Battle Of Copenhagen

Battle of Copenhagen Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Battle of Copenhagen marks a defining moment in Denmark’s and Europe’s naval history, with two pivotal conflicts in 1801 and 1807 during the Napoleonic Wars. These battles shaped the geopolitical landscape of Northern Europe and left a lasting imprint on Copenhagen’s architecture, culture, and collective memory. Today, the city’s star-shaped fortresses, immersive museums, and historic harborfronts offer visitors rich opportunities to explore this legacy. Whether you are a dedicated history enthusiast or a curious traveler, this guide provides comprehensive information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and recommended itineraries for the Battle of Copenhagen’s most significant sites.

Highlights include the panoramic ramparts of Kastellet, the engaging exhibits at the Danish War Museum, and the atmospheric Trekroner Sea Fortress. You’ll also find practical advice on transportation, guided tours in English, and family-friendly activities. Enhance your visit with multimedia resources and audio guides via apps like Audiala, and look out for commemorative events each April. Embark on an immersive journey through Copenhagen’s fortifications, museums, and harborfronts to discover how the Battle of Copenhagen shaped Denmark’s national story and European naval history (Visit Copenhagen, Audiala, Orlogsmuseet.dk).

Battle of Copenhagen 1801 seen from Vor Frues Kirke tower showing ships, forts Trekroner and Lynetten, burning flagship Dannebrog

Sketch illustrating the Battle of Copenhagen in 1801, depicting naval ships and combat scene

Battle of Copenhagen 1801 painting by William Sadler

British political cartoon titled John Bull in Sweden or the approach of the extinguisher depicting Napoleon

Painting of a naval battle scene with ships and smoke on water

Painting of the Battle of Copenhagen April 1801

Painting of the Battle of Copenhagen April 1801 showing naval combat scene

Colored etching broadside depicting the Battle of Copenhagen 1801 with map of Danish coastline and naval battle view

First letter from Nelson to the Danish government during the Battle of Copenhagen 1801

Naval Battle of Copenhagen 1801 with warships in combat

Naval Battle of Copenhagen 1801 with ships engaged in combat on the sea

Horse artillery in action at the Battle of Copenhagen, 2 April 1801

Battle of Copenhagen April 2 1801 naval battle painting

Historical naval battle scene near Copenhagen on April 2, 1801

Painting depicting the Battle of Copenhagen 1801 with naval ships engaged in combat

Map of the Øresund Strait in 1801 showing surrounding regions and maritime routes

British fleet forcing the passage of the Sound near Kronborg Castle on 30 March 1801, with the ships Monarch and Elephant leading and Admiral Nelson flying his flag

The Battle of Copenhagen, 2 April 1801, naval battle painting by Nicholas Pocock

The Battle of Copenhagen April 2 1801 naval battle painting

Battle of Copenhagen Naval Battle on the Rheden April 2 1801

English attack plan of the Battle of Copenhagen

Historical painting of the Battle of Copenhagen by Nicholas Pocock depicting British bomb vessels and Danish ships in line of battle formation with Copenhagen city in the background

Historical illustration of the bombardment of Copenhagen

Bombardment of Copenhagen, historical illustration side 2

The Battle of Copenhagen, 2 April 1801, naval warfare scene with ships exchanging fire

Historical handwritten letter by Admiral Nelson to Danish government during 1801 Battle of Copenhagen

Porcelain bowl with painting of the Battle of Copenhagen, April 2, 1801

Painting of Crown Prince Frederik at Slaget på Reden surrounded by his staff with sunlight hitting a white flag

Introduction
Historical and Cultural Context of the Battle of Copenhagen
The Battle’s Place in Danish and European History
Key Battle of Copenhagen Sites: History, Visiting Hours, and Tickets
Kastellet (The Citadel)
Royal Danish Naval Museum
Nyhavn and the Harborfront
Christiansborg Palace and Slotsholmen
Additional Historical Sites and Museums
Trekroner Sea Fortress
Danish War Museum
National Museum of Denmark
Rosenborg Castle
Visitor Information and Practical Tips
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Accessibility
Guided Tours and Special Events
Getting Around Copenhagen’s Historical Sites
Food and Drink
Visuals and Multimedia Enhancements
Local Traditions and Commemorations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion
Sources

Historical and Cultural Context

The Battle’s Significance

The Battle of Copenhagen refers to two major naval engagements during the Napoleonic Wars: the first in 1801 and the second, more destructive, in 1807. In 1801, Admiral Horatio Nelson led the British Royal Navy against the Danish fleet to prevent Denmark from joining Napoleon’s coalition. The 1807 battle involved a British bombardment of Copenhagen to capture the Danish fleet, resulting in civilian casualties and significant damage to the city (nbi.dk, encyclopedia.com).

