The David Collection Copenhagen
A free museum in Copenhagen showcasing exquisite Islamic, European, and Danish art in an elegant historic residence.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
The David Collection Copenhagen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free museum in Copenhagen showcasing exquisite Islamic, European, and Danish art in an elegant historic residence.
"A quite hidden gem in the Copenhagen arts scene. This museum shows a vast collection of islamic and oriental art pieces in a former private residence. Intimate, mysterious and free to visit."
🎯 Free Entry Gem! 💎
Enjoy this incredible museum without spending a dime! A true Copenhagen highlight.
📱 Download the App!
Get English translations for Danish descriptions and enrich your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Islamic Art Collection
Main Galleries
Explore centuries of exquisite Islamic art, from intricate ceramics to stunning textiles and metalwork.

European Decorative Arts
Upper Floors
Discover beautiful Danish and European paintings and decorative arts from the early modern period.

Historic Residence Ambiance
Throughout the Museum
Experience art within the elegant rooms of a former private residence, adding a unique charm.
Claus Rohland Photo Exhibition
Temporary Exhibition Space
See otherworldly photo prints from the 1970s Middle East road trips.
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Rewards
Download the App for Deeper Dives
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry Gem! 💎
Enjoy this incredible museum without spending a dime! A true Copenhagen highlight.
📱 Download the App!
Get English translations for Danish descriptions and enrich your visit.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! You'll want to explore every corner of this extensive collection.
📸 Photography Allowed (Mostly)
Capture the beauty, but check for any restrictions on specific exhibits.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry Gem! 💎
Enjoy this incredible museum without spending a dime! A true Copenhagen highlight.
📱 Download the App!
Get English translations for Danish descriptions and enrich your visit.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! You'll want to explore every corner of this extensive collection.
📸 Photography Allowed (Mostly)
Capture the beauty, but check for any restrictions on specific exhibits.
📍 Near Rosenborg Castle
Combine your visit with other nearby attractions for a full day of sightseeing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The David Collection as a hidden gem offering a world-class experience for free. Its extensive Islamic art collection, housed in an elegant former residence, is a major draw, though some note that descriptions are primarily in Danish. The addition of temporary exhibitions and the helpful museum app enhance the visit.
"A quite hidden gem in the Copenhagen arts scene. This museum shows a vast collection of islamic and oriental art pieces in a former private residence. Intimate, mysterious and free to visit."
Victor Bao
"Great collection situated closely to the Rosenberg Castle. Free entrance and a very decent collection. The Islamic art was lovely focused more on the golden Islamic age. The descriptions were mostly in Danish but there was an app to receive translation in English. A good idea if you’re nearby to experience this niche collection. There was also an exhibition on the Bedouin of Qatar that was rather interesting and informative. A pleasant visit indeed"
Abe Darwiche
"Impressive collection in a cosy apartment. The temporary exhibition on Qatar Bedouin life in the 1950s was very insightful."
Augustin Hiebel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The David Collection is centrally located and easily accessible. You can walk from many downtown hotels or take public transport. The nearest metro station is Nørreport, which is a short walk away. Buses also stop frequently nearby.
Yes, it's very walkable! It's situated close to Rosenborg Castle and the King's Garden, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing activities in the city center.
Absolutely! Copenhagen is a bike-friendly city. You can rent a bike and cycle to the museum, and there are usually bike racks available nearby.
For first-time visitors, using a combination of walking and public transport (metro/bus) is recommended. Google Maps or local transit apps are very helpful for planning your route.
Street parking in central Copenhagen can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk/bike to the museum rather than driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, The David Collection offers free admission to all its exhibitions, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option for exploring Copenhagen's art scene.
The museum typically opens around 10 AM and closes around 5 PM, with some variations on Thursdays. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Since admission is free, advance booking is not required. You can simply walk in during opening hours.
Generally, all exhibitions at The David Collection are included with the free admission. However, it's always wise to check their website for any specific temporary exhibition details.
The museum strives to be accessible. While it's housed in a historic building, efforts have been made to accommodate visitors. It's advisable to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum is renowned for its extensive collection of Islamic art, alongside European paintings and decorative arts from the Danish Golden Age and early modern periods.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the diverse collections. Some even suggest a second visit to see everything.
While formal guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, the staff are often knowledgeable and helpful. The museum's app also serves as a great guide.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are usually not allowed. Always look for signage indicating specific restrictions.
Its free admission, intimate setting within a historic residence, and its world-class Islamic art collection make it a standout.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The David Collection does not have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Visitors are encouraged to explore the many dining options available in the surrounding city center.
Yes, the museum is located in a vibrant area with numerous cafes, bakeries, and restaurants offering various cuisines. You'll find options for every budget.
Typically, museums discourage bringing outside food and drinks into galleries to protect the artworks. It's best to consume these outside the museum.
Look for local bakeries (bageri) for pastries and sandwiches, or explore the Torvehallerne food market for diverse and relatively affordable options.
You can find restaurants serving traditional Danish dishes like smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) in the city center. Ask museum staff or locals for their favorite spots.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography for personal use is generally permitted within The David Collection. However, always be mindful of signage and avoid using flash or tripods.
The intricate details of the Islamic art, the elegant European decorative pieces, and the charming interiors of the historic residence offer many picturesque opportunities.
While personal photography is allowed, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. For social media sharing, it's usually fine as long as you're respectful.
Photography rules for temporary exhibitions can vary. It's essential to check the specific guidelines posted at the exhibition entrance or ask museum staff.
A smartphone or a mirrorless camera with a good low-light performance is ideal, as natural light can be limited in some areas. Avoid bulky equipment that might obstruct others.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If visiting with younger children, focus on specific visually striking pieces, like colorful ceramics or intricate patterns, to keep them engaged. The beautiful historic building itself can also be a point of interest. For a more family-centric museum experience in Copenhagen, consider other institutions that offer more hands-on activities.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the nearby King's Garden and Rosenborg Castle, which are also budget-friendly or free to wander around. For affordable meals, explore local bakeries for pastries and sandwiches or head to the Torvehallerne food market for a variety of options.
🏛️ Art & History Enthusiasts
Allocate ample time to truly absorb the details. The museum's setting within a former private residence adds a unique historical context. Don't forget to utilize the museum's app for detailed English translations, which will significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the collections.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Islamic Art
Many visitors highlight the "golden Islamic age" as a particularly impressive period within the collection. The museum's former life as a private residence adds an intimate layer to the viewing experience, allowing you to imagine these objects in a domestic setting. Don't miss the chance to explore the various rooms, each offering a unique perspective on this rich cultural heritage.
To truly appreciate the nuances, downloading the museum's app is highly recommended. It provides English translations for the Danish descriptions, unlocking deeper insights into the history and symbolism of each piece.
European & Danish Masters
Visitors often express surprise at the quality and breadth of this collection, which is housed in equally elegant surroundings. The intimate scale of these galleries allows for a close examination of the details and craftsmanship, making it a rewarding experience for art enthusiasts.
This part of the museum offers a different aesthetic, focusing on Western European art and design. It's a testament to the collector's diverse tastes and his commitment to preserving significant works from various cultural traditions.
Photography in the 70s: Claus Rohland
These exhibitions offer a fresh dimension to the museum experience, providing contemporary or historical viewpoints that complement the permanent collections. They often explore themes of travel, culture, and visual storytelling, drawing visitors into different narratives.
Keep an eye on The David Collection's schedule for upcoming temporary exhibitions, as they consistently offer engaging and thought-provoking displays that add value to any visit.
Social
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