Sophienholm Kunsthal
A neoclassical estate where Denmark's Golden Age salon culture meets contemporary art in a romantic lakeside setting.
Sophienholm is a neoclassical country estate built in 1768 and transformed into a contemporary art gallery showcasing rotating exhibitions of modern and historical art. Set within a romantic landscape garden designed by French architect Joseph-Jacques Ramée, the estate overlooks Lake Bagsværd and hosts art exhibitions, summer concerts, and cultural events year-round. The property carries rich cultural heritage as the former salon of writer Friederike Brun during Denmark's Golden Age.
A brief summary to Sophienholm
- st, Nybrovej 401, Lyngby, 2800, DK
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during summer months for outdoor concerts and garden events that recreate the spirit of Friederike Brun's legendary salons.
- Allow time to explore the romantic landscape garden and woodland paths; the park's design evolution spans two centuries of Danish gardening tradition.
- Check the exhibition schedule in advance, as the gallery hosts rotating contemporary art shows that change seasonally.
- Visit the CoBrA Room to see the historic ceiling decoration by the influential artist collective and learn about mid-twentieth-century Danish art movements.
- The on-site restaurant serves seasonal cuisine and is known for its signature Gateau Marcel chocolate cake—a perfect complement to your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Local Bus
From Copenhagen Central Station, take the S-train line A or E toward Hillerød or Høje Taastrup, alighting at Lyngby Station (approximately 20–25 minutes). From Lyngby Station, board local bus 184 or 185 toward Bagsværd or Birkerød, exiting at the Sophienholm stop (approximately 10–15 minutes). Total journey time is roughly 40–50 minutes. Buses operate regularly throughout the day with reduced frequency on Sundays. Single tickets cost approximately 24–36 DKK depending on zones.
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Bicycle
From central Copenhagen, cycle north via the Bagsværd route or Lyngby cycle paths, a distance of approximately 15–18 kilometers. The journey takes 45–60 minutes depending on your starting point and route chosen. Dedicated cycle lanes exist for much of the route. Sophienholm provides bicycle parking facilities. This option is most practical during mild weather months and offers scenic views of North Zealand's landscape.
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Private Car
From Copenhagen, drive north on Route 2 or Route 16 toward Lyngby, following signs for Kongens Lyngby and Bagsværd. Sophienholm is located at Nybrovej 401, 2800 Kongens Lyngby. Journey time from central Copenhagen is approximately 25–35 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The estate offers on-site parking facilities. Note that parking may be limited during major exhibitions or special events.
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Guided Tour from Copenhagen
Several Copenhagen tour operators offer half-day and full-day excursions to Sophienholm, often combined with visits to other North Zealand attractions. These typically include transportation from central Copenhagen, guided interpretation of the estate's history and current exhibitions, and access to the grounds. Tour duration ranges from 4–8 hours. Prices vary by operator but generally range from 400–800 DKK per person, including transport and guide services.
