Ruins under Christiansborg Palace Tours

As the seat of the Danish government, Christiansborg Palace is one of Copenhagen’s most important landmarks; but it also hides a secret. The palace sits on the ruins of two earlier castles, the eldest being 800 years old. Deep below the palace lies a maze of atmospheric ruins that transport visitors back to medieval Copenhagen.

The Basics
A video and information boards explain the history of the meandering passageways and details the backstory of Christiansborg Palace, which is included on many walking and cycling tours of the city. A single ticket gives you access to Christiansborg Palace’s Royal Reception Rooms, the Royal Kitchen, the Ruins, and the Royal Stables—although you can buy a single ticket just for the Ruins if that’s all you want to see.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Ruins Under Christiansborg is a must-visit for those interested in Danish history.
• The ruins can only be reached by stairs and passages are narrow
• Admission to the Ruins is included with a Copenhagen Card, which gives you discounted access to many other top Copenhagen attractions.
• Children under 18 get free admission, while students (with ID) receive a discount.

How to Get There
On the island of Slotsholmen, Christiansborg Palace is within walking distance of other attractions including the National Museum of Denmark. It’s a 15-minute walk from Copenhagen Central railway station, or 5 minutes of bus numbers 1A, 2A, or 5A.

When to Get There
Ruins Under Christiansborg is open every day from 10am to 5pm, from May to September. Between October and April it is closed on Mondays. Free guided tours in English take place on Saturdays at 12pm.

Christiansborg Palace
When visiting the Ruins Under Christiansborg palace, be sure to make time to explore above ground too. You can visit the Throne Room, where the Queen receives guests and Danish monarchs are crowned; the richly-decorated Queen’s Library, which houses the Queen’s personal book collection; the Great Hall, where a series of tapestries chronicle 1,000 years of Danish history; and the Royal Stables.