The city of Hillerød stands on the island of Zealand in eastern Denmark, 25 miles north of Copenhagen. Hillerød may be at the end of the capital's commuter train system but it feels pretty rural. It's surrounded by some of Denmark's largest forests and Esrum Sø, one of Denmark's largest lakes. These are great areas to explore with a hire car in Hillerød. On the shore of the lake you'll find the magnificent Royal residence, Fredensborg Palace. The extensive gardens are open all year round. Further afield, it's easy to reach North Zealand's popular seaside resorts, like Hornbæk, Gilleleje and Tisvilde.
Hillerød's number one attraction is Frederiksborg Castle, an intact 16th-century royal fortress right in the heart of the city. The castle includes a museum, baroque gardens and relics of the Danish kings who once lived here. Visitors with a hire car can tour the rest of Hillerød's sights too. These include the city's own museum of local history, a busy cultural centre and the ruins of two large monasteries. The 'Adventure Park' is an outdoor activity centre with bike tracks, paintball areas and forest obstacle courses. Look out too for the city's golf club and family-friendly waterpark/pool complex.