Kunsthal Charlottenborg
Historic Charlottenborg Palace turned avant‑garde kunsthal, where vast Baroque halls, canal views and an ambitious rotating program define Copenhagen’s contemporary art scene.
Set in the Dutch Baroque wings of Charlottenborg Palace by Nyhavn, Kunsthal Charlottenborg is one of Northern Europe’s largest and most atmospheric spaces for contemporary art. Behind its stately 17th‑century façade you’ll find changing exhibitions by Danish and international artists, installations that spill through vast halls and courtyards, and a lively program of talks, screenings, performances and events tied to the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts next door.
A brief summary to Kunsthal Charlottenborg
- Nyhavn 2, Copenhagen, Indre By, 1051, DK
- +4533744639
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 12 pm-8 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-8 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-8 pm
- Friday 12 pm-8 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Set aside extra time for the Charlottenborg Spring Exhibition or the Academy degree show, when the building is filled with many smaller projects across media.
- Head to upper‑floor windows for atmospheric views over Nyhavn’s colorful facades and Kongens Nytorv, especially on clear days.
- Combine your visit with a break in the on‑site café or the courtyard to reflect on the more conceptually demanding works.
- If accessibility is important, check current exhibition layouts on arrival; some older sections of the palace can involve stairs and uneven floors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Metro
From central Copenhagen, take the M1 or M2 metro line to Kongens Nytorv Station, which lies adjacent to Charlottenborg. The ride from Nørreport or København H typically takes 3–6 minutes, with frequent departures throughout the day. A single zone‑2 ticket costs roughly 20–25 DKK, and lifts and escalators make this the most convenient option in bad weather or for visitors with limited mobility.
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Bus
Several city bus routes serve the Kongens Nytorv and Nyhavn area from other central districts in about 10–20 minutes, depending on traffic. Standard city bus tickets are in the same price range as the metro, around 20–25 DKK for a short trip, and services run at least every 10–15 minutes during daytime. Expect buses to be busier during rush hours and allow extra time when traveling from outer neighbourhoods.
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Bicycle
Cycling is a classic Copenhagen way to reach Kunsthal Charlottenborg, with dedicated bike lanes leading toward Kongens Nytorv from most central neighbourhoods in roughly 10–25 minutes. You can use public rental bikes or hotel bicycles; rentals usually start around 100–150 DKK per day. Be prepared for cobblestones near Nyhavn and always use bike lights and follow local cycling etiquette, especially at busy junctions.
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Walking from central Copenhagen
From core city areas such as Strøget or the old town, plan on a 10–20 minute walk to Charlottenborg through largely flat, paved streets. The route is suitable for most visitors, though some stretches include cobblestones that can be tiring with luggage or for wheelchairs. In winter, allow extra time for wet or slippery surfaces and bring warm clothing, as winds around Kongens Nytorv can feel colder than inland streets.
Kunsthal Charlottenborg location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Kunsthal Charlottenborg
Baroque palace meets bold contemporary art
Kunsthal Charlottenborg occupies the historic Charlottenborg Palace at the corner of Kongens Nytorv and the Nyhavn canal, where a 17th‑century town mansion now shelters cutting‑edge art. Built for nobleman Ulrik Frederik Gyldenløve in the 1670s and later owned by dowager queen Charlotte Amalie, the palace’s Dutch Baroque lines, brick façades and quiet courtyard give the art center a sense of grandeur that contrasts playfully with the experimental work inside. Since the late 19th century, the palace’s rear wing has been dedicated to exhibitions, developing into one of Northern Europe’s largest venues for contemporary art. Today the kunsthal operates without a permanent collection, focusing instead on changing shows that animate these historic rooms with moving images, sound, installation and large‑scale sculpture.From royal residence to art academy powerhouse
The building’s life mirrors Copenhagen’s cultural evolution. After the royal period, Charlottenborg became firmly tied to the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, which took over the palace in the 18th century and still occupies parts of the complex. The exhibition halls served as the Academy’s official showcase, hosting student presentations, juried salons and experimental projects that introduced new artistic ideas to the city. This history continues in long‑running formats such as the Charlottenborg Spring Exhibition, an open‑call show that has helped launch generations of Nordic artists, and the annual MFA degree exhibition, where graduating students present ambitious projects across media. Walking through the kunsthal, you are moving through a living timeline of Danish art education and its international dialogues.What you’ll see inside the galleries
