Welcome to Copenhagen, Denmark’s cultural heart and an epicenter for design enthusiasts. This dynamic city, renowned for its inventive design and contemporary art scene, is the birthplace of iconic Scandinavian brands like HAY and Muuto. In Culture Treasures magazine’s travel guide to Copenhagen, we delve into the city’s design legacy, spotlighting both globally recognized landmarks and lesser-known art venues such as the Designmuseum Danmark, ARKEN Museum of Modern Art, and the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. Furthermore, to enhance your stay, we’ve meticulously chosen a selection of top-rated boutique hotels that reflect the city’s distinctive style and comfort. So, join us and discover the mesmerizing charm of Copenhagen and its sustained influence on the global design and art scene.
To access our exclusive Copenhagen Treasure Map, simply click the provided link and register as a member of our magazine. This comprehensive map features all the recommendations from our guide and offers additional tips for top-rated restaurants, cafes, shops, and more. Each location is marked on the map. As a member, you’ll have the ability to view and save the map in your profile, ensuring you have all the best spots at your fingertips for your future adventures.
Design:
The Danish Design Center (DDC) is a creative hub that celebrates Danish design and innovation. The center is renowned for its engaging exhibitions that present contemporary design trends and address global challenges through the lens of design. But the DDC goes beyond a traditional museum—it also operates as a knowledge center, sparking dialogues about design’s role in business and society. As you delve into the fascinating world of Danish design at the DDC, you’ll gain unique insights into how design influences our lives.
Designmuseum Danmark is the country’s largest museum dedicated to Danish and international design, it houses an exceptional collection that spans various design fields, including industrial design, furniture, and decorative arts. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of Danish design history, showcasing the simplicity, functionality, and minimalist aesthetics that Danish design is renowned for. From iconic Danish furniture to contemporary experimental design, Designmuseum Danmark offers an in-depth look at the evolution of design. Located in a stunningly converted 18th-century hospital, the museum itself is a testament to aesthetic and functional design.
Normann Copenhagen is an award-winning design company with an expansive showroom, located in the Østerbro district of Copenhagen, is a marvel in itself. Housed in a historic cinema building, it offers a theatrical backdrop to the company’s diverse range of modern design products. From innovative furniture and lighting to chic home accessories and textiles, every product showcases the brand’s commitment to bold, eye-catching design that blends aesthetics and functionality. The Normann Copenhagen showroom not only offers a visual feast of Danish design but also provides insight into the creative processes behind these pieces.
For those interested in exploring the intersection of art, design, and architecture, ETAGE Projects is a must-visit in Copenhagen. This avant-garde design gallery stands out with its commitment to showcasing interdisciplinary works that blur the boundaries of traditional design classifications. Featuring a range of artists and designers, ETAGE Projects embraces experimental and conceptual ideas, making it a vibrant hub for innovative design thinking. The gallery consistently pushes the envelope, presenting thought-provoking exhibitions that challenge conventional views on design and its role in contemporary culture. A visit to ETAGE Projects is not just about viewing objects; it’s about engaging with dynamic ideas and narratives in the realm of design, promising a stimulating experience for design and art enthusiasts alike.
HAY House, the flagship store of the renowned design brand HAY, is located in the heart of Copenhagen. Situated within a beautifully curated two-story space, HAY House is more than a store—it’s a showcase of Danish design aesthetics. Here, you’ll find a wide range of products, from furniture and lighting to textiles and home accessories, each exemplifying the brand’s commitment to creating durable, quality design pieces with a contemporary appeal. The store’s airy, light-filled rooms offer breathtaking views of the city, further enhancing your visit. A trip to HAY House offers not just an opportunity to shop for beautiful design items, but also to appreciate the philosophy and vision behind one of Denmark’s most influential design brands.