These battles shifted Denmark’s role in European affairs, steering the nation toward neutrality and cultural development. The trauma of the 1807 siege and subsequent reconstruction fostered Copenhagen’s spirit of resilience and innovation.

Key Battle of Copenhagen Sites: History, Visiting Hours, and Tickets

Kastellet (The Citadel)

Historical Role:
Kastellet is one of Northern Europe’s best-preserved star fortresses and played a strategic defensive role in both battles. Built between 1626 and 1664, its ramparts and bastions exemplify Renaissance military engineering (Audiala).

Visitor Information:

Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Admission: Free; guided tours may require tickets.
Highlights: Walking the ramparts, exploring the windmill, church, and memorials, attending seasonal events.
Accessibility: Mostly accessible, though some terrain is uneven.

Official website: kastellet.dk

Trekroner Sea Fortress

Historical Significance:
Trekroner stands at Copenhagen’s harbor entrance and directly engaged the British fleet in both 1801 and 1807. Its strategic location and artillery coverage were vital to the city’s defense (Visit Copenhagen).

Visitor Information:

Access: By seasonal ferry from central Copenhagen.
Opening Hours: Late spring to early autumn; check schedules.
Tickets: Ferry ticket includes entry; advance booking recommended.
Experience: Casemate exhibitions, films on the battle, panoramic harbor views.

Danish War Museum

Military Heritage:
Located in Christian IV’s Arsenal, this museum presents Denmark’s military history, with artifacts and displays focusing on the Battle of Copenhagen and naval warfare (Visit Copenhagen).

Visitor Information:

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Tickets: Approx. 100 DKK (~13 USD) for adults; discounts for concessions.
Highlights: Weaponry, models, interactive exhibits, guided tours.

National Museum of Denmark

Relevance:
The National Museum covers Denmark’s military and civic history, including the Napoleonic era and the effects of the British attacks (Visit Copenhagen).

Visitor Information:

Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Tickets: Around 120 DKK (~16 USD) for adults; free for children under 18.
Features: Artifacts, documents, interactive family trails, audio guides.

Royal Danish Naval Museum

Focus:
Exhibits on naval strategy, ship models, and personal stories from the battles.
Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Tickets: Adults 60 DKK; children under 18 free (Orlogsmuseet.dk).

Rosenborg Castle

Royal Connections:
Built by Christian IV, the castle holds the Danish crown jewels and artifacts from the Napoleonic era (Visit Copenhagen).
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Tickets: Check official site for updated prices.

Christiansborg Palace and Slotsholmen

Political Importance:
Center of Danish government during the battles.
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Tickets: Adults 160 DKK; children under 18 free (Christiansborg.dk).

Nyhavn and the Harborfront

Once a bustling port, Nyhavn’s historic quays and colorful buildings offer context on Copenhagen’s maritime past. Guided tours of the area are available year-round (PlanetWare).

Practical Visitor Information

Getting Around

Copenhagen’s compact city center, efficient public transport, and bike-friendly infrastructure make visiting historical sites easy. The Copenhagen Card covers unlimited transport and entry to many museums (Visit Copenhagen).

Accessibility

Most major sites offer ramps and accessible facilities, though some historic buildings may have uneven terrain. Check official websites for detailed accessibility information.

Tickets & Passes

Kastellet: Free entry.
Trekroner: Ferry ticket includes fortress entry.
Museums: Tickets available online and on-site; Copenhagen Card offers combined access.

Guided Tours

English-language walking, cycling, and boat tours are available, typically lasting 2–3 hours. Self-guided audio tours can be downloaded via the Audiala app (Audiala).

