Christiansborg Palace stands on Slotsholmen in central Copenhagen and houses the Danish Parliament, Supreme Court and Prime Minister’s Office. The royal family also uses parts of the complex for official events. Inside, the Royal Reception Rooms lead to the Great Hall, where colourful tapestries depict Danish history; other areas open to visitors include the Royal Kitchen, chapel, stables and underground ruins. Climb the 106-metre tower for a free view over the city. The palace is still a place of government, so access to some sections can change when official functions are taking place.
A palace and seat of government
Christiansborg occupies Slotsholmen, an islet that has been a centre of Danish power for more than 800 years. A castle stood on the site from the 12th century, and successive royal buildings rose here over the centuries. Fires destroyed earlier palaces, and the royal family moved to Amalienborg after a fire in 1794.
The present palace was completed in 1928. Today, the complex houses the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Prime Minister’s Office. The royal family still uses parts of it for official functions, including events in the reception rooms. This mix of public institutions and royal spaces gives the palace a working role alongside its historic one.
The Royal Reception Rooms
The reception rooms are used for formal occasions, including state banquets and meetings with visiting heads of state. The Great Hall is a focal point, with large tapestries illustrating episodes from Denmark’s history. The rooms also include the Tower Room and the Oval Throne Room, where foreign ambassadors are received.
Look for the Queen’s Library, with gilded balconies, chandeliers and ornate stucco. The Knights’ Hall is another room to notice: its details include a carved wooden ceiling, gold decoration and a black marble fireplace. Guided tours provide a route through the reception rooms and add historical context. English tours are listed at 3pm, though check current arrangements before you go.
Other areas within the complex
The palace visit can extend beyond the ceremonial rooms. The Royal Kitchen, Royal Stables, palace chapel and underground ruins are among the areas open to visitors at different times. The ruins show remains of earlier castles beneath the current building, linking the present palace to the long history of the site.
The chapel has a neoclassical interior, distinct from the more ornate reception rooms. The complex also includes a Riding School and a court theatre. Because some rooms and institutions remain in active use, the areas available during a visit can depend on official events. Check the palace website for current access information before setting out.
The tower and views
Christiansborg Tower rises 106 metres and is described as Copenhagen’s highest point. Access to the tower is free, and a lift takes visitors up to the viewpoint. From there, the city spreads out below, offering a different perspective from the palace’s interiors.
If the tower is a priority, plan it as a separate stop within the complex and allow for possible waiting at the lift. The palace grounds and exterior can also be explored without entering the visitor areas, while a fuller visit can include the tower alongside the rooms and other attractions.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Christiansborg Palace still used by Denmark’s government?
Yes. It houses the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court and the Prime Minister’s Office. The royal family also uses parts of the palace for official events.
Can you visit the tower for free?
Yes. Access to Christiansborg Tower is free, and a lift goes to the viewpoint.
Are there guided tours in English?
English guided tours of the Royal Reception Rooms are listed at 3pm. Check the palace website for current arrangements.
Can you visit the ruins beneath the palace?
The underground ruins are among the visitor areas at Christiansborg. Access to different sections can change when the palace is in official use, so check before your visit.
