspectives on the building.
A park for a longer pause
The open lawns give you room to sit with a picnic, and the paths suit an unhurried walk. Shady spots beneath older trees offer a break from the sun. Families can look for the children’s puppet theatre and adventure playground; the garden also has pétanque pistes.
The park hosts concerts and other events, including performances and activities in summer. Copenhagen Jazz Festival events have also been associated with the garden. If you would rather explore in quieter surroundings, choose a time outside a scheduled event. The garden has three entrances, so you can enter from different sides as you make your way between the park and nearby sights.
FAQ
Is the King’s Garden free to enter?
Yes. The garden has free admission.
What can you see in the King’s Garden?
Look for flowerbeds, fountains, sculptures, the Hercules Pavilion and a statue of Hans Christian Andersen. Paths through the grounds also give views of Rosenborg Castle.
When is the best time to visit?
Summer is a good time to see the flowerbeds in bloom. Concerts and other events also take place in the garden.
