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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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The Royal Library Summary
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| Public website: | www.kb.dk |
Denmark – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type E , Type K
Type C:
   Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Danish Krone (DKK) £1 ≈ DKK 8.92 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widespread, and cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed, especially during festivals and celebrations. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned in most indoor public spaces and workplaces. |
| Constitution Day (June) |
Celebrations occur, but shops may close early. |
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| Christmas (December) |
Markets and festive events are popular. |
| Easter (March/April) |
Many closures and family gatherings. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Bolt |
| Other: | Cycling is popular and convenient in Denmark. The country has a focus on sustainability and green living. |
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Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
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for The Royal Library, Denmark
Indoor attraction open year-round; reduced hours on public holidays and around Christmas and New Year
Don't miss
- 💎 Admire modern architecture of the striking Black Diamond
- 📚 Explore exhibitions in the Royal Library’s vast spaces
- 🌿 Relax in the peaceful Royal Library Garden nearby
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! The Royal Library, famously known as the Black Diamond due to its sleek black granite facade, is an iconic symbol of Copenhagen’s blend of old and new. The original library dates back to 1906, while the Black Diamond extension, opened in 1999, offers modern spaces for reading, exhibitions and cultural events.
The library preserves Denmark’s written cultural heritage with vast collections spanning centuries, including manuscripts, books, maps and music. Visitors can explore the striking glazed atrium that connects the old and new buildings, as well as enjoy waterfront views over Copenhagen harbor and the nearby Circle Bridge.
The Black Diamond hosts a variety of exhibitions and concerts throughout the year, complementing its role as an academic and public library. The library's café and shop offer a cozy spot for relaxation after exploring the facilities.
While entry to the library is free, public tours may require advance booking. The building can be busy with students and visitors, so quieter times are usually mornings and weekdays. Photography is welcome but should respect other visitors' privacy.
Knowledge before you go
- Free entry to Black Diamond atrium and exhibitions.
- Admire Per Kirkeby's massive ceiling painting from the escalator; best light in late afternoon.
- Join Saturday guided tours at 3pm for behind-scenes access to historic reading rooms.
- Denmark's national library since 17th century houses Kierkegaard's manuscripts; modern extension opened 1999.
How to travel to The Royal Library
The Royal Library is located at Slotsholmen in central Copenhagen, accessible via metro stations such as Christianshavn and Kongens Nytorv. From Copenhagen Airport, visitors can take the metro or buses to the city center and then a short walk to the waterfront library complex.
Access summary
- From Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Metro/train to city centre, then walk, 25–35 min.
- From central Copenhagen (City Hall/Nørreport): Walk, bike or short metro/bus, 10–20 min.
- From Malmö, Sweden: Train to Copenhagen Central, then metro/bus or walk, ~50–70 min.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay near The Royal Library
Copenhagen offers numerous accommodations near Slotsholmen and the city center, with options ranging from boutique hotels to larger establishments, providing convenient access to the Royal Library and surrounding attractions.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
Packing recommendations for The Royal Library
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🧥
Light jacket
🎒
Small rucksack
🧶
Light jumper
🔋
Power bank
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
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Daily expenses in the region are around 40% higher than the average across United States. That means you'll spend considerably more on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to DKK) is 3% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Safety information overview
General safety
Copenhagen’s Royal Library is exceptionally safe, with well‑lit entrances, CCTV and a dedicated security team. Crime rates are low and the surrounding area is family‑friendly. Visitors should remain aware of pickpockets in crowded spots but overall safety is excellent.
Accessibility
The Royal Library in Copenhagen offers excellent accessibility: elevators, ramps and wheelchair‑friendly entrances are standard and staff assist with navigation. However, some older reading rooms lack tactile signage and the main entrance can be crowded during peak hours, so plan visits early.
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