Copenhagen is a winter wonderland at Christmas, and here is why you need to visit the local Christmas markets.
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is a fantastic destination to visit any time of year, with its iconic cobblestones streets, incredible architecture and long-standing history. Still, one of the best times to visit is at Christmas time.
Copenhagen Christmas markets ensure that the city comes alive with festive traditions, and visitors can look forward to browsing wooden stalls, indulging in festive food, and soaking up the Danish culture, all while surrounded by the glitz of the Christmas lights.
There are a few options for festive markets in this bustling city, so let us unveil the top reasons to visit the Christmas markets in Copenhagen and what’s on offer.
5. A host of markets to choose from – something for everyone to enjoy
One of the most important reasons to visit the Christmas markets in Copenhagen is that there is more than just one to choose from, so you can enjoy the city whilst discovering the many markets on offer.
Among the most popular are the Christmas markets at Bakken – the world’s oldest amusement park, Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn and even Copenhagen Zoo, all of which the family are guaranteed to enjoy.
Unlike some other cities, which have one or two to choose from, Copenhagen is unique in that it offers a wide range of choices and experiences so that you can soak up the festivities of Nordic style.
4. Witness the extravagance of Tivoli Gardens – a magical experience
This action-packed theme park is incredible to visit all year round, but this place comes alive at Christmas.
As the third oldest amusement park in the world, which has been operating for 179 years, it is the most visited amusement park in Scandinavia. At Christmas, it becomes even more appealing.
As well as being covered in glimmering Christmas lights, baubles and even a giant Christmas tree on Tivoli Lake, visitors can look forward to wandering around over sixty outdoor stalls, which will serve local Danish delicacies as well as an array of gifts.
Tivoli is the place to be during Christmas in Copenhagen, so be sure not to overlook this festive spot.
3. Embrace the true Nordic Christmas spirit – festive traditions
While many Christmas markets exist around Europe, there is nothing quite like a Nordic Christmas market, which has a vibe of its own, and a true Danish Christmas is one you will never forget.
As well as having their unique Christmas traditions such as enjoying a family meal together on Christmas eve or lightening traditional Danish candles, the Danes love to make everything bright and cheerful during one of the coldest and darkest times of the year.
Attending the Christmas markets in Copenhagen will give you an insight into how Danish people love celebrating this festive time.
You will see this in the food they prepare, the entertainment they choose and the beautiful decorations they display, making it a Christmas experience to undertake.
2. Indulge in festive Danish food and wine – the food lovers’ dream
One of the main things we all love about Christmas is the amount of food on offer, and we seem to save the best food for Christmas time, so if you are foody, you will not want to miss the Christmas markets in Copenhagen.
In addition, Danes love to drink glogg; Danish mulled wine, and a host of savoury food options like crispy pork rind, cabbage, caramelized potatoes, and so much more.
Let’s not forget the sweet treats, which there are plenty of at the Christmas markets in Copenhagen, so watch out for risalamande – a typical festival dessert of Danish rice pudding. As well as this, you can find chocolate, marzipan and aebleskiver – Danish crispy pancakes are usually eaten for festive breakfast.
1. Experience Hygge at Christmas – that cosy feeling
If there is one thing you should know about Danish people, they are masters of Hygge – a term used to describe that cosy feeling you share with family and friends.
Danes love to live in the moment, and Christmas time is no exception, so of course, one of the main reasons to visit the many Christmas markets in Copenhagen is to see this for yourself.
Hygge for Danish people can mean enjoying a cup of glogg with loved ones, holding hands as they walk around the Christmas tree, singing Christmas carols or even enjoying the marvellous Christmas lights of their capital city. So experiencing Danish Hygge is fantastic, especially at this joyful time of year.
Notable mentions
Traditional Gifts: From Danish candles to tree decorations, there will be many conventional handmade Danish gifts at the Christmas markets in Copenhagen.
Meet Danish Santa: Danish Santa is known as Julemanden or Christmas Man, and he is somewhat different to Santa Claus, so perhaps you will get to meet him and his Nisse (elves).
Try Danish Snaps: As well as glogg, Danish snaps are commonly drunk around Christmas and are a traditional thing to do at the markets.
Meet locals: Danes are well known for being happy and welcoming people, and visiting the Christmas markets in Copenhagen will be a perfect time to meet locals and feel at home.
FAQs about the Christmas markets in Copenhagen
What is the best Christmas market in Copenhagen?
Christmas at Bakken and Tivoli are among two of the best Christmas Markets in Copenhagen, with plenty of festive amusement fun.
Where are the Christmas markets held in Copenhagen?
You can find them at Nyhavn, Bakken, Tivoli Gardens and Copenhagen Zoo.
What can you buy at the Copenhagen Christmas market?
You can purchase holiday gifts, festive Danish food, traditional Danish tree decorations and candles.
So, if you were wondering what was so special about Christmas in Copenhagen, now you know what makes it such a unique experience. If you plan to visit, don’t miss the many Christmas markets in Copenhagen scattered throughout the city.
