The Kronborgh castle is best known as the Hamlet castle, since the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet took place on this castle. This 16^th century castle is located in the town of HelsingØr, about forty four minutes away by train from Copenhagen central station (Kovenhavn H). Situated along the stretch of water between Denmark and Sweden, Kronborgh castle was feared for its strength as a fortress back in the day and now admired for its beauty as a castle.

Since we have a strong affinity toward architecture especially the ones from Medieval and Renaissance time, we couldn’t possibly miss the opportunity to explore the castles in Denmark. So we hopped on the train and stopped at HelsingØr train station. Tips for a foodie, if you want a quick bite, grab some food from a convenient store inside the HelsingØr train station. Try the kabob, it was so good. I couldn’t believe it. After a quick stop at convenient store, we walked to the castle for about 15 minutes. Along the way, we passed colorful townhouses, a plaza where many people were sitting at the cafes or just chilling, and the harbor where you can take a ferry ride to HelsibØrg, Sweden. I was so tempted to do that but we had limited time to spare so I just kept that idea in the back on my head. But hey, if you have enough time and feeling quite adventurous then hop on the ferry, visit Sweden and make it as international day. We made a stop as we approached the castle to snap some pictures.

The castle looks so beautiful sitting on a lonely cliff overlooking the narrow strait of Øresund which divide Denmark and Sweden. You can catch a glimpse of Sweden from across the strait. You will pass the battleground before you have to cross the bridge over the body of water surrounding the castle to enter it. On the front lawn you can see friendly swans walking around like they own the place.

The castle outing was continued as we walked back to HelsingØr train station to board the next train to HillerØd train station to explore the Frederiksborg Castle. The trip took about thirty minutes by train. After we arrived at HillerØd train station, we continued our exploring by walking toward the castle passing the downtown of HillerØd.

HillerØd is a nice town, many shops, many restaurants, and the lake. From across the lake we could see this grand castle standing tall. The scene took us back to glorious time of Danish monarchy.

This impressively beautiful Renaissance castle was built by Danish king Christian IV during 17^th century first decade as a royal residence. Now the castle is open for public as Danish Museum of National History. It has the largest collection of portrait paintings in Denmark. More than a museum, here you can also check out the castle’s state rooms as well as chapel to get a look into a royal’s life in the 17^th century Denmark.

We concluded the castle outing by hopping back on the train to take us back to Copenhagen. Based on our experience, I highly recommend a visit to the castles. Definitely worth your time and money. Have a royal day!