Hillerød Travel Guide
Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local customs in Hillerød, Denmark with this travel guide. Plan your trip, learn about the culture, and explore the city's hidden gems.
- Introduction to Hillerød
- List of Places to Visit in Hillerød
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Hillerød
- Grib Forest
- The Esrum Lake Loop
- Best Things to Do in Hillerød: Activities and Tours
- Frederiksborg Castle Boat Tour
- Cultural Walking Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Hillerød
- Food and Drink Scene of Hillerød
- Where to Stay in Hillerød: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Hillerød: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Hillerød
- Best Time to Visit Hillerød
- Do’s and Don’ts of Hillerød
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Hillerød: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Hillerød
- Where to Go Next from Hillerød: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Hillerød
Located in North Zealand, Denmark, Hillerød is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a blend of stunning natural scenery, cultural attractions, and rich history. The city is surrounded by lakes and beautiful forests, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. Moreover, Hillerød is home to one of the most impressive Renaissance castles in Northern Europe, the Frederiksborg Castle. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through a list of must-visit places in Hillerød, best things to do, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health tips, and logistics.
List of Places to Visit in Hillerød
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Frederiksborg Castle
Frederiksborg Castle is a magnificent Renaissance castle built in the early 1600s by King Christian IV. The castle is located on three islets in the middle of a lake and is surrounded by a beautiful baroque garden. Visitors can explore the grand halls and chambers, view the impressive art collection, and learn about Danish history in the National History Museum.
Hillerød Old Town
Hillerød Old Town is a quaint district with traditional Danish architecture that dates back to the 17th century. The cobbled streets and narrow alleys are lined with charming shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Visitors can stroll around the picturesque market square and admire the well-preserved buildings such as the Town Hall and the St. John’s Church.
The Danish Museum of Science and Technology
The Danish Museum of Science and Technology is an interactive museum that showcases the latest technological advancements and innovations. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits on topics such as space exploration, sustainable energy, and transportation. The museum is perfect for families with children and science enthusiasts.
Natural Attractions of Hillerød: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Store Dyrehave
Store Dyrehave is a large forest and recreational area that is perfect for hiking, cycling, and picnicking. The forest is home to more than 2000 deer, making it a popular spot for wildlife watching. Visitors can also explore the different hiking trails and admire the stunning views of the landscape.
Lake Esrum
Lake Esrum is the second-largest lake in Denmark and is a popular spot for water activities such as kayaking and fishing. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing boat trip around the lake and take in the beautiful surroundings. The lake area is also home to several cultural attractions such as the Esrum Abbey and the Hunting Lodge, which are worth a visit.
Gribskov
Gribskov is Denmark’s fourth-largest forest, covering an area of more than 5,000 hectares. The forest is home to various hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and horseback riding paths. The forest’s diverse birdlife and rare plants make it a popular spot for nature lovers.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Hillerød
Grib Forest
The Gribskov forest has several trails that are perfect for hiking and biking. The trails can be accessed from multiple locations, such as Grib Skov, Grib Forest South, and Grib Forest North. Visitors can explore the forest’s serene landscapes, crystal clear streams, and hidden waterfalls.
The Esrum Lake Loop
The Esrum Lake loop is a beautiful 20 km hiking and cycling trail that begins and ends at the North Zealand’s Vedbaek Harbour. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the lake, centuries-old forests, and several historical landmarks such as the Karen Blixen Museum and the Fredensborg Palace.
Best Things to Do in Hillerød: Activities and Tours
Frederiksborg Castle Boat Tour
The Frederiksborg Castle boat tour is a popular activity for visitors who want to explore the castle and lake surroundings. The tour is available from April to October, and visitors can see the castle from a unique perspective while enjoying a leisurely boat ride.
Cultural Walking Tours
Hillerød offers several cultural walking tours that explore the city’s history, architecture, and culture. Visitors can explore the city’s medieval district, Hillerød Old Town, and learn about the city’s past and present.
Week-Long Itinerary for Hillerød
Day 1: Frederiksborg Castle and the National History Museum
Day 2: Strolling around Hillerød Old Town and the market square
Day 3: Hiking in Grib Forest
Day 4: Visiting the Danish Museum of Science and Technology
Day 5: Exploring Store Dyrehave
Day 6: Cycling around Lake Esrum
Day 7: Relaxing at the local spa or exploring nearby towns like Helsingør and Copenhagen.
Food and Drink Scene of Hillerød
Must-Try Dishes
One of the must-try dishes in Hillerød is the famous Danish Smørrebrød, a traditional open-faced sandwich topped with fish, meats, or vegetables. Another popular dish is the Flæskesteg, a roast pork dish served with potatoes and cabbage.
Local Beverages
Denmark is known for its excellent beers, and Hillerød is no exception. Visitors can try locally brewed beer at the Hillerød Brewery. Mead, an alcoholic beverage made with honey, is also a popular drink in Hillerød. Visitors can try different varieties of mead at the local meadery, Dansk Mjød.
Where to Stay in Hillerød: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Hillerød has several accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels such as the Comwell Sorø or budget-friendly guesthouses like the Hillerød Camping and Cottages.
What to Buy in Hillerød: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Visitors can buy souvenirs such as Danish ceramics, glassware, and traditional Danish wooden toys. Local food products like honey, cheeses, and smoked salmon are also popular souvenirs.
Local Culture and Customs of Hillerød
Denmark has a unique culture and customs that visitors should be aware of when visiting Hillerød. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are expected to behave respectfully. Tipping is not mandatory, although it’s common practice to round up the bill for good service.
Best Time to Visit Hillerød
The best time to visit Hillerød is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and pleasant. May and September are also good months to visit, with fewer crowds and mild temperatures.
Do’s and Don’ts of Hillerød
Do:
- Learn a few Danish phrases to communicate with locals
- Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home
- Try the local cuisine and drinks
- Respect the environment, wildlife, and historical landmarks
Don’t:
- Be late for appointments
- Smoke in public places
- Touch exhibits in museums and cultural attractions
- Start eating until everyone is at the table
Safety and Health
Safety in Hillerød
Hillerød is a safe city, and visitors can explore the city without any major concerns. However, visitors should take normal precautions against theft and pickpocketing, particularly in crowded areas.
Health in Hillerød
Visitors are advised to get travel health insurance and visit their healthcare provider before traveling to Hillerød. Denmark’s healthcare system is excellent, but medical costs can be high for visitors without insurance.
Getting to Hillerød: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Hillerød
Copenhagen Airport is the closest airport to Hillerød, located about 45 km away. The airport is well-connected with major international cities, and visitors can easily reach Hillerød by train or bus.
Bus Stations Near Hillerød
Hillerød has a bus terminal located in the city center. Visitors can take a bus to nearby cities like Helsingør, Frederiksværk, and Copenhagen.
Other Options
Visitors can also reach Hillerød by train, car, or bike. Hillerød has a well-connected train station that connects the city with other major cities in Denmark.
How to Get Around in Hillerød
Hillerød is a small city, and visitors can quickly move around on foot, by bike, or using public transportation. Buses and trains are the most common modes of transportation in Hillerød and nearby areas.
Where to Go Next from Hillerød: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Helsingør
Helsingør is a beautiful coastal town located about 18 km from Hillerød. The town is famous for the Kronborg Castle, known as the “Hamlet Castle,” and stunning beaches. Visitors can explore the charming town center and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.
The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Located about 40 km from Hillerød, the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is one of Denmark’s most visited museums. The museum features a collection of contemporary art and hosts several exhibitions throughout the year.
Conclusion
Hillerød is a hidden gem in Denmark and offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, culture, and history. Visitors can explore the stunning Frederiksborg castle, hike in the forest, and try local delicacies. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Hillerød, and you have an unforgettable experience exploring the city’s hidden treasures.
