Amalienborg Palace
Copenhagen, Denmark
Amalienborg Palace is the Danish royal family's official residence, composed of four classical palaces surrounding an octagonal courtyard in Copenhagen. Visitors can watch the daily changing of the guard and explore the historic architecture without an entry fee.
Why choose Amalienborg Palace
You’ll experience a living piece of Denmark’s monarchy that few other sites offer, feeling the rhythm of tradition as the guard ceremony unfolds on the square. The intimate layout lets you absorb royal history while mingling with locals in a vibrant city center.
Best for: History lovers · Architecture · First-timers · Couples
Start your Copenhagen morning at Amalienborg
Begin with the palace courtyard, then stroll to nearby sights for a relaxed half‑day walk.
- Morning — Amalienborg Palace
- 9:30 — Frederik's Church
- 10:15 — Nyhavn
Visit tips
- Watch the guard change from the courtyard steps for the best view.
- The palace is open to the public; no ticket needed, just respect the royal grounds.
- Arrive before noon to see the guard change without crowds.
- Allow 45 minutes for the ceremony and a brief walk around the square.
Plan your visit
- Recommended duration: 1–2 hours — includes guard ceremony and courtyard walk
- Best time of day: Morning, before 10:00 — guard change is quieter early
- Entry: Free to visit
- Booking: not required — tickets at the gate
- Category: attraction
- Rated 4.5 by 32597 reviewers
- Tags: royal history, changing of the guard, free entry, city center
Nearby attractions
- Nyhavn — attraction, 6 min walk
- Rosenborg Castle — attraction, 13 min walk
- The Round Tower — attraction, 14 min walk
- Christiansborg Slot — landmark, 15 min walk
- Church of Our Saviour — church, 15 min walk
- Frederik's Church — attraction, 3 min walk
More things to do in Copenhagen
See all things to do in Copenhagen or plan a full Copenhagen itinerary with Next Getaway.