Welcome to Copenhagen! Whether you’ve recently moved here or have been calling this city home for a while, one thing you’ll soon discover is this city is packed with culture. Case in point, Copenhagen’s museums! These must-visit museums in Copenhagen are a fantastic way to explore the culture of Denmark. And as an expat, visiting these spots can help you get a feel for what makes this city so special.
So, where should you start? Here’s your guide to must-visit museums in Copenhagen that will give you plenty of stories to tell.
National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet) – Top Must-Visit Museums in Copenhagen
If you’re interested in learning about Denmark’s history -both ancient and modern- the National Museum is the perfect first stop. It’s located in the center of Copenhagen and offers you a look into the evolution of Danish culture, from the Stone Age to the Vikings and even more recent history.
Some of the highlights of The Nationalmuseet are the Viking collection, which includes weapons, jewelry, and everyday objects from the Viking Age. As one of the must-visit museums in Copenhagen, this place also has a collection of ethnographic artifacts from around the world, making it a truly global experience
Tip: Grab an audio guide if you want to go deeper into some of the stories behind the artifacts. It’s like having a personal historian right in your ear.
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art – Must-Visit Museums in Copenhagen for Culture
If you’re willing to venture a bit outside of the city, about 40 minutes north by train, you’ll find the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, another of must-visit museums in Copenhagen, especially if you appreciate modern art.
Louisiana’s impressive collection features works of some of the most important artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein. Other famous artists here include Yayoi Kusama, Marina Abramovic, and Ai Weiwei. The museum also features a sculpture garden and hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
The museum also has a beautiful natural setting. It sits on a hill overlooking the Øresund Strait, and you can stroll through the sculpture park, take in the beautiful seascape, and then head inside to explore.
Tip: Visit on a weekday if you can -it can get busy on weekends. And don’t forget to grab a coffee at the museum café while enjoying the sea view!
Designmuseum Danmark – Must-Visit Museums in Copenhagen for Art
The Designmuseum Denmark is the ideal place to explore the design aspect of Danish culture. Housed in a beautiful Rococo building that was once a hospital, this museum dives deep into Danish and international design.
As an expat, this must-visit museum in Copenhagen can give you a greater appreciation for the Danish approach to design. Some of the most iconic pieces of Danish furniture on display at the museum include chairs by Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen. The museum also has a collection of fashion from the 20th century, including designs by the famous Danish designer, Margit Brandt.
Tip: After your visit, take a walk around the nearby Nyboder district, known for its charming, colorful houses. It’s a lovely area to explore and makes for a nice complement to your design-themed outing.
Glyptoteket (Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek)
Founded by the Carlsberg brewing family, this museum has a beautiful collection of ancient sculptures and 19th-century French and Danish art. Some of the must-see exhibits at The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek include the paintings of Edgar Degas and Paul Gauguin, as well as the sculptures of Auguste Rodin.
The museum’s collections also include Danish Golden Age art from the 19th century, including works by the famous Danish artist, Christen Købke.
The Glyptoteket also has a beautiful winter garden -a lush, glass-domed space that’s perfect for taking a breather. It’s a serene spot to sit with a cup of coffee and reflect on all the beautiful pieces you’ve just seen.
Tip: Entrance is free on Tuesdays, which makes it an ideal time to visit without spending a kroner. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and have more time to explore the collection at your own pace.
SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst (National Gallery of Denmark)
The SMK is the largest art museum in Denmark, making it a must-visit museum in Copenhagen for anyone with a love of art. As an expat, you’ll find the Danish Golden Age paintings particularly interesting. These works capture the essence of Denmark’s landscapes, people, and everyday life in the 1800s. It’s a great way to understand how Danes have viewed themselves and their surroundings throughout history.
It houses a rich collection of Danish and European art, spanning from the Renaissance to the modern era. The modern section, on the other hand, offers a fresh perspective on contemporary Danish art. The building itself has a beautiful architecture perfect for those Instagram shots.
Tip: Stop by the museum café for a light lunch or coffee. And if you’re visiting with kids, there’s a special space where they can get hands-on with creative activities.]
Cisternerne – Museum of Modern Glass Art
For something truly unique, head to Cisternerne, a subterranean museum located in the former water reservoirs beneath Søndermarken park. This museum showcases contemporary glass art installations in a space that feels almost otherworldly. It’s dark, atmospheric, and the temperature remains cool year-round, making it a refreshing retreat in the summer.
The installations often interact with the environment, using the dark, damp surroundings to create a moody, immersive experience. It’s not your typical museum, but that’s what makes it so special. It’s also a great conversation starter when you’re chatting with fellow expats or Danes at a dinner party.
Tip: Bring a jacket, even in summer because it’s chilly down there! And take a stroll through Søndermarken afterward to soak up the greenery above ground.
The Workers Museum (Arbejdermuseet)
The Workers Museum offers a different take on Danish history, focusing on the everyday lives of working-class Danes throughout the past 150 years. It’s a fascinating look into how industrialization and social changes shaped Denmark, and it gives you a deeper understanding of the country’s strong social welfare system.
As an expat, this museum might give you some context on the values that shape Danish society today, like equality and community support. Plus, the exhibits are interactive, with recreations of 1950s apartments and old workers’ meeting halls. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Tip: Don’t miss the café in the basement, where you can try traditional Danish smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches). It’s a delicious way to end your visit.
Must-Visit Museums in Copenhagen: Planning Your Visit
With so many options to choose from, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring you enjoy your cultural journey through the city. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your time:
Start With Your Interests
It’s a good idea to start with the museums with exhibitions that match your interests. Are you more drawn to art, history, or design? Or perhaps you’re looking for something more unique, like the underground Cisternerne? Once you’ve figured out your top choices, prioritize them based on your interests and the time you have available. Some museums, like the National Museum or Louisiana, could easily fill a whole afternoon, while others, such as Cisternerne, might only take an hour or two.
Check for Free Entry Days and Discounts
Copenhagen can be expensive, but many museums offer free entry on specific days or discounts with certain passes. For example, the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek has free admission on Tuesdays, and the National Museum often offers discounts to students or seniors. The Copenhagen Card is also worth considering -it provides free access to many museums and attractions, as well as unlimited travel on public transportation.
Consider Timing and Crowds
Timing your visits can have a big impact on your experience. Some museums, especially popular ones like the Louisiana, can get quite crowded on weekends and holidays. If you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting during the week, ideally in the morning or late afternoon.
Look Out for Special Exhibitions and Events
Many of Copenhagen’s museums host special exhibitions and events throughout the year, which can be a fantastic way to see something unique. These exhibitions often feature popular international artists, historical artifacts on loan from other museums, or themed exhibits. Check the museum websites or follow them on social media to stay updated on any special exhibitions during your visit.
Allow for Flexibility
Lastly, while it’s great to plan, don’t be afraid to keep things flexible. You might stumble upon a small gallery that wasn’t on your radar, or find yourself wanting to spend more time at a particular museum than you originally planned. That’s all part of the experience! Allowing yourself the freedom to explore spontaneously can make your time here even more special.
Must-Visit Museums in Copenhagen – Conclusion
Exploring these must-visit museums in Copenhagen is more than just a way to fill your weekends. It’s an opportunity to get to know Denmark on a deeper level. These museums will help you connect with your new home. And who knows? You might just become a local expert on Denmark’s art and history, ready to impress both fellow expats and Danes alike.
So, put on your comfortable shoes, grab your Copenhagen Card (which offers free entry to many of these museums), and start exploring. Your cultural adventure awaits!