Inside, white‑cube galleries alternate with lofty halls, original staircases and glimpses of palace detailing. The program is resolutely contemporary: thematic group shows sit alongside major solo exhibitions by both emerging and established artists working in installation, photography, film, performance and socially engaged practice. Some projects respond directly to current politics; others are quiet, poetic explorations of nature, technology or identity. Because there is no permanent collection, every visit feels different. At one time you may find a single immersive video filling a hall; at another, a dense constellation of sculptures, textiles and archival materials. The kunsthal also collaborates widely, hosting curated archives, research‑driven projects and crossovers between design, architecture and visual art that make full use of the flexible spaces.Courtyards, canal views and everyday atmosphere
Beyond the galleries, Kunsthal Charlottenborg’s setting is part of its appeal. The inner courtyard offers a calm pause just steps from busy Kongens Nytorv, with seasonal outdoor artworks or installations occasionally inhabiting the space. From upper‑floor windows you can look out over the colorful houses of Nyhavn and the bustle of the canal, framing classic Copenhagen views from within the palace walls. On many days the atmosphere blends exhibition visitors with art students moving between classes, researchers heading to the art library and locals meeting in the on‑site café. Talks, screenings, performances and concerts extend the experience into the evening, turning the kunsthal into a cultural hub where visual art intersects with music, film and debate.Planning your visit and making the most of it
A typical visit lasts between one and two hours, depending on how deeply you engage with the current program. Wall texts are usually available in more than one language, and staff are happy to discuss the works on view. Parts of the building have been adapted for step‑free access, and facilities include restrooms, seating areas, information points and a café where you can linger before or after your gallery circuit. Most exhibitions are suitable for a wide audience, though themes can at times be challenging or conceptually dense, reflecting the institution’s ambition to present uncompromising contemporary art. It is worth checking what is on during your dates, as a strong temporary show can easily tempt you to stay longer, attend an associated talk or return for an evening event in this distinctive blend of royal architecture and forward‑looking culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stromma Canal Tours Copenhagen
0.1 km
A lush botanical oasis at the heart of Copenhagen, featuring historic glasshouses, rare Nordic plants, tranquil lakes, and immersive gardens for every season.
Sankt Annæ Pl.
0.3 km
Historic square blending royal heritage, climate innovation, and urban livability in central Copenhagen.
Wilhelm Hansens Hus
0.3 km
Former home of Denmark’s leading music publisher, quietly anchoring Gothersgade’s elegant streets between royal gardens and lively Kongens Nytorv.
Hans Christian Andersen plaque
0.4 km
A modest plaque on elegant Amaliegade quietly marks Hans Christian Andersen’s presence amid the formal mansions and palace axis of Copenhagen’s Frederiksstaden.
Holmens Bro
0.5 km
A modest granite arch in central Copenhagen that quietly connects Slotsholmen’s palaces with the city’s streets, offering classic harbour views and everyday urban life.
C.F. Tietgens Hus
0.6 km
A Neoclassical monument to Danish banking heritage and industrial vision, built for one of history's most influential entrepreneurs.
Bishop Absalon
0.6 km
Dynamic equestrian monument to Copenhagen’s warrior-bishop founder, rising over central Højbro Plads with rich maritime symbolism and a direct visual link to Christiansborg.
Agnete and the Merman Statue
0.6 km
Discover the Agnete and the Merman statue in Copenhagen, a stunning representation of love and Danish folklore by Højbro Bridge.
Frederik's Church
0.6 km
Copenhagen's iconic copper-domed masterpiece—a 145-year architectural triumph offering panoramic views and spiritual grandeur.
Amalienborg Palace Museum
0.6 km
Immerse yourself in the splendor and stories of Denmark’s monarchy at Amalienborg Palace Museum, where royal tradition and personal history come alive.
Frederik VII
0.6 km
Bronze monument in central Copenhagen commemorating King Frederik VII and Denmark’s 19th-century transition to constitutional monarchy, steps from political landmarks.
Højbro
0.6 km
A historic iron arch bridging Copenhagen’s lively city centre and stately Slotsholmen, with hidden folklore sculptures stirring beneath its calm canal waters.
Knippelsbro
0.6 km
Copper-topped towers, lifting roadway and harbor breezes make Knippelsbro a compact, characterful bridge linking historic Slotsholmen with canalside Christianshavn.
