SMK – National Gallery of Denmark Copenhagen
Denmark's national art museum, showcasing Danish Golden Age masterpieces and diverse modern collections in a stunning architectural setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
SMK Fridays events
SMK – National Gallery of Denmark Copenhagen
Best Time
SMK Fridays events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Denmark's national art museum, showcasing Danish Golden Age masterpieces and diverse modern collections in a stunning architectural setting.
"A must-visit for classical art lovers, diving deep into Denmark's rich artistic heritage."
Don't Miss the Garden 🌳
Check out the peaceful garden behind SMK for a quiet moment and birdwatching.
SMK Fridays are a Vibe ✨
Experience the museum at night with special events and a unique atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Danish Golden Age Collection
Permanent Collection
Immerse yourself in the mood and light of 19th-century Denmark with masterful paintings.
Modern & Contemporary Art
Upper Floors
Explore experimental and abstract pieces from Danish and international artists.
SMK Fridays
Various locations within SMK
Experience the museum after dark with special exhibitions, themes, and events.
SMK Garden
Behind the museum
A peaceful escape with birdwatching opportunities, especially in summer.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Copenhagen Card
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Don't Miss the Garden 🌳
Check out the peaceful garden behind SMK for a quiet moment and birdwatching.
SMK Fridays are a Vibe ✨
Experience the museum at night with special events and a unique atmosphere.
Pancake Paradise Cafe 🥞
The Kafeteria cafe at SMK serves delicious fluffy pancakes – a sweet treat!
Plan Your Visit Time ⏰
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially for popular collections.
Tips
from all over the internet
Don't Miss the Garden 🌳
Check out the peaceful garden behind SMK for a quiet moment and birdwatching.
SMK Fridays are a Vibe ✨
Experience the museum at night with special events and a unique atmosphere.
Pancake Paradise Cafe 🥞
The Kafeteria cafe at SMK serves delicious fluffy pancakes – a sweet treat!
Plan Your Visit Time ⏰
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially for popular collections.
Consider the Copenhagen Card 💳
Great value for transport and entry to many attractions, including SMK. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise SMK for its impressive collection of Danish Golden Age art, highlighting the skill and mood captured in the 19th-century masters. The museum's architecture is also noted as a beautiful blend of historic and modern design. However, some find the modern and contemporary art upstairs to be overly abstract or bizarre, with a preference leaning towards the classical collections.
"I really enjoyed my visit to SMK, especially the impressive collection of classic art. The Danish Golden Age section was a true highlight for me — the works by Eckersberg, Købke, and other 19th-century masters beautifully capture both the mood and light of the time. It’s a must-see if you appreciate finely detailed, skillful painting rooted in tradition and national identity.
However, I have to be honest: the upper floor, which houses a lot of modern and contemporary art, wasn’t my cup of tea. Some of it felt extremely bizarre. Much of it felt overly abstract and strange, and didn’t resonate with me at all. Still, that’s a matter of personal taste — if you're a fan of experimental modern pieces, you may feel differently, I presume.
Overall, a wonderful museum for classical art lovers, especially if you want to dive into Denmark’s rich artistic heritage. Just be prepared for a very different vibe upstairs (to say the least)!"
Dmitry Zinger
"As a travel expert, I can confidently say that the National Gallery of Denmark (SMK) is a truly captivating destination. The architecture itself is a magnificent blend of historic elegance and modern design. Inside, it masterfully curates Denmark's rich art history, from the Golden Age to contemporary works, offering a deep and beautiful look into the nation's cultural evolution. A must-visit for any art lover!"
Chang-Chih Shih
"So many eras and collections of artworks to see here! I spent about 1.75 hours here but it wasn’t even at a slow pace. There is just so much to see here, from famous artists like Rembrandt and Matisse, to Danish classics like Wilhelm Freddie. It is all so unique and I learned a lot about Danish’s art history from walking through this gallery. I highly recommend coming here during your stay in Copenhagen!"
kat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
SMK is easily accessible by public transport. You can take buses or trains to the city center and it's a short walk from major stations. The Copenhagen Card includes public transport, making it convenient. +1
Parking in central Copenhagen can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or cycle to reach SMK.
