Beneath the green space of Søndermarken Park lie Copenhagen’s former water reservoirs: Cisternerne, now an underground space for contemporary art. The site is opposite Frederiksberg Palace on Frederiksberg Hill, 31 metres above sea level. In 2013, Cisternerne reopened as an exhibition venue for site-specific art experiences. The former reservoirs give this art venue a distinctive historical starting point.
Castle History and Architecture
Frederiksberg Palace was built from 1699 to 1735 and served as a summer residence for the royal family at times until the mid-19th century. The palace is usually closed. Guided tours take place on the last Saturday of each month, except in July and December, at 11 am and 1 pm. They include the Knights’ Hall, the flag balcony, the marble bath and the Baroque church. Ceremonial or military activities may affect the tour, so check the latest schedule before your visit.
Frederiksberg Church also offers a distinctive perspective on the site’s architectural history: designed by Felix Dusart, the church is octagonal and was built from 1732 to 1734. It is also used for concerts. The palace and church represent different stages in the area’s architectural history, while Cisternerne brings the story up to contemporary art.
Art, Satire and Literature
STORM explores the significance of Danish humour and satire, both past and present. Møstings hosts changing exhibitions of contemporary art in a classic old villa in Frederiksberg, at one of the entrances to Frederiksberg Gardens. The two venues have different focuses: humour and satire at one, contemporary art at the other.
Bakkehuset offers a historical perspective on Frederiksberg’s cultural life. During Denmark’s Golden Age, it was a central meeting place visited by Hans Christian Andersen and other writers, artists and scientists. Today, its programme includes changing exhibitions and readings, as well as workshops, talks and long-table dinners. Bakkehuset Orangerie serves coffee, homemade rolls and croissants from its own bakery. As opening hours may change, it is worth checking the latest information before your visit.
Gardens and Routes
Frederiksberg Gardens is Copenhagen’s third-largest park. A colony of relatively tame grey herons lives there, and the park also offers a view of Norman Foster’s Elephant House at the ZOO. In Haveselskabets Have, operations were transferred to Slots- og Kulturstyrelsen in 2025. The garden is open to everyone and divided into smaller spaces, each with its own character. Lawns, a reflecting pool and numerous benches define the garden; the individual spaces offer quiet places to rest and reflect.
The Frederiksbergruterne offer another way to explore the area: they comprise three routes of 3, 5 and 10 kilometres. The paths are wide and have comfortable surfaces. The routes also pass outdoor strength-training areas and offer opportunities for challenging hill runs and sprints. For exploring by bike, there is a map with three routes, created jointly by Frederiksberg and Wonderful Copenhagen. Check in advance whether the map is available.
Animals and Relaxation
At the ZOO’s Børnezoo, families can see pigs, horses, llamas and cows up close. At the ZOO, visitors can experience animals from around the world and learn more about nature and conservation through activities and educational programmes. You can reach the ZOO by train to Valby Station or by metro to Fasanvej or Frederiksberg Allé. Check connections before travelling.
Another option is the spa at Frederiksberg Swimming Pool, which includes a new sauna, an infrared sauna, a steam room, a foot bath, a cold-water pool, massage chairs and a spa with an underwater view of the 25-metre pool. As facilities may be renovated or changed, it is advisable to check the latest information about the facilities.
Discover more destinations: Lyngby-Taarbæk Municipality, Albertslund, Gladsaxe, Halsnæs Municipality, Frederikssund, Høje-Taastrup Municipality, Herlev Municipality, Brøndby Municipality.
Return to the main travel overview: Capital Region of Denmark.
