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.
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
- Gl. Kongevej 10, Indre By, Indre By, 1610, DK
- +4533121224
- Visit website
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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