Yes, cycling is a popular and efficient way to get around Copenhagen. The Donkey Republic app is recommended for bike rentals.
Consider the Copenhagen Card for access to many attractions and transport. Look for free activities like exploring Nyhavn early or visiting the SMK garden. 
The Old Library at Fiolstræde 1 is a quiet, historic spot nearby, perfect for book lovers and architecture buffs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official SMK website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission fees apply, but the Copenhagen Card covers entry to SMK, offering good value if you plan to visit multiple attractions. +1
Yes, SMK often hosts 'SMK Fridays' which are evening events with special exhibitions, themes, or activities. Check their website for schedules.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for special exhibitions or during peak times, can save you time and guarantee entry.
Some sources suggest student discounts may be available, particularly if you can show a student ID. It's worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The Danish Golden Age collection is highly praised for its detailed paintings. The modern and contemporary art sections offer a different, more experimental experience.
SMK often has activities and collections that can engage younger visitors. Check their website for family-specific programming.
Many visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours to see the main collections, but you could easily spend longer if you delve into temporary exhibitions or enjoy the cafe.
Most major museums in Copenhagen are designed with accessibility in mind. It's advisable to check SMK's website for specific details on ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
The museum features a magnificent blend of historic elegance and modern design, offering an aesthetically pleasing environment for art viewing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, SMK has a cafe called Kafeteria, which is known for serving delicious fluffy pancakes.
The Kafeteria offers light meals and treats, with their pancakes being a standout item. It's a great spot for a break during your visit.
The area around SMK has numerous cafes and restaurants offering various cuisines. You can find everything from traditional Danish pastries to international dishes.
Yes, Copenhagen offers many budget-friendly options, including hot dog stands for a quick bite or bakeries for pastries.
Don't miss sourdough, cinnamon snails, and cardamom buns from local bakeries like Meyers Bageri.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use in permanent collections, but flash is usually prohibited. Always check for specific signage in exhibition areas.
The architecture of the museum itself, along with the Danish Golden Age paintings, offers beautiful photographic opportunities. The SMK garden is also picturesque.
Temporary exhibitions may have stricter photography rules, sometimes prohibiting it entirely. Look for signs or ask staff if unsure.
Weekday mornings generally offer fewer crowds, allowing for more relaxed photography. The natural light can be excellent during these times.
While SMK itself is a great photo location, nearby Nyhavn is incredibly photogenic, especially in the early morning light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during SMK Fridays for a more lively atmosphere, or take a break in the SMK Garden for some outdoor time. The Kafeteria cafe is also a hit with kids, especially for their famous pancakes.
+1🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Don't miss the temporary exhibitions, which often feature significant international artists and provide fresh perspectives. Attending SMK Fridays can offer a unique, social way to engage with the art and the museum community.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Look for free activities like exploring the SMK Garden or enjoying the exterior architecture. If you're looking for affordable food, the museum's Kafeteria offers a treat with its pancakes, or explore local bakeries and hot dog stands in the city.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Art Collections
Moving upstairs, you'll encounter modern and contemporary art. This area offers a stark contrast, featuring more experimental and abstract pieces from both Danish and international artists. While some visitors find this section challenging or 'bizarre,' it provides a glimpse into diverse artistic expressions and evolving art movements.
Beyond these core collections, SMK also hosts temporary exhibitions that bring in diverse artists and themes from around the world, ensuring there's always something new to discover. The museum's architecture itself, a blend of historic and modern design, adds another layer to the visitor experience.
SMK Fridays: A Unique Evening Experience
These events are a great way to see the museum from a new angle and can be a more social outing than a typical daytime visit. They offer a chance to mingle, enjoy a drink, and engage with art in a less formal setting. Checking the SMK website for the schedule of upcoming SMK Fridays is highly recommended to plan your visit accordingly.
Beyond the Art: The SMK Garden and Cafe
For a culinary break, the museum's Kafeteria cafe is a delightful stop. It's particularly renowned for its fluffy buttermilk pancakes, served with cream, marmalade, and syrup. It's an ideal place to recharge with a sweet treat before or after exploring the galleries.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit