Kastellet

Fortress · Poul Ankers Gade

Kastellet

Fortress · Poul Ankers Gade

Gl. Hovedvagt, Kastellet 1, 2100 København, Denmark

Highlights

Kastellet is a beautifully preserved 17th-century star-shaped fortress turned serene park with ramparts, canals, a windmill, and great city views.

Gl. Hovedvagt, Kastellet 1, 2100 København, Denmark Get directions

kastellet.dk

@afar

"Better Than the Little Mermaid While the little mermaid is good for what she is, just about everyone who sees her finds her...well...small. It shouldn't be a surprise for something that is quite literally called the LITTLE mermaid, but somehow she often still disappoints. What makes the trip out to see her well worthwhile, however, is Kastellet, which is located immediately behind her. This star fortress dates back to the 1600s, still serves as an active military complex, and is one of the best preserved star fortresses left in Europe. No matter what time of year it is, a walk along the fortress's ramparts is well worth it. The views over the canals are gorgeous, and there are a number of old canons left lying about for photos. You'll also find one of Copenhagen 's only remaining windmills. Don't just explore the ramparts, also head down and look at the historic buildings that fill the interior of the fortress. With their brightly colored paint, tiny windows, and age-weary walls, they're perfect for a photo."

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Troy Windhorst

Google

We visited the exterior grounds of this historic fort. It appears to still be in operation on an administrative level. The park-like property is absolutely gorgeous and is meticulously maintained. It was a such a please to stroll around taking in the sites on a recent visit to Copenhagen.

Berkay

Google

Kastellet in Copenhagen is one of those places that feels like a peaceful escape right in the middle of the city. I wasn’t sure what to expect at first, but it turned out to be one of the most pleasant and memorable walks of my trip. The star-shaped fortress is beautifully preserved and surrounded by green spaces, canals, and well-maintained paths. Walking along the ramparts offers great views of both the city and the sea. It’s a great spot if you enjoy nature, history, or just a quiet stroll away from the busier tourist spots. The area is not only scenic but also full of charm — with red barracks, a picturesque windmill, and the lovely St. Alban’s Church nearby. Everything feels calm, clean, and safe. It’s hard to believe that a military site could feel this peaceful! I especially appreciated how locals use it as a jogging or walking route — it makes the place feel very alive and integrated into the community. It’s also free to enter, which is a bonus. If you're visiting Copenhagen and want a break from the usual attractions, Kastellet is definitely worth your time. It’s a perfect mix of history, beauty, and serenity.

웅냥냥

Google

You can ride a bicycle. There is a red building and the color is pretty. Since it is a fortress, weapons were also implemented. There is a trail that is really good for a walk. It is good for jogging. There are fish in the water surrounding the fortress. It's very cute.

Oto Stahl

Google

An amazing and interesting place full of history. They had a military parade training at the time we were there. Very nice place, also the surrounding was very nice, clean and tidy. Very recommended for all history, military, nature and Copenhagen fans.

Guilherme Cavalcante

Google

Good place for morning runs or late afternoon strolls. Unfortunately, you're not allowed to sit on the grass and do picnics but it's still a must in the city, offering nice views and a lovely environment

Claire WithLove

Google

If you are walking to see the Little Mermaid statue, it is worth walking through the Kastellet fort and park. It is interesting to see the outside of the buildings and visit the Eternal Flame for the Unknown Soldier and memorial wall for the soldiers who had given their lives in different wars. Even though you may not have known anyone, it was a good place to sit down and pray for all the soldiers and their families who have served to keep our countries safe and free.

Stefan Gheorghe

Google

Kastellet in Copenhagen is a historical treasure that offers a unique blend of history and tranquility. The well-preserved fortress, with its star-shaped design, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. During our visit, we were fortunate to witness performances by the Tivoli band and a Scottish pipes orchestra, which added a vibrant and festive atmosphere to the experience. The grounds are impeccably maintained, and the serene environment is complemented by the occasional sighting of local wildlife. Kastellet is not just a place to explore history but also to enjoy cultural events in a picturesque setting

Olivia Choi

Google

This was one of my favorite spots in cph. So peaceful and beautifully designed. There are so many benches and places to sit as well. It’s a great lookout spot to see some of the best views of cph. I came here for walks, runs, and picnics. Cph is known for its beautifully designed parks, and this is no exception.

