A historic castle with formal gardens on a sunny day
brown and blue concrete building under blue sky during daytime

Rosenborg Castle

Copenhagen, Denmark
i

A historic castle with formal gardens on a sunny day

Photo by Roger Suen

Copenhagen’s Rosenborg Castle invites travelers into a living fairytale drawn from centuries past. Once the private retreat of Danish kings, this Renaissance gem now blends royal treasures with peaceful gardens and lively local traditions. Few European castles balance history’s grandeur and open-air relaxation so seamlessly. At Rosenborg Castle, both history buffs and casual wanderers discover surprises—glittering crown jewels, lavish halls, playful moats, and green lawns thick with picnicking locals—just steps from the city’s heart.

Visiting Info

Currency
Entrance fee
140 DKK
Hours
Opening hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Contact Information

Location
Address
Øster Voldgade 4A, 1350 København, Denmark

Planning Your Visit

Careful planning ensures the best experience at Rosenborg Castle. Spring through early autumn offers lush gardens and mild temperatures, while mornings—especially on weekdays—bring smaller crowds. The castle sits in Copenhagen’s city center, set amid the King’s Garden, making it easy to combine with other cultural stops. Lines can form quickly for the ticket counter, and the castle’s historic layout might challenge parents with strollers or visitors with mobility needs. Still, the welcoming staff help visitors navigate and explore at their own pace.

  • Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall; weekday mornings for fewer crowds
  • How to get there: Short walk from Nørreport Station; accessible by bus and metro; cycling-friendly area
  • Accessibility: Limited wheelchair/stroller access due to steep stairs and narrow passages; ground floor more accessible
  • Average visit duration: 1.5–2 hours for castle and gardens

Must See Stuff

Highlights abound at Rosenborg Castle, from jewel-bright royal regalia to weathered cannons lining the moat. Marbled halls and opulent rooms whisper of royal intrigue and old Danish customs. Each room tells a layered story, while the gardens outside claim their own local following—lawn loungers and chess players share shady corners with daydreamers and dog walkers.

  • Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia: Housed deep in the treasury vault, Denmark’s crown jewels and coronation thrones dazzle—don’t miss the emerald set.
  • The Knight’s Hall: Statuesque silver lions, gilded thrones, and monumental tapestries create a royal feast for the eyes.
  • Tower Views: Though not a climbable landmark, the castle’s vantage points offer excellent photos of Copenhagen’s gardens and skyline.
  • The King’s Garden: Denmark’s oldest royal gardens, with geometric flower beds, hidden statues, and lively lawns.
  • Hidden Corners: Seek out the quirky ivory collection and miniature cabinet rooms for glimpses into personal royal life.
  • Cultural Fact: The castle was built as King Christian IV’s summer residence over 400 years ago—his influence remains everywhere, from playful spiral towers to ornate ceiling paintings.

Tips for Your Visit

Local know-how turns a castle wander into a memorable day. Lines for the crown jewels tend to peak around midday, so early mornings make visits smoother. Gardens are open to all—combine a castle ticket with a peaceful walk or, for a real Danish experience, a bakery picnic on the lawns. Inside, respect barriers and posted signs; staff gladly answer questions but may step in if crowds brush too close to fragile art. Bring comfortable shoes and expect cool rooms, especially in early spring. A water bottle helps—souvenirs and refreshments stay outside, since food isn’t allowed inside the exhibit halls.

  • Best time to avoid crowds: Arrive near opening or late in the afternoon.
  • What to bring: Camera, water, layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes.
  • Local etiquette: No flash photography; avoid touching displays; enjoy picnics only outside.
  • Safety and comfort: Watch for uneven staircases and slippery old floors; supervised children fare best.