Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is one of the best attractions in Copenhagen and despite being a little further out than other well-known attractions, it’s well worth a visit.
This stunning modern art museum is found on the Danish Riviera, a little off the beaten path. Louisiana may not be in central Copenhagen, but it’s just a quick 35 minute journey north of the capital’s centre. The little extra effort it takes to reach the museum is rewarded by the fantastic location. You’ll find stunning architecture, incredible panoramic views over to Sweden, and the rare insight into Copenhagen’s suburban life as you stroll from the train station to the museum itself.
Each year, Louisiana present six to ten temporary exhibitions alongside their permanent distinguished art collection, housing over 3,500 works. The museum is also a popular and vibrant cultural centre open in the evenings and offers lots of unique activities and events throughout the year.
This leading international museum of modern art strikes the perfect balance between landscape, architecture and art, which is what makes it so special and a must-see on your visit to Copenhagen. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
Prepare for your visit to Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
When to visit Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is open all year round. The opening hours throughout the week are as follows:
Tuesday – Friday 11am-10pm
Saturday – Sunday 11am-6pm
Bank Holidays 11am-6pm.
Monday closed
If you have a Copenhagen Card, the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art entry is free!
How long is needed to visit Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
You should reserve at least half a day to visit Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. A train in each direction will take at least 25 minutes, and you’ll want at least 3 hours to see the art and enjoy the beautiful architecture and scenery. There’s a café on-site for drinks and snacks, as well as some heartier meals for lunch and dinner.
What should I wear to visit Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
We recommend that you dress casually and comfortably for your visit to the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. Backpacks, large bags and umbrellas aren’t allowed in the exhibition areas, but you’ll find secure lockers on the lower level of the Louisiana Shop. You’ll need to deposit DKK 20 for the coin-operated lockers.
What is there to see in Louisiana Museum of Modern Art
Temporary Exhibitions
Each year the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art plays host to up to ten major exhibitions. You’ll discover everything from classical masters of modern art to up and coming international artists, with both solo and group exhibitions. Past exhibitions include the likes of Picasso Ceramics, Illumination, Yayoi Kusama, Africa and Marina Abramović, just to name a few. Be sure to visit the museum’s website to see what current exhibitions are showing, or what’s coming up, so you can plan accordingly – https://en.louisiana.dk/
Permanent collection
Not only famed for its big exhibitions, Louisiana is also home to an extensive permanent collection of modern and contemporary art, dating from World War II to the present day. Amongst the collection, you’ll find an amazing Kusama Installation – a single 4m2 room whose walls and ceilings are covered with mirrors, with a hundred hanging balls of light changing colours. The floor reflects a pool as you stand in the middle of the water on a platform. Since its installation in 1998, it has become one of the the most beloved pieces in the entire permanent collection!
The views!
Aside from the art, the Louisiana Museum is a spectacular sight to see. The building is acknowledged as a milestone in modern Danish architecture. Its interplay between art, architecture and landscape adds a unique brilliance to the entire experience. The outdoor park displays some of the museum’s modern sculptures and the entire property has sweeping views over the sea. You can even see neighbouring Sweden from there! The relaxed nature of the park means that you can grab a hot drink or snack from the museum café and enjoy it on a hilly patch of grass while looking out to sea. Perfect!
