It was built in the Dutch Renaissance style, typical of Danish buildings during this period, and has been expanded several times, finally evolving into its present condition by the year 1624.

Architects Bertel Lange and Hans van Steenwinckel the Younger are associated with the structural planning of the castle.

Christian V had the hall partly modernised with twelve tapestries depicting the King's victories in the Scanian War (1675–1679).

Side reliefs depict historical events from the first years of the reign of Frederik IV, including the liberation of the serfs, the founding of the dragoons and of the land militia among them.

Among the main attractions of Rosenborg are the coronation chair of the absolutist kings and the throne of the queens with the three silver lions standing in front.

Today, the gardens are a popular retreat for the people of Copenhagen, and attract an estimated 2.5 million visitors every year.