St. Alexander Nevsky Church
0.6 km
Copenhagen's ornate Russian Orthodox gem with gilded domes and royal heritage near Amalienborg Palace.
Christiansborg Palace
0.6 km
Explore the majestic Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, a blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture that captivates all who visit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Memorial Anchor
0.1 km
Explore one of Europe’s oldest zoos, home to over 3,000 animals, award-winning architecture, immersive habitats, conservation programs, and engaging family activities.
Kongens Nytorv
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s grand royal square, where theatres, palaces, luxury hotels and metro lines meet above a lively, ever-changing city stage.
The Royal Playhouse and The Old Stage
0.1 km
Copenhagen’s national theatre in two acts: a gilded 19th‑century Old Stage on Kongens Nytorv and a bold modern playhouse rising directly above the harbour waters.
Copenhagen Amber Museum
0.1 km
A tiny 17th‑century townhouse on Kongens Nytorv where Baltic amber, ancient insects and Scandinavian craft turn deep time into a warm, golden museum experience.
Nyhavn
0.2 km
Copenhagen’s classic harbour postcard: colourful 17th‑century houses, wooden ships and waterside cafés where maritime history meets modern hygge.
Nyhavnsbroen & Nyhavn
0.2 km
A modest canal bridge with a grand view, Nyhavnsbroen is the perfect perch above Copenhagen’s most colourful harbour and its centuries of maritime stories.
Bredgade 18
0.2 km
A quietly elegant address on Copenhagen’s grand Bredgade, surrounded by Frederiksstaden’s mansions, churches and design showrooms in the heart of the city.
Indre By
0.2 km
A storied sanctuary in Nørrebro, Assistens Cemetery blends tranquil nature, remarkable history, and the celebrated graves of Danish luminaries.
Guinness World Records Museum
0.3 km
Explore the extraordinary limits of human achievement in Scandinavia's premier world records museum.
Havnepromenade
0.3 km
Discover Copenhagen’s Garden of the Royal Library: an elegant and tranquil retreat bridging royal heritage and modern design in the heart of the Danish capital.
Havnegade Promenaden
0.4 km
Slottsträdgården is Malmö’s central organic garden retreat, blending vibrant themed gardens, historic castle views, and lively year-round events in a lush urban oasis.
The Playhouse
0.4 km
A beautiful English gothic church in the heart of Copenhagen, St Alban’s blends British heritage and Danish history beside the city’s iconic fortifications.
The Kissing Stairs
0.4 km
Stroll along Langelinie, Copenhagen’s bustling waterfront, where iconic statues, historic parkland, and sweeping harbor views create a quintessential maritime escape.
Hey Captain
0.4 km
Experience the heart of Hillerød at Fisketorvet, where shopping, dining, and culture converge in a historic market square.
Inderhavnsbroen
0.4 km
Explore the evolution of Danish design at Copenhagen's historic Designmuseum Danmark.
Essential places to dine
Nyhavns Færgekro
0.1 km
Classic Danish cooking and a famed herring buffet in a cozy canal-side tavern, set within one of Nyhavn’s colorful townhouses overlooking Copenhagen’s historic harbor.
Cap Horn
0.1 km
Candlelit Nordic bistro in a historic Nyhavn townhouse, blending classic Danish seafood, canal views and cosy hygge from late morning to late evening.
Skipperkroen
0.1 km
Harbourfront smørrebrød and seafood in an 18th‑century Nyhavn house, pairing classic Danish flavours with canal views from cosy rooms and a lively terrace.
à terre
0.1 km
à terre brings French fine dining infused with Nordic creativity to central Copenhagen, offering an intimate, innovative tasting menu experience near Copenhagen’s key attractions.
Goldfinch
0.2 km
Stylish Cantonese-inspired dining and cocktails on historic Kongens Nytorv, pairing shareable plates with a moody interior in the heart of Copenhagen.
Marchal
0.2 km
Michelin-starred Nordic–French fine dining in the historic elegance of Hotel d’Angleterre on Copenhagen’s grand Kongens Nytorv.
Bistro Royal
0.3 km
Elegant all‑day French‑Danish bistro on Kongens Nytorv, pairing brasserie classics with prime people‑watching and a lively, chandelier‑lit atmosphere.
