Frederiksborg Castle

Frederik II erected Frederiksborg Castle in 1560, and Christian IV later extended it. The palatial complex in Hillerd, Denmark, today incorporates amazing architecture visible in the Knight's Hall and Baroque gardens, as well as a museum chronicling Denmark's history since the 15th century.

The castle was destroyed by fire in 1859, but it was fully restored and reopened as the Danish Museum of National History in 1882. The majority of the museum's collection is made up of artwork linked to Denmark's past, such as portraits of former rulers and paintings of historical events. Visitors can also see the state rooms and portions of the castle that were not damaged by the fire.

Frederiksborg Castle is a lot to take in in one visit — it's enormous and detailed, and you're better off just viewing what interests you and what you can manage – plan on spending at least half a day if you want to stroll the gardens as well.

Slotshaven is a formal baroque garden located just north of the castle, Indelukket is an 18th/19th century Romantic garden and landscape, and Lille Dyrehave is a wood planted in the early 19th century for oak, which was principally utilized in boat building to restore the Danish fleet. They make for a lovely afternoon stroll. The castle is open all year, though hours are substantially shorter between November and March. When you arrive, be sure to pick up an audio guide (included in the ticket price).