Plizio Visual Lab

Thorvaldsen Museum

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
museum
—°510
Thorvaldsen Museum (Denmark)

Weather…

Highlights of 2026

5

The Thorvaldsen Museum in Copenhagen is dedicated to the life and work of the renowned Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen and holds the distinction of being Denmark's first public museum building. It was constructed between 1839 and 1848 based on designs by architect Michael Gottlieb Bindesbøll, following Thorvaldsen's return to his homeland after living in Rome for forty years. The building is famous for its animated facade and the monumental exterior frieze depicting the artist's triumphal return and the transport of his sculptures to Copenhagen. Inside, the museum houses a vast collection of Thorvaldsen's plaster models, finished marble statues, and sketches, alongside his extensive private collection of ancient art. The architectural style was heavily influenced by classical antiquity, which is evident in the beautifully designed rooms featuring mosaic floors and intricately painted ceilings. Uniquely, the sculptor himself is buried in a simple grave within the museum's inner courtyard, giving the site a profound, almost sacred atmosphere. The museum represents a 'Gesamtkunstwerk' (total work of art) where architecture, painting, and sculpture merge seamlessly. Thorvaldsen was one of the most famous European artists of his era and a leading figure of Neoclassicism. Today, the museum remains a vital monument to 19th-century Danish culture and architectural innovation.

Explore on the map

How well do you know Denmark?

Find cities, landscapes and regions in 10 varied challenges on the interactive map.

Start the map quiz 10 challenges

Your journey, your memory

A postcard from Thorvaldsen Museum

Turn your own photo into a personal postcard with a local stamp. Free and no sign-up required.

Create a postcard

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C113711151818151063
Rain mm614843344764698354706263

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
Thorvaldsen Museum is open to the public in central Copenhagen, displaying sculptures and works of Bertel Thorvaldsen. Visitors explore the interior and courtyard; most areas are accessible.
🕒
Typical hours
As a major museum in Copenhagen, opening hours are typically 10:00-17:00 Tuesday to Sunday, closed Mondays. Extended hours during summer; always verify on the museum's website before visiting.
📷
Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the museum without flash, but some temporary exhibitions may have restrictions. The courtyard and statues are particularly photogenic in natural light.
⏱️
Time needed
A comprehensive visit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to appreciate the vast collection. Including the courtyard and temporary exhibits, plan for up to 2.5 hours if you are an art enthusiast.
➕
Combine with
The museum is located near the Christiansborg Palace and the National Museum of Denmark. Combine with a walk along the Nyhavn canal or a visit to the nearby Royal Danish Theatre.
🧭
Getting there
The museum is in central Copenhagen, a short walk from Nørreport station. Buses and metro stop nearby; paid parking is limited in the city center, so public transport is recommended.
💡
Insider tip
Visit the sunlit courtyard first thing in the morning for the best light on the marble sculptures. The museum's café gives a pleasant spot to reflect on the art.

Geography

Coordinates
55.67660, 12.57860

Facts

  • The museum officially opened its doors on September 18, 1848.
  • Architect Michael Gottlieb Bindesbøll designed the building in a historicist style.
  • The large exterior frieze was created by the artist Jørgen Sonne.
  • The collection includes approximately 900 sculptures and original models by Thorvaldsen.
  • Bertel Thorvaldsen died in 1844 and is buried in the museum's courtyard.
  • The building is situated on Slotsholmen island, adjacent to Christiansborg Palace.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
Motorhome dimensions

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Thorvaldsen Museum (10)

Thorvaldsen Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Copenhagen, displaying works of sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen.

🕒 Tu-Su 10:00-17:00

Christiansborg Palace Chapel

Church building in Copenhagen Municipality, part of the Christiansborg Palace complex.

Christiansborg Ruinen🏛 museum

Ruins beneath Christiansborg Palace, remains of earlier buildings.

🕒 Tu-Su 10:00-17:00

Kunstforeningen Gl Strand

Exhibition space and arts organization in Copenhagen, shows contemporary art.

Christiansborg Palace Tower

Viewpoint tower at Christiansborg Palace, has views over Copenhagen.

Højbro

Bridge in Copenhagen, connects Slotsholmen with the Indre By district.

Tofu space

Gallery in Copenhagen, hosts changing art exhibitions.

Comedy Zoo

Theatre in Copenhagen, known for comedy and cabaret performances.

Stormbroen

Bridge in Copenhagen, Denmark, crosses the canal.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

To whom is the museum dedicated?
It is dedicated to the famous Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen and houses his works.
Where is Bertel Thorvaldsen's grave?
His grave is located in the inner courtyard of the museum, surrounded by his sculptures.
Is photography allowed in the museum?
Yes, photography without flash for private use is permitted.
How much is the entry fee?
Adults pay approx. 95 DKK, children under 18 have free entry.
What is unique about the museum's architecture?
The building itself is a masterpiece of Neoclassical style with colorful mosaic floors.
Thorvaldsen Museum: where is it located?
Thorvaldsen Museum is located in Denmark.
Thorvaldsen Museum: what is there to see?
Highlights include Thorvaldsen Museum, Christiansborg Palace Chapel, Christiansborg Ruinen.
Thorvaldsen Museum: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Thorvaldsen Museum: why is it worth visiting?
The Thorvaldsen Museum in Copenhagen is dedicated to the life and work of the renowned Danish sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen and holds the distinction of being Denmark's first public museum building.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →
Europe
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe
More places in Denmark →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks