Design Museum Danmark building in Copenhagen with modern architecture and surrounding street

Designmuseum Denmark

Designmuseum Denmark: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide to Copenhagen’s Premier Historical Site

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in Copenhagen’s historic Frederiksstaden district, Designmuseum Denmark is a landmark destination for lovers of design, architecture, and cultural heritage. Housed in the former Royal Frederik’s Hospital—a Rococo masterpiece designed by Nicolai Eigtved—the museum seamlessly fuses Denmark’s architectural history with its globally acclaimed tradition of innovative design (Designmuseum Danmark – History & Architecture). This guide offers a thorough overview of the museum’s historical significance, highlights of its must-see collections, up-to-date visitor information, and practical travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Historical Overview

Designmuseum Danmark exterior building in Copenhagen

Exterior view of Kunstindustrimuseet museum building in Copenhagen

View of Kunstindustrimuseet museum in Copenhagen city environment

Kunstindustrimuseet museum building in Copenhagen with classical architecture and a clear sky

Bright interior of Kunstindustrimuseet with large windows and wooden furniture

Interior view of the old Kunstindustrimuseet in Copenhagen, 1920

From Royal Hospital to Design Icon

The Designmuseum Denmark building began life in the 18th century as the Royal Frederik’s Hospital, Denmark’s first public hospital. Commissioned by King Frederik V and designed by Eigtved, the hospital was at the forefront of Danish healthcare for over 170 years, even caring for the famed philosopher Søren Kierkegaard in his final days (VisitCopenhagen). After closing as a hospital in 1910, the building’s adaptive reuse mirrored a European trend to repurpose historic structures for cultural purposes.

Founding of the Museum and Architectural Evolution

In the 1920s, architect and designer Kaare Klint led the transformation of the former hospital into a museum, balancing preservation with functional, modern exhibition spaces. The museum opened in 1926 as Kunstindustrimuseet (later Designmuseum Danmark), with Klint’s philosophy of clarity, function, and respect for materials influencing both the building’s design and its collections (The Nordic Nomad).

A major restoration between 2020 and 2022 revitalized the building with new marble floors, restored the historic façade, and improved accessibility while honoring its architectural heritage (The Nordic Nomad).

Collection Development and Global Impact

The museum’s collections chart the evolution of Danish and international design, with a focus on the mid-century modern movement that propelled Denmark onto the world stage. Highlights include works by Poul Henningsen, Arne Jacobsen, Hans Wegner, Kaare Klint, and Børge Mogensen, alongside significant European and Asian decorative arts (WhichMuseum).

Through exhibitions, educational programs, and scholarly research, Designmuseum Denmark has shaped Denmark’s design identity and contributed to global design discourse. Its international collaborations and traveling exhibitions reinforce Copenhagen’s status as a design capital (Wonderful Copenhagen – Danish Modern Exhibition).

Visitor Information

Location & Access

Address: Bredgade 68, 1260 Copenhagen K, Denmark
Public Transport: Near Marmorkirken (The Marble Church) and Kongens Nytorv metro stations; multiple bus lines serve the area.
Parking: No on-site parking; nearest public garage is at Dronningens Tværgade (approx. 5 minutes’ walk). Parking may be limited due to city construction (Designmuseum Danmark – Practical Information).

Visiting Hours

Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Extended hours)
Monday: Closed

Last ticket sale one hour before closing; exhibition access closes 30 minutes prior (Designmuseum Danmark – Opening Hours & Admission).

Admission & Tickets

Adults: 140 DKK
Students/Young Adults (18–26): 90 DKK (with valid ID)
Children (0–17): Free
Groups (10+): 110 DKK per person
Annual Membership: From 130 DKK (student/under 27) to 390 DKK (double)
Copenhagen Card: Free entry

Tickets are available online (recommended) or at the entrance. Access to the museum shop, café, library, and garden is free without a ticket.

Facilities and Accessibility

Cloakroom/Lockers: Free lockers (standard and some large) for bags and coats; storage at visitor’s risk.
Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, but some areas may be challenging due to the building’s age. Contact the museum in advance for assistance (Designmuseum Danmark – Practical Information).
Café FORMAT: Offers refreshments and terrace seating in the museum garden.
Museum Garden: Free entry; a relaxing oasis in the city.
Shop & Library: Open to the public without museum admission.
Wi-Fi: Free throughout the museum.

