What makes Copenhagen so special during Christmas? In one word, "hygge", describes it best. But we'll get back to that. For now, all you need to know is that this is the ultimate Christmas Guide for Copenhagen in 2024 – by a local.
In this post, I’ll answer some common questions about Copenhagen in December, including what you can expect from the weather, the famous Christmas markets, and why this time of year offers something special. Let's dive in and see how you can get the most out of Copenhagen during Christmas – and that's coming from a local who spends every Christmas here.
If you're looking for an overview of all the activities, I can highly recommend The Copenhagen Christmas Guide. If you're up for a guided walk that will get you into the Christmas spirit, consider Christmas with H.C. Andersen.
Is Copenhagen Worth Visiting at Christmas?
If you’re considering a winter holiday, Copenhagen has it all—from charming Christmas markets to cozy winter traditions. This northern city comes alive every year with holiday cheer, making it one of Europe’s coziest and most beautiful places to visit during the Christmas season. The Danes really know how to celebrate, and the city is decked out with festive lights, beautiful decorations, and a warm ambiance that makes you feel right at home.
The Danish concept of “hygge”—creating a cozy, warm atmosphere—is at its peak this time of year, with plenty of indoor and outdoor activities that invite you to relax and take in the season.
Hygge, pronounced "hoo-gah," is a fundamental aspect of Danish culture that emphasizes creating a warm, cozy atmosphere and enjoying life's simple pleasures, often in the company of loved ones.
In December, you’ll find a variety of festive events, from holiday markets to ice skating rinks, and the city’s restaurants and cafes serve up traditional Danish Christmas foods like “gløgg” (a mulled wine) and “æbleskiver” (a type of Danish doughnut).
Whether it’s exploring the city’s Christmas markets, enjoying festive treats, or simply walking through Copenhagen’s beautifully decorated streets, Christmas here is worth the visit. In recent years, "gløgg" has become very popular and local bars, restaurant and cafés compete for the best. My personal favourite is Hviids Vinstue in the centre of Copenhagen – read more about Hviids Vinstue.
Does Copenhagen Have Good Christmas Markets?
Copenhagen’s Christmas markets are some of the best in Scandinavia, offering a mix of traditional Danish charm and holiday spirit. Here are a few must-visit markets that you won’t want to miss:
- Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market: Tivoli Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, complete with thousands of twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and over 50 stalls selling crafts, gifts, and festive foods. There’s also an ice-skating rink and fun rides, making it a great destination for families. You can find general info about Tivoli here.
- Nyhavn Christmas Market: This market runs along the famous Nyhavn canal, offering picturesque views and a cozy atmosphere. The stalls here sell everything from handmade crafts to holiday treats, and the colorful backdrop of the historic Nyhavn buildings adds to the charm.
- Højbro Plads Christmas Market Located in the heart of the city, this market features wooden stalls filled with Christmas decorations, gifts, and Danish treats. It’s a smaller market, but it’s incredibly charming and ideal for finding unique souvenirs and enjoying a glass of gløgg.
- Hans Christian Andersen Christmas Market Inspired by Denmark’s famous fairy-tale author, this market on Nytorv Square offers stalls decorated with fairy-tale themes, as well as traditional crafts, decorations, and foods. It’s a whimsical experience, especially if you’re a fan of Andersen’s stories.
- The Christiania Christmas Market is a distinctive and cherished event held annually in Freetown Christiania, Copenhagen's autonomous neighborhood known for its alternative lifestyle and artistic community. This market is my personal favourite because it offers a unique twist on traditional Christmas festivities, reflecting the area's bohemian spirit – read more about Christiania.
Each of these markets has its own personality, and together they make Copenhagen a prime spot for Christmas market hopping. If you're looking for an overview of all the markets and much more, I can highly recommend The Copenhagen Christmas Guide.
During Christmas, Copenhagen is filled with music, festive lights, and the delightful smell of roasted almonds and holiday spices—perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. If you're up for a guided walk that will get you into the Christmas spirit, consider Christmas with H.C. Andersen.
Will It Snow in Copenhagen at Christmas?
If you're dreaming of a white Christmas, you might be in luck—but really noone knows yet. Copenhagen’s weather in December is chilly, with temperatures typically hovering around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Snow is possible, but it’s not guaranteed. Snowfall in Copenhagen can be unpredictable, and it’s more likely to snow in January or February than in December.