Khun Juk
0.3 km
Refined Thai dining tucked into Copenhagen’s iconic Nyhavn, where candlelit tables, fresh flowers and layered flavors turn dinner into an intimate evening event.
Llama
0.3 km
Latin American flavors, bold cocktails and patterned-tile design bring Peruvian and Mexican energy to a lively, late-night restaurant just off Kongens Nytorv.
King Hans Cellar
0.3 km
Historic vaulted cellars, cutting-edge Nordic cuisine, and centuries-old royal ambiance converge at Copenhagen’s legendary King Hans Cellar fine dining restaurant.
Frank
0.3 km
A candlelit Copenhagen luxury bistro where an open kitchen, bold seasonal cooking and an exceptional wine list create an intimate, wine-lover’s evening.
Den Lille Fede
0.3 km
Cosy, candlelit tasting-menu restaurant near Kongens Nytorv, where playful Nordic-inspired courses and thoughtful wine pairings turn dinner into an unhurried evening event.
Restaurant Vita
0.3 km
Historic Danish dining in a former royal pharmacy, serving traditional smørrebrød and national classics.
l’Alsace
0.3 km
Classic French bistro cooking, polished wines and candlelit charm in the heart of Copenhagen’s shopping streets.
Restaurant Grønnegade
0.4 km
Seasonal Danish‑French fine dining in a 17th‑century Copenhagen townhouse, offering intimate, adults‑only evenings with polished service and thoughtful wine pairings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Zane
0.1 km
Intimate Copenhagen florist and design boutique on stylish Bredgade, blending seasonal blooms, Nordic homeware and thoughtful gifts in a cosy, lived-in space.
Welcome Giftshop & Souvenirs
0.2 km
Central Copenhagen’s cosy hygge boutique for Danish design, classic souvenirs, and easy last-minute gifts just off bustling Kongens Nytorv square.
Copenhagenglass
0.2 km
Intimate glassblowing studio and shop near Nyhavn, where Danish maritime-inspired designs and hands-on sessions turn molten glass into memorable Copenhagen souvenirs.
Magasin du Nord
0.2 km
Copenhagen’s classic department store: historic architecture, Nordic style, gourmet treats and relaxed cafés gathered under one elegant roof on Kongens Nytorv.
Viking Souvenirs
0.2 km
Authentic Danish and Viking-themed souvenirs in Copenhagen's historic city center.
Maritime Antiques &
0.2 km
Atmospheric basement shop near Nyhavn where genuine maritime antiques share space with heritage-inspired clothing and rugged knitwear in a cosy, ship-like setting.
Danish Souvenirs & luggages
0.3 km
Central Strøget souvenir and luggage shop combining classic Danish mementos with practical travel gear, open long hours for convenient, last‑minute Copenhagen gifts.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design
0.3 km
Denmark's premier souvenir destination offering authentic Danish heritage, contemporary design, and quality gifts across seven city-center locations.
The Wilde Shop
0.3 km
A boutique vintage shop in Indre By, Copenhagen bringing together handpicked retro clothing, sustainable fashion, and curated Scandinavian style in a welcoming setting.
Urban Outfitters
0.4 km
Trendy multi-level fashion and lifestyle store bringing Urban Outfitters’ eclectic clothing, homeware and vinyl mix to the heart of Copenhagen’s Østergade.
Storm - design art fashion
0.5 km
A pioneering Copenhagen concept store where avant-garde fashion, art, design objects and niche fragrances meet in a minimalist, gallery-like space on Store Regnegade.
ILLUM
0.5 km
ILLUM is Copenhagen’s iconic department store, combining world-class fashion, Danish design, gourmet food, and rooftop views in historic Indre By.
Royal Souvenir Shop
0.5 km
Compact and colourful, Royal Souvenir Shop on Bredgade distils Copenhagen into easy‑to‑pack gifts, from royal guards and Vikings to flags, mugs and playful keepsakes.
Danish Souvenirs
0.5 km
Central Copenhagen souvenir hub on Højbro Plads, packed with Danish icons, practical travel extras and long opening hours just steps from Strøget.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
0.6 km
Denmark's largest souvenir chain with 14 locations offering over 2,000 authentic Danish keepsakes and contemporary design pieces.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brønnum
0.1 km
An opulent, multi‑room cocktail bar steps from Kongens Nytorv, where historic townhouse elegance meets contemporary mixology and candlelit late‑night conversation.