Muuto HQ and Space Copenhagen are must-visit destinations for lovers of design and interiors. Muuto HQ is a paragon of Scandinavian design, embodying functionality, craftsmanship, and an alluring aesthetic. As you wander through its stunning exhibition spaces, you can experience first-hand the brand’s vision of ‘new perspectives’ on modern design. Not too far away, Space Copenhagen awaits with its iconic design and architecture studio. Recognized worldwide for its elegant minimalist aesthetic, the studio combines new and old elements in surprising ways, resulting in spaces that are both comfortable and visually compelling. Whether it’s their public or private projects, you’ll be inspired by the level of thoughtful detail that goes into every Space Copenhagen design.
Stilleben is an award-winning design shop that showcases a carefully curated collection of Danish and international craft and design products. Its selection spans ceramics, textiles, jewelry, graphic prints, and more, all exuding quality and uniqueness that reflects the discerning eyes of owners and designers Ditte Reckweg and Jelena Schou Nordentoft. With its keen focus on craftsmanship and aesthetics, Stilleben offers a rich array of products that combine functionality with an artistic touch.
Designer Zoo is another gem in Copenhagen’s vibrant design scene. It’s an expansive gallery and shop that provides a unique platform for both established and emerging Danish designers and artisans. What sets Designer Zoo apart is its live workshop setup; visitors can watch artisans at work, creating pottery, textiles, jewelry, and more. This creates an immersive experience, offering a rare glimpse into the creative process behind the beautiful pieces on display. The variety here is astounding, with the venue featuring everything from ceramics and glassware to furniture and textile art. There’s also a unique emphasis on sustainability, with many items created from recycled or repurposed materials.
If you’re passionate about design and planning a visit to Copenhagen, make sure to time your trip with two of the city’s most notable design events: 3 Days of Design and Design Week Copenhagen. 3 Days of Design is the most significant design event in Denmark, attracting professionals and enthusiasts from around the world. It offers an immersive and expansive exploration of Danish design, showcasing new innovative concepts, classics, and avant-garde ideas through a series of exhibitions, workshops, product launches, and presentations across the city. Design Week Copenhagen is a vibrant celebration of Danish and international design that further amplifies the city’s creative buzz. It offers a multitude of exhibitions, workshops, seminars, and cultural events, often with a focus on sustainability and social design. These two events provide a unique opportunity to experience the richness of Danish design culture and network with creatives from across the globe in the vibrant and beautiful setting of Copenhagen.
Architecture:
The Danish Architecture Center (DAC) in Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for anyone with a keen interest in design, architecture, and urban culture. Housed in the innovative BLOX building on the city’s waterfront, DAC offers an immersive journey into the world of architecture and design. The center features a wide array of exhibitions, including both historical retrospectives and showcases of contemporary advancements. Here, visitors can deepen their understanding of Danish architecture’s past and present while exploring projections of its future. The center also offers a diverse range of activities, such as guided city tours and workshops, making it an engaging place for all ages. Furthermore, the rooftop terrace provides a stunning panoramic view of the city – a design spectacle in its own right.
The VM Houses, situated in the Ørestad district of Copenhagen, are a testament to avant-garde architectural design. Conceived by the Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and JDS Architects, these twin residential buildings are named after their distinctive V and M shapes when viewed from above. The design prioritizes daylight, privacy, and views, with each apartment offering a unique layout due to the angular balconies and irregularly shaped windows. The VM Houses challenge conventional residential architecture by promoting diversity in unit layouts and fostering a sense of community among residents. Their innovative design and strategic positioning have solidified their status as iconic landmarks in modern Danish architecture.
Axel Towers is modern architectural masterpiece, composed of five interconnected cylindrical towers, is an innovative landmark that enhances the city’s skyline. Housing a mix of office spaces, restaurants, and retail outlets, the Towers offer a unique blend of work, leisure, and culinary delights. Don’t miss the opportunity to dine at the high-end restaurant Trio located on the top floor, where you can enjoy exquisite cuisine paired with panoramic views of the city.