David F.

Yelp

During my walk around here, I was a little disappointed, which might've been my fault. I was expecting a lot more military stuff than what I saw. Instead, as I came to find out, it was more like a park. First walking through the front gate, you are greeted by these two long rows of buildings that line the street. But, as you continue to walk around, that is all it really is. Nothing super exciting, and borderline boring. If you do visit, the main thing you should focus on is the walk along the walls. You get a nice view of the surrounding area. It is really cool to see the walls from on top, and you get to see the various fish in the moat surrounding the fort.

Kathy V.

Yelp

Really cool and a lil' different. We stopped at the fortress island as we walked along the harbor from the Little Mermaid statue back towards Amalienborg. A former fortress/citadel, built up in the shape of a star and surrounded by a moat. It is home to a very Scandinavian-looking church, a windmill, and houses, as well as other structures. There was some sort of military event happening on the day we walked through. It is a lovely and interesting little historical site! There is a path that circles (or, I guess, stars...) its way around the top that traces the shape of the lil' island. It is cool, it is free, it is interesting. Maybe you'll see a bit of a military band performance for something you don't know is going on. It is still in use for military activities and the narrow bridge across the water to the Kastellet is used for both visiting pedestrians and cars. Be aware and take care when crossing! I say it is worth a visit!

Donna B.

Yelp

While riding the Hop On Hop Off and looking for the Little Mermaid, I passed the Kastellet sign and had to check it out. I discovered a Kastellet, is a Citadel or fort. And that this particular one is one of the best preserved star fortresses in Northern Europe dating back to 1664. Inside the fort are several buildings, including a church, a windmill, and various military buildings- some that look like they are being turned into hostels. I entered from the northeast corner thru the Norway Gate and wondered the grounds and worked my way to the main gate called the King's Gate- be careful here as there are some working military buildings here and the cars don't seem to slow down for pedestrians. Here there were steps that lead up to the ramparts where you could walk the entire fort and check out it and the surrounding moat. Free entrance. Out the Norway Gate and turn left you will find the Little Mermaid.

Corey C.

Yelp

Hmm. S'ok. Seems we missed the point of visiting this place, other than seeing barracks and a star shaped military installment. I actually feel like a dumb American even typing out this mediocre review but when there is so much else to see and do around town and country I can't see why this is a "must" on any Copenhagen list. Thankful on behalf of the nation past and present for the defense represented here...but otherwise, meh. I am certain someone will word-smack me upside the head for this post; I kinda want to smack myself!

Cindy L.

Yelp

Walking through this place, it won't make sense to you unless you read about it in the books first and we brought our guide book so we read through it and then walked through this fortress. This fortress is shaped of a star, so you can walk in many different directions and you can see beautiful lakes, ponds, windmills and beautiful hills. We enjoyed it because it wasn't too crowded and it was actually peaceful. We even went into the church nearby. Such a nice little stop with so much history behind it.

Matthew F.

Yelp

This site of a former 5-pointed fortress is another oasis of calm in Copenhagen. There's not a whole lot to "do," necessarily, but that's kind of the point. Take the hand of your beloved one, stroll around the perimeter, and enjoy the views of water and windmill. Pair it with Designmuseum, Amalienborg Palace and Frederiks Kirke, and you have a satisfying and memorable afternoon.

Katy M.

Yelp

Pretty amazing example of "how'd they do that then?!?" Huge earthen works star fort from back in the day ... medieval pre-motorized days, that is. Amazing how they moved all the earth to make these pretty tall ramparts, etc. Extra coolness because the Danish military is STILL using it,with actual military presence all around. Very green, verdant, we'll maintained paths atop the ramparts, an actual windmill, a scattering of old canons. Also great IG backdrops for those so inclined. Kudos to Denmark & its military!

Paul L.

Yelp

Great place to stop by after your immeasurable disappointment with the Little Mermaid statue. Kastellet is a military fortress on a star shaped "island," but think of it more like a park. It's a very pleasant walk where you'll see interesting buildings, a windmill, and the surrounding water.

Cathy Z.