Sophienholm location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sophienholm
A Neoclassical Masterpiece and Cultural Icon
Sophienholm stands as an architectural and cultural landmark in North Zealand, originally constructed in 1768 by Theodor Holmskiold, director-in-chief of the Danish Postal Services. The estate takes its name from Sophie Holmskiold, the director's wife. In 1790, the property was acquired by Constantin Brun, a wealthy merchant, who commissioned renowned French architect Joseph-Jacques Ramée to undertake a comprehensive renovation. Between 1800 and 1805, Ramée virtually rebuilt and enlarged the main residence in strict French neoclassical style, creating one of his most significant works. The transformation elevated Sophienholm from a modest country house into an elegant estate that would become a beacon of cultural refinement.The Golden Age Salon and Friederike Brun's Legacy
The true cultural significance of Sophienholm emerged through the vision and influence of Friederike Brun, Constantin's wife and a celebrated writer, poet, and composer of her era. Friederike had traveled extensively throughout Italy, Rome, and Geneva, where she had established renowned literary and musical salons. At Sophienholm, she recreated this intellectual atmosphere, gathering the foremost creative minds of Denmark's Golden Age during summer months. The estate became a meeting place for celebrated writers including Adam Oehlenschläger, Johannes Ewald, and Jens Baggesen, as well as composers such as Christoph Ernst Friedrich Weyse. European intellectuals and even royalty, including Prince Christian (later Christian VIII) and his consort, graced the legendary garden parties and evening entertainments. These gatherings left an indelible mark on Danish cultural history, inspiring literary works such as Oehlenschläger's poem "Til Frøken Ida Brun," which opens with the famous line "Sophienholm! hvi mørkner du din Himmel?"The Romantic Landscape Garden
The gardens of Sophienholm represent a unique chapter in Danish landscape design tradition. Designed by Joseph-Jacques Ramée in the English romantic style, the park features open grassy expanses, mature specimen trees, and carefully composed vistas overlooking Lake Bagsværd. Ramée's original design was enriched by subsequent owners with thoughtful additions, including a Norwegian pavilion, a Chinese garden house, and a network of winding woodland paths. The estate's horticultural ambitions extended to exotic elements—Friederike famously introduced donkeys for leisurely rides along the sloping forest trails, creating a miniature Italian province in the Danish countryside. The romantic park remains a living testament to two centuries of Danish landscape gardening evolution and continues to provide visitors with intimate natural spaces interspersed with cultural attractions.Preservation and Contemporary Purpose
Following the Brun family's era, Sophienholm passed through several private owners before being acquired by publisher Carl Aller in 1882. The Aller family maintained the estate until 1963, when Lyngby-Taarbæk Municipality assumed ownership. The main building had deteriorated significantly, necessitating extensive restoration work. The municipality carefully restored the structure and reopened it to the public in 1967 as an exhibition space dedicated to Danish Golden Age art. A second major restoration in 1994 introduced modern conservation systems while preserving the building's historical integrity. Today, Sophienholm operates as a leading contemporary art gallery, hosting four to five major exhibitions annually alongside smaller rotating displays.Art and Cultural Programming
Sophienholm's transformation into a vibrant art institution honors its historical role as a cultural gathering place. The main gallery presents contemporary and modern art exhibitions that attract visitors throughout the Greater Copenhagen region. The CoBrA Room, housed in a former woodland studio, features a ceiling decorated by the influential CoBrA artist collective and serves as a museum annex for experimental contemporary art. Outdoor sculpture installations by renowned Danish artists including Jørgen Haugen Sørensen and Ib Spang Olsen are permanently positioned throughout the grounds. The estate hosts summer concerts, theatrical performances, guided pod-walks through the park, and cultural workshops that animate both the building and landscape. A memorial obelisk near the entrance, erected by the Aller family in the late nineteenth century, honors Constantin, Friederike, and their daughter Ida, ensuring the Brun family's cultural contributions remain visible to all visitors.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bagsværd Kirke
1.7 km
A modest suburban shell concealing Jørn Utzon’s luminous “cloud” church, where Nordic minimalism, sculpted concrete and tranquil courtyards create a serene urban sanctuary.
Lyngby Storcenter
3.0 km
Discover a world of shopping and dining at Lyngby Storcenter, one of Denmark's largest malls, offering a vibrant mix of international brands and local favorites in the heart of Kongens Lyngby.
Furesø
3.4 km
Denmark's deepest lake offers pristine waters, historic heritage, and year-round outdoor adventures just 20 km from Copenhagen.
Grundtvig’s Church
8.1 km
A monumental brick cathedral of Nordic minimalism and light, Grundtvig’s Church fuses expressionist form with Gothic scale on a quiet Copenhagen hillside.
Kildevældsparken
9.6 km
Experience a slice of authentic Copenhagen life at Kildevældsparken, Østerbro’s serene neighborhood park with a charming pond and lush greenery.
The Red Square
10.0 km
A striking, modern city square in Nørrebro, where bold Danish design meets global cultures, street art, and vibrant local life in Copenhagen’s most diverse borough.
Copenhagen This Way / Koebenhavnerture.dk
10.4 km
Experience Copenhagen’s only Russian Orthodox church, where golden onion domes and vibrant frescoes highlight an extraordinary cultural and architectural landmark.
Fælledparken
10.7 km
Copenhagen’s largest and most beloved city park, Fælledparken offers a dynamic blend of green tranquility, local culture, sports, and major city events in Østerbro.
Henriksholm
11.0 km
A quiet Vedbæk hillside where Stone Age burials, villa culture and Cold War command history meet in a leafy coastal neighbourhood north of Copenhagen.
The Tower Playground
11.2 km
Award-winning Copenhagen playground where kids explore & climb miniature city towers; centrally located in Fælledparken with family-friendly facilities.
Folkets Park
11.5 km
Grassroots community spirit, creative play areas, vibrant street art, and urban oasis charm in the heart of Nørrebro’s multicultural Copenhagen.
Hørsholm Slotshave
11.5 km
A baroque garden where Scandinavia's lost palace still echoes through ancient linden trees.
Møstings Hus
11.6 km
Explore contemporary art in a historic neoclassical villa at Møstings Hus, Frederiksberg's cultural gem.
Frederiksbergmuseerne
11.7 km
Explore Frederiksberg's cultural gems: Cisternerne, Bakkehuset, STORM, and Møstings, each offering unique art and history experiences.
Frederiksberg Town Hall
11.7 km
Brick-clad beacon of Frederiksberg’s independence, this 1950s functionalist town hall blends civic power, mid‑century Danish design and views across leafy Copenhagen.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lake Bagsværd
0.7 km
Long, tranquil lake on Copenhagen’s northern fringe, where everyday walks, picnics and wildlife share the shoreline with a world-class rowing course.
Klopstocks eg
0.7 km
Discover Store Dyrehave in North Zealand: a historic royal deer forest with unique star-shaped paths, tranquil wildlife, and lush woodlands perfect for outdoor adventures.
Stendysser
2.0 km
Experience the ancient art of falconry amidst the serene landscapes of Fredensborg at Falkonergården.
Lyngby Folkepark
2.1 km
A relaxed patch of green by Lyngby Lake, where everyday walks, dog runs and quiet pauses connect suburban life with the water and woodland north of Copenhagen.
The Open Air Museum
2.3 km
Step into 300 years of rural Danish life among thatched farms, windmills, animals and gardens in one of the world’s largest historic open‑air museums.
Baadfarten Boat Tour
2.4 km
Historic wooden boats, tranquil lakes and forested shores combine on this leisurely North Zealand cruise just outside Copenhagen.
Mindebænk for Viggo Stuckenberg
2.6 km
A modest stone-framed bench in Sorgenfri Slotshave, offering a quiet, poetic pause where Viggo Stuckenberg once found inspiration amid royal parkland.
Templet
2.7 km
Intimate, no‑frills live venue in Kongens Lyngby where loud guitars, close‑up performances and a local crowd turn a modest room into a night of amplified energy.
Open Air Museum
3.1 km
One of the world’s largest open‑air museums, Frilandsmuseet gathers centuries of Danish rural life into a single village of farms, mills, animals and gardens.
Geels Skov
3.8 km
An accessible Copenhagen-edge woodland of beech trees, clear trails and cosy fire pits, Geels Skov is where everyday life slips easily into fresh-air forest time.
Fiskebæk Naturskole
5.3 km
Rustic forest school and shelter camp on the edge of Værløse, where crackling campfires, simple shelters and tall trees turn everyday nature into an easy escape.
Vaserne
5.7 km
Sheltered between Birkerød and Sjælsø, Vaserne is a protected wetland reserve of reeds, swamp forest and bird-filled lakes offering quietly immersive nature on the city’s edge.
Sommer's Automobile Museum
6.6 km
A three-storey Danish car haven where Jaguars, Volvos and rare home-built specials tell a vivid story of 20th‑century motoring and mechanical passion.
Ordrupgaard
6.6 km
A historic country house turned art museum, where French masters, Danish classics, bold contemporary architecture, and a sculpture-filled park meet in leafy Charlottenlund.
