I absolutely loved my visit to the War Museum in Copenhagen! There is so much to see and explore – I spent several hours walking through the exhibitions, and still feel like I could easily come back for more. The museum is housed in a beautiful and historic building that once served as the Royal Danish Arsenal (Tøjhuset), dating back to the early 1600s. Walking through its vaulted halls really adds to the atmosphere — it feels like you're stepping into history.
The exhibits span centuries of Danish and European military history, and the sheer scope is incredible — from Viking weaponry to Cold War-era displays. What really struck me was how impressive Denmark once was as an empire. The museum offers a fascinating look into a time when Denmark was a true military and naval power, controlling vast territories and engaging in major European conflicts.
One of the most interesting aspects was learning about the many wars Denmark fought with Sweden. The rivalry between these two Nordic powers played a massive role in shaping the region’s history, and it was intriguing to see how often they clashed, and how that influenced both nations’ development. The museum does a fantastic job of illustrating those conflicts through detailed exhibits, battle dioramas, and historical weapons.
The collections are very well-curated, with clear descriptions and thoughtful multimedia displays. There’s a strong focus not only on weaponry, but also on the people behind it - soldiers, commanders, and civilians alike. It’s both informative and emotionally engaging.
The staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall atmosphere was very welcoming. Whether you're a military buff, a history lover, or just looking for something unique and substantial to do in Copenhagen, I highly recommend this museum. It’s a deeply enriching and memorable experience — and a reminder of Denmark’s rich, and at times...
Read moreWell worth a visit for anyone interested in military history and not just Danish military history.
Extensive collection of arms and armor to include a anti-tank gun from the initial skirmishes during the German invasion / occupation in 1940. As mentioned above, the collections also contain items from different countries (especially Japanese samurai weapons and armor and an extensive Tsarist Russian collection). Sometimes the stories behind the original collector of the items is as interesting as the items themselves.
At least when I visited, one of the gallery guides asked where I was from and then explained a layout of the collections with an emphasis on items from where I originated. In my case, she explained that the museum contained one of the only full Civil War kits for a Union soldier. The only item missing was the rubber raincoat that had deteriorated after years of storage.
There is also an extensive walk through display given some insight into what it was like for Danish soldiers deploying to Afghanistan. For those that have been there, they got the essence of it right, to include small but specific details like the water bottles (see attached picture) which is one of the first items of this display.
For those interested in naval history, the Krigsmuseet inherited the items from a smaller museum that used to be located elsewhere. Many dioramas and models.
It all could be seen quickly in about 90 minutes but suggest a minimum...
Read moreAs someone who has visited museums all over the world, I can confidently say that The War Museum (Krigsmuseet) in Copenhagen stands out as one of the most memorable and well-curated collections I’ve experienced. Housed in a beautiful historical building, the museum offers an authentic and deeply engaging journey through Denmark's military history, from medieval times to the present.
The exhibits are thoughtfully arranged, featuring an impressive array of original weapons, uniforms, armour, and even full-scale military vehicles. What makes Krigsmuseet truly special is its authenticity — every room feels like stepping back in time, thanks to the original artefacts and excellent storytelling. It doesn't feel like a collection of random objects, but rather a living narrative that connects Denmark’s history to larger global events.
The museum balances detailed information with interactive displays, making it accessible for both history enthusiasts and casual visitors. I particularly appreciated how the museum didn’t shy away from presenting both the triumphs and tragedies of war, offering a well-rounded and respectful perspective.
If you love history, authenticity, and learning through genuine artefacts, this is a must-visit in Copenhagen. Highly recommended for adults, families, and anyone looking to experience Denmark’s military heritage in a truly immersive way. I look forward to returning on...
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