SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst: Denmark’s National Gallery
Denmark's stately national gallery with masterpieces from the Renaissance to modern art, housed in a striking blend of classical and contemporary architecture in Copenhagen.
SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst, Denmark's premier national gallery in the heart of Copenhagen, houses an exceptional collection spanning centuries of art history. From Renaissance masterpieces to pioneering Danish Golden Age works, visitors encounter an unmatched journey through Danish and international art, surrounded by modern Scandinavian architecture and the lush King’s Garden.
A brief summary to Gammel Strand
- Copenhagen, Indre By, DK
Local tips
- Admission is free to the permanent collection, but temporary exhibitions usually require a paid ticket.
- Visit on Wednesdays for extended evening hours, allowing for a quieter and more relaxed experience.
- The museum café offers views of the King’s Garden and is a favorite for both quick lunches and coffee breaks.
- Lockers are available at no charge in the reception area for bags and coats.
- Check for free guided tours, which are often offered in English on weekends.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the city center, the museum is reached via a pleasant walk through Copenhagen’s historic core, with Rosenborg Castle and the expansive King’s Garden serving as clear landmarks. The route is flat and accessible, typically taking around 15–20 minutes on foot.
-
Public Transport
Local buses connect the central station and Nørreport Station directly to the neighborhood surrounding the museum, with stops a short walk from the entrance. Single fares within the city are around 24–30 DKK. Nørreport, a major transport hub, makes this a swift and direct option.
-
Taxi
A taxi from principal city center hotels or the main railway station is a brief 5–10 minute journey, often less outside rush hour. Expect a fare in the range of 80–120 DKK, depending on traffic and exact starting point.
-
Driving/Parking
Limited paid street parking is available adjacent to the museum and in the King’s Garden area, averaging 20–35 DKK per hour. Spaces can fill quickly, especially on weekends and during special exhibitions. No entry tolls apply.
Discover more about Gammel Strand
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Højbro
0.1 km
Aarhus University Park: Where world-renowned academic heritage, Danish modernism, and lush green landscapes meet in the heart of Aarhus for a uniquely peaceful escape.
Agnete and the Merman Statue
0.1 km
Discover the Agnete and the Merman statue in Copenhagen, a stunning representation of love and Danish folklore by Højbro Bridge.
Amagertorv
0.1 km
Aarhus’s University Park blends Danish modernist architecture, lush gardens, and student life into one of the city’s most tranquil and historically significant green spaces.
Højbro Pl.
0.1 km
Step inside the Ole Rømer Observatory in Aarhus for immersive astronomy, captivating night sky sessions, and an Art Nouveau landmark with Danish scientific heritage.
Frederik VII
0.2 km
Bronze monument in central Copenhagen commemorating King Frederik VII and Denmark’s 19th-century transition to constitutional monarchy, steps from political landmarks.
Equestrian statue of Christian IX
0.2 km
Explore Denmark's industrial past at Industrimuseet in Horsens, an interactive museum with working machines, workshops, and personal stories from Denmark's iron and steam era.
The Danish Parliament
0.3 km
Experience Skagen’s rich maritime and industrial heritage, with vintage engines, interactive exhibits, and a harbor-inspired café in a welcoming community setting.
Holmens Bro
0.3 km
Historic cobblestone lanes, colorful houses, indie boutiques, and a bohemian café scene—Aarhus’s Latin Quarter is the city’s creative, cultural soul.
Nytorv
0.3 km
Historic domed observatory in Aarhus offering inspiring stargazing nights, public tours, and a glimpse into Denmark’s astronomical history atop a leafy city hill.
Nytorv 2
0.3 km
Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter blends medieval lanes, bohemian charm, vibrant cafés, and local boutiques, making it the creative soul of Denmark’s second-largest city.
Søren Aabye Kierkegaard by Louis Hasselriis
0.4 km
Explore Denmark's industrial evolution at Horsens' Industrimuseet, featuring authentic exhibits and interactive displays for all ages.
Gammeltorv
0.4 km
Discover Copenhagen's only Russian Orthodox Church, renowned for its gilded domes, lavish icons, and evocative ties to Denmark's royal and multicultural heritage.
The War Museum
0.4 km
Explore 500 years of Danish military history in Copenhagen's historic arsenal.
The Stable Boy's House
0.5 km
Historic seat of Danish royalty and government, Christiansborg Palace dazzles with royal halls, ancient ruins, stables, and unmatched views in central Copenhagen.
Lur Blowers
0.5 km
Aarhus University Park: Where Danish architectural elegance meets lush urban nature, offering tranquil lakes, stately trees, and a vibrant academic atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bishop Absalon
0.1 km
Denmark’s national gallery showcases Nordic and international masterpieces in stunning, light-filled halls—SMK is a must-visit for art lovers in Copenhagen.