Farum Lake
6.7 km
A tranquil woodland lake looped by a 10 km trail, rich in birdlife, legends and gentle outdoor adventures just northwest of Copenhagen.
Essential places to dine
Søllerød Kro
4.9 km
Historic thatched Danish inn turned Michelin-starred dining destination, where refined French-inspired cuisine, deep wines and warm village charm meet by a tranquil pond.
Cafe 33
9.3 km
Explore the rich heritage of vodka at Cafe 33's unique Vodka Museum in Vanløse.
Gro Eatery
9.8 km
Experience modern Nordic cuisine in an urban rooftop farm setting at Gro Eatery, where seasonal tasting menus and city views meet Danish sustainability in Østerbro.
PAX
10.4 km
Experience innovative Italian-inspired cuisine in the heart of Østerbro at PAX, where a dynamic menu and cozy ambiance await.
Geranium
10.7 km
Geranium offers a world-class New Nordic tasting experience in Copenhagen, uniting innovative Scandinavian cuisine, sustainable luxury, and panoramic city views.
Street Food 108
10.8 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Street Food 108 in Copenhagen's vibrant Nørrebro district - a delightful taste adventure awaits!
Restaurant Madklubben Østerbro
10.9 km
Enjoy approachable modern Danish cuisine and vibrant local life in the stylish heart of Østerbro at Restaurant Madklubben, where good food and great company meet.
Gaarden & Gaden
11.0 km
Discover Gaarden & Gaden, a stylishly laid-back bistro in Nørrebro, Copenhagen, serving inventive local cuisine and natural wines in a warm, communal setting.
Bæst
11.1 km
Experience Nørrebro’s celebrated Bæst, where organic Italian pizzas and in-house charcuterie meet Scandinavian sustainability and vibrant Danish hospitality.
Aroii - Nørrebro
11.2 km
Savor inventive Asian fusion cuisine in lively Nørrebro, where Aroii delivers creative Thai-inspired plates and vibrant ambiance in one of Copenhagen’s buzziest districts.
Kiin Kiin
11.2 km
Michelin-starred Thai restaurant in Copenhagen’s Nørrebro, offering inventive tasting menus and modern fine dining that blend Southeast Asian flavors with Nordic influences.
Café Lindevang
11.2 km
A beloved Frederiksberg institution, Café Lindevang serves up hearty Danish classics and authentic smørrebrød in cozy, vintage surroundings steeped in local charm.
Hos Fischer
11.2 km
Experience authentic Italian trattoria dining and neighborhood hospitality at Hos Fischer, a beloved Østerbro culinary gem near the tranquil green heart of Copenhagen.
Hooked Nørrebro
11.3 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Hooked Nørrebro in Copenhagen - a culinary gem celebrating local flavors in a vibrant setting.
JATAK
11.3 km
Intimate Nørrebro dining where New Nordic produce meets the bold, personal Asian flavors of chef Jonathan Tam in a calm, minimalist Michelin-starred setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Late Morning Post Photographer
3.0 km
Fine art wedding and family photography studio capturing authentic moments with artistic vision and warmth.
Perfectly Worn Vintage
10.6 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and timeless fashion in the heart of Nørrebro’s creative district at Perfectly Worn Vintage, Copenhagen’s haven for unique style.
Rødovre Centrum
10.7 km
Denmark’s original modern shopping mall, blending big‑name stores, cinema and family‑friendly leisure in a spacious all‑weather hub west of central Copenhagen.
Red Cross Op Shop
11.3 km
A vibrant Østerbro thrift store where sustainable shopping, Danish design, and community spirit support Red Cross humanitarian work.
Frederiksberg Centret
11.4 km
Frederiksberg Centret offers a sleek, Scandinavian shopping experience with 90+ stores, cafés, and events in the chic heart of Frederiksberg, steps from the Metro.
PRAG Nørrebro
11.5 km
PRAG Nørrebro offers a curated vintage shopping experience surrounded by the eclectic energy and cultural vibrancy of Copenhagen’s trendsetting district.
