Designmuseum Denmark is Copenhagen's home of Danish and international design and craft, housing Scandinavia's largest collection of decorative art and industrial design. It occupies the former Frederiks Hospital, a Rococo complex from 1757 that was remodelled into a museum in the 1920s — work carried out by architects including Kaare Klint, himself a pioneering figure in Danish furniture design. The collection traces Danish design history from the Middle Ages to the present day, with particular emphasis on the iconic Danish furniture of the 20th century. Among the designers represented are Arne Jacobsen, Jacob Jensen and Kaare Klint, alongside a wide range of ceramics that includes Chinese and German porcelain. Beyond the galleries, the museum's courtyard garden is a green oasis in the middle of the city and a pleasant place to rest. Admission is 135 DKK for adults, while visitors under 26 enter free. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Mondays, with later opening until 21:00 on Wednesdays. For anyone interested in the story behind Denmark's celebrated design tradition — from chairs and lamps to everyday objects — it is an essential and inspiring stop.
A local's tip
Café Klint in the garden is perfect for lunch. The museum shop has unique Danish design.
Getting there
Walk from Amalienborg (5 min) or metro to Marmorkirken.
Best time to visit
Wednesday evening for late opening. Summer for the garden.
Accessibility
Fully accessible. Elevator and disabled toilets.
