Tourist Guide for Helsingor, Denmark – Castles, Shopping and Food
I am a castle freak. No. I mean I spend inordinate amounts of money traveling to various places just to see specific castles. One of my favorites is Kronborg Slott in Helsingor, Denmark. Luckily, Helsingor is a short 20 minute ferry ride on Scandilines from Helsingborg, Sweden… which is very close to my house. The magic begins as the city comes into view while crossing the Oresund. What a spectacular sight this small sea-side village is. the castle sits right on the edge, and atop a hill. Breathtaking.
When you exit the ferry terminal out into the street, you feel like you have stepped back in time. The old trains are a sight to see all by themselves. Do be cautious of the buses. They run fairly frequently. Luckily there are numerous marked places to cross the streets in Helsingor. Hang a right and head to Kronborg first. Everything else will be waiting for you when you get done, but Kronborg closes earlier compared to the shops and restaurants.
Kronborg is the castle where the Shakespearian play Hamlet is set. Even though ol’ William never stepped foot on Danish soil, he describes this castle to perfection. If you come during the summer, check their website. They put on the play in the castle courtyard a few times per season and you will want to catch that if you can. Even if you miss the play, you will see some of the outfits they use up in the Royal Suites part of the castle. It is the equivalent of about 15 US bucks to buy a ticket to the whole castle, but you can pick and choose which areas you want to go through for less. I suggest the Royal Suites, the Dungeon, and the Cathedral. unless you are just really into shipping history, then go ahead and do the Maritime Museum section also. Do be warned, though, that the stairs are steep and winding. Wheelchairs and strollers are not allowed. You can leave them in the excellent gift shop though if you can make it up without them.
On the castle grounds, but outside the castle proper, is a small cafe. You can leave in the middle of ogling the finery of the castle and go grab a bite there. I highly suggest you do. The food there is mmm mmm good. A typical Lunch Special is around 12US and just to die for with things like scrambled eggs, bacon, blueberry pancakes Danish-style, various fruits and deserts… listen. Just order it. I’m getting hungry for it just typing this.
After you have finished with the castle (about 3 hours later), wander back the way you came a bit. When you get near the depot again, go up one of those side streets. Any of them will do, and you can only go one direction. Oh my my what have we here! Shopping heaven. Every little cobblestone street is lined with irresistible shops selling just about anything you could possibly want. You will find everything from fabulous tourist schlock to upscale Danish designer boutiques.
The buildings are preserved historical, and the sidewalks are lined with temptations everywhere you look. It is like a big ol’ swap meet in the street. Speckled in between the clothing are numerous eateries where you can dine inside to get out of the heat, or outside to people watch. This is where you will find some of the best pastries Denmark has to offer. Helsingor knows it thrives on the tourist trade so the city does everything they can to make sure you do not leave disappointed.
While walking down the apparent main drag of all these little streets, you will reach a point where you think it all ends. No. Glance just around the next corner there. Why yes, that is a mall. Weee doggie we hit the gold mine! My favorite shop inside that mall is H&M;, which is actually a Swedish company, but for some reason I find better deals here in Helsingor than on home turf. They frequently have 70% off racks which make me feel like a kid in a candy store. I never leave empty handed.
Also, while you are wandering around trying to escape with a little cash left, do take the time to look around you. Sculptures and statues are abundant. the Danish are an artistic lot, so you should be able to grab some great snapshots.
The language in Helsingor is of course Danish, but you will find that most Scandinavians are multi-lingual so don’t be afraid to ask if they speak English. Chances are great that they do. Most of the shops will be happy to take many different currencies, too. The Denmark Kronor is preferred, naturally, but you can also use your Euros or Swedish Kronor if need be.
While I wouldn’t plan an entire vacation around Helsingor, Denmark, it is a day trip that you will not want to leave off your larger itinerary. I did not even begin to touch everything in this great little town. There are several more castles, museums galore, galleries, and tons of beautiful parks and gardens. Make plans to spend the entire day, and even maybe stay at one of the historical hotels. You will be glad you did.
