A daytrip from Copenhagen to Helsingør

A short train ride from Copenhagen you'll find the enchanting city of Helsingør, also known as Elsinore. Adorned with towering church spires, quaint historic streets, a myriad of museums, cozy cafés, a vibrant food market, and crowned by the iconic Kronborg Castle, Helsingør has attracted many a traveler throughout history.

Once a bustling maritime metropolis for sailors, seafarers, kings, and captains, Helsingør now annually welcomes tourists from across the globe, inviting them to experience the city's maritime legacy and feel the pulse of its rich history.

How do I get to Helsingør? 

Travel to Helsingør on the delightful 40-minute train journey from Copenhagen-a popular route cherished by many for its scenic charm.

Indulge in the truly unique landscape as the train gently takes you along the famous North Zealand coastline and through lush forests, rural fields, and charming Danish towns and villages.

Trains depart every 15 minutes from the three most central stations in Copenhagen: The Central Station, Nørreport Station, and Østerport Station.

The timetable may vary, so we recommend checking the current schedule on the official website of the Danish State Railways (DSB) or using a reliable transportation app for the latest information - ex. Journeyplanner or Google Maps.

How do I buy tickets to Elsinore?

  • Visit the official website of the Danish State Railways (DSB) at DSB's Online Ticket Shop.

  • purchase tickets at train stations, including Copenhagen Central Station, Nørreport Station, and Østerport Station

  • Look for ticket machines or visit the ticket counter to buy your ticket.

  • Consider using transportation apps or third-party mobile apps that offer train ticket booking services. These apps may provide a convenient way to purchase and manage your tickets

Getting to Helsingør by car

If you plan on going by car, you may choose between two main routes - either by the highway or the coastal route.

The highway is the fastest route, taking you to Helsingør from central Copenhagen in about 45 minutes. The other route takes longer, and not just because of the speed limit here, but also because you will want to stop every now and then, and soak in the many things to behold on this scenic trip along the coast.

These small roads will take you through the calm and quiet towns, passing by both modern architectural villas, cozy little, traditional houses, and even the many traditional and recreational seaside hotels. Stop for a breath-taking view of the vast blue ocean, and grab yourself an ice cream, go for a swim, and enjoy the nature - don't worry, you'll get to Helsingør eventually.

You can rent a car in both Copenhagen and Helsingør. Go to www.google.com and type "car rental copenhagen" and you'll find plenty of options.

Getting to Helsingør by bike

Can you ride your bike all the way from Copenhagen to Helsingør? Oh yes, you can.

Denmark is a great place for cyclists, so if you're able, you should definitely embark on this scenic, and unforgettable ride from the heart of modern, urban atmosphere of Copenhagen, passing the must-see attractions the Little Mermaid and the historic Nyhavn as you make your way north on cycling paths right next to the shore, and through the forests with plenty of peaceful and charming stops on the route.

You will not regret going by bike on this beautiful trip, so enjoy the ride!

Bycicles are available for rental at various locations in Copenhagen.

Getting ready for your trip to Helsingør

We've all been there - wondering what to pack when going on a trip, especially to a coastal city like Helsingør, where the weather can be a bit unpredictable! To make it easier for you, here's a short list of general tips on what to wear and bring:

  1. Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Elsinore can get windy, and layers are a good idea for the changing temperatures.

  2. Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city's attractions.

  3. In the spring and summertime, bring sunscreen, and don't be fooled by the temperatures of the windy breeze.

  4. Remember to bring raincoats or an umbrella for the changing weather.

  5. Bring credit card or cash. Most shops accept both.

  6. Since there's no snack trolley on the train, be sure to bring water and foods with you.

At Kronborg Castle we have lockers, where you can store your bag and items as you explore the castle. They are free to use.

What can I see on the way to Elsinore?

On your journey north you can make stops to visit some splendid attractions.

Explore the Parforce Hunting Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where Danish monarchs have pursued game for centuries. Here you can go for a walk in the beautiful forests, get up and close with curious flocks of deer wandering the plains, and in the summertime, you can even enjoy theatre plays on the outdoor stage in the most amazing setting surrounded by lush greenery.

Right next to the Parforce Hunting Landscape is Bakken - the world's oldest amusement park. With roots dating all the way back to 1583, the park offers an extraordinary experience combining nostalgic traditions with modern entertainment. Take a breath-taking ride in the rollercoaster or try your luck in one of the many stalls offering fun games and activities.

