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Your ultimate Christmas travel guide to Copenhagen

No one does Christmas quite like the Nordics. Swirls of fairy lights everywhere, crisp winter air and the comforting sense of cinnamon wafting out of bakeries, that’s what awaits you in Copenhagen during Christmas. If you’re looking for a sign to book that December getaway then this is it.

Top things to do

Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen illuminated with Christmas lights and decorations.

Tivoli Gardens Christmas

The Christmas season at Tivoli Gardens runs from mid-November through early January. More than half a million lights turn the gardens into a glowing winter village, complete with Santa’s grotto, themed rides, and daily live performances. The lake transforms into a glittering ice rink, while pop-up stalls sell Danish treats, ornaments, and mulled wine. Arrive early to catch the afternoon light displays and stay late for the evening fireworks.

​Book Tivoli Gardens tickets now

Nyhavn Canal at sunset with Christmas lights, Copenhagen, Denmark.

Nyhavn Christmas Market

Stroll along the Nyhavn Christmas Market where you’ll find wooden stalls lining the waterfront, selling handmade gifts, ornaments, and holiday treats. Sip hot gløgg or nibble on roasted almonds as the scent of waffles and the salty winter breeze fill the air.

Family ice skating together at an outdoor rink.

Ice Skating at Kongens Nytorv

Go ice skating at Kongens Nytorv, where a large outdoor rink sits surrounded by Christmas lights, market stalls, and the elegant Hotel d’Angleterre glowing in the background. It’s a classic Copenhagen winter moment, perfect for both beginners and seasoned skaters.

Stork Fountain in Copenhagen's Amagertorv Square surrounded by historic buildings at dusk.

H.C. Andersen Christmas Market

Explore the H.C. Andersen Christmas Market at Gammeltorv Square, where each stall is themed after a Hans Christian Andersen tale. Browse handmade crafts, festive sweets, and gifts, all set against the charm of Copenhagen’s oldest square.

Colorful buildings and boats along the canal in Christianshavn, Copenhagen.

Lucia Parade on the Canals

The Lucia Parade on the Canals is one of Copenhagen’s most atmospheric traditions. Held on December 13th, this annual event sees kayakers dressed in white robes and wreaths of candles glide through the city’s canals in honor of St. Lucia’s Day.

Chef preparing Danish smorrebrod with rye bread and meatballs in a kitchen.

Savor Danish Christmas treats

Savor Danish Christmas treats at beloved spots like Lagkagehuset, Meyers Bageri, or the historic Café Norden. Sip steaming gløgg, nibble on æbleskiver, and try a festive smørrebrød topped with herring or roast pork.

Nyhavn canal area with historic buildings and spire in København, Denmark.

Admire the Decorations of Strøget

Lose yourself (and maybe a few kroner!) window-shopping along the elegantly decorated Strøget pedestrian street, its glowing hearts and spruce boughs setting the scene for both late-night strolls and spontaneous holiday selfies.​

Amagertorv Square fountain in Copenhagen at dusk with historic buildings in the background.

See the Royal Copenhagen Christmas Table

These tables are set up inside the Royal Copenhagen flagship store on Amagertorv. It’s one of the city's most elegant holiday traditions with artists and celebrities crafting imaginative festive table settings. It’s Danish storytelling at its best and has captivated visitors for over 60 years.

Your perfect Christmas itinerary

Copenhagen City Hall illuminated at dusk in City Hall Square.

Day 1 – December 24

Morning:Start your day with a festive breakfast at Lagkagehuset or Meyers Bageri. Then, take a quiet stroll along Nyhavn, admiring the colorful harbor draped in twinkling garlands and reflections on the water.

Afternoon:Many attractions close early today, so lean into Copenhagen’s slower rhythm. Explore the Royal Copenhagen Christmas Tables on Amagertorv, a local favorite that stays open till afternoon. Then wander down Strøget, where window displays at Illums Bolighus and Magasin du Nord bring a touch of old-world charm.

Evening:Join locals in celebrating Christmas Eve with a traditional dinner. Book ahead at Restaurant Schønnemann for hearty Danish fare or Krogs Fiskerestaurant for seafood specialties. After dinner, walk past the glowing Hotel d’Angleterre and City Hall Square.

Pagoda and roller coaster at Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, with boats on the lake.

Day 2 – December 25 (Christmas Day)

Morning:Start the day with a Christmas service at Copenhagen Cathedral or Frederik’s Church (The Marble Church) both beautifully decorated and welcoming to visitors. Then grab a warm drink and pastry at Café Norden before heading out to explore.

Afternoon:Spend your Christmas Day at Tivoli Gardens, which reopens today and feels straight out of a fairy tale. It’s one of Europe’s most magical Christmas experiences so book your tickets in advance.

Evening:End your trip with an ice-skating session at Kongens Nytorv, surrounded by glowing façades and soft carols. For one last indulgence, sip gløgg and taste æbleskiver at a nearby stall or cozy up at Paludan Bog & Café.

Know before you go

  • Weather: December in Copenhagen is chilly and often wet, with temperatures hovering between 0°C and 5°C (32°F–41°F). Expect occasional snow or drizzle.
  • What to wear: Layer smartly. Thermal base layers, wool sweaters, a waterproof winter coat, gloves, scarf, and a beanie are essentials. Waterproof boots are a must for slippery cobblestones and icy paths.
  • Crowds: While Christmas week draws tourists, Copenhagen’s markets and attractions never feel overwhelmingly crowded. Christmas Eve (24th) is very quiet as locals celebrate at home, but from 25th onward, the festive buzz returns.
  • Opening hours: Many shops, restaurants, and attractions close early on December 24–25, so plan key visits around those dates. Markets and events usually run until late December or early January.
  • Budget: Expect to spend around €150–€250 per day including meals, transport, and tickets. Save with a Copenhagen Card, which covers public transport and major attractions.
  • Transport: The city’s Metro, buses, and trains run through the holidays (though at reduced frequency on the 24th–25th). Walking and cycling remain the best ways to explore the neighborhoods.

Extend your visit till New Year’s Eve

Copenhagen knows how to close the year in style. From the lively countdown and fireworks at City Hall Square to champagne picnics by The Lakes and late-night parties in Tivoli Gardens, the city glows with celebration. Stay on to experience Denmark’s warm, high-spirited welcome to the new year, plan your New Year’s Eve here.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Copenhagen during Christmas

Can I watch official fireworks anywhere other than City Hall Square?

Yes. Small, informal displays appear along the waterfront and The Lakes, but official fireworks are concentrated at City Hall Square and select riverside spots for safety.

Do I need reservations for Christmas concerts and church services?

For popular concerts and evening services, book ahead. Many churches allow free entry but reserve seating drops quickly for special performances and carol concerts.

Are markets and stalls card-friendly?

Most larger stalls accept cards, but smaller artisanal sellers sometimes prefer cash. Keep a small amount of kroner handy for food, crafts, and tiny purchases.

What family-friendly activities are available beyond markets?

Look for puppet shows at Tivoli, hands-on workshops at museums, seasonal theatre for kids, and family skating sessions at Kongens Nytorv with beginner-friendly hours.

Can I send parcels or buy international gifts during the holidays?

Postal services run reduced hours late December. Shops sell packaged souvenirs, but for international shipping, book early and use private couriers for reliable holiday delivery.

What are tipping and service expectations at restaurants?

Service is usually included on bills; leaving a small tip (5–10%) for good service is appreciated but not obligatory.