Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is one of the most popular European cities for festive breaks and family holidays over the Christmas period. Its crisp, cold winter weather, the huge array of activities and excursions, and the magical atmosphere make it a great choice.
Although Denmark is a beautiful country to visit during the warmer summers, the twinkling lights, frosty air and Christmas markets mean the city comes alive in December, whether you'd like a romantic short break with your loved one or a getaway with the kids during the school holidays.
The travel experts at the Baltic Travel Company have compiled this guide of all the highlights not to miss during a Copenhagen Christmas break, with insights into the best things to do, see, and eat!
Festive Family Activities: Ice Skating in Copenhagen
When the winter sets in, you’ll find several ice rinks popping up in and around the city, with the Frederiksberg ice rink one of the longest-standing and most-visited during December. Set within Frederiksberg Gardens, you can pick up a luxurious hot chocolate and enjoy a stroll around the grounds to warm up.
Another great option is the Broens Skøjtebane rink, a more modern addition with a stunning view across the harbour. If you work up an appetite, there are street food stalls throughout the nearby area.
Rides and Entertainment at Tivoli Gardens and Amusements
Tivoli has to be one of the top attractions in Copenhagen, especially during the festive season. There are endless twinkling lights, vendors selling snacks, delicacies and treats, a cosy Christmas market packed with gifts, trinkets and crafts, and, of course, the rides.
The park is in central Copenhagen and is over 170 years old, having begun opening for Christmas more recently in 1994. It has a themed village with shops and thrilling rides for kids and adults of all ages, including a wooden roller coaster, the ultra-fast Vertigo, or the spooky haunted house called Villa Vendetta.
Embracing the Art of Danish Hygge
In recent years, travellers have become increasingly interested in hygge, a concept that is all about embracing the joy of Christmas, spending time with friends and family, and making the most of quiet relaxation and simple pleasures.
Jule hygge—or the feeling of warmth and love we call the festive spirit—is everywhere in Copenhagen during December, from the small cafes selling gløgg (mulled wine), æbleskiver (sweet baked apple slices) and ris a la mande (a rice pudding with berries and almonds) to the bars and restaurants welcoming chilly visitors to sit by a roaring fire.
Attending the St Lucy’s Day Parade
The 13th of December is a day of celebration in Copenhagen when boats, kayaks, and crafts of every size and colour head to the canals to participate in the St Lucy’s Day parade. This is a fantastic spectacle and a local Christmas tradition that is well worth experiencing.
Each boat is decorated with lights, ornaments and banners, and the best spot to watch is from the quay, where you can join in with carol singing at Nyhavn or watch performances at Højbro Plads and Christianshavn.
Exploring Copenhagen’s Castles and Cobblestone Streets
Copenhagen is an easily walkable city. If you don’t have a specific excursion planned, we recommend taking a stroll through the cobbled streets, lined with quirky houses painted in bright, cheerful colours, often with a dusting of snow along the rooflines.
Købmagergade, a street famous for its fashion retailers and high-end brands, is elegantly decorated with lights over the Christmas period, similar to Regent’s Street and Oxford Street in London, but with a Danish twist.
Visitors can also use the hop-on, hop-off sightseeing buses, which travel across the city. Many stop at the Carlsberg Brewery during limited opening periods, offering tours, insights into the brewery's history, which was founded in the city, and, of course, tasting sessions.
Spectacular castles and mediaeval architecture are also fascinating sights during the winter months. Many of them host Christmas markets in their squares and halls. You’ll find a market at Kronborg Castle, a series of festive plays for children at Christiansborg, and vendors selling hot mulled wine and other treats at Rosenborg Castle.
Kronborg Castle is around 45 minutes from the city centre, but the journey is time well spent – the castle is the most famous in the country and is a striking place to visit, featured in Shakespeare's Hamlet back in the 1600s.
Planning Day Trips During the Christmas Holiday in Copenhagen
Whether you’re in Denmark for a few days or a week or two, you may find yourself with a small gap in your itinerary to see some of the other unique, charming and festive attractions outside of the city limits.
Many of our high-demand packages include the opportunity to head out of the city and experience the drama and beauty of the Danish countryside during the winter.
An excellent option is the Copenhagen Christmas Markets holiday, a four-day short break where you'll visit the best markets in the country, including Tivoli market, in the theme park we've mentioned, and smaller, cosier markets like the Hans Christian Andersen Christmas market at Nytorv Square.
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About Baltic Travel Company:
We specialise in crafting unique, tailor-made travel experiences that showcase the diverse wonders of Europe and the Baltic region. With over 15 years of experience, our dedicated travel experts are committed to providing exceptional service and unparalleled expertise to ensure your Baltic adventure exceeds your expectations. From cultural city breaks to the inspiring northern lights and breathtaking natural landscapes, our carefully curated itineraries highlight the very best of the Nordic Region, Scandinavia, The Baltic Region, Poland, Slovakia and more. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or group, embark on a journey of discovery with Baltic Travel Company – your ultimate travel partner in exploring the hidden gems of the Baltics.
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