Menu
Copenhagen transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the Christmas season, blending its rich history, modern flair, and cozy Danish culture known as “hygge.” In 2024, the city will once again enchant locals and visitors alike with its festive atmosphere, making it the perfect holiday destination. As you walk through the cobblestone streets lined with beautifully illuminated decorations, you’ll experience a sense of warmth and cheer, even as the winter air grows crisp. Whether you’re exploring the bustling Christmas markets or enjoying festive dinners by the fire, Copenhagen offers a serene yet joyful holiday experience that reflects its blend of old-world charm and contemporary style.
An annual tradition that showcases Denmark’s love for Christmas and fine design, the Royal Copenhagen Christmas Tables exhibit has become a highly anticipated event in the city. Every year, Royal Copenhagen invites renowned designers, celebrities, and artists to create one-of-a-kind Christmas table settings using the brand’s exquisite porcelain and fine china. The tables reflect the individual style of each designer and showcase how Christmas can be celebrated in various ways, from traditional to modern. The display is housed in the Royal Copenhagen flagship store, and it attracts visitors from all over the world looking for inspiration.
Dates: Mid-November to December 31, 2024
What to Expect: Beautifully decorated tables that offer a mix of traditional Danish Christmas settings and modern interpretations of holiday décor.
Highlight: A chance to admire the work of Denmark’s top designers while getting inspired for your own Christmas celebrations.
Tivoli Gardens is not only known for its magical Christmas market but also for its spectacular light shows and fireworks displays. Every evening during the holiday season, the gardens are illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere that is enchanting for all ages. On select evenings in December, Tivoli hosts firework shows that light up the winter sky in a burst of color and sound. These events are a perfect way to end a day of festive activities at the gardens and are particularly popular with families and couples.
Dates: Light shows run nightly from mid-November through New Year’s Eve. Firework shows on select dates, including New Year’s Eve.
What to Expect: Awe-inspiring light displays and pyrotechnic shows set to holiday music, making for an unforgettable festive experience.
Highlight: The New Year’s Eve firework display, which is a stunning spectacle of color and light, marking the beginning of the new year in true Tivoli fashion.
Perhaps the most iconic Christmas experience in Copenhagen, the Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market is a must-visit. Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, is transformed into a magical realm of lights, ornaments, and festive joy from mid-November to the New Year. The market is filled with quaint wooden stalls offering an array of unique crafts, handmade decorations, and traditional Danish treats. Sip on gløgg (mulled wine) while you explore, or savor freshly baked æbleskiver, small Danish pancakes traditionally served during Christmas. The park’s winter-themed rides, live performances, and its impressive Christmas light displays all combine to create a fairy-tale atmosphere.
Dates: November 15, 2024 – January 1, 2025
What to Expect: A beautifully decorated park with festive stalls, seasonal delicacies, wintery rides, and performances, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Highlight: The stunning light displays, including thousands of twinkling lights draped across trees and buildings, and Tivoli’s firework shows, scheduled during December weekends and on New Year’s Eve.
Situated in the heart of Copenhagen, Kongens Nytorv transforms into a Christmas haven every year. This market is perfect for visitors looking for an authentic Danish experience, with its stalls selling handmade Christmas decorations, woolen goods, and local delicacies. The market is surrounded by some of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Royal Theatre and Hotel D’Angleterre, which is known for its grand Christmas light display. Visitors can take a break from shopping to enjoy some skating at the nearby ice rink, adding to the festive charm of this bustling square.
Dates: November 17, 2024 – December 22, 2024
What to Expect: Wooden chalets offering unique Danish gifts, food stalls serving hotdogs, roasted almonds, and more, alongside the ice rink where you can skate under the twinkling lights.
Highlight: The towering Christmas tree and the spectacular holiday lights draped over the historic square, creating a romantic, festive ambiance.
One of the most picturesque spots in Copenhagen, Nyhavn’s harbor-side Christmas market offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The colorful townhouses that line the harbor are decked out with lights, creating a stunning backdrop for the Christmas market. This market may be smaller than others, but it offers a variety of stalls selling local handicrafts, ornaments, and delicious food, all while providing beautiful views of the water. Be sure to grab a hot chocolate or gløgg as you wander along the waterfront, taking in the stunning Christmas lights reflecting off the harbor.
Dates: November 11, 2024 – December 21, 2024
What to Expect: Charming wooden stalls along the historic canal selling Danish crafts and festive snacks, perfect for a casual, romantic stroll.
Highlight: The combination of the market’s twinkling lights and the iconic colored buildings reflecting off the water makes Nyhavn the perfect spot for picturesque holiday photos.
Located in the heart of the city’s historic district, this market brings a European Christmas experience with a Danish twist. Højbro Plads transforms into a small Christmas village with wooden chalets modeled after traditional German markets. Here, you’ll find a variety of crafts, warm beverages, and hearty foods. Visitors are drawn to the cozy atmosphere, enhanced by open fires and festive decorations. The market is family-friendly, with plenty of activities for children, including visits from Santa Claus.
Dates: November 15, 2024 – December 23, 2024
What to Expect: A festive village with Christmas stalls, seasonal food, mulled wine, and children’s activities, perfect for families.
Highlight: A large, illuminated reindeer and sleigh display in the market’s center, which is perfect for family photos.
Copenhagen shines brightly during the Christmas season, with stunning light displays that transform the city into a magical wonderland. Here are some of the best places to see festive lights:
Tivoli is renowned for its spectacular Christmas lights, with over a million twinkling bulbs adorning the trees, buildings, and pathways. The gardens create a dreamy atmosphere, especially when the park is illuminated at night, making it a must-visit during the holiday season.
