Hirschsprung Collection: Danish Art Guide (2026)

TLDR: Hidden within Copenhagen's peaceful Østre Anlæg park, the Hirschsprung Collection offers a unique, intimate glimpse into Danish art history, perfect for art lovers seeking a focused, tranquil experience away from the city's larger institutions.

Stepping into The Hirschsprung Collection feels like unlocking a quiet secret in the heart of Copenhagen. As a traveller always on the lookout for authentic cultural experiences, I found this museum to be a refreshing change from more sprawling institutions. 

This article will guide you through my impressions of this unique art haven, covering its fascinating origins, what treasures you'll find inside, its reputation, practical details like location and cost, and whether it’s the right stop for your Danish adventure.

What is the story behind Hirschsprung Collection?

In 1902, they made an incredible decision: to donate their entire collection to the Danish state. What makes this place truly special is that it wasn't just a collection; Heinrich wanted a specific home for it. He envisioned a museum that felt like a private residence, not a cold, grand institution. 

This building, which opened in 1911, was purpose-built to house their art, and you can still feel that personal touch today. It’s why many visitors, myself included, first assume it was once their actual home. You’ll find pieces of furniture from artists' homes, making each room feel lived-in and intimate, giving you a quiet window into history.

What is the Hirschsprung Collection?

The Hirschsprung Collection is a delightful art museum dedicated to Danish art from the 19th and early 20th centuries. It houses over 700 artworks, primarily focusing on the Danish Golden Age from 1800 to 1850. Beyond this, you’ll also discover captivating pieces by the famous Skagen Painters and artists from the Modern Breakthrough period.

One impressive detail is that this museum holds the largest number of Skagen art pieces anywhere outside of Skagen itself. If you're a history buff, you'll also appreciate knowing they have an incredible archive of around 25,000 letters written by artists from that era, offering rare insight into their creative lives. 

The intimate scale means you can truly connect with each piece without feeling overwhelmed, a distinct pleasure compared to many larger art spaces.

Why is Hirschsprung Collection famous?

The Hirschsprung Collection gained its reputation by showcasing Danish art from the 19th and early 20th centuries in a uniquely personal way. It's renowned for its deep dive into the Danish Golden Age, its substantial collection of Skagen Painters, and works from the Modern Breakthrough.

What truly makes it stand out is its distinctive "home-like" feel. When you step inside, you quickly realize it was designed to be intimate. They’ve even furnished the rooms with items from artists' own homes, giving you a sense of stepping directly into their world rather than a sterile gallery. This creates a remarkably personal connection to the art and the artists. 

Beyond this unique atmosphere, its fame comes from holding major masterpieces by acclaimed artists like P.S. Krøyer and Vilhelm Hammershøi. Plus, its status as the largest collection of Skagen art outside Skagen, alongside those 25,000 artist letters, solidifies its position as a vital cultural landmark.

Where is the Hirschsprung Collection?

You'll find the Hirschsprung Collection at Stockholmsgade 20, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark. It's beautifully situated right within the Østre Anlæg park, offering a surprisingly serene escape from the city buzz. Walking through the green surroundings to get there is part of the experience, providing a peaceful transition before you even enter.

Its location is also incredibly convenient for exploring other cultural gems. It's practically neighbors with the Danish National Gallery (SMK) and just a stone's throw from the lovely Botanical Garden. 

If you're using public transport, reaching the museum is simple: it’s only about a 10-minute walk from the Østerport metro station. The pleasant park setting truly complements the museum's intimate feel, enhancing that sense of stepping into a private art haven.

How much does a ticket to Hirschsprung Collection cost?

Planning your visit, you'll find the pricing for the Hirschsprung Collection quite straightforward. An adult ticket costs DKK 110. If you're under 29 years old, you'll get a reduced rate of DKK 75, which is a nice saving. And for families, it's good news: children under 18 years old can enter completely free of charge.

If you plan on diving deep into Copenhagen's museum scene, consider the Parkmuseerne ticket. For DKK 345, this ticket grants you access to six different museums, including the Hirschsprung Collection. It's a smart way to experience more of the city's cultural offerings if you have the time. 

This charming museum, nestled in the park, offers excellent value for its price, especially considering the quality and intimacy of its 19th and early 20th-century Danish art collection.

Is it worth visiting Hirschsprung Collection?

For those with an appreciation for 19th and early 20th-century Danish art, the Hirschsprung Collection is absolutely worth your time. Its focused collection truly shines, featuring significant works from the Danish Golden Age, pieces by Skagen Painters like P.S. Krøyer and Anna Ancher, and even the atmospheric Symbolist works of Vilhelm Hammershøi. 

The museum itself, a historic, purpose-built structure, cultivates a remarkably cozy, home-like atmosphere, making your interaction with the art personal and unhurried. Plus, its tranquil setting in Østre Anlæg park adds to the peaceful experience.

However, it's important to set expectations. If your art interests lie outside this specific period or Danish artists, you might find the collection too specialized. There's no on-site café, though they do offer discounts at nearby eateries. Also, strollers aren't allowed inside, but free rentals are available. 

A visit typically takes a comfortable 1 to 1.5 hours. It’s fully wheelchair accessible. For focused art lovers, this intimate experience is a true highlight, especially when contrasted with larger, busier institutions. To help you prioritize your art exploration across Copenhagen, you might find the StoryHunt app useful for an engaging audio guide to various attractions.

What else can I do in Copenhagen?

Once you've soaked in the serene atmosphere of the Hirschsprung Collection, you're ideally placed to continue exploring Copenhagen's cultural landscape.

• Right next door is the Statens Museum for Kunst (SMK), Denmark's national gallery. It presents a vast collection spanning seven centuries of art, from European masterpieces to modern works, offering a much broader scope.
• A short walk will take you to Rosenborg Castle & The King's Garden. This stunning 17th-century castle houses the Danish Crown Jewels and is surrounded by beautiful royal gardens, perfect for a relaxed stroll or a picnic.
• Adjacent to both the Hirschsprung Collection and SMK, the Botanical Garden provides a peaceful oasis. Its impressive greenhouses and diverse plant collections offer a lovely contrast to the art.
• Venturing a little further, you could visit the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, an art museum renowned for its ancient Mediterranean sculptures, 19th-century French and Danish art, and a lush, covered winter garden.
• For a dose of history and picturesque views, explore Kastellet, a well-preserved 17th-century star-shaped fortress with ramparts perfect for a walk. 
• Or, for a truly unique experience, consider Assistens Cemetery in Nørrebro. It's the final resting place of famous Danes like Hans Christian Andersen, but it also functions as a beautiful, historic park.

You can read our full guide to Østerbro here. To get an excellent overview and discover many more fascinating spots around Copenhagen, StoryHunt can act as your personal audio guide, enriching your exploration of the city's hidden gems.