SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst: Denmark’s National Gallery
Denmark's national gallery fuses historic masterpieces with contemporary Nordic art in a striking architectural setting at the heart of Copenhagen.
The SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst is Denmark’s world-class national gallery, located in central Copenhagen. Visitors can discover a rich tapestry of art spanning seven centuries, from Renaissance masterpieces and Danish Golden Age icons to provocative contemporary works. The museum is renowned for its striking architecture—merging neoclassical grandeur with modern Scandinavian design—and its inviting, light-filled spaces make it a leading cultural destination in the city.
A brief summary to Flodhesteungen Frederikke
- 28, C, Frederiksgade 27, Aarhus, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- Visit website
Local tips
- Admission is free for visitors under 18 and often on Wednesdays after 5pm—check for special free hours before your visit.
- Don’t miss the café terrace overlooking the park—perfect for a relaxing break amid your gallery tour.
- The museum coat check is free, making it easy to enjoy your visit unburdened by bags or coats.
- Visit on a weekday morning for the quietest galleries and best opportunities for peaceful contemplation.
- Families will find hands-on creative workshops on weekends and school holidays, ideal for inspiring younger visitors.
Getting There
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Walking
From Copenhagen’s main downtown area or Østre Anlæg park, the museum sits within a 10–20 minute stroll amid historic avenues and green spaces. Copenhagen’s signature cycle lanes make it equally accessible by bike, and the sculpted silhouette of the museum is recognizable upon approach.
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Public Transport
Buses from central city stops and Nørreport Station reach the museum area in around 8–14 minutes. Tickets for city buses or metro cost approximately 24–36 DKK for a single journey. From transit hubs, the museum is a quick, well-signposted walk through the park’s edge.
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Taxi
A taxi from central Copenhagen brings you directly to the museum’s entrance in under 10 minutes (typical fare: 80–130 DKK depending on traffic). Drop-off is right in front of the striking neoclassical facade.
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Driving/Parking
Street parking near the museum is limited and uses municipal pay meters, averaging 24–38 DKK per hour. No tolls apply, but high demand means it’s best to arrive early, especially on weekends or during major exhibitions.
Discover more about Flodhesteungen Frederikke
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Flodhesteungen Frederikke
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Denmark's national gallery fuses historic masterpieces with contemporary Nordic art in a striking architectural setting at the heart of Copenhagen.
Møllestien
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Odense Cathedral (St. Canute’s Church) blends Gothic grandeur, royal tombs, and centuries of history in the vibrant heart of Denmark’s fairytale city.
Mølleparken
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Denmark’s national gallery showcasing centuries of Nordic and European art, iconic masterpieces, modern creativity, and interactive cultural experiences in Copenhagen.
KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
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A groundbreaking museum in Aarhus dedicated to gender, identity, and equality, featuring interactive exhibitions in a historic building near the city’s iconic cathedral.
Agnete og Havmanden
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Frederiks Plads
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A vibrant, contemporary city square where modern architecture, open green space, and urban life converge in the heart of Aarhus near Frederiksbjerg.
Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden
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Folkehuset Trøjborg
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Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg
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Trøjborg Beboerhus
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Marselisborgmonumentet
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The Infinite Bridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
Strøget
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Sankt Clements Torv
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Vadestedet
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Aarhus’ scenic Marselisborg Strand blends sandy beaches, forested trails, and breezy bay views for an iconic urban seaside escape just south of the city.
Kunsthal Aarhus
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Sherlock Holmes Pub
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Viking Museum
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Lille Torv
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Aarhus Waterfront: a vibrant coastal promenade fusing striking modern architecture, rich maritime heritage, and lively urban culture along the city’s scenic bay.
Aarhus Culture Walk
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Our Lady Church
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Mural - The Seagull Kiss
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Explore the rich heritage of the Gudenå Valley at Gudenådalens Museum in Bjerringbro, featuring Viking artifacts and traditional Danish culture.
Store Torv
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Aarhus waterfront – a fusion of striking modern architecture, lively harbours, green urban spaces, and maritime history at Denmark’s vibrant city edge.
Bishop's Square
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Perched above Copenhagen’s harbor, the Culture Tower on Knippels Bridge fused city views, heritage, and creative energy in a distinctly Danish landmark.
Klostertorvet
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Aarhus waterfront is a vibrant synthesis of modern Nordic architecture, historic harbor heritage, lively promenades, and captivating sea views in Denmark’s urban heart.
Aarhus Theatre
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Aarhus’ award-winning Dokk1 blends library, culture hub, and civic innovation on the scenic harborfront—offering panoramic views and vibrant Danish community life.
Aarhus Cathedral
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Dauphine ApS
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Bardok
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Restaurant L'øst
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Salling ROOFTOP
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SYV NI 13
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SYV NI 13: Modern Nordic restaurant in central Aarhus, celebrated for inventive seasonal tasting menus, open kitchen atmosphere, and standout natural wine selection.
KöD Aarhus
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Raadhuus Kafeen
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Lupo
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A Hereford Beefstouw - Aarhus
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Keyser Social
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Restaurant MellemRum
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Café Hack
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Bernth & co
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Basso Aarhus
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Teater Bodega
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Aarhus C’s most playful gift shop, renowned for quirky Danish design, affordable treasures, and creative finds—perfect for unique souvenirs and cheerful everyday essentials.
Magasin Aarhus
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Royal Copenhagen - Aarhus
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Weekday
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LÏST Store
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Jooma Aarhus
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Magpie Lane Vintage
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Bruuns Galleri
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Bruuns Galleri: Aarhus’ premier city-center shopping mall, blending top brands, Danish design, dining, and urban life in a vibrant architectural landmark.
Aarhus Antik
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Luna Hvid
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Ancher
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SecondLux
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Mols Haven
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Molsløbet
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Oops - Bar, lounge og Rombar i Århus
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Tir Na nÓg - Irish Gastropub
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Waxies
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Barstart
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Vinstuen
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Clemens Bar
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Die kleine Bierstube
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London
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Bitter Bar
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Herr Bartels
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Alberts - Cocktailbar i Aarhus
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The Old Irish Pub
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Rabalder Bar Aarhus
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Two Socks Ginbar
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Fairbar
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