Højbro Plads
0.1 km
A historic canal in central Copenhagen, Frederiksholms Kanal blends royal heritage, elegant facades, and tranquil waterways in the heart of the Danish capital.
Thorvaldsens Museum
0.1 km
A kaleidoscope of oddities, illusions, and interactive exhibits in the center of Copenhagen, perfect for fans of the strange and curious.
Stromma Canal Tours
0.1 km
Discover the world of 'Nordic gold' at the Copenhagen Amber Museum, where history, science, and stunning amber artifacts meet in Nyhavn’s oldest house.
Ved Stranden
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s famous waterfront promenade blending royal history, iconic monuments, and scenic strolls along the city’s vibrant harborside.
Stork Fountain
0.2 km
Discover masterpiece sculptures, colorful neoclassical halls, and the timeless legacy of Danish artist Bertel Thorvaldsen at Copenhagen’s oldest public museum.
Segway Tours Copenhagen
0.2 km
Strikingly modern, immersive, and acoustically exceptional, DR Koncerthuset is Copenhagen's world-renowned concert hall and a must-visit for music and architecture lovers.
Christiansborg Palace
0.2 km
Stroll along Frederiksholms Kanal, the elegant Copenhagen waterway flanked by historic palaces and vibrant cultural landmarks at the heart of Indre By.
Magstræde
0.2 km
Step across centuries on Magstræde, Copenhagen’s beautifully preserved medieval street, renowned for its pastel facades, cobblestones, and immersive historic atmosphere.
Nikolaj Art Gallery
0.2 km
Historic royal palace complex in central Copenhagen, home to Denmark’s reigning monarch and famed for its stately architecture and daily changing of the guard.
Balderdash
0.3 km
Experience world-class music and visionary architecture at DR Koncerthuset, a cultural icon blending innovative design with top-tier performances in Copenhagen.
Gråbrødretorv
0.3 km
Nyhavn—Copenhagen’s vibrant 17th-century canal district, famous for its colorful facades, historic tall ships, and lively harborside cafes at the city’s heart.
Vandkunsten Springvand
0.3 km
Experience Copenhagen’s blend of urban cool and waterside relaxation at Islands Brygge, where harbor views, bathing, and local life come together in a thriving central district.
Marmorbroen
0.3 km
Explore Langelinie: Copenhagen's historic waterfront promenade featuring iconic landmarks, scenic views, and vibrant cultural attractions.
Slotsholmen
0.3 km
Explore Denmark's design heritage at Designmuseum Danmark, showcasing iconic works from past to present in a historic setting.
Essential places to dine
Marv & Ben
0.1 km
Discover Marv & Ben: A premier destination for fine Danish dining blending tradition with modernity in the heart of Copenhagen.
Restaurant Tight
0.1 km
Discover creative dishes and exceptional service at Restaurant Tight in Copenhagen’s Indre By district.
Restaurant 1733
0.2 km
Historic canal-side setting in Copenhagen’s center serving creative Danish classics and regional specialties with genuine hygge and a modern twist.
Københavner Cafeen
0.2 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Københavner Cafeen – a cozy spot in Copenhagen's heart offering delicious meals for every palate.
Restaurant Maven
0.2 km
Atmospheric Danish restaurant inside Copenhagen’s historic Nikolaj Church—offering modern Nordic cuisine, inventive wines, and a setting rich in cultural heritage.
Restaurant Kronborg
0.2 km
Discover authentic Danish smørrebrød and timeless hospitality in a centuries-old cellar, set in the historic heart of Copenhagen’s lively city center.
Restaurant Puk
0.3 km
Discover the essence of Danish cuisine at Restaurant Puk in Copenhagen – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Wining and Dining
0.3 km
Experience the essence of Danish cuisine at Wining and Dining in Copenhagen - where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Det Lille Apotek
0.4 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Det Lille Apotek in Copenhagen - a perfect blend of tradition and flavor.
King Hans Cellar
0.4 km
Dine in historic vaulted cellars at Copenhagen’s King Hans Cellar, where centuries-old ambiance and Michelin-level Danish cuisine create an unforgettable fine dining experience.
Llama
0.4 km
Experience authentic Latin American flavors at Llama in Copenhagen – where vibrant cuisine meets warm hospitality.
l’Alsace
0.4 km
Discover authentic Alsatian cuisine at l’Alsace in Copenhagen, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Restaurant Karla
0.5 km
Century-old Danish restaurant serving beloved classics and authentic smørrebrød in the heart of Copenhagen, steps from major museums and city attractions.
Marchal
0.5 km
Experience modern French cuisine at Marchal in Copenhagen's Hotel d'Angleterre - where elegance meets culinary artistry.