TATA Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
A velvet-draped, fireplace-warmed cocktail hideaway inside Hotel Sanders, where classic mixology, Danish design and theatre-inspired charm blend seamlessly.
Bar Deco
0.3 km
Intimate Art Deco–inspired cocktail bar near Kongens Nytorv, pairing crafted drinks with moody lighting and a relaxed, grown‑up Copenhagen atmosphere.
Aloha Beach Bar
0.3 km
Island-inspired cocktails, neon glow and late-night party vibes packed into a compact tropical bar just off Gothersgade in central Copenhagen.
Balthazar
0.3 km
A luxurious Champagne bar at Hotel d’Angleterre, pairing an extensive bubbles list and crafted cocktails with velvet-luxe interiors and a lively DJ-backed ambience.
1105
0.4 km
Intimate, dimly lit cocktail bar in Copenhagen’s 1105 postcode, pairing dark, elegant interiors with carefully crafted Nordic-inspired drinks and classic mixes.
The Moose
0.5 km
Graffiti-plastered walls, infamous moose murals and cheap late-night beers make this smoky Indre By dive bar a gritty, unpolished slice of Copenhagen nightlife.
Charlie's Bar
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting atmosphere of Charlie's Bar, a cozy haven in Copenhagen offering a diverse drink selection and a vibrant local vibe.
K-Bar
0.5 km
Intimate harbourfront cocktail den in central Copenhagen, known for monochrome style, inventive infusions and quietly confident classics poured with real care.
Trykbar
0.6 km
Cosy, central Copenhagen bar with a strong beer list, warm lighting and a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere that blends hygge with lively late-night energy.
The Dubliner
0.6 km
Lively Irish pub energy on Copenhagen’s Amagertorv, serving hearty pub classics, well-poured pints, live music and big-screen sport in a cosy, wood-lined setting.
Bo-Bi Bar
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Bo-Bi Bar, where delightful drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Balderdash
0.7 km
Copenhagen’s candlelit cocktail laboratory in a 1732 townhouse, where hygge, art and daring seasonal drinks turn a quiet side street into an unforgettable night out.
Eiffel bar
0.7 km
Experience the cozy atmosphere of Eiffel Bar in Copenhagen, where friendly service meets affordable drinks in a charming setting.
The Bird and The Churchkey
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Bird and The Churchkey, a must-visit bar in Copenhagen for craft beer and creative cocktails.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Lusso
0.3 km
A compact, high-end Copenhagen nightclub with champagne-forward table service, dim lighting and a stylish late-night crowd just steps from Kongens Nytorv.
Mini Bar
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Mini Bar, a premier night club offering eclectic tunes and a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
The Zoo
0.5 km
Intimate late-night nightclub on Sværtegade in Copenhagen’s historic center, blending a compact dance floor, DJ-driven beats and a casual, social bar atmosphere.
Culture Box
0.8 km
Discover the heartbeat of Copenhagen's nightlife at Culture Box, where music, art, and dance create an unforgettable experience.
Chateau Motel
0.9 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Copenhagen at Chateau Motel, a top destination for cocktails and dancing in a vibrant atmosphere.
Hive
1.0 km
Copenhagen's premier high-end nightclub with cutting-edge design, VIP service, and immersive themed experiences.
Operaen
1.0 km
Compact harbourfront nightclub near Copenhagen’s modern opera house, mixing DJ-driven beats, local crowds and late-night energy by the inner-city waterfront.
Rumors
1.0 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Rumors, where energetic vibes and unforgettable nights await you.
Mirror
1.0 km
Dive into the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Mirror, where the rhythm never stops and unforgettable memories are made.
Miami Bar
1.1 km
Discover Copenhagen's nightlife at Miami Bar, where cocktails and dancing create unforgettable nights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Arch
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Arch, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.
La Terraza
1.1 km
Compact nightclub on Studiestræde in Copenhagen’s old town, offering loud beats, straightforward drinks and an unpretentious late-night dance floor.
Mirage
1.1 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Mirage, Copenhagen's premier night club for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and entertainment.
Dorsia
1.1 km
Central Copenhagen nightclub with late‑night DJs, cocktails and an image‑conscious crowd packed into a dark, modern interior off busy Kattesundet.
Club Mambo
1.1 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Copenhagen at Club Mambo, a vibrant night club offering salsa dancing, cocktails, and delicious dining.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
