Frederiksberg Copenhagen: The Other City in Copenhagen (2026 Guide)

TLDR: Frederiksberg is Copenhagen's greenest, most polished neighborhood with royal gardens, Copenhagen Zoo, underground art space, and tree-lined boulevards. Technically its own municipality. Great for parks, cafes, and a slower pace. Budget half a day.

Frederiksberg is the part of Copenhagen that Copenhageners will proudly tell you isn't actually Copenhagen. It's a separate municipality, completely surrounded by the capital, with its own mayor and its own attitude.

I noticed this the first time I visited: the streets are wider, the buildings are better maintained, and the parks feel like they belong to a smaller, calmer city. If Vesterbro is Copenhagen's edgy side and Nørrebro its multicultural heart, Frederiksberg is where the city exhales.

It's green, quiet, and surprisingly interesting once you know where to look.

What is the story behind Frederiksberg?

Frederiksberg's history starts in 1651 when King Frederik III settled Dutch farmers here to introduce modern farming techniques to Denmark. The area was originally called "Ny Amager", but some also called it "Ny Hollenderby" (New Dutchman-town). When Frederik IV built a palace on the hilltop between 1700 and 1703, the town was renamed Frederiksberg after him.

For centuries it remained a small town outside Copenhagen's walls, with wealthy citizens using properties as summer houses. After building restrictions were lifted in 1852, the population exploded from 3,000 to 80,000 by 1900. When Copenhagen expanded its boundaries in 1901 by absorbing surrounding municipalities, Frederiksberg refused to join. It remains an independent enclave to this day.

Is Frederiksberg part of Copenhagen?

While Frederiksberg sits entirely encircled by Copenhagen Municipality, giving it the feel of a neighborhood, it's actually an independent municipality.

Think of it as a small, self-governing island within the city, a rather uncommon setup in Europe. It has its own mayor and council, something locals are genuinely proud of.

What are the top things to do in Frederiksberg?

The green spaces are the main draw. Here are the top things to do in Frederiksberg:

• Frederiksberg Gardens: These extensive English-style gardens are perfect for a long, peaceful walk. You'll see canals, tranquil lakes, and the impressive Frederiksberg Palace rising above.
• Copenhagen Zoo: One of Europe's oldest, home to thousands of animals, including a striking Elephant House designed by Norman Foster. 
• Cisternerne: Underground contemporary art space in a former water reservoir beneath Søndermarken park. 
• Frederiksberg Allé: Historic boulevard originally built as the king's private road to his palace in 1703

One detail I appreciate: from the edge of Frederiksberg Gardens, you can actually watch the elephants in Copenhagen Zoo without buying a ticket. The wall was opened up to give park visitors a free glimpse.

What are the hidden gems in Frederiksberg?

Beyond the main attractions, Frederiksberg holds some truly delightful surprises.

While you might visit for Cisternerne, the park itself, Søndermarken, offers a much wilder, more secluded feel than Frederiksberg Gardens, perfect for a quiet escape. The unique art space within the former water reservoirs truly is a striking, cool experience, especially when you feel the damp air and hear the acoustics.

Another peaceful spot many visitors miss is Landbohøjskolens Have, a serene botanical garden belonging to the University of Copenhagen. You can wander through its plant collections and enjoy the quiet.

For a lively, French-inspired atmosphere, discover Værnedamsvej. This bustling street is affectionately called "Little Paris" for its charming cafes and delis, and it's a fantastic spot for people-watching.

Finally, step into Café Intime, a historic bar from the 1920s. With its live piano music, Sunday jazz, and inclusive atmosphere, it’s a genuine step back in time.

If you want the stories behind these places while walking, StoryHunt creates audio walks that connect Frederiksberg's royal history with its quiet corners.

Where are the best places to eat in Frederiksberg?

Frederiksberg's culinary scene is surprisingly varied and truly satisfying.

If you're looking for an unforgettable fine dining experience, Mielcke & Hurtigkarl, set in an 18th-century pavilion within Frederiksberg Have, offers exquisite, nature-inspired dishes that are a treat for the senses. Formel B is a Michelin-starred option, a Danish culinary cornerstone for decades, where you can choose a multi-course menu that always impresses.

For something more casual, but equally delicious, Sokkelund Cafe & Brasserie is a beloved local spot. They serve French-inspired comfort food with a Danish twist, and their brunch is legendary.

If you crave artisanal bread or flaky pastries, Hart Bakery is a must-visit; you can smell the fresh sourdough from blocks away. You might also try Restaurant Alf for its blend of French and Nordic principles, or the century-old Sans Souci for classic French dishes in a truly atmospheric setting.

For a taste of Italy, Enomania offers expertly paired wines, and San Marco Junior provides a cozy, authentic experience.

Where is the best coffee in Frederiksberg?

Frederiksberg certainly doesn't disappoint when it comes to a good cup of coffee. I found a vibrant scene with plenty of choices.

For exceptionally well-sourced beans and expertly brewed coffee, The Coffee Collective on Godthåbsvej is a top recommendation among connoisseurs. Another excellent choice is Ipsen & Co. on Gl. Kongevej, known for its freshly roasted coffee, a cozy interior that feels like a living room, and a handy coffee-to-go window.

For a truly unique experience, seek out Olivers Oase. This charming spot operates out of a tiny 12-square-meter building that was once a public toilet, now transformed into a beloved cafe with a distinct Parisian vibe along Frederiksberg Allé. It’s a place where you can sit and watch the world go by.

Rist Kaffebar on Værnedamsvej also offers small but excellent coffee selections, perfect for a break while exploring that charming street. You'll find other quality options like Malthe P Kafé and Impact Roasters as well, each with their own character.

If you want to combine a coffee stop with local history, StoryHunt can weave cafe recommendations into a walking route through the neighborhood.

Is it worth visiting Frederiksberg?

Absolutely, yes. Frederiksberg offers a distinct, elegant escape, often called Copenhagen's green heart. It provides a noticeably more tranquil and refined atmosphere compared to the more energetic central parts of the city.

Its expansive green spaces are a huge draw, particularly Frederiksberg Gardens. These romantic English-style landscapes, with canals, historic follies like the Chinese Pavilion, and views of the zoo's elephants, are incredibly calming. The grand Frederiksberg Palace, though mostly an academy today, adds a royal touch. You'll also enjoy charming streets like Værnedamsvej and Gammel Kongevej for their boutique shops and lively food scene.

However, it's important to note that Frederiksberg might feel less bustling than central Copenhagen, which could be a downside if you're seeking constant high-energy urban vibes. While the gardens are always open, interior access to Frederiksberg Palace is limited, and some museums have specific, shorter hours.

The best time to visit is typically late spring to early autumn (May to September), when the gardens are in full bloom and outdoor cafes thrive. July is especially pleasant for leisurely strolls and picnics. Garden enthusiasts, royal history buffs, and families will find Frederiksberg particularly appealing.

How to explore Frederiksberg your way?

Want to discover Frederiksberg's royal history or some of the many other neighbourhoods of Copenhagen? StoryHunt creates custom audio walks based on your interests, from garden design and architecture to local food and Danish culture. 

The interactive map helps you explore at your own pace and find spots most visitors miss.