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SMK – The National Gallery of Denmark: Denmark’s Art Epicenter

SMK – The National Gallery of Denmark blends centuries of Danish and international art in a landmark setting, making it Copenhagen’s leading art museum experience.

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SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst is Denmark’s largest art museum and the beating heart of Danish and international art in Copenhagen. Housed on the edge of the lush Østre Anlæg park, it spans seven centuries of masterpieces, from dramatic Renaissance portraits to contemporary installations. Both a showcase of Danish artistic heritage and a global crossroads, the SMK offers visitors world-class collections, immersive exhibitions, and ever-changing creative experiences.

A brief summary to Planetarium

  • Monday 12 pm-6:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-8:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-9:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-8:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Admission is free for visitors under 27; adult tickets are typically around 120 DKK, with discounts for students.
  • The park-side café is popular for coffee and light lunches, ideal for breaks between gallery visits.
  • Free lockers are available for bags and coats; large items aren’t permitted inside exhibition spaces.
  • Temporary exhibitions may require an additional ticket; check for combined offers on arrival.
  • Families will find a creative children’s workshop and special kids’ guides, especially active during weekends and holidays.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Copenhagen’s main shopping street and central squares, reach SMK within a pleasant 15–20-minute stroll. The path leads through historic quarters, with Rosenborg Castle and the King’s Garden as unmistakable nearby landmarks. The museum’s grand facade comes into view beside the tranquil green lawns of Østre Anlæg park.

  • Public Transport

    Several city buses and the Metro connect Copenhagen’s central station and main hubs with stops near the museum. A short ride—usually around 10 minutes and costing 24 DKK for a standard adult ticket—brings you within a quick walk of SMK’s entrance through the leafy park zone.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from the city center typically take 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic, and cost between 100 and 140 DKK. Alighting near the entrance, you’ll spot the building’s glass-and-red-brick blend set against the greenery of the surrounding park.

  • Driving/Parking

    Limited metered parking is available near SMK and in the adjacent neighborhoods, with rates generally around 27–37 DKK/hour. Public transport is often more convenient due to the central location and limited parking close to major tourist sites.

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Discover more about Planetarium

The Statens Museum for Kunst, known simply as SMK, is the premier destination for art lovers in Denmark. Nestled among historic parks and gardens in central Copenhagen, the SMK embodies over 700 years of artistic achievement. Its striking blend of old and new architecture sets the tone: the original 19th-century Renaissance Revival building is complemented by a sleek modern wing of glass and steel, symbolizing the museum’s dialogue between past and present. Inside, visitors are treated to an extraordinary array of art, from grand Old Masters and iconic Danish Golden Age paintings to vibrant contemporary works. The museum is home to the world’s most significant collection of Danish art, including luminous landscapes by Christen Købke and C.W. Eckersberg, and powerful portraits by Vilhelm Hammershøi. International highlights range from Rembrandt and Rubens to Matisse, Picasso, and contemporary visionaries. Dedicated spaces invite playful interaction—children can join creative workshops, and visitors of all ages can engage with digital and hands-on displays. The SMK is more than a gallery: it’s a cultural hub for Copenhagen. Its bright, airy atrium often comes alive with special events, open studios, and artistic happenings. The café, overlooking the park, is a gathering place for both art aficionados and locals seeking atmosphere and inspiration. Temporary exhibitions frequently bring new perspectives and international masterpieces, so each visit promises surprises. Whether you’re wandering the expansive halls filled with natural light, enjoying a quiet moment in the library-like study room, or visiting for one of the regular talks or live art happenings, the SMK promises a rich, all-encompassing cultural experience. Accessible and family-friendly, the SMK is a true must-see—equally suited for an immersive half-day, a brief art fix, or a family afternoon. With its central location near Rosenborg Castle and the King’s Garden, the SMK is at the heart of Copenhagen’s creative and historic core.

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