Next on the route, and only ten minutes away from the station in Humlebæk, you'll find the the renowned Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. The museum displays both the international superstars of the art world as well as the newest exciting shooting stars. Build during the golden age of Danish modernism, the museum itself is an architectural gem, well worth a visit. It's location even offers a stroll by the beach, and the museums restaurant and gift shop are top-class as well.

Finally, just before Helsingør, you may visit Rungstedlund - the former home of the celebrated Danish author Karen Blixen, now transformed into a museum dedicated to her life and works. You can walk here from the stop Rungsted Kyst Station.

The History of Elsinore

Nestled on the northeastern tip of Zealand, Helsingør is a city with a captivating and rich history that spans several centuries, just waiting to be explored by curious travelers.

The city was founded back in medieval times in the 12th century, and its strategic location, where the strait is the narrowest, soon made it a key player in Denmark's royal, and maritime history. Here, Danish kings could control the waters, collect taxes and oversee the ship traffic on the busy trade route between East and West.

In the 1420's Danish King Eric of Pomerania founded a castle on the very same spot where Kronborg stands today to enforce the introduction of the new 'Øresundstold' or 'The Sound Dues'; a tax imposed on trade ships passing the stronghold.

This tax money made it directly into the Kings' own treasure chambers and became the foundation for the wealth of the kings all the way up until the 1850's.

In modern times Helsingør's shipyard flourished and became central to the city, and the economic backbone, employing more than 3500 people. Needless to say, the locals still hold the heritage of the shipyard very close to their hearts.

Today the old halls and buildings from the shipyard form a new cultural center, hosting a modern library, concert venue, theatre, street food market, and more.

Kronborg Castle

At the heart of Helsingør's fascinating history is Kronborg Castle.

Built during the reign of the visionary Danish King Frederik II in the late 1500s, this regal fortress wasn't just about enforcing taxes - it was a grand stage for flaunting and displaying the immense wealth and power of the Danish kings to the numerous international guests visiting the court.

Imagine lavish celebrations echoing within the castle walls - extravagant parties filled with thundering cannon salutes, mesmerizing fireworks lighting up the night sky, and menus so imaginative they bordered on the fantastical.

It's no wonder that Kronborg swiftly rose to fame for being one of the most extraordinary castles of the Renaissance era.

Hamlet's Castle - in the footsteps of Shakespeare

The tales of Kronborg Castle even crossed the seas to capture the imagination of the English playwright William Shakespeare. He selected the royal fortress as the backdrop for his globally renowned play about the tormented Danish prince, Hamlet, on a mad quest for vengeance over his father's untimely death!

While the esteemed author likely never set foot in the castle, he must have been enchanted by the tales circulating about this chic rendezvous for Northern Europe's royal and noble elite. His clear understanding of both the castle's architectural marvels and the customs of Kronborg's court is evident in his masterful work.

Kronborg Castle today - where history comes alive

Today, the castle stands as a national symbol and a lively attraction where you can experience daily guided tours, engaging actors dressed in colorful attire characteristic of the era, and exciting exhibitions.

Dance in the magnificent 62-meter-long Dancehall where grand parties once took place, enjoy the amazing view over the Øresund, Sweden, and North Zealand from the Cannon Tower, visit the mythical warrior Holger the Dane in the dark casemates under the castle, or take a stroll on the ramparts, or along the sandy beaches. 

What can you experience in Helsingør?

Kronborg is just one of many places to visit in Helsingør, as the city is teeming with attractions, museums, and shopping options.

  • Helsingør features one of Northern Europe's most scenic, vibrant and best-preserved historical city centers.

    Here you can take a stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful, half-timbered houses next to the towering churches. The heart of the city features a mix of cafes, boutique shops, wine and liquor trades, restaurants, bars, and a shopping street offering both highest fashion, handmade craft shops, antiques, and souvenirs.

  • Next to Kronborg Castle, you'll find the M/S Maritime Museum of Denmark. Spectacularly built into the former docks of the city's old shipyard, this award-winning institution is an architectural marvel as well as a state-of-the-art museum showcasing Denmark's maritime past, suitable for all ages.

    You should also visit the city's churches. Helsingør Cathedral, dating back to the 16th century, with its extraordinary post-reformation frescos is well worth a visit. Additionally, the even older Skt. Mariæ Church and the adjoining Carmelite Monastery will take you back in time when monks and clergy tended the gardens and filled the halls with choral singing.

    Helsingør also offers a broad variety of local museums well worth exploring. Purchase a combined ticket for the Elsinore City Museum, Shipbroker's Home & Office, and the Shipyard Museum to learn about the city's past, or let your inner motorhead loose at the Danish Museum of Science & Technology.

  • Over the years, Helsingør has evolved into a cultural hot spot in North Zealand.

    The old shipyard provides the framework of several vibrant, lively cultural institutions, housing a library, concert venue, theater, lectures, debates, films, social dining and many events every year.

    The city's concert venues attract both local, Danish and international music artists, the theaters stage everything from contemporary plays to Shakespeare's classics. The festival scene is equally diverse - here, there's room for several cultural and musical festivals and exciting sports events throughout the year.

    Culture is in the heart of Helsingør, and it's evident everywhere - whether you go to a concert, visit the social dining-events, or you mingle with locals and sing along the old time sailor traditionals at the yearly "Knejpe Festival" in the city's old, historic taverns and bars.

    In Helsingør, the cultural offerings cater to everyone's taste. Come and explore the dynamic blend of tradition and modernity in our enchanting city!

  • Elsinore offers a broad variety of culinary options.

    Being a coastal city, we recommend you try the fresh seafood at the local fish restaurants, or you can indulge in the traditional Danish open sandwiches (smørrebrød), treat yourself with homemade cakes, grab a cup of coffee in one of the many cozy cafes, or take a break from all the sightseeing to explore cuisines from around the world at the city's street food market - located in the old halls of the now-closed shipyard by the central harbor - right next to Kronborg Castle.

    Here you indulge in all sorts of international flavors, ranging from Argentine steaks, Syrian specialties to simmering Moroccan stews, and Greek delicacies.

    In the central district of Helsingør on the main street Stengade and the public square Axeltorv, you'll find plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can dine and relax in cozy surroundings - of course outdoors in the summertime.

  • The nature and wildlife surrounding Helsingør is quite diverse and in many ways unique. Two colliding currents in Øresund creates the perfect conditions for many species - plankton and algae, herring and hornfish, seals, porpoises, and even the newly returned blue-finned tuna!

    Go for a walk in the sandy surroundings by Kronborg and enjoy the view, and make sure to visit the Øresund Aquarium next to the castle to see the unique wildlife of Helsingør up close!

  • After a day of exploring our city, it's time to head back to Copenhagen. And it couldn't be much easier as the trains depart regularly on weekdays until around midnight. And guess what? On weekends there's a train ready to take you home every hour, all through the night.

    Just a tip: those late-night trains might not take you all the way to the Central Station of Copenhagen, as you might have to change for an S-train for the final stretch of your journey.

    After a delightful day of discovering the charms of our city, it's time to head back to Copenhagen - but fret not, getting back is a breeze! On weekdays, the trains are your trusty companions, departing regularly until around midnight. And guess what? On weekends, there's a train ready to whisk you away every hour, all through the night.

    You can find all the info needed on the trains by using Google Maps, Journeyplanner or DSB's own website www.dsb.dk.

Safety and emergency - What to do in case of an accident in Denmark?

We hope you have a safe and nothing but positive time, but in the case of an accident, need of medical assistance, here's a short guide to help you out: 

  1. Emergency - who do you call? In the case of a medical emergency, dial 112. This is the emergency services number, and they will help you out in an acute situation. If you need to contact the police, instead dial 114.

  2. Traffic accident - what to do? In case of a traffic accident, exchange contact and insurance information with the parties involved. Provide documentation by taking photos of the scene, vehicle, and relevant details.

  3. Contact your embassy if needed. They can provide assistance and guidance.

Danish authorities and locals are generally helpful, so please, do not hesitate to contact them.

Of course, we hope you won't be needing this guide, and that you stay safe, and enjoy your time traveling in Denmark.

Thank you for considering going to our small, beautiful city - we hope you have a great time here. We cannot wait to welcome you and show you the city, that we take so much pride in.

Welcome to Helsingør!