8 House, also known as “Big House,” is an iconic architectural masterpiece located in the Ørestad district. Designed by the renowned Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), this mixed-use building is characterized by its unique figure-eight shape, which promotes urban life and fosters community interactions. The structure seamlessly integrates residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, allowing residents and visitors to experience a diverse range of activities within a single edifice. Its innovative design, which includes sloping green roofs and pathways that connect different levels, challenges traditional architectural norms and has made 8 House a symbol of contemporary Danish architecture.
The Rundetaarn, or Round Tower, is a historic architectural gem. Constructed in the 17th century during the reign of King Christian IV, it has served multiple purposes over the centuries, including an astronomical observatory, a library, and a church. The tower is renowned for its helical corridor, which spirals upwards and allows visitors to ascend without the use of stairs. This unique design feature was purportedly intended to allow a horse and carriage to reach the observatory at the top.
Contemporary Art Centers and Museums:
The Statens Museum for Kunst (National Gallery of Denmark), is the largest art museum in Denmark, it has a rich collection of national and international art spanning seven centuries. Visitors will be delighted by an array of works, from classical pieces to modern art, providing a comprehensive overview of artistic styles and their evolution. Alongside its permanent collection, the museum frequently hosts intriguing contemporary art exhibitions, offering fresh and innovative perspectives. The striking architecture of the museum, which marries the old with the new, is a masterpiece in itself.
A trip to Copenhagen would not be complete without a visit to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, located in the picturesque town of Humlebæk, north of the city. Known not just for its significant collection of modern and contemporary art, the museum also impresses visitors with its striking location overlooking the Øresund Sound. The museum exhibits a wide range of art from the likes of Picasso, Warhol, and other significant artists from the modern era. This beautifully designed building merges seamlessly with its captivating surrounding landscapes, creating an unparalleled ambiance. Combining world-class art, stunning architecture, and breathtaking nature views, the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art offers an enriching and inspiring experience that transcends the typical museum visit. For a more comprehensive understanding of the museum, refer to the recommendation for the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art here.
Situated just outside of Copenhagen, the ARKEN Museum of Modern Art is known for its bold architectural design, mirroring a ship stranded on the shore, which complements its dynamic collection of contemporary art. It houses extensive works from influential Danish, Nordic, and international artists, including Damien Hirst, Anselm Reyle, Olafur Eliasson, and Ai Weiwei. The innovative and thought-provoking exhibitions at ARKEN consistently push the boundaries of modern art, offering a fascinating glimpse into the minds of some of the world’s most creative talents.
Nestled in the heart of Copenhagen, The Hirschsprung Collection is a treasure for anyone interested in Danish art. This unique museum offers an intimate encounter with Danish art from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The collection, put together by tobacco manufacturer Heinrich Hirschsprung, includes significant pieces from revered artists like P.S. Krøyer and Vilhelm Hammershøi. While it may not exclusively focus on contemporary art, its exceptional assembly of historic art gives visitors a deeper understanding of Denmark’s rich artistic heritage. The museum itself is housed in a charming building set in leafy Østre Anlæg park, providing a serene backdrop for art exploration.
Nikolaj Kunsthal is a noteworthy contemporary art center housed in a stunningly converted former church in the city’s center. The art center holds a pivotal place in Denmark’s contemporary art scene, with a focus on Danish and Nordic art in a global context. Featuring exhibitions from both national and international artists, the Nikolaj Kunsthal consistently offers fresh and thought-provoking perspectives on modern art. The combination of the historic church building and the cutting-edge exhibitions creates a striking contrast, making the experience even more unique.
Ordrupgaard, located near Copenhagen, was initially built as a private residence by art aficionado Wilhelm Hansen, the museum today showcases an impressive collection of Danish and French art from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Here, you’ll find masterpieces from French Impressionists such as Monet, Renoir, and Degas, as well as works by esteemed Danish artists, including Vilhelm Hammershøi. The 2005 addition of a modern extension designed by the internationally acclaimed architect Zaha Hadid adds a contemporary touch to the museum’s historical edifice.