Enhancing Your Visit

Family-Friendly Activities: Museums offer interactive exhibits, family trails, and occasional historical reenactments.
Food & Drink: Try traditional Danish dishes at cafés near Nyhavn or city center. Many sites have on-site or nearby dining options (The Travelers Planet).
Photography: Permitted in most locations, but check for restrictions in museums.

Local Traditions and Commemorations

Annual Events: Special exhibitions, guided walks, and lectures are held around the battle’s anniversary in early April (phoenixcopenhagen.com).
Living History: Plaques, preserved fortifications, and period cannons along the waterfront serve as daily reminders of the battles.

Visuals and Multimedia

Virtual Tours: Many museums offer online tours and high-quality imagery.
On-site Multimedia: Interactive screens and augmented reality apps, including Audiala, provide immersive historical experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the visiting hours for key sites?
A: Kastellet: 6:00 AM–10:00 PM; Museums: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (check each site for details).

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Yes, at most sites and through independent tour companies.

Q: Are the sites wheelchair accessible?
A: Major museums and Christiansborg Palace are fully accessible; some historic fortifications may have uneven terrain.

Q: Can I buy combined tickets?
A: The Copenhagen Card covers transport and admission to many attractions.

Q: Is English spoken at the sites?
A: Yes, and many museums offer multilingual guides and audio tours.

Travel Tips

Visit major sites early to avoid crowds.
Combine Kastellet, Danish War Museum, and Amalienborg for an efficient day trip.
Check for special events or reenactments, especially around April.
Dress for variable weather and wear comfortable shoes.
Use public transport or bicycles for easy access and sustainability (Audiala).

Sustainability & Responsible Tourism

Copenhagen is a leader in sustainable tourism. Use public transport, rent a bike, and support local businesses at museum shops and cafés (Audiala).

Summary Table: Key Sites

Site	Relevance	Visitor Highlights	Link
Kastellet (Citadel)	Star fortress, defense in both battles	Ramparts, windmill, memorials	Audiala
Trekroner Sea Fortress	Harbor defense, saw direct combat	Casemates, exhibitions, harbor views	Visit Copenhagen
Danish War Museum	Military history, battle artifacts	Weapons, models, interactive tours	Visit Copenhagen
National Museum of Denmark	Broader historical context	Exhibits, audio guides, family trails	Visit Copenhagen
Royal Danish Naval Museum	Naval history, ship models	Exhibits, guided tours	Orlogsmuseet.dk
Rosenborg Castle	Royal artifacts, crown jewels	Castle tours, gardens, treasury	Visit Copenhagen
Christiansborg Palace	Political center during Napoleonic Wars	Reception rooms, ruins, stables	Christiansborg.dk

Conclusion

Exploring the Battle of Copenhagen’s sites connects you with Denmark’s dramatic past and enduring spirit. From star-shaped fortresses and atmospheric sea fortresses to immersive museums and royal palaces, each site tells a unique story of resilience and transformation. Plan your trip using this guide for up-to-date visiting hours, ticketing, and travel tips. For the latest updates, audio guides, and special events, consult official resources and apps like Audiala. Experience the living legacy of the Battle of Copenhagen and discover the vibrant city that rose from its ashes.

Sources

Discover the Battle of Copenhagen: A Historical Landmark and Visitor Experience, 2025, Visit Copenhagen (Visit Copenhagen)
Battle of Copenhagen Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Key Historical Sites to Explore, 2025, Audiala and Visit Copenhagen (Visit Copenhagen)
Battle of Copenhagen Visiting Hours, Tickets & Travel Guide to Copenhagen Historical Sites, 2025, Audiala (Audiala)
Visiting the Battle of Copenhagen Sites: History, Tickets, and Travel Tips, 2025, Royal Danish Naval Museum and Local Sources (Orlogsmuseet.dk)
Historical Context and Cultural Insights, 2025, nbi.dk and encyclopedia.com (nbi.dk, encyclopedia.com)
Trekroner Sea Fortress (Visit Copenhagen)
Danish War Museum (Visit Copenhagen)
Rosenborg Castle (Visit Copenhagen)
Amalienborg Palace (VisitDenmark)
Travel and practical tips (Travellers Worldwide), (Freetoursbyfoot), (The Travelers Planet), (ESOC2025), (wander-lush.org), (phoenixcopenhagen.com), (PlanetWare)