Christmas in Copenhagen

Christmas lights

The Christmas illuminations are a must-see in the city, creating a warm atmosphere despite the wintry temperatures.

• Tivoli Gardens: The historic amusement park is transformed into a magical Christmas village with thousands of strings of lights, traditional decorations and specially designed rides.
• Strøget and Nyhavn: This famous pedestrian street and the colorful Nyhavn district are adorned with garlands and decorated fir trees. Nyhavn is particularly enchanting, its colorful buildings and canal creating a magical backdrop.
• City Hall Square: Every year, a large illuminated Christmas tree is set up in City Hall Square, surrounded by Christmas decorations and stalls.

Christmas markets in Copenhagen

Copenhagen’s Christmas markets offer a warm and welcoming experience, ideal for discovering local crafts and tasting Scandinavian culinary specialties.

• Tivoli Park Christmas Market: In addition to the illuminations, the market features numerous stalls selling Christmas decorations, handicrafts and Danish specialties such as æbleskiver (Danish doughnuts) and gløgg (mulled wine with spices).
• Højbro Plads Christmas Market: Located right in the center of town, this market offers a typical Scandinavian atmosphere, with stalls selling handicrafts, local produce and Scandinavian food.
• Nyhavn Christmas Market: Along the canal, stalls offer handcrafted gifts, local produce and hot drinks, in a uniquely picturesque atmosphere.

Christmas traditions in Denmark

Christmas in Copenhagen is deeply imbued with the Danish philosophy of “hygge” – the search for comfort and warmth in the little things.

• Christmas meals: Danes celebrate Christmas with traditional dishes such as roast pork with caramelized potatoes and rice pudding (risalamande) for dessert. Restaurants often offer Christmas menus called “julefrokost”.
• Christmas carols and religious traditions: On Christmas Eve, it’s customary to gather around the Christmas tree to sing carols.
• Hygge decorations: Candles, Advent wreaths and paper garlands can be found all over the city, creating a cozy, typically Danish atmosphere.

Skating and winter activities in Copenhagen

The city offers several ephemeral skating rinks and winter activities to make the most of the season.

• Frederiksberg Runddel rink: Located near Frederiksberg Gardens, this open-air rink is a popular spot for a family or romantic experience.
• Hôtel de Ville skating rink: Located on the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, this skating rink offers a central, festive setting for a winter activity in the heart of the city.
• Canal cruises: Even in winter, some companies offer canal cruises to admire the illuminated city, cosy up under the blankets with hot drinks.

Christmas shopping in Copenhagen

Copenhagen is an excellent destination for unique, typically Scandinavian gifts.

• • Danish design stores: Shops like Illums Bolighus and Hay House offer Danish design and home furnishings, perfect for stylish, long-lasting gifts.
  • Magasin du Nord and Illum department stores: These stores in the heart of the city are decorated for Christmas and offer a wide range of products, from fashion to toys and local produce.
  • Small boutiques and local crafts: The Vesterbro and Nørrebro districts are home to local artisan boutiques offering original, authentic creations.

The best cafés and restaurants for a hygge Christmas in Copenhagen

Copenhagen’s cafés and restaurants celebrate Christmas specialties and create cosy atmospheres.

• • Café Norden: Located near Strøget, this café offers a warm atmosphere, ideal for enjoying Danish pastries and gløgg.
  • Restaurant Kronborg: This traditional restaurant offers typical Danish Christmas dishes, perfect for discovering the famous smørrebrød (open-faced sandwich) in a festive setting.
  • Café Royal at the Hôtel d’Angleterre: Every year, the hotel is decked out in splendid Christmas decorations, and its tea room is ideal for a gourmet break.