


Thorvaldsens Museum
About
Thorvaldsens Museum offers a surprisingly engaging introduction to classical art for families, housed in a stunning neoclassical building with a peaceful central courtyard. The museum's family programs and workshops help children connect with the marble sculptures and plaster casts in hands-on ways, making ancient mythology and art accessible to young minds.
Highlights
- ✓The vibrant, colorful exterior and interior walls decorated with classical motifs that capture children's attention
- ✓The peaceful interior courtyard where Thorvaldsen himself is buried, providing a quiet break
- ✓Sculptures depicting Greek and Roman gods and heroes, perfect for kids learning about mythology
- ✓Special family workshops and drawing activities offered regularly
- ✓The museum's impressive collection of plaster casts that show how sculptures were created
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on the first Wednesday of the month when admission is free, saving your budget for other Copenhagen attractions.
- 2.Check the museum's website before visiting to see if any family workshops or children's programs are scheduled during your stay.
- 3.The beautiful interior courtyard is perfect for a break if kids need to recharge. It's a calm, enclosed space where they can move around safely.
- 4.Combine your visit with nearby Christiansborg Palace and the ruins underneath for a full day of Copenhagen history.
- 5.Download or pick up the family guide at the entrance, which includes activities and questions designed to keep kids engaged as they explore.
Best Time to Visit
Tuesday or Wednesday mornings right at opening (10:00 AM) offer the quietest experience. Weekends can be busier, but the museum rarely feels overcrowded. Avoid Monday when it's closed.
What to Know
Admission is very affordable (budget-friendly $), and children under 18 enter free. The museum is located in central Copenhagen, easily walkable from Nyhavn and other major attractions, with good public transportation access via metro and buses.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, making it an excellent rainy day activity during Copenhagen's wet autumn and winter months. The indoor setting is climate-controlled and comfortable in any weather.
Nearby Eats
Slotskaelderen hos Gitte Kik, located under Christiansborg Palace nearby, offers traditional Danish open-faced sandwiches (smørrebrød) in a family-friendly setting. For a quick bite, head to Torvehallerne food market (10-minute walk), where kids can choose from multiple food stalls including pizza, crepes, and Danish pastries.
More Activities Near Copenhagen
Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek
The Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek transforms art appreciation into family fun with dedicated children's workshops, interactive programs, and a stunning Winter Garden complete with palm trees where kids can explore. This world-class museum welcomes young visitors with open arms, offering impressive collections of ancient sculptures and modern art in a beautiful, accessible setting that never feels stuffy or overwhelming for little ones.
SMK – Statens Museum for Kunst
Denmark's National Gallery offers a surprisingly engaging experience for families, with dedicated children's workshops, interactive activities, and family programs that make art accessible and fun. The museum's diverse collections span seven centuries, providing plenty of visual stimulation and conversation starters, while special family-friendly spaces ensure kids can explore creativity hands-on without the typical museum stress.
National Museum of Denmark
The National Museum of Denmark offers an exceptional family experience with its dedicated Children's Museum where kids can dress up as Vikings, climb aboard ships, and explore hands-on exhibits about Danish history. With free admission and interactive displays throughout, it's one of Copenhagen's best value attractions for families wanting to combine education with entertainment.
War Museum
The War Museum in Copenhagen offers an engaging journey through maritime and military history that captivates young minds with interactive exhibits and real naval vessels to explore. Kids can climb aboard submarines, discover naval artifacts, and participate in hands-on activities that bring Danish maritime heritage to life. The museum strikes a perfect balance between education and entertainment, making history accessible and exciting for children.