Husmanns Vinstue
0.5 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Husmanns Vinstue in Copenhagen – where tradition meets taste in a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Læderstræde
0.1 km
Læderstræde is a historic pedestrian street in central Copenhagen, offering a blend of independent boutiques, cozy cafés, and authentic Danish ambiance year-round.
Strøget
0.1 km
Strøget is Copenhagen’s vibrant pedestrian heart—Europe’s original walking street, lined with shops, cafés, historic facades, and street performers.
Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store
0.2 km
Explore Danish history and craftsmanship at Royal Copenhagen Flagship Store, an iconic destination for hand-painted porcelain, elegant collectibles, and Nordic design.
ILLUM
0.3 km
ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Det Gamle Apotek Copenhagen
0.3 km
Nestled on a lively Copenhagen shopping street, Det Gamle Apotek enchants visitors with nostalgic Danish gifts, festive decor, and whimsical home accessories year-round.
Studio Arhoj
0.4 km
Studio Arhoj fuses Scandinavian and Japanese influences into vibrant, hand-crafted ceramics, making it a unique design destination in central Copenhagen.
Magasin du Nord
0.4 km
Experience Danish elegance, international fashion, and gourmet food in Copenhagen’s historic Magasin du Nord—an iconic department store blending tradition and style since 1894.
Storm - design art fashion
0.5 km
Avant-garde design, progressive fashion, niche perfume, and rare art books unite at Copenhagen’s Storm—an iconic concept store in the city’s creative core.
Danish Souvenirs & luggages
0.5 km
Discover authentic Danish gifts, charming souvenirs, and practical luggage essentials at this longstanding shop on bustling Østergade in the heart of Copenhagen.
Time's Up Vintage
0.5 km
Discover curated vintage fashion, rare designer finds, and decades of style history at Time’s Up Vintage in Copenhagen’s bustling Indre By.
Henrik Vibskov Boutique
0.5 km
Henrik Vibskov Boutique: Explore boundary-pushing Danish design and avant-garde fashion in a gallery-inspired setting in central Copenhagen.
Viking Souvenirs
0.5 km
Discover authentic Viking keepsakes and Danish-designed gifts at Viking Souvenirs, perfectly placed on Copenhagen’s historic shopping street for a unique Nordic shopping adventure.
Quirky Lane
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage treasures at Quirky Lane, Copenhagen's eclectic boutique for sustainable fashion enthusiasts.
Wasteland
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures at Wasteland in Copenhagen's Latin Quarter.
The Wilde Shop
0.7 km
A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bird and The Churchkey
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
Lord Nelson Bar
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and craft cocktails at Lord Nelson Bar, a historic gem in the heart of Copenhagen's bustling streets.
The Dubliner
0.1 km
Classic Irish pub atmosphere with live music, hearty food, sports broadcasts, and local camaraderie on lively Amagertorv square in central Copenhagen.
Ruby
0.1 km
Ruby is Copenhagen’s iconic cocktail bar, where historic townhouse charm meets world-class mixology in a uniquely atmospheric setting near the city’s heart.
K-Bar
0.2 km
Leading Copenhagen’s cocktail revolution, K-Bar blends innovative mixology, Scandinavian style, and canal-side ambiance for an unforgettable urban bar experience.
Godt Øl
0.2 km
Discover a welcoming cellar sanctuary for craft beer enthusiasts in Copenhagen, offering expertly curated Danish and international selections in a cozy, sociable atmosphere.
Luke's Bar
0.3 km
Luke’s Bar is a beloved vintage-inspired haunt in Copenhagen’s Indre By, celebrated for creative cocktails, retro ambience, and welcoming, quirky bartenders.
Strøm
0.3 km
Discover Strøm, Copenhagen's chic cocktail bar, blending a vibrant social club atmosphere with exquisite wine selections for an unforgettable night out.
Charlie's Bar
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
Bar'Vin
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Bar'Vin, a cozy restaurant and wine bar in Copenhagen, offering exquisite wines and delicious Danish cuisine.
Bo-Bi Bar
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
1105
0.4 km
Award-winning cocktail bar in central Copenhagen offering inventive signature drinks, a stylish Nordic-chic atmosphere, and a top-tier nightlife experience.
not your USUAL wine bar
0.4 km
A welcoming, eclectic Copenhagen wine bar dedicated to natural wines, lively hygge, and curated experiences for curious locals and travelers.
Southern Cross Pub
0.5 km
Discover the lively Southern Cross Pub, a charming sports bar in Copenhagen, perfect for sports enthusiasts and social gatherings.
Taphouse
0.5 km
Enjoy Copenhagen’s widest choice of craft beers and lively bar culture, all in the inviting, convivial atmosphere of Taphouse—Denmark’s draft beer destination.