Must-See Exhibits and Collections

The Danish Chair Collection

A signature exhibition tracing the evolution of Danish chair design from the early 20th century onward. Over 125 iconic chairs are displayed in the immersive “chair tunnel,” including Hans Wegner’s “The Chair,” Arne Jacobsen’s Egg and Swan chairs, and Poul Henningsen’s PH lamps (Introducing Copenhagen; Nomad Epicureans; Guide to Europe).

Danish Design Now

Showcases 21st-century Danish creativity in furniture, lighting, fashion, ceramics, and graphics, continually updated to reflect current trends (Nomad Epicureans).

Decorative Arts, Fashion, and International Influences

Explore ceramics, glass, textiles, metalwork, Royal Copenhagen porcelain, and cross-cultural objects from Europe and Asia (Introducing Copenhagen; Nomad Epicureans).

Thematic & Interactive Exhibitions

Engage with hands-on exhibits, workshops, and the Learning Space for all ages (Guide to Europe).

The Museum Building & Gardens

The Rococo architecture and tranquil gardens are integral parts of the museum experience, featuring Danish design furniture by legends such as Poul Kjærholm and Hans J. Wegner.

Special Events & Temporary Exhibitions

The museum hosts regular temporary exhibitions—such as “The Power of Print” and “HEARTSPACE: DESIGNING A HEALING HOSPITAL”—and participates in the annual 3daysofdesign festival, exploring topics like sustainability and social innovation (Designmuseum Danmark – Events; Wonderful Copenhagen – Spring Exhibitions).

Visitor Experience & Services

Guided Tours: Available for individuals and groups; book in advance for a deeper dive into Danish design.
Audioguides/Podcasts: Self-guided tours via podcast on Danish design history.
Photography: Personal photography is permitted (no flash/tripods); commercial use by arrangement. Share on social media with #designmuseumdanmark.
Group Visits: Groups of 10+ receive discounts; book in advance. School groups must also book ahead (Designmuseum Danmark – Opening Hours & Admission).
Events & Rentals: The Assembly Hall is available for private events and equipped with A/V facilities and catering by Café FORMAT.

Payment & Membership

Credit Cards: MasterCard, Visa, Maestro, JCB, Visa Electron, and euros accepted.
Membership: Annual passes offer unlimited museum access and exclusive benefits.

Visitor Policies

Smoking: Not permitted anywhere on the premises.
Pets: Only service animals allowed.
Children: Free entry under 18.
Wardrobe: Bags and coats to be stored in lockers or cloakroom.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

Visit on weekday mornings or Thursday evenings for fewer crowds.
Plan at least 2–3 hours for a comprehensive experience.
Combine your visit with nearby sites like Amalienborg Palace, Frederik’s Church, and Nyhavn waterfront (Time Out – Best Museums in Copenhagen); (Forever Out Of Office – Copenhagen Tips).
Consider the Copenhagen Card for free museum entry and public transit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the museum’s opening hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–18:00; Thursdays until 20:00. Closed Mondays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Adults 140 DKK, students under 26 pay 90 DKK, children under 18 free. Group and membership discounts available.

Q: Is the museum accessible?
A: Yes, wheelchair access is provided. Some areas may present challenges due to the building’s age; contact the museum for specific needs.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, book in advance for guided group or individual tours.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, for personal use (no flash/tripods). Commercial photography requires permission.

Contact & Further Information

Address: Designmuseum Danmark, Bredgade 68, 1260 Copenhagen K, Denmark
Phone: +45 33 18 56 56
Email: [email protected]
Official Website: designmuseum.dk

For the latest events, exhibitions, and visitor details, visit the official museum website.

Visual and Media Recommendations

Exterior Photo: “Facade of Designmuseum Denmark in Frederiksstaden, Copenhagen”
Exhibition Image: “Danish Modern chair tunnel showcasing iconic furniture designs”
Map: “Map of Copenhagen highlighting Designmuseum Denmark location”
Café/Garden Image: “Designmuseum Denmark café and garden providing a relaxing urban oasis”

Images should be web-optimized and use descriptive alt text for SEO.

Summary & Invitation to Visit

Designmuseum Denmark is a vibrant testament to Danish design excellence, housed within a historic architectural gem at the center of Copenhagen. Its world-class collections—including the celebrated Danish Chair Collection and immersive ‘DANISH MODERN’ exhibition—trace the nation’s design journey from classic craftsmanship to modern innovation (The Nordic Nomad; WhichMuseum). Regular special exhibitions, educational programs, and accessible facilities ensure a rewarding experience for all visitors.

Enhance your visit by downloading the Audiala app for guided tours, and follow Designmuseum Denmark on social media for updates on events and exhibitions. For more on Copenhagen’s cultural heritage, explore our related articles and plan your perfect itinerary.