The best art museums in Copenhagen and what to see in them

With a strong foundation in art and design, Copenhagen is known for its historic charm and vibrant cultural scene. It is also home to some of the best art museums in the country: Copenhagen is an art lover’s dream. From contemporary art spaces like the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art to traditional galleries like the National Gallery of Denmark, art is a palpable part of the city’s identity. This guide will take you through a curated list of Copenhagen’s best museums and galleries, offering insight into the city’s cultural heart and soul.

Copenhagen’s best art museums at a glance

Best for design: The Danish Architecture Center

Best for sculpture enthusiasts: Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Best for Islamic art: The David Collection

Best for contemporary art: ARKEN Museum of Modern Art

Best for the great masters: National Gallery of Denmark (Statens Museum for Kunst)

1. The National Gallery of Denmark

Best for: Fans of the great masters

Why should I visit the National Gallery of Denmark?

The premier destination for art lovers seeking works by great masters, the National Gallery of Denmark houses an extensive collection of Danish and international art from the past seven centuries, including works by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Matisse, and Picasso.

How long can I spend at the National Gallery of Denmark?

Visitors can easily spend between 2 to 4 hours exploring the vast collections and special exhibits.

What is the most famous artwork at the National Gallery of Denmark?

One of the most famous pieces in the museum is “The Thinker” by Auguste Rodin.

Insider tip

Don’t miss the museum’s beautiful park and the café, which offers a relaxing spot to enjoy a meal or a coffee with a view of the surrounding greenery. Also, make sure to check out the museum’s temporary exhibitions, which often feature groundbreaking contemporary art.

Address and opening hours:

Sølvgade 48-50, 1307 København. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM. Open until 8:00 PM on Tuesdays. Closed on Mondays.

2. The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek

Best for: Sculpture enthusiasts and ancient art lovers

Why should I visit Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek?

At the heart of Copenhagen, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek displays an eclectic mix of ancient and modern art. Founded by the Carlsberg brewer Carl Jacobsen, the museum houses over 10,000 works, including ancient Mediterranean artifacts and 19th-century French and Danish art.

How long can I spend at Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek?

Visitors can spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the diverse collections and enjoying the serene winter garden.

Most famous artwork at Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek?

One of the most famous pieces is “The Little Fourteen-Year-Old Dancer” by Edgar Degas.

Insider tip

Make sure to visit the museum on a Tuesday when admission is free. Also, don’t miss the rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of Copenhagen.

Address and opening hours:

Dantes Plads 7, 1556 København, Denmark. Open daily — except Monday — 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. Open until 9:00 PM on Thursdays.

3. The Kunsthal Charlottenborg

Best for: Contemporary art enthusiasts

Why should I visit Kunsthal Charlottenborg?

One of the leading contemporary art spaces in Copenhagen, Kunsthal Charlottenborg is located in a stunning baroque building, it hosts cutting-edge exhibitions by both Danish and international artists. It’s a hub for innovative and experimental art, making it a must-visit for those interested in the latest trends in the art world.

How long can I spend at Kunsthal Charlottenborg?

Plan to spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the rotating exhibitions.

Most famous artwork at Kunsthal Charlottenborg?

The exhibitions change frequently, but past highlights have included works by Olafur Eliasson and Ai Weiwei.

Insider tip:

Entry to Kunsthal Charlottenborg is free after 5:00 PM on Wednesdays.

Address and opening hours:

Kongens Nytorv 1, 1050 København, Denmark. Open 12:00 PM-8:00 PM, Tuesday-Friday. Open 11:00 AM-5:00 PM, Saturday-Sunday.

4. The ARKEN Museum of Modern Art

Best for: Modern and contemporary art lovers

Why should I visit the ARKEN Museum of Modern Art?

The Arken Museum of Modern Art, located in Ishøj, south of Copenhagen, houses an impressive collection of contemporary art by Danish, Nordic, and international artists. The museum’s architecture, designed to resemble a ship, is as captivating as the art.

How long can I spend at ARKEN Museum of Modern Art?

Visitors can spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the extensive collections and temporary exhibitions.

Most famous artwork at ARKEN Museum of Modern Art?

One of the standout pieces is Damien Hirst’s "Mother and Child (Divided)," a fascinating and thought-provoking installation.

Insider tip

Don’t miss the museum’s beautiful sculpture park and the on-site café, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Address and opening hours:

Skovvej 100, 2635 Ishøj, Denmark. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 11:00 AM-5:00 PM. Open until 9:00 PM on Thursdays.

5. The Royal Cast Collection

Best for: Classical sculpture aficionados

Why should I visit The Royal Cast Collection?

The Royal Cast Collection is a hidden gem in Copenhagen, featuring over 2,000 plaster casts of classical sculptures from ancient Greece, Rome, and the Renaissance. Housed in the atmospheric West India Warehouse, this museum offers a unique opportunity to see replicas of some of the world’s most famous statues, providing a comprehensive overview of classical art history.

How long can I spend at The Royal Cast Collection?

Visitors can spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the extensive collection.

Most famous artwork at The Royal Cast Collection?

One of the most notable pieces is the cast of Michelangelo’s "David," offering a close-up view of this iconic masterpiece.

Insider tip

Take advantage of the free admission and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the warehouse. The collection is often less crowded, providing a tranquil environment for art appreciation.

Address and opening times:

Vestindisk Pakhus, Toldbodgade 40, 1253 København, Denmark. Open Saturday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; closed Monday–Friday.

6. The David Collection

Best for: Islamic art enthusiasts

Why should I visit The David Collection?

The David Collection is renowned for its extensive collection of Islamic art, one of the most comprehensive in Scandinavia. It showcases artifacts from the 7th to the 19th century, including ceramics, textiles, and manuscripts. All of these were collected by C. L. David, a well-known Danish lawyer, who also featured European 18th-century decorative arts and Danish early modern art.

How long can I spend at The David Collection?

Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours exploring the diverse collections.

Most famous artwork at The David Collection?

One of the standout pieces is the exquisite “Mihrab” (prayer niche) from Iran, dating back to the 14th century.

Insider tip

The museum is located in a historic building near famous Copenhagen landmarks, adding to its charm. Make sure to check out the museum’s library, which houses rare books and manuscripts.

Address and opening hours:

Kronprinsessegade 30, 1306 København, Denmark. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, except Mondays. Stays open until 9:00 PM on Wednesdays.

7. The Danish Architecture Center

Best for: Architecture and design enthusiasts

Why should I visit The Danish Architecture Center?

The Danish Architecture Center (DAC) is a Copenhagen architecture and design hub. It is located in the BLOX building and offers exhibitions, guided tours, and events that showcase Danish and international architecture. The DAC is dedicated to exploring how architecture and design shape our lives, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in urban development and innovative design.

How long can I spend at The Danish Architecture Center?

Visitors can spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the exhibitions and interactive displays. Guided tours and workshops can extend your visit to 3 hours.

What is the most famous exhibit at the Danish Architecture Center?

One of the most notable exhibits is the “BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group” exhibition, which highlights the innovative projects of the world-renowned Danish architecture firm.

Insider tip

Be sure to visit the rooftop terrace for stunning views of Copenhagen’s skyline. The on-site café offers some traditional Danish dishes for a relaxing break.

Address and opening hours:

Bryghusgade 10, 1473 København, Denmark. Open daily, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM. Open until 9:00 PM on Thursdays.

8. Rosenborg Castle

Best for: History buffs and royal enthusiasts

Why should I visit Rosenborg Castle?

A stunning Renaissance castle located in the heart of Copenhagen, Rosenborg Castle was built by King Christian IV in the early 17th century. It houses the Danish crown jewels and royal regalia. The castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Denmark’s royal history, with beautifully preserved interiors and an extensive collection of royal artifacts.

How long can I spend at Rosenborg Castle?

Plan to spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the castle’s rooms and exhibits.

Most famous artifact at Rosenborg Castle?

The most famous artifacts are the Danish crown jewels, including the stunning crown of Christian IV.

Insider tip

Don’t miss the castle’s beautiful gardens, known as the King’s Garden (Kongens Have), which are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Address and opening hours:

Øster Voldgade 4A, 1350 København, Denmark. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

9. The Danish Resistance Museum

Best for: History enthusiasts and WWII scholars

Why should I visit The Danish Resistance Museum?

The Danish Resistance Museum, also known as the Museum of Danish Resistance, provides a compelling insight into Denmark’s role during World War II. The museum chronicles the efforts of the Danish resistance movement from 1940 to 1945 through personal stories, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.

How long can I spend at The Danish Resistance Museum?

Visitors can spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits.

Most famous exhibit at The Danish Resistance Museum?

One of the most notable exhibits is the collection of resistance artifacts, including clandestine newspapers, weapons, and personal items of resistance fighters.

Insider tip

Visit the museum’s library, which houses a vast collection of documents and books on the Danish resistance. The museum is located in the beautiful Churchill Park, making it an ideal spot for a reflective walk after your visit.

Address and opening hours:

Esplanaden 13, 1263 København, Denmark. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

10. The Danish Jewish Museum

Best for: Cultural heritage enthusiasts and history buffs

Why should I visit The Danish Jewish Museum?

The Danish Jewish Museum offers a unique insight into the history and culture of Jewish life in Denmark. Designed by renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, the museum’s striking interior reflects the themes of Jewish identity and heritage. The exhibits highlight the contributions of the Jewish community to Danish society and the remarkable story of the rescue of Danish Jews during World War II.

How long can I spend at The Danish Jewish Museum?

Visitors can spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the museum’s exhibits.

Most famous exhibit at The Danish Jewish Museum?

One of the most significant exhibits is the section dedicated to the rescue of Danish Jews in 1943, showcasing personal stories, artifacts, and documents from this heroic effort.

Insider tip

The museum’s location in the Royal Library Garden offers a peaceful spot for reflection after your visit.

Address and opening hours:

Proviantpassagen 6, 1218 København, Denmark. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM, except Mondays.

FAQs

Are there any free-entry days for art museums in Copenhagen?

The National Gallery of Denmark offers free admission on Wednesdays, and the David Collection is always free. It is always best to check the museum’s official website for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit.

What are some unique and lesser-known art museums worth visiting in Copenhagen?

The Cisterns, a former water reservoir converted into an art venue, and The Round Tower's art exhibitions and panoramic views are worth seeing. The Medical Museum offers a different perspective, focusing on the history of medicine. The Post & Tele Museum also provides an interesting look at the evolution of communication.

Which art museums in Copenhagen have works by famous artists?

The National Gallery of Denmark showcases paintings by Picasso, Matisse, and Rembrandt. The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek has a vast collection of Rodin sculptures. Arken Museum of Modern Art is known for its collection of works by contemporary artists like Damien Hirst and Anselm Reyle.

Are the art museums in Copenhagen wheelchair accessible?

The majority of art museums in Copenhagen are accessible to wheelchair users. These include the National Gallery of Denmark, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, and the Design Museum of Denmark. However, it is recommended to check the museum’s official website or contact them directly for specific accessibility information.

Are there any art museums in Copenhagen that are suitable for children and families?

The National Gallery of Denmark has a great children’s workshop. The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art has a children’s wing with workshops and exhibitions for younger audiences. The Workers Museum also has interactive exhibits that are suitable for children.