Background

Rosenborg Castle: Copenhagen’s Renaissance Jewel and Royal Treasury

Rosenborg Castle is a Renaissance treasure in central Copenhagen, renowned for royal splendor, lush gardens, historic interiors, and the dazzling Danish Crown Jewels.

4.6

Rosenborg Castle is a spectacular Renaissance palace in central Copenhagen, famed for its elegant gardens, lavish interiors, and the Danish Crown Jewels. Built by King Christian IV in the early 17th century, its regal rooms, grand halls, and royal collections offer a captivating glimpse into Denmark’s royal heritage. The castle sits within the scenic King’s Garden, inviting travelers to step into history, marvel at ornate treasures, and explore beautifully preserved architecture.

A brief summary to Rosenborg Castle

Local tips

  • Aim to visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially in peak season when lines for the Treasury can be long.
  • Entry includes access to both the state rooms and the Crown Jewels vault—keep your ticket for re-entry between the gardens and castle.
  • Photographs are permitted in most rooms, but flash and tripods are not allowed; the Crown Jewels vault is strictly no photos.
  • The castle is mostly accessible, but some upper floors are reached by steep staircases; inquire at the entrance for assistance.
  • On sunny days, pack a snack and linger in the King’s Garden—an ideal spot for relaxation just outside the castle.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Vesterbro’s vibrant core, it’s a scenic quarter-hour walk northeast towards the inner city. The route leads through bustling boulevards, past the leafy expanse of Tivoli Gardens, and into the historic axis that connects City Hall Square to the city center. As you approach the area near the iconic Round Tower and bustling shopping streets, the castle’s gardens and red-bricked silhouette become visible, signaling your arrival at the entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Trains and metro services run from Copenhagen Central Station—a central hub near Vesterbro—to Nørreport Station, which sits adjacent to Rosenborg Castle’s gardens. The journey is typically under 10 minutes, with a standard adult ticket (Zone 1–2) costing DKK 24. From the station, a short stroll through leafy parkland brings you to the castle gates.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from central Vesterbro provides a comfortable and direct option, especially in inclement weather or for groups. Expect a 10–15 minute ride depending on traffic, with fares averaging DKK 80–120, dropping you beside the main gardens.

  • Bicycle

    Copenhagen’s city bikes or rentals are a convenient way to reach Rosenborg from Vesterbro. Follow prominent cycle routes toward the city center and the castle’s gardens are well signposted. Bike parking is available near the entrance. The ride typically takes about 10–15 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Rosenborg Castle

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle stands as one of Copenhagen’s most iconic and evocative sights—a red-brick Renaissance palace surrounded by sculpted grounds in the heart of the city. Commissioned by King Christian IV as a summer retreat in 1606, it soon became a stage for royal power, fashion, and intrigue, bridging the days of Denmark’s Renaissance grandeur to the present era. Today, the castle and its sprawling gardens offer a rich immersion in centuries of Danish monarchy. Approaching Rosenborg, visitors are greeted by turrets, gables, and a moat—a fairy-tale silhouette amid the leafy tranquility of the King’s Garden. Inside, rooms are arranged much as they were during Christian IV’s heyday: glittering chandeliers, gilded ceilings, stately tapestries, and an extraordinary assemblage of royal possessions are displayed across three floors. Wandering through, you’ll find the king’s private chambers, themed halls dedicated to different monarchs, and quirky artifacts such as Christian IV’s coronation chair and personal writing desk. The highlight for many is the Treasury, deep in the vaults, where Denmark’s Crown Jewels and royal regalia dazzle in gleaming display. Emeralds, rubies, swung scepters, and ancient crowns speak of dynasties, rituals, and legendary ceremonies. The castle’s changing of the guard, which sometimes passes through the gardens, adds a further sense of pageantry. Outside, the neighboring King’s Garden is one of Copenhagen’s favorite green spaces, especially lively during warm months with locals picnicking, strolling, and enjoying pop-up events. From ornate interiors to living history, Rosenborg Castle serves as a vivid portal into the soul of Danish royalty and the evolution of Copenhagen itself.

Popular Experiences near Rosenborg Castle

Popular Hotels near Rosenborg Castle

Select Currency