Kastellet is a 17th-century star-shaped (pentagonal) fortress beside Copenhagen's harbour, with five bastions, a moat and grassy ramparts preserved almost intact — one of the best-preserved star fortresses in Northern Europe. Begun in 1626 under Christian IV and completed in its present star form in the 1660s by the Dutch engineer Henrik Rüse, it is known for its rows of red barracks and a still-working windmill. In 2026 it remains both an active military installation under the Ministry of Defence and a free, publicly open park, with the rampart walk open daily. Paired with the neighbouring Little Mermaid statue and Gefion Fountain, it makes a calm, easy stroll.
The star-shaped rampart walk (voldene) — a full loop along the moat with views over the harbour and city
Kastelsmøllen, the 1847 windmill on the King's Bastion — the last still-working rampart mill in Copenhagen
Kastelskirken (1704), a Baroque church still used for services, with curious sound-holes once linked to the prison cells
The red-and-ochre barracks known as 'The Rows' and the Commander's House — 17th-18th-century military architecture kept largely intact
The noon changing of the guard, plus the nearby Little Mermaid and Gefion Fountain, which flow naturally into the fortress walk
Good to know
RulesThis is an active military site. Follow all signage and stay on the public roads, paths and ramparts only. Entering marked military buildings is not allowed, drones are prohibited (since 2021), and commercial photography or filming needs prior permission.
SafetyThe ramparts are grassy, sloped and often unrailed, with the moat close by. Watch your footing when wet or frosty, and keep a close eye on children near the water.
CautionPickpockets work the crowds around the Little Mermaid and Langelinie and on public transport. Keep bags zipped and your phone and wallet in front pockets, and ignore anyone offering an unsolicited 'free tour'.
SeasonIn July daylight lasts until roughly 10 pm, so evening strolls are lovely (summer hours 06:00-22:00; winter closes earlier at 20:00). Harbour wind is strong and the weather changeable, so bring a windproof layer; in winter the ramparts can be icy.
MannersPeople work and live here and services are held in the church. Around the noon guard change and near the barracks or church, don't block the way and keep your voice down. Denmark has no tipping culture, so extra tips aren't expected.
RulesThe ramparts and park are free, but the indoor museums, church and events keep separate hours and prices that change often. Check the official pages (Forsvaret / VisitCopenhagen) for the latest before relying on them.
Practical info
The nearest station is Østerport, served by the M3 metro, S-trains and regional (DSB) trains, about a 5-10 minute walk away. The ramparts and park are free and open daily (roughly 06:00-22:00 in summer, 06:00-20:00 in winter), but the indoor museums, church and events have separate hours and fees, so confirm the latest before you go; the Little Mermaid is a short walk north.
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