Dark, cold days call for bright lights and a warm drink. Denmark has become famous in recent years for ‘hygge’, a uniquely Danish word that roughly translates to ‘cosiness’. If you want to experience some Danish hygge for yourself, not to mention some great shopping, look no further than Copenhagen’s yearly Christmas markets. Taking place all over the city, Copenhagen’s many markets offer something for everyone – from the traditional Nordic Christmas, to trendy Danish design, and even an amusement park. That’s what makes Copenhagen a must-visit destination for locals and travellers alike over the winter period.

A city overflowing with markets

“Copenhagen is a genuine Christmas city, where it is impossible not to get in the spirit for the Christmas holiday season,” reads the Wonderful Copenhagen Christmas guide. “The best place to soak up the atmosphere is at one of Copenhagen’s many Christmas markets.”

You are never far from a Christmas market in Copenhagen. Walk along Copenhagen’s famous shopping street, Strøget, and you’ll find the Hans Christian Anderson market, Højbro Square Christmas market and, just before you reach picture-perfect Nyhavn, the Kogens Nytorv Christmas market. Here you can try