Copenhagen is Denmark’s capital city. It sits on the coastal islands of Zealand and Amagar and it’s linked to southern Sweden via the Oresund Bridge. Its historic center of Indre By contains the 18th century rococo district of Fredirksstaden, home to the Amalienborg Palace. Guests can also visit the nearby Renaissance era Rosenborg Castle which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and home to the crown jewels.
The city is lovely to visit any time of year, but it really lights up during the holiday season. This is the time of year when many of its Christmas markets come to life. Here are a few you will want to check out during your visit.
Kings New Square Market (Kongens Nytrov)
This market takes place in the heart of Copenhagen set against the historic Kongens Nytrov. It has a nostalgic vibe reminiscent of traditional European markets. Shoppers can visit the charming stalls to find gifts and decorations while taking in the illuminated Hotel D’Angleterre and the Magasin department store.
If you come by Thursdays to Sundays from 1 to 5 PM, bring the children along for a photo with Santa. Guests must bring their cameras for a free photo.
Nytorv Square
This Christmas market opens in mid-November and ends just before Christmas. It is located in the center of Copenhagen. Visitors will step into an enchanting fairyland of inviting cabins illuminated with festive lights.
Bring the children by for a chance to meet Santa Claus and Hans Christian Anderson. Adults will find a variety of unique gifts including Christmas related products, handicrafts, delicacies and more.
High Bridge Square (Hojbro Plads)
This market is the result of a partnership between Hojbro Plads and the City of Copenhagen. It is inspired by traditional European markets. It runs from mid-November to the weekend before Christmas.
Visitors will immediately get into the Christmas spirit as they take in the trees, decorations, secret pixies, reindeer, Santa’s sleigh and 280,000 twinkling Christmas lights. They will also be able to meet Santa Claus on Mondays between 3 and 6 PM. Take along a camera for a free photo.
Nyhavn Harbor
Nyhavn is a 17th century waterfront, canal and entertainment district that stretches from Kongens Nytorv to the harbor front south of the Royal Playhouse. It offers scenic views of 17th and 18th century townhouses as well as numerous shops and restaurants.
During the holiday season, vendors line up against the waterfront offering unique holiday gifts. Come by for shopping and fantastic scenery.
Freetown Christiana
Freetown Christiana is Copenhagen’s infamous district as it was originally created when squatters took over the military base in the 1970’s. During the Christmas season, the community sets up stalls that sell jewelry, candles and other gifts. The market runs for two weeks spanning from early to mid-December.
Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens is an amusement and pleasure gardens. It opened in 1843 making it the 3rd oldest operating amusement park in the world.
The Gardens goes all out at Christmastime transforming into a winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights, trees and glittering decorations. Children can visit Santa in his grotto in the Honey Cake Castle with will be brimming with Danish hygge. Santa is ready to take down Christmas wishes and pose for photos with visitors.
Highlights to check out include a large Christmas heart which will be projecting images showing Christmas stories in front of Nimb. A Christmas tree will be set up on Tivoli Lake along with the iconic one in front of Tivoli Concert Hall.
In addition to all the festivities, you will also find stalls selling Danish snacks and cookies and beautiful handmade gifts. There is also a large lake turned ice rink making for tons of winter fun.
Kronborg
This Christmas market is held inside the Kronborg castle. The halls and rooms will contain various stalls selling crafts, decorations, gift items and food and drink. It will be beautifully decorated with a Christmas tree and children can enjoy a yuletide show and hang out with Santa Claus.
The market takes place on a weekend in late November and then again in early December. Visitors must pay an admission fee of $12 USD.
Carlsberg Christmas Market
The Carlsberg Christmas Market is hosted by the Carlsberg Brewery, one of the oldest breweries in the country. It is located on Valby’s slopes, an area of the city that offers a relaxed atmosphere which makes the perfect background for shopping. The stalls offer a variety of goods including craft, artwork, mulled beer and homemade food.
The market happens the first three weekends in December.
Hans Christian Anderson
Hans Christian Anderson is one of the most well-liked figures in Danish history so it makes perfect sense that Copenhagen would name one of their markets after him. Each market in the stall is named after one of his fairy tales. The area is beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments and it’s a great place to find holiday foods and gifts. There’s also a caravan where children can visit Santa.
The market opens in mid-November and ends just before Christmas.
Christmas Market at Odd Fellows Paleet
This market is held in the city’s historic mansion of Odd Fellows Paleet. The mansion was built in the 1750’s and has stalls set up selling Christmas supplies and flea market items in its grand hall and throughout the mansion’s grounds. You will find everything from clothing to handmade figurines to cookies to homemade pickled vegetables.
The market happens over the course of a weekend in mid-November.
When your planning your trip these are some great hotels to stay at.
- Hotel D’Angleterre: This historic luxury hotel is located in the heart of Copenhagen and offers elegant rooms, impeccable service, and stunning views of the city. It’s the perfect choice for a luxurious Christmas getaway.
- Nimb Hotel: Situated in Tivoli Gardens, Nimb Hotel offers a unique and enchanting experience. The rooms are beautifully decorated, and the hotel features a Michelin-starred restaurant and a cozy bar. Staying here allows you to immerse yourself in the magic of Tivoli’s Christmas festivities.
- Hotel Kong Arthur: Located in the charming neighborhood of Nørrebro, Hotel Kong Arthur offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The rooms are tastefully decorated, and the hotel features a spa, a rooftop terrace, and a popular Italian restaurant. It’s a great option for a relaxing Christmas break.
- Hotel Sanders: Situated in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, Hotel Sanders offers a stylish and luxurious stay. The rooms are elegantly decorated with a blend of classic and contemporary design elements. The hotel features a courtyard, a rooftop terrace, and a renowned restaurant. It’s a perfect choice for a sophisticated Christmas experience.
- Hotel Skt. Petri: Located in the trendy Latin Quarter, Hotel Skt. Petri offers modern and stylish rooms with Nordic-inspired design. The hotel features a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving delicious cuisine. It’s a great option for those who appreciate contemporary aesthetics.
- Hotel SP34: This boutique hotel is located in the lively district of Nansensgade and offers stylish and comfortable rooms. The hotel has a trendy design with a focus on sustainability. It features a rooftop terrace, a café, and a bar. It’s a great choice for those looking for a hip and eco-friendly stay.
- Andersen Boutique Hotel: Situated in the vibrant Vesterbro neighborhood, Andersen Boutique Hotel offers modern and colorful rooms with a playful design. The hotel features a cozy lounge area, a garden courtyard, and a bar. It’s a great option for those who appreciate a unique and artistic atmosphere.
- Avenue Hotel Copenhagen: This boutique hotel is located in the fashionable district of Frederiksberg and offers elegant rooms with a Scandinavian touch. The hotel features a cozy lobby lounge, a courtyard garden, and a bar. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful and stylish retreat.
- Hotel Alexandra: Known for its retro charm, Hotel Alexandra offers individually decorated rooms with a mid-century modern design. The hotel features a cozy lobby with vintage furniture and a popular breakfast restaurant. It’s a great option for those who appreciate a nostalgic ambiance.
- Hotel SP34: Situated in the Latin Quarter, Hotel SP34 offers stylish and minimalist rooms with a focus on Danish design. The hotel features a rooftop terrace, a restaurant, and a bar. It’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate contemporary aesthetics and a central location.
If you are thinking of visiting Copenhagen, Christmas is the perfect time to do it. The markets set up throughout the city are sure to fill you with a festive vibe. Which of these will you be visiting during your trip?