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SMK – The Statens Museum for Kunst: Denmark’s National Gallery

Explore Denmark’s national gallery in central Copenhagen, where world-class Danish and European art meets vibrant contemporary exhibitions and lush parklands.

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SMK, Denmark’s largest art museum, dazzles visitors in the heart of Copenhagen with collections spanning seven centuries. Marvel at Danish Golden Age masterpieces, cutting-edge contemporary works, and acclaimed European classics in a dynamic setting that bridges past and present. The museum’s grand halls, lush adjacent parklands, and regular international exhibitions make it a central cultural landmark for art lovers and casual explorers alike.

A brief summary to RoS Gallery

  • Tuesday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-5 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Admission is free for visitors under 18 and every Wednesday evening after 5pm.
  • Plan extra time to relax in the beautiful café and Sculpture Street, especially during weekends.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll in the Botanical Garden or Rosenborg Castle Garden next door.
  • Lockers are free and handy for storing bags so you can explore hands-free.
  • Check the museum’s schedule for SMK Fridays, when art meets live events and the museum stays open late.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From City Hall Square, it’s a scenic ~15-minute stroll through the heart of Copenhagen, passing vibrant cafés and lush gardens. Arrive at the imposing museum facade with the Botanical Garden just to one side.

  • Public Transport

    Several city buses, including lines from Nørreport Station, stop within a few minutes’ walk of the museum’s entrance. A standard adult ticket for central zones is typically DKK 24, and the route is fully accessible.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from the central station or City Hall area is a short ride, typically taking around 7–12 minutes depending on traffic, with typical fares ranging DKK 90–120.

  • Driving/Parking

    Limited public parking is available at nearby lots and along park access roads. Expect metered city rates averaging DKK 18–25 per hour. Be aware that spaces fill quickly on weekends and during special exhibitions.

Unlock the Best of RoS Gallery

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Discover more about RoS Gallery

Set within a striking blend of neo-Renaissance and modernist architecture, the SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst stands as Denmark’s pre-eminent art museum and national gallery. Located on the verdant edge of Copenhagen’s central city, SMK weaves together centuries of Danish and international artistry under one dramatic glass roof. Inside, more than 260,000 works illuminate the story of Danish cultural identity from the 1300s to today—from intricate medieval altarpieces to pioneering modern installations and iconic pieces by Matisse, Rubens, and Rembrandt. The Danish and Nordic collections offer a unique window into the Golden Age of painting, while the contemporary wing challenges perspectives with bold new work. Highlights include Vilhelm Hammershøi’s moody interiors, Skagen painters’ sun-drenched visions, and SMK Fridays: lively late-night events blending art, talks, and music. Beyond the galleries, visitors can relax in the light-filled Sculpture Street, enjoy seasonal family activities, or recharge in the SMK Café overlooking the city’s Botanical Garden. Regular international exhibitions ensure there’s always something new, while free access to the parklands and adjoining Rosenborg Castle Garden invites contemplation amid nature. Accessibility is a priority, with step-free access and amenities suited for all ages. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a curious traveler, SMK offers a journey across time at the creative heart of Copenhagen.

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