The park was designed by gardener Hans Henrik Thuaux in the early 1700s and later remodeled by Peter Petersen in the Romantic style.
The Chinese Pavilion, constructed in 1799, is one of the park's most iconic follies and a hallmark of the Romantic era's fascination with Chinoiserie.
The park features a dedicated 'Hermit's Hut,' a wooden structure built to mimic the retreat of a recluse, common in 18th-century garden design.
A portion of the park's western edge directly borders the Copenhagen Zoo, allowing walkers to catch glimpses of elephants and other animals.
The park contains the Apis Temple, a small, neo-classical structure erected in 1802.
Many of the park’s canals were designed to mimic natural river flows, though they are fed by the surrounding drainage systems.
The palace itself, overlooking the gardens, was modeled after the Italian villas of the period.
Frederiksberg Have is an expansive 18th-century Romantic-style landscape garden located in the heart of Copenhagen. Originally designed for King Frederik IV, the park features winding canals, artificial islands, and cascading waterfalls. The grounds are physically connected to the Frederiksberg Palace, which currently serves as the Royal Danish Military Academy. Visitors can view the neighboring Copenhagen Zoo from within the park grounds, specifically near the elephant enclosure. The layout incorporates mature trees, open lawns, and sheltered groves, reflecting the European English-style park movement of the 1800s. Several bridges and follies are scattered throughout the park to create intentional visual perspectives.
The wooden bridge overlooking the Chinese Pavilion with the reflection in the canal.
Bring a picnic blanket, as the large lawns are designated for public use and are popular with locals.
Rent a small boat at the entrance if you wish to explore the canal system from the water.
Look for the wooden platform near the zoo fence for the best chance of spotting elephants.
Do not attempt to feed animals if you approach the zoo perimeter fence, as it is prohibited and dangerous.
The park generally remains open year-round, though specific palace areas may have restricted access due to the Royal Danish Military Academy's operations.
No cycling on the pathways; maintain quiet near the palace and royal areas.
