You will find Frederiksberg Palace commanding a striking view over Frederiksberg Gardens in Frederiksberg, Denmark, directly adjacent to the Copenhagen Zoo. Inspired by Italian architecture, Crown Prince Frederick IV initiated this Baroque summer residence on Solbjerg hill, with initial construction completed in 1703. Over the following decades, the palace evolved into a magnificent three-storey, H-shaped Italian Baroque landmark.
It served as a beloved royal summer retreat through the mid-19th century—hosting figures like Peter the Great and King Frederick VI—before becoming home to the Royal Danish Military Academy in 1869. When you visit the palace and its hidden chapel, you can explore impressive indoor features. Take in the imposing stucco work, ceiling paintings, an elegant marble bathroom equipped with a secret access staircase, and the charmingly named Princesses' pancake kitchen.
The chapel itself, concealed behind six ground-floor windows, features an impressive pulpit and an 1854 altar window gifted by a British MP. Afterward, you can wander out into the surrounding gardens, transformed from a strict Baroque design into an English landscape filled with winding paths, lakes, canals, a Chinese Summerhouse, and the Apis Temple.
What to see at Frederiksberg Palace
- Italian Baroque architecture built as a royal summer residence
- Imposing stucco work, ceiling paintings, and the Princesses' pancake kitchen
- An elegant marble bathroom featuring a secret access staircase
- A hidden palace chapel with an impressive pulpit and historical 1854 altar window
- Expansive gardens featuring canals, a Chinese Summerhouse, and the Apis Temple
Visiting tips
Look closely at the east wing's exterior to find the chapel, which is intentionally hidden behind six central ground-floor windows.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Frederiksberg Palace is easy to reach on Copenhagen’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Tivoli Gardens and Christiansborg Palace. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Copenhagen travel guide.
See the full Copenhagen travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.