The National Gallery of Denmark, known in Danish as Statens Museum for Kunst or simply SMK, is the country's national gallery and its largest art museum, set in the centre of Copenhagen. Its collection spans some 700 years of Danish and international art, bringing together European masters such as Mantegna, Rubens, Rembrandt, Matisse and Picasso with one of the finest holdings of Danish Golden Age painting anywhere. The Golden Age rooms in particular offer a rich introduction to the 19th-century artists who helped define a national style. The historic museum building is joined by a striking modern extension opened in 1998, whose light-filled galleries are regarded as an architectural landmark in their own right. Together they make SMK a place to move easily between centuries and styles under one roof. Admission is 130 DKK for adults, and visitors under 27 enter free. The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Mondays, with later opening until 20:00 on Wednesdays. Spacious, wide-ranging and central, it is one of the essential cultural destinations for anyone spending time in Copenhagen.
A local's tip
Free admission for children and young people. The sculpture garden is open free all year.
Getting there
At Østre Anlæg, 10 min walk from Nørreport Station.
Best time to visit
Wednesday evening for late opening. Summer for the sculpture garden.
Accessibility
Fully accessible. Wheelchairs and strollers available for loan.
