SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst: Denmark’s National Gallery
Explore Denmark’s greatest art treasures at SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst, where centuries of Danish and European masterpieces inspire and captivate in the heart of Copenhagen.
The SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst is Denmark’s national gallery and leading art museum, holding a rich collection spanning seven centuries of European and Danish art. Housed in a grand neo-Renaissance building near central Copenhagen, SMK fuses historic works and bold modern masterpieces. Its spacious halls are celebrated for world-class exhibitions and tranquil light-filled galleries, making SMK an essential stop for art lovers and curious wanderers seeking Danish culture.
A brief summary to KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
- Domkirkepladsen 5, Aarhus, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- +4525454510
- Visit website
Local tips
- Admission is free to the permanent collections; temporary exhibitions usually require a ticket.
- Visit midweek or in the morning to enjoy quieter galleries and more space.
- Don’t miss the impressive glass extension, which houses contemporary exhibitions and offers fantastic natural light.
- The museum café is a favorite with locals for coffee and cakes, especially with a park view.
- Families should check out the creative workshops for children—free activities often run on weekends.
Getting There
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Walking
From Copenhagen’s city center, SMK is a pleasant 10–15 minute walk through historic neighborhoods and the atmospheric parkland near Rosenborg Castle. Visitors can enjoy the scenic route alongside city gardens and take in the museum’s commanding façade as it appears at the edge of the park.
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Public Transport
Bus routes from City Hall Square or Nørreport Station provide a simple journey to SMK, with typical rides taking 5–10 minutes. Single tickets cost around DKK 24. From Nørreport, the museum is clearly visible beyond the park.
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Taxi
A taxi from central Copenhagen brings you to SMK in under 10 minutes, generally costing DKK 80–120 depending on traffic. Taxis can drop off passengers at the front entrance, which is accessible and easily identifiable.
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Driving and Parking
Limited parking is available near SMK and Rosenborg Castle; public spaces are typically metered at around DKK 24 per hour. The area can be busy on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. No tolls or restricted access zones apply.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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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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.
Agnete og Havmanden
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Frederiks Plads
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Aarhus Cathedral
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Latin Quarter
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Herman Sallings Plads
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Store Torv
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Endless Connection
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Historic World War II watchtower with sweeping fjord vistas, wartime exhibits, and tranquil nature on the scenic Thyholm peninsula in Central Jutland.
Aarhus waterfront
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Sankt Clements Torv
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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.
Vadestedet
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Mural - The Seagull Kiss
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Restaurant Domestic
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L'estragon
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Mols Haven
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Tokio Bar
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London
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Bitter Bar
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El Loco
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Rabalder Bar Aarhus
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Barstart
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Thorkilds
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Vinstuen
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Fairbar
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