Situated on the island of Refshaleøen, Copenhagen Contemporary (CC) is an essential visit for those captivated by large-scale installation art. This expansive art center, housed in a striking industrial warehouse, specializes in showcasing works from acclaimed global artists. The installations at CC often invite audience interaction, facilitating a dynamic dialogue between the art and its viewers. The center further enriches your experience with a range of diverse programs, including artist talks, performances, and concerts. An artistic hub that pulses with creativity, Copenhagen Contemporary promises an immersive and unique exploration of contemporary art that will leave you inspired and enlightened.
Kunsthal Charlottenborg in Copenhagen is an unmissable destination for contemporary art enthusiasts. Housed in the magnificent Charlottenborg Palace, this institution is one of the largest and most beautiful spaces for contemporary art in Northern Europe. It plays a vital role in the Danish art scene, featuring a vibrant mix of exhibitions from groundbreaking international and local artists. Kunsthal Charlottenborg is also the official venue for the annual Charlottenborg Spring Exhibition, one of the oldest and most progressive visual arts exhibitions in the world. Combining its historic architectural charm with a bold and innovative art program, Kunsthal Charlottenborg offers a unique and enriching cultural experience.
Art galleries:
GL STRAND is a modern art gallery hosting eight to ten exhibitions per year. The exhibitions present Danish and international contemporary art – from new, young talents to established artists. It’s a dynamic place always offering something new and intriguing. Galleri Nicolai Wallner: Founded in 1993, Galleri Nicolai Wallner is known for presenting conceptual and minimalist art from both established and emerging artists. V1 Gallery: This gallery has a strong focus on contemporary art and has been instrumental in promoting a new generation of artists both locally and internationally. Nils Stærk: Since its establishment in 1996, Nils Stærk has been a key player in the Copenhagen contemporary art scene, representing a roster of local and international artists. Martin Asbæk Gallery: Since 2005, the gallery has focused on contemporary art with an international outlook, representing both Danish and international artists with a focus on interdisciplinary.
Vintage Delight:
Designmuseum Danmark’s Shop is part of Designmuseum Danmark, and it features a range of unique, vintage items related to Danish design, both old and new. Dansk Møbelkunst Gallery specializes in rare, original works of Danish furniture that were created during 1920-70, when a circle of craftsmen, architects, and designers erased the distinction between works of art and functional equipment for everyday life. Time’s Up Vintage is a renowned vintage store offering a wide selection of vintage clothes and accessories from premium brands. Klassik Copenhagen is one of the leading retailers of used Danish furniture, ceramics, and lights. The Apartment transforms a residential space into an eclectic blend of vintage and contemporary designs, enabling customers to visualize how items might look in their own homes; it’s essentially a curated, ever-changing interior setting that showcases unique, hand-picked items from around the world, fostering a unique shopping experience that feels both personal and inspirational.
And Beyond:
Cisternerne is nestled in the city’s Frederiksberg district, this former water reservoir has been transformed into a striking subterranean venue for contemporary art. The naturally occurring stalactites and stalagmites, combined with the eerie echoes of dripping water, create an otherworldly atmosphere, only enhanced by the frequently changing exhibitions of light and art installations. Cisternerne is a place to experience art in a unique, immersive setting, providing a sensory experience that goes beyond the visual.
Reffen is an outdoor street food market and cultural space located on Refshaleøen, known for its diverse array of global cuisines and a vibrant atmosphere that includes live music, workshops, and other cultural events. It emphasizes sustainability and creativity, offering a casual and lively environment where visitors can enjoy meals from around the world in a picturesque waterfront setting.
For a taste of authentic Copenhagen culture, a stroll down Jægersborggade in the Nørrebro district is a must. This charming, bohemian street is a showcase of local creativity, featuring a plethora of small art galleries, artisanal craft shops, organic cafes, and unique boutiques. The street’s intimate, relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for leisurely exploration. From discovering handmade crafts to tasting locally-sourced Nordic cuisine, Jægersborggade provides a delightful immersion into Copenhagen’s vibrant local scene. Its blend of artistic spirit and community ethos makes it an essential visit for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Denmark’s capital.
