Things to Do in Frederiksberg, Denmark

Frederiksberg is an affluent municipality completely surrounded by Copenhagen, offering visitors a perfect blend of royal elegance, green spaces, and cultural sophistication. This charming area is home to magnificent Frederiksberg Palace, the sprawling Frederiksberg Gardens, and the famous Copenhagen Zoo, making it a delightful escape from the bustling city center while remaining easily accessible. The district exudes a refined atmosphere with its tree-lined boulevards, historic architecture, and upscale shopping along Frederiksberg Allé. Visitors can explore world-class museums, relax in beautifully manicured parks, and experience Danish royal history while enjoying excellent dining and cultural venues. Frederiksberg seamlessly combines the tranquility of suburban life with urban amenities, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more sophisticated Copenhagen experience.

Top Things to Do in Frederiksberg

Explore Frederiksberg Palace and Gardens

Wander through the magnificent baroque Frederiksberg Palace and its surrounding romantic gardens, featuring winding paths, canals, and historic pavilions. The palace, built in the early 18th century, now houses the Danish Military Academy, while the gardens offer peaceful walks and stunning views. The Chinese Pavilion and various bridges create perfect photo opportunities throughout the landscaped grounds.

Booking Tip: Entry to the gardens is free year-round, while palace tours are limited and typically cost 50-75 DKK. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Check the palace website for special guided tour availability, especially during summer months.

Visit Copenhagen Zoo

Discover one of Europe's oldest zoos, home to over 3,000 animals including polar bears, elephants, and the famous panda bears. The zoo features innovative enclosures like the Arctic Ring and Elephant House designed by renowned architects. Special highlights include the tropical zoo dome and the children's zoo area perfect for families.

Booking Tip: Adult tickets cost around 190-220 DKK depending on season, with online booking offering slight discounts. Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and more active animals. Annual passes are worthwhile if staying longer than a few days in Copenhagen.

Stroll Through Cisternerne Art Museum

Experience contemporary art in a unique underground setting within former water reservoirs dating from 1856. This atmospheric museum features rotating exhibitions of international artists displayed in cathedral-like arched chambers. The interplay between modern art and historic architecture creates an unforgettable cultural experience.

Booking Tip: Admission costs approximately 95 DKK for adults with timed entry slots available online. Book in advance as capacity is limited due to the intimate space. Wear comfortable shoes as floors can be uneven, and bring a light jacket as temperatures are cool underground.

Shop and Dine on Frederiksberg Allé

Explore this elegant tree-lined avenue known as one of Copenhagen's most prestigious shopping streets, featuring both international brands and local Danish designers. The street offers excellent cafés, restaurants, and boutiques housed in beautiful historic buildings. Window shopping and people-watching are equally rewarding activities along this sophisticated boulevard.

Booking Tip: No booking required for shopping, but make dinner reservations at popular restaurants 2-3 days in advance. Most shops open around 10 AM and close by 6-7 PM, with extended hours on Fridays. Budget 200-400 DKK for a nice meal at mid-range restaurants.

Relax at Frederiksberg Have and Søndermarken

Enjoy these connected green spaces that form one of Copenhagen's largest park areas, perfect for picnicking, jogging, or simply relaxing. The parks feature beautiful lakes, walking trails, and open meadows where locals gather for outdoor activities. During summer, the parks host various cultural events and outdoor concerts.

Booking Tip: Free access year-round with no booking required. Best visited during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the scenery. Pack a picnic from local shops along Frederiksberg Allé, and consider renting bikes nearby to explore the extensive trail network.

Getting There

Frederiksberg is easily accessible from Copenhagen city center and the airport via excellent public transportation. Take the Metro M1 or M2 lines to Frederiksberg station, or use buses 6A, 18, or 26 from central Copenhagen. From Copenhagen Airport, take the Metro M2 directly to Frederiksberg (about 25 minutes). The area is also well-connected by S-train lines, with Frederiksberg station serving as a major hub. Walking or cycling from Copenhagen center takes about 20-30 minutes through pleasant urban neighborhoods.

Getting Around

Frederiksberg is highly walkable with most attractions within easy walking distance of each other. The local bus network (routes 6A, 18, 26, and others) provides excellent connectivity throughout the area and to central Copenhagen. Cycling is extremely popular and bike rental shops are readily available near metro stations. The Metro M1 and M2 lines run frequently and connect Frederiksberg to the rest of Greater Copenhagen. Taxis are available but generally unnecessary given the excellent public transport options.

Where to Stay

Frederiksberg Allé area

Near Frederiksberg Gardens

Gammel Kongevej district

Falkoner Allé neighborhood

Vodroffsvej area

Near Forum station

Food & Dining

Frederiksberg offers an excellent dining scene ranging from traditional Danish cuisine to international flavors, with many restaurants concentrated along Frederiksberg Allé and Gammel Kongevej. The area is known for its upscale establishments serving New Nordic cuisine, cozy cafés perfect for afternoon hygge, and excellent bakeries offering fresh pastries and coffee. Local favorites include traditional smørrebrød shops, modern bistros, and several Michelin-recommended restaurants. The food scene tends to be more refined and less touristy than central Copenhagen, with many establishments frequented by locals and offering seasonal menus featuring Danish ingredients.

When to Visit

Frederiksberg is beautiful year-round, but late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the best weather for enjoying the outdoor attractions like Frederiksberg Gardens and parks. Summer months provide the longest days and warmest temperatures, perfect for outdoor dining and park activities. Winter can be charming with possible snow in the gardens, though daylight hours are limited. Spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful seasonal colors in the parks, making these ideal times for a more peaceful visit.

Insider Tips

Visit the weekly farmers market at Frederiksberg Runddel on Saturdays for local produce and artisanal goods

Many restaurants offer excellent lunch menus (frokost) at significantly lower prices than dinner service

The area's many parks connect to form walking routes all the way to central Copenhagen for a scenic urban hike

Things to Do in Frederiksberg