Even without snow, the city has a wonderfully festive feel, with plenty of holiday lights and decorations creating that cozy winter atmosphere. If you happen to visit during a snowstorm, though, you’re in for a treat! The city becomes even more picturesque, and Tivoli Gardens, in particular, is breathtaking under a fresh blanket of snow. Just be sure to bundle up, as the wind from the nearby sea can make it feel even colder.
Is December a Good Time to Go to Copenhagen?
December is one of the best times to visit Copenhagen if you enjoy festive activities and don’t mind cooler temperatures. The whole city is dressed up for the season, with Christmas markets, seasonal food, and lights strung along streets and squares. You’ll also find a wide variety of holiday events, such as concerts and winter exhibitions at museums, so there’s plenty to see and do.
One of the highlights of December in Copenhagen is experiencing the Danish Christmas traditions firsthand. Many locals celebrate “Julefrokost,” or Christmas lunch, with family and friends, and you’ll see Danes gathered in cozy cafes and restaurants, enjoying traditional Danish holiday dishes like roast pork, pickled herring, and plenty of gløgg. Visiting Copenhagen in December gives you the chance to embrace these traditions and soak up the unique atmosphere that makes the Danish winter so special.
However, December in Copenhagen does mean shorter days and colder weather, so if you’re not a fan of chilly temperatures, make sure to pack plenty of warm clothes. The city’s hygge culture, though, makes it easy to enjoy even the darkest days—just find a cozy cafe, order a hot drink, and relax!
What Time Does It Get Dark in Copenhagen in December?
In December, Copenhagen has some of the shortest daylight hours of the year. The sun rises around 8:30 AM and sets as early as 3:30 PM, giving you just about seven hours of daylight. This early sunset can be an adjustment if you’re used to longer days, but it also makes the city feel wonderfully cozy in the evenings, with Christmas lights illuminating the streets.
The dark evenings are perfect for exploring Christmas markets and admiring the holiday decorations, and it’s a great excuse to spend more time indoors, enjoying the warmth and comfort that the Danish winter culture is known for. It also adds to the magical feel of the city’s holiday lights, as Copenhagen’s streets and markets twinkle with Christmas cheer as soon as the sun goes down.
Other Reasons to Visit Copenhagen in December
Beyond Christmas markets and holiday lights, there are plenty of other reasons to visit Copenhagen in December:
- Winter Bathing Yes, it sounds a bit crazy, but winter bathing is a popular tradition in Denmark! If you’re feeling brave, you can join locals in a winter swim, followed by a warm-up in one of the nearby saunas. I do it myself every year.
- The Nutcracker Ballet Watching the Nutcracker ballet at the Royal Danish Theatre or Tivoli Concert Hall is a cherished tradition for many, and it’s a beautiful way to experience Danish culture. It's another personal tradition of mine.
- Seasonal Foods Danish Christmas food is delicious and unique. From flæskesteg (roast pork) to risalamande (rice pudding with cherry sauce), you’ll find lots of special dishes available only during the holiday season. My personal favourite is without a doubt the flæskesteg!
- Museums and Art Exhibitions December is a great time to explore Copenhagen’s museums, as many host winter exhibitions or special holiday events. The National Museum, the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, and the Design Museum are all wonderful options to add to your itinerary.
- New Year’s Eve If you’re visiting at the end of December, stay for New Year’s Eve to see how the Danes celebrate! The city comes alive with fireworks, and the main celebration takes place at City Hall Square.
Final Thoughts on Christmas in Copenhagen
Visiting Copenhagen in December is an experience like no other. The holiday season transforms the city into a festive wonderland, with cozy cafes, charming markets, and a unique atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re strolling through Tivoli Gardens, sipping gløgg at a Christmas market, or embracing Danish traditions, Copenhagen has something special to offer every visitor during the holidays.
If you’re looking for a Christmas destination that combines rich traditions, beautiful decorations, and that unmistakable sense of Danish “hygge,” Copenhagen is the perfect choice. Pack your warmest coat, prepare to enjoy some holiday treats, and get ready to fall in love with this magical city during the most wonderful time of the year.
One of our local guides has created an overview of all the activities which consistently gets great reviews: The Copenhagen Christmas Guide. If you're up for a guided audio walk that will get you into the Christmas spirit, consider Christmas with H.C. Andersen which is brand-new and created specifically for Christmas in Copenhagen in 2024.
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