National Museum of Denmark: A Journey Through Danish History

Located in the heart of Copenhagen, the National Museum of Denmark (Nationalmuseet) is the country’s foremost cultural and historical museum, home to an impressive collection of artifacts that span over 10,000 years of human civilization. From prehistoric Denmark and Viking treasures to medieval artifacts, colonial-era exhibits, and global ethnographic collections, this museum offers an immersive journey through time.
 

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or a family with kids, the National Museum provides a rich, educational, and interactive experience—one of the top must-visit landmarks in Copenhagen.

📍 Where Is the National Museum of Denmark?

The museum is centrally located in Copenhagen, just a short walk from several major attractions:

📍 Address: Ny Vestergade 10, 1471 Copenhagen K, Denmark

🏛️ Housed in the 18th-century Prince’s Palace (Prinsens Palæ)

🚶 Close to Christiansborg Palace, Strøget, and City Hall Square

🏺 Main Exhibitions at the National Museum of Denmark

1. Prehistoric Denmark

Step back into the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age with exhibits that include:

The Egtved Girl – a remarkably well-preserved Bronze Age burial

Ancient weapons, tools, and clothing

Ritual objects and burial urns

2. Viking Age

A highlight for many visitors, this section explores the Viking legacy:

Weapons, runestones, and ship fragments

Everyday Viking life and trade routes

The Tissø ring – an intricate gold artifact from Viking nobility

3. Medieval and Renaissance Period

Learn about Denmark’s transformation through:

Medieval churches and monasteries

Armor and knightly gear

Early Danish kings and the rise of the monarchy

4. The Royal Collection and Denmark in the 17th–19th Centuries

This section covers the Danish absolutist monarchy and life under royal rule:

Furnishings, clothing, and court accessories

Objects from the Napoleonic Wars and Danish colonies

5. Stories of Denmark (1660–2000)

A modern and engaging walkthrough of Danish life over the last few centuries:

Everyday objects from each era

Social, cultural, and political changes

Post-war Denmark and the rise of the welfare state

6. The Ethnographic Collection

Explore objects from cultures around the world:

Inuit tools and Arctic life

Japanese samurai armor

Artifacts from Africa, Asia, and Oceania

7. Classical and Near Eastern Antiquities

See relics from ancient Greece, Rome, and the Middle East, including:

Coins, pottery, and sculptures

Egyptian mummies and sarcophagi

🧒 Family-Friendly Features

Children’s Museum

This interactive section allows kids to:

Dress in Viking costumes

Try medieval games

Board a replica ship and explore a kitchen from colonial India

Workshops & Guided Tours

Free daily guided tours in English

Seasonal activities and special events for children and families

🖼️ Special Exhibitions

The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that spotlight specific periods, global issues, or famous historical figures. Past exhibitions have included:

“Meet the Vikings” – a deep dive into Norse mythology and culture

Colonialism and Its Legacy

Climate change and the Anthropocene

Check the official museum website for the latest updates on current exhibits.

🕰️ Opening Hours & Tickets

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Closed on Mondays (except for public holidays)

Ticket Prices (as of 2025):

Adults: DKK 120 (approx. €16)

Children under 18: Free

Students: Discount available

Combo tickets: Available for entrance to other museums (e.g., open-air Frilandsmuseet)

Pro tip: Admission is often free on Wednesdays during winter months!

☕ Facilities & Visitor Amenities

Café Nationalmuseet: Offers Danish and Nordic cuisine with vegetarian options

Museum Shop: Books, replicas, crafts, and Nordic design items

Free Wi-Fi and lockers

Wheelchair accessible

📸 Highlights & Instagram-Worthy Moments

The Viking treasures – especially the Tissø ring and burial swords

The grand staircase of the Prince’s Palace

The Egtved Girl’s display

The reconstructed Viking longhouse

Colorful global artifacts in the Ethnographic Collection

🧭 Nearby Attractions

The National Museum is ideally situated for a full day of exploring Copenhagen. Nearby landmarks include:

🏰 Christiansborg Palace – home of Danish Parliament and royal reception rooms

🌳 The Garden of the Royal Library (Bibliotekshaven) – peaceful and scenic

🛍️ Strøget – famous pedestrian shopping street

🎢 Tivoli Gardens – just 10 minutes away on foot

🖼️ Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek – art museum with ancient and modern collections

💬 Insider Tips for Visiting

Arrive early to avoid school groups and crowds.

Set aside 2–3 hours to explore the core exhibitions.

Use the free museum app or rent an audio guide for an enriched experience.

Bring headphones for multilingual audio points.

Combine your visit with the National Gallery (SMK) if you're a museum enthusiast.

🧳 Who Should Visit the National Museum?

The museum is ideal for:

History lovers – from Viking buffs to medieval fans

Families – with hands-on fun for kids

Cultural travelers – looking to understand Denmark in depth

Students and researchers – with educational materials and study areas

Curious first-time visitors to Copenhagen

✨ Final Thoughts: Why You Shouldn’t Miss the National Museum of Denmark

The National Museum of Denmark is not just a collection of artifacts—it’s a storytelling experience that bridges Denmark's deep roots with its modern identity. Whether you're captivated by Viking epics, intrigued by global cultures, or simply want a deeper understanding of Danish life, this museum is a cornerstone of any meaningful visit to Copenhagen.