Amalienborg. 💂
Four identical rococo palaces surround an octagonal courtyard. It feels more like a town square than a royal fortress. You can walk right up to the front door.
The Flag Rule
Look at the roof. If the Royal Standard (Kongeflaget) is flying, the Monarch is physically in the building.
Changing of the Guard
Every day at 12:00 PM. The Life Guards march from Rosenborg through the city streets. They wear bearskin hats (like the British) but blue trousers.
Rosenborg Castle. 💎
Built by Christian IV as a "pleasure palace" in the 1600s. It looks like a fairytale illustration with its red brick and copper spires.
The Basement
Descend into the dark, reinforced vault. The Crown Jewels are here. The emeralds are particularly famous—some of the finest in the world.
The Knights' Hall
On the top floor. Check out the silver lions that guard the coronation chairs. They are life-sized and look slightly surprised.
King's Garden
The castle is surrounded by the "Kongens Have." It's the most popular park in the city. In summer, the lawns are packed with sunbathers.
Highest View
See Sweden
Christiansborg Palace. 🏛️
This building houses all three branches of power: The Parliament, the Prime Minister's Office, and the Supreme Court. It also has the Royal Reception Rooms.
The Tower (Tårnet):
Take the elevator to the top of the main tower. It is free. It offers the highest view in Copenhagen. On a clear day, you can see the bridge to Sweden.
Bicycles & Balconies. 🚲
The Danish monarchy is famously low-key. They send their children to public schools and are often spotted cycling around the city.
The Cargo Bike
It is a common sight to see the Crown Prince (now King) taking his kids to school in a cargo bike, just like every other dad in Copenhagen.
The Balcony Wave
On monarch's birthdays, crowds gather at Amalienborg. The family comes out on the balcony to wave. It is a surprisingly intimate national tradition.