Literature and seafaring history meet in Helsingør: Kronborg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the castle became the setting for William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and Elsinore Castle. At the same time, the city combines historic buildings with proximity to the water, seafaring and beaches. Exploring Helsingør therefore lets you move between castle history, maritime museums and the heritage of the shipyard.

Kronborg: World Heritage and the setting for Hamlet

At Kronborg, you can explore the casemates of Holger Danske up to the cannon tower, where the view stretches across the Øresund. The castle’s literary history is also part of its story: it served as the setting for Shakespeare’s famous play “Hamlet”, in which Kronborg became Elsinore Castle. A 15-minute introduction covers the castle’s stories, exhibitions and kings. Check the schedule before your visit, as times may change.

Seafaring history above and below ground

The M/S Museet for Søfart is located underground in an old dry dock dating from 1955. The museum explores maritime history through exhibitions, books, tours and educational programmes. Since 1915, it has told the story of Denmark as one of the world’s leading seafaring nations. The site itself offers a distinctive way to explore the subject: the museum is not in a conventional exhibition building, but in the space of a former dry dock.

In the historic shipyard district, the Værftsmuseet tells the story of 100 years of Helsingør Værft, the city’s largest employer. The exhibition “Et skib bliver bygget” follows the shipbuilding process from the signing of the contract to the completion of the ship. In a workshop area, you can try out various metalworking tools; access and supervision may vary. A free tour with audio and images also takes you to ten sites in the historic shipyard district. Check in advance whether the digital app is available.

Trade, city history and exploring at your own pace

The well-preserved Skibsklarerergaarden is a merchant’s and ship’s clearance house from the Sound Dues era. It has remained largely unchanged since the 1780s. People in historical costumes, activities and tastings bring the house to life; these offerings may be seasonal. The museum is open according to its programme and during school holidays. The boutique shop offers items including liquorice root, coffee, wine and beer; the selection may change.

The Helsingør Bymuseum features exhibitions on Helsingør’s 600-year history. The museum also sells two self-guided city walks, which let you discover stories at locations around the city; the walks on offer may change. Families can take part in “Historiejagten – Helsingør”: this activity visits four locations and includes written instructions, clues and tasks. Check whether it is available during your trip.

Another way to find your bearings in Helsingør is the Elsinore Walk cultural trail. It is marked with 750 blue dots, each placed five metres apart. The walk is suitable for wheelchair users and people with walking difficulties if you use the alternative routes marked in the accompanying brochure. Confirm current access conditions before your visit, as the markings may require maintenance.

Events, cycling routes and practical information

The Kulturværftet hosts concerts, theatre performances, talks and other major events. As the programme changes regularly, it is worth checking the current calendar. “Historiens Dag” is a recurring autumn event featuring free events about Helsingør’s history; check the dates for each year.

Several cycling routes in and around Helsingør pass through nature, by historic sights and through maritime settings. Another way to explore the municipality by bike is to follow routes to local writers’ favourite places in the northern and southern parts of Helsingør Municipality. Check the latest maps and route details before setting off.

For information on culture, history, nature, events and family activities, you can contact Helsingør Visitor Service. It is just a few minutes’ walk from Helsingør station; check its location before your trip. This makes it easy to plan your discoveries in Helsingør around your interests—from Kronborg’s literary connections and the shipyard’s history to walks through the city.

Discover more destinations

Helsingør, Kvistgård, Espergærde, Snekkersten, Hellebæk; Frederiksberg, Vallensbæk, Allerød Municipality.

Return to the main travel overview: Hovedstaden.