Royal Copenhagen - Outlet
11.5 km
Discover Danish porcelain heritage and timeless design at discounted prices in Frederiksberg’s celebrated Royal Copenhagen Outlet, close to the city’s green heart.
Butik Bungalow
11.6 km
Colorful Danish-Indian design shop in Nørrebro offering hand-printed homeware, unique gifts, and stylish paper goods in a cozy, creative boutique setting.
McKorman
11.7 km
Discover McKorman in Nørrebro: Copenhagen’s go-to spot for handpicked streetwear, unique vintage fashion, and urban style essentials for every wardrobe.
TorvehallerneKBH
12.3 km
A vibrant marketplace in the heart of Copenhagen, TorvehallerneKBH blends Danish culinary tradition with global flavors across over 60 food and drink stalls.
Exotic Mix
12.4 km
Gourmet nuts, dried fruits and chocolate dragées from around the world, served from a colourful family‑run stall inside Copenhagen’s Torvehallerne market.
Copenhagen Souvenir & Design World of Memories
12.5 km
Denmark's largest souvenir destination with 2,000+ authentic gifts celebrating Danish design, heritage, and iconic landmarks.
Fjällräven
12.7 km
A compact Fjällräven brand shop on historic Kultorvet, pairing Scandinavian outdoor design with expert gear advice in the heart of Copenhagen’s old town.
Værnedamsvej
12.7 km
Copenhagen’s beloved Parisian-style street, brimming with independent shops, cafés, wine bars, and Scandinavian charm between vibrant Vesterbro and Frederiksberg.
Souvenir Gifts shop
12.7 km
Classic Copenhagen souvenirs in a compact, central shop on historic Købmagergade, perfect for last‑minute gifts and easy-to-pack mementos from the Danish capital.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gotland - Café & Vinbar
10.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of fine wines and cozy café atmosphere at Gotland - Café & Vinbar in Copenhagen.
Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer
10.3 km
Discover the heart of Copenhagen's nightlife at Dispensary, Whisk(e)y And Beer, where craft beers and fine whiskies await in a vibrant atmosphere.
Kompasset Ølbar
10.5 km
Experience Copenhagen's nightlife at Kompasset Ølbar, a vibrant bar in Østerbro known for its craft beers and inviting atmosphere.
Bubbles Bar
10.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bubbles Bar, Copenhagen's chic nightlife destination for tourists and locals alike.
Tap10
10.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at Tap10, a cozy bar in Østerbro offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Skovbar
10.9 km
Small, punk-spirited and queer-friendly bar in Nørrebro with vegan drinks, inclusive vibes and intimate music nights at budget-friendly prices.
Paloma Vermuteria
11.0 km
Mediterranean vermut culture meets Nordic hospitality in Copenhagen's creative heart.
Klovnens Bodega
11.1 km
Discover the heart of Nørrebro at Klovnens Bodega, a cozy pub offering a delightful atmosphere and a taste of local culture.
Frederiksberg Ølbar
11.1 km
Experience the best of Denmark's brewing heritage at Frederiksberg Ølbar, a cozy bar with a fantastic selection of local craft beers.
BRUS
11.1 km
Discover the best craft beers and seasonal dishes at BRUS, Copenhagen's top brewpub for foodies and beer lovers alike.
The Mudhoney
11.2 km
Discover The Mudhoney, a stylish cocktail bar in Copenhagen, blending coffee shop charm with expertly crafted cocktails for a perfect night out.
Østerbros Perle Pub
11.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Østerbros Perle Pub in København Ø, where locals and tourists unite over drinks and laughter.
Trianglen 7
11.3 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen wine culture at Trianglen 7, a charming wine bar offering a curated selection and an inviting atmosphere.
ØB
11.3 km
Experience the best of Copenhagen's nightlife at ØB, where great beer, tasty burgers, and a lively atmosphere come together.
PULP bar
11.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Copenhagen at PULP Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Neoclassical Designs
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
