The Danish National Gallery: SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst
Discover Denmark’s most celebrated art collection at SMK – a landmark museum blending centuries of creativity, world masters, and Danish cultural heritage in central Copenhagen.
SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst is Denmark’s leading art museum, renowned for its sublime collections of Danish and international art spanning seven centuries. Housed in an imposing neoclassical-meets-modernist building in the heart of Copenhagen, SMK captivates visitors with masterpieces by Matisse, Rubens, Rembrandt, and the Danish Golden Age. This landmark offers a dynamic experience across permanent galleries, rotating exhibitions, and tranquil museum gardens.
A brief summary to Garden of the Royal Library
- Proviantpassagen 1, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1218, DK
- +4533954200
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Admission is free on Wednesdays after 5 pm, and for visitors under 27 or with a Copenhagen Card.
- The museum café offers picturesque park views and an excellent selection of pastries and Nordic specialties.
- Coatroom lockers are complimentary but often busy during weekends; arrive early for availability.
- Family visitors will enjoy hands-on creative workshops, especially during school holidays.
- Audio guides are available in multiple languages and offer unique insights into both Danish and international pieces.
Getting There
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Walking
The museum is within easy walking distance from many of Copenhagen’s best-known landmarks, including the King's Garden and Rosenborg Castle. From the city center and the area surrounding the Round Tower, expect a pleasant 12–18-minute stroll through historic districts, crossing leafy city parks and traditional squares.
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Public Transport
SMK is well-served by city buses and the nearby Nørreport hub. Trains or Metro to Nørreport Station place you about a 7–10-minute walk from the entrance, passing through vibrant areas and gardens. A single-ride ticket for the Metro or bus within city zones typically costs 24–28 DKK for adults.
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Taxi
A taxi journey from major hotels or the city’s central district generally takes less than 10 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs around 80–120 DKK. Taxis drop passengers right in front of the main entrance.
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Driving/Parking
Parking is available in municipal lots nearby, but spaces can be limited, especially in peak hours. Expect hourly rates of approximately 23–38 DKK. The museum is located in a central, pedestrian-friendly area, so public transport is usually easier.
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