Danish museums experienced record-high visitor numbers in 2023, according to new data from Statistics Denmark. Throughout the year, the country’s museums were visited a total of 17.4 million times, which is the highest number of recorded visits ever. This significant increase in visitor numbers can be attributed to a combination of factors, including full reopening after the coronavirus pandemic and an increased interest in cultural experiences among Danes.
The museums have not seen similar visitor numbers since before the pandemic, and 2023 marks an important turning point. Museums supported by the government accounted for the majority of visits with 14.5 million, which is a seven percent increase compared to 2019. Museums without government support, on the other hand, had 2.9 million visits, highlighting the central role of government-supported institutions in cultural life.
Interestingly, the statistics also show a new trend where 2.3 million of the visitors did not primarily come to see exhibitions. Instead, these guests visited the museums’ cafes, gardens, or parks, indicating a broader use of the museums’ facilities beyond the traditional exhibitions. This development can be seen as part of a wider trend where museums not only function as cultural institutions but also as social and recreational spaces. It suggests a change in audience expectations and the use of museums, which nowadays offer a more varied range of experiences.
With these record-high visitor numbers, the future looks bright for Danish museums, which continue to attract both local and international guests with their diverse offerings and exhibitions.