8 Things To Do In Copenhagen During Christmas 2024
Spending Christmas in Copenhagen is a brilliant decision. The city comes alive with festive spirit in December, as locals and visitors alike embrace the cozy Danish concept of hygge to ward off the winter chill.
Experience stunning Christmas decorations at Hotel D’Angleterre & Magasin Du Nord
Make sure to visit Kongens Nytorv, one of the most vibrant areas during the dark days of winter, where you’ll find stunning Christmas decorations at Hotel D’Angleterre and Magasin Du Nord. This is also home to one of the city’s largest Christmas markets, offering a truly magical experience.
Visit Tivoli in her lovely Christmas dress
Tivoli Gardens, adorned in its Christmas finery, is another must-see. Snow is not guaranteed every year, but that doesn’t dampen the festive mood. Tivoli transforms beautifully with seasonal decorations and a cozy Christmas market, where wooden huts and real fireplaces enhance the warm, intimate atmosphere.
Take a stroll in beautiful Nyhavn and experience its atmosphere
A stroll through Nyhavn during the holiday season is a treat, with Christmas carols filling the air and market stalls offering steaming cups of Gløgg, the Danish version of mulled wine. In fact, Copenhagen hosts an annual competition to crown the best Gløgg, with the latest winner being Søren Ewald Possum from Ewalds Brasserie in Frederiksberg. His organic Gløgg, a blend of red wine, port, schnapps, rum, and spices, is a must-try.
Taste the best Danish version of Glühwein – Gløgg
In fact, Copenhagen hosts an annual competition to crown the best Gløgg, with the latest winner being Søren Ewald Possum from Ewalds Brasserie in Frederiksberg. His organic Gløgg, a blend of red wine, port, schnapps, rum, and spices, is a must-try.
Taste & Experience Danish Christmas With A Knowing Native
For a deeper dive into Danish Christmas traditions, join our pop-up Christmas tour, where a knowledgeable native will guide you through the festive season’s history and customs. You’ll experience the ancient Yuletide traditions dating back to Viking times, feast like the Vikings, and perhaps even participate in a traditional Danish Christmas game.
Warm up in a sauna with a breathtaking view
A visit to CopenHot, just a short bus ride from the city center, is perfect for warming up in winter. Enjoy a sauna with breathtaking views of Copenhagen’s skyline, or take a plunge into the canal before settling into a cozy spa experience like a true Viking.
Get goosebumps at Christmas concerts in a classic church
Christmas concerts in Copenhagen are not to be missed. Book your tickets early for popular events like Handel’s Messiahat Holmens Kirke or the classical concerts at Trinitatis Church. These performances are a magical way to enjoy the holiday season, especially when held in historic churches.
Indulge in a Danish Christmas lunch
No Christmas in Copenhagen is complete without indulging in a traditional Danish Christmas lunch. Similar to a Swedish smorgasbord, these festive meals feature a variety of warm dishes, beers, and Danish aquavit. For an authentic experience, we recommend booking a table at Restaurant Kronborg, Restaurant Koefoed, or Restaurant Palægade.
Go ice skating at Broens Gadekøkken
Finally, head to Broens Gadekøkken for a festive ice-skating experience. The rink offers stunning views of the harbor, and with delicious Christmas treats available nearby, it’s the perfect spot to embrace the holiday spirit. Although some traditional ice rinks have been replaced with roller rinks due to the energy crisis, the rink at Copenhagen ZOO, surrounded by magical Christmas lights, still offers a charming winter experience.