Copenhagen Castles & Roskilde Day Trip with Small Group

Summary

Royal castles Viking tales and Roskilde’s quiet streets in one day

You’ll walk through centuries at Roskilde Cathedral, touch Viking history, eat lunch your way at Frederiksborg Castle, and stand where Hamlet might’ve brooded in Kronborg—all with a small group and local guide who brings Denmark’s past alive around you.

What’s the experience like?

We started out from Copenhagen with our guide, Mads—he had that dry Danish humor that sneaks up on you. The minivan was actually comfortable (and yes, the WiFi worked), which I didn’t expect. First stop: Roskilde. The cathedral just sort of rises out of the old town, red brick against grey sky. Mads explained how so many Danish royals are buried there—I tried to picture all those centuries layered in one place. Inside, it was cool and smelled faintly of stone and old wood polish. I heard someone humming near the altar, just for a second.

After that we got a quick taste of Viking history—there’s something about seeing those ships up close that makes you realize how much guts it took to cross the sea back then. Lunch was unstructured; some people wandered off for smørrebrød, but I sat outside Frederiksborg Castle with my sandwich, watching the lake ripple under low clouds. You get over two hours here, so there’s time to wander through the halls or just sit by the water if your feet get tired (mine did). I kept thinking about how different this is from city tours—no rush, no loud crowds.

Kronborg Castle was last—Hamlet’s castle, though honestly it felt more real than any play. Our driver-guide led us through echoing stone corridors and pointed out where Shakespeare set his scenes. I tried to say “Elsinore” like a Dane and failed; Mads laughed and said at least I tried. The wind picked up on the ramparts—sea air mixed with something floral from the nearby gardens. By then my legs were sore but my head was full of stories. We drove back as dusk fell, everyone a little quieter than before.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit castles and historic sites

• See Roskilde Cathedral outside
• Explore Viking history museum
• Tour Frederiksborg Castle and lunch
• Visit Kronborg Castle and learn Hamlet

Top questions

How long is the Copenhagen castles & Roskilde day trip?

The tour lasts a full day and covers several sites outside Copenhagen including Roskilde Cathedral, Frederiksborg Castle, and Kronborg Castle.

Is hotel pickup included for this Copenhagen day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for hotels in central Copenhagen.

Are entry fees covered on this tour?

All entrance fees are included in the price of the tour.

How many people are in each group?

The group size is capped at 16 people or fewer for a more personal experience.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No set lunch is provided but there is time to buy your own lunch at Frederiksborg Castle.

Are guides English speaking?

Yes, your guide will speak English and share stories about each site.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?

No, due to walking distances and stairs it isn’t recommended for those with mobility problems.

What attractions are visited on this Copenhagen day trip?

The itinerary includes Roskilde Cathedral (outside only Nov–Mar), Viking history sites, Frederiksborg Castle, and Kronborg Castle.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off within central Copenhagen, entry tickets to all castles and museums (so no extra costs), bottled water on board, WiFi in the minivan, plus an English-speaking guide who keeps things lively—and plenty of free time for lunch or wandering as you like before heading back together in the evening.