If you’re seeking a unique, artistic, and multicultural experience in Copenhagen, Superkilen Park is not to be missed. Located in the Nørrebro district, this award-winning urban park is a visual feast, divided into three distinct zones, each with different uses and design elements. The park is adorned with public art pieces and urban fixtures from over 50 countries, symbolizing the diversity of the local population. From the colorful sports and recreation space of the Red Square to the tranquil, green landscape of the Green Park, Superkilen offers something for everyone. Its innovative design and cultural inclusiveness make it an extraordinary open-air museum of global urban life and a must-visit spot for art, design, and architecture enthusiasts.
Nyhavn is one of Copenhagen’s most iconic and picturesque waterfront districts, renowned for its vibrant, colorful 17th-century townhouses, historical wooden ships, and lively atmosphere. Originally a busy commercial port where ships from around the world would dock, Nyhavn has transformed into a bustling area filled with people, offering a mix of old-world charm and modern-day vibrancy. Today, it is lined with numerous bars, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy meals, drinks, and the scenic views of the harbor.
Hans Christian Andersen, a renowned Danish author, was born in Odense, Denmark in 1805, but made Copenhagen his home in later life. Copenhagen’s rich cultural and historical tapestry includes significant influences from Andersen’s life and works. The city houses a bronze statue of the author, positioned thoughtfully in the King’s Garden. This statue serves as a tribute to the man who penned some of the world’s most enduring fairy tales, such as “The Ugly Duckling,” “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” and “The Little Mermaid.” Visitors to Copenhagen should not miss a visit to the Andersen statue, a symbol of the city’s literary heritage.
Furthermore, Copenhagen’s harbor, Langelinie, houses the iconic statue of The Little Mermaid, a poignant tribute to one of Andersen’s most beloved stories. Unveiled in 1913, this statue has been captivating visitors for over a century. Poised on a rock by the waterside, this small and unassuming bronze statue is one of Denmark’s most famous landmarks, embodying a moving tale of love and sacrifice.
The Six Forgotten Giants are a series of whimsical and enchanting wooden sculptures located in the suburbs of Copenhagen, Denmark. Created by Thomas Dambo, these sculptures are constructed primarily from recycled materials and discarded wooden pallets. Each giant is carefully hidden away in lesser-known areas of the city, turning the quest to find them into a delightful treasure hunt for locals and tourists alike. Dambo’s intention behind these sculptures was not only to create art but also to bring people closer to nature and encourage exploration of the city’s beautiful and often overlooked green areas.
The Deer Park, known as “Jægersborg Dyrehave” in Danish, is a vast and picturesque forest located just north of Copenhagen, Denmark. Established in the 17th century by King Christian V as a royal hunting ground, the park spans over 1,000 hectares and is home to thousands of free-roaming deer, including red, fallow, and Sika deer. The park’s serene landscapes, dotted with ancient oak trees and tranquil lakes, make it a favorite spot for nature lovers, joggers, and families. At the heart of Dyrehaven stands the historic Hermitage Hunting Lodge, a royal residence offering panoramic views of the surrounding woodland. The Deer Park, with its rich history and natural beauty, serves as a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Copenhagen’s city life.
As we conclude our exploration of Copenhagen, the city’s deep-rooted cultural heritage, captivating design aesthetic, and vibrant art scene make it a remarkable destination. The city’s diverse neighborhoods each add a distinctive hue to Copenhagen’s cultural mosaic. From the historic center, where the majestic Christiansborg Palace and the Round Tower narrate tales from the past, to the hip and modern Vesterbro district, known for its design shops, contemporary art galleries, and the innovative Kødbyen (Meatpacking District), Copenhagen’s breadth of cultural experiences is truly impressive.