The iconic waterfront area of Nyhavn is beautifully decorated with festive lights and wreaths, reflecting off the water and creating a picturesque scene. The colorful buildings lining the harbor add to the charm, making it a perfect spot for holiday photos.
The shopping streets, particularly Strøget, are adorned with spectacular light installations and decorations that create a festive atmosphere throughout the city center. Look out for the beautifully lit Christmas trees and unique light displays that line the streets, drawing visitors into the holiday spirit.
Nestled within the enchanting Tivoli Gardens, the Nimb Hotel stands out as a luxurious boutique hotel that immerses guests in the festive spirit of Christmas. Known for its stunning Moorish architecture and warm, inviting ambiance, Nimb becomes a magical retreat during the holiday season. The hotel is beautifully adorned with twinkling lights and seasonal decorations, creating a picturesque winter atmosphere.
Features:
Highlight:
Staying at the Nimb Hotel means enjoying a front-row seat to Tivoli’s famous Christmas market, as well as the spectacular light displays and firework shows that take place throughout the holiday season. It’s an unforgettable experience for families, couples, or anyone looking to indulge in a luxurious holiday getaway.
A hallmark of elegance and luxury, Hotel D’Angleterre is one of Copenhagen’s most prestigious hotels, located in the heart of the city at Kongens Nytorv. Renowned for its grandeur, this hotel transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas, adorned with magnificent decorations and a stunning light display that attracts visitors and locals alike.
Features:
Highlight:
The combination of elegant accommodations and proximity to Copenhagen’s main Christmas attractions makes Hotel D’Angleterre a top choice for those looking to enjoy a luxurious holiday experience. The hotel’s festive atmosphere, coupled with its world-class service, ensures a memorable stay.
For families or groups seeking a more home-like environment, the Adina Apartment Hotel offers spacious and comfortable accommodations. Located near Nyhavn and within walking distance of many Christmas markets, this hotel provides an ideal base for exploring the festive city.
Features:
Highlight:
The Adina Apartment Hotel combines convenience with a homely feel, making it an excellent choice for families or groups who want to experience the magic of Christmas in Copenhagen while enjoying the comforts of home.
Copenhagen’s culinary scene truly shines during the Christmas season, with a plethora of dining options that highlight traditional Danish Christmas fare. Restaurants throughout the city offer special menus featuring holiday favorites that capture the essence of Danish culture.
Highlight:
Many restaurants in Copenhagen feature special Christmas menus throughout December, so be sure to make reservations in advance to secure your table for a festive dining experience.
Copenhagen’s winter season offers various outdoor activities that allow visitors to embrace the cold and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Several open-air ice rinks pop up around the city during the holiday season, providing fun for skaters of all ages. The most popular locations include:
What to Expect:
Skate rentals are available at most rinks, and many have cozy cafés nearby for warming up with hot drinks and snacks after skating.
Highlight:
Ice skating amidst Copenhagen’s stunning holiday lights and festive decorations creates a magical winter experience, perfect for couples and families alike.
Snow Activities:
If the weather permits, head to local parks like Amager Fælled or Valby Park for sledding, snowball fights, and winter picnics. These parks become lively with families enjoying the snow, providing a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Copenhagen is an excellent destination for families during the Christmas season, with numerous activities designed to entertain children and create lasting memories.
Children can visit Santa Claus in his cozy grotto within Tivoli Gardens, where they can chat with him, take photos, and share their Christmas wishes. The experience is filled with holiday cheer, and kids will enjoy exploring the enchanting decorations throughout the park.
Dates: December 1 – December 24, 2024
What to Expect: Families can enjoy a range of activities, including writing letters to Santa, crafting decorations, and engaging in fun games. There are also special holiday performances and shows designed for children.
Highlight:
The joy of meeting Santa in a magical setting adds to the festive experience, making it a memorable part of your Christmas visit to Copenhagen.
The Copenhagen Zoo hosts a Christmas celebration that transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland. Families can explore the decorated animal enclosures, enjoy festive activities, and even participate in a children’s Christmas parade.
Dates: Throughout December
What to Expect: Special programming, animal feeding demonstrations, and holiday-themed activities designed for kids. The zoo becomes a festive environment, with light displays and seasonal decorations adding to the holiday spirit.
Highlight:
The combination of wildlife and Christmas celebrations makes the zoo a unique and enjoyable experience for families visiting Copenhagen during the holiday season.
Navigating Copenhagen during the Christmas season is convenient and enjoyable, thanks to the city’s well-developed public transport system and pedestrian-friendly streets.
Copenhagen’s buses, trains, and metro systems operate efficiently, allowing easy access to Christmas markets and attractions. Be mindful that services may be reduced on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, so plan accordingly.
Copenhagen is a bike-friendly city, with many locals opting for cycling as their primary mode of transport. Rent a bike to explore the city at your own pace, and take advantage of the dedicated bike lanes throughout the city.
Many of Copenhagen’s Christmas attractions are within walking distance of one another, particularly in the city center. Strolling through the beautifully lit streets and parks allows for a more immersive holiday experience, with opportunities to discover hidden gems along the way.
Copenhagen’s Christmas season is a truly magical time, filled with festive traditions, enchanting decorations, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re indulging in traditional Danish delicacies, exploring the vibrant Christmas markets, or enjoying outdoor activities, the city offers a delightful holiday experience for everyone.
Plan your visit to Copenhagen this Christmas and immerse yourself in the festive spirit that fills the air. With a range of accommodation options, dining experiences, and holiday activities, Copenhagen is the perfect destination for creating lasting memories this holiday season.