Yelp

I saw a lot of tour buses pulling in to Kastellet just to see the Little Mermaid statue, which made me sad because the "island" is a beautiful, calm place to spend an afternoon in its own right. There are a lot of hidden gems around Kastellet, including a windmill, a quaint little stone church, a beautiful fountain depicting the founding myth of Denmark, and a moving monument to Danish soldiers killed in peacekeeping missions. While you're exploring I would definitely recommend stopping at the ice cream stand to purchase a soft ice dipped in cocoa--the best bite I had in Denmark! My only complaint is that there could be better signage; since it is a fortress, after all, there's only one way to get in and out of it, so I spent about 30 minutes wandering around lost. At least I had the ice cream to fortify me!

Chantelle T.

Yelp

My favorite part of this is how the water is shaped into a star! Again, just happened to stumble upon the after visiting the little Mermaid. This attraction makes for a beautiful leisurely walk taking in the sights of 8 other attractions. It's a surprisingly short walk along the water! I think it's the perfect spot for a tourist in a rush- just follow the track and you'll hit up the hotspots! I almost wish some of the signage was in English or at least provided better direction (check my reviews, I've 'stumbled' upon the vast majority of them) but in this instance I've not been lost once and the sense of discovery has fed my adventurous spirit. I plan on returning tomorrow because its just a fun walk but will walk I'm a different direction just to see where I end up. Definitely worth checking out if you're in Copenhagen!

Kim N.

Yelp

A very cool old fort area, whose grounds are shaped in a large star. This is right next to Gronbech and Churchill where we had lunch. We walked the old stones and bridges and also caught some of the military personnel moving in and out. It also borders Churchill Park and is a hop away from the Little Mermaid statue by the water. If you're in the area dont miss out, it's a cool preservation of Danish military history

Val L.

Yelp

This places got my attention because of its pentagram form. It used to be a fortress but now it is very cool park. It is really nice just to walk around the places and check how a fortress looks like. On the east side you will find a beautiful windmill. There is also a church on the grounds. There is a changing of the guard ceremony at the Central Guard House every day at 12.00, don't miss it! =)

Cathy C.

Yelp

We were walking to The Little Mermaid and passed by here. It was quite a trek but we saw beautiful things along the way. There was a windmill, a gate, cannons and sculptures. This was an old fort. There's a church next to Gefion Fountain. I wouldn't recommend walking to The Little Mermaid like we did if you have time restraints or you don't like walking too much.

Leo M.

Yelp

Very enjoyable...so long as you understand that it is basically a fortress shaped park. Highlights include grassy banks and a windmill not weapons and armor. In particular, it is NOT one of those places (like Fort Ticonderoga) where you can find exhibits explaining the armaments of the day and the battles and wars fought around the time of it's use. Or a gift shop and cafe for that matter. But it is one of the many waterfront attractions - along with the nearby Gefion Fountain and St Alban's Church - that make a visit to The Little Mermaid sculpture worthwhile.

Sanita O.

Yelp

A wonderful place for taking a walk, especially if you like old fortresses and the weather is fine. There is also a monument for the fallen Danish soldiers (during peacekeeping missions). It's quite new - built in 2011.

Andrea W.

Yelp

The castle area itself isn't the most impressive, but since it's near the Little a Mermaid statue, it's worth taking a look. I wouldn't go out of my way to come here, but if you're in the area or if it's on your way to somewhere else, make a stop!

Qype User (neuki…)

Yelp

This former citadel is now a quiet spot for a walk or a jog along the fortification walls. Because it's so close to the Little Mermaid statue, it's a nice way to return to the east end of the city if you're making a walking tour of the sites.

Daniel A.

Yelp

Great to see how an old fort is constructed. The star shape island was constructed in the late 1600s and is WELL preserved. You can really see how it was used and defended in the past. There is a memorial inside and it's a very relaxing area to spend the afternoon. It currently acts as a public park as well as housing military. Definitely a great place to stop by and

Katie N.

Yelp

Walking in, it was hard to believe that this was a military fortress. It just seemed like a little village or something. But goodness, was it ever lovely! It's so nice to just sit down on one of the benches near the church and read. Or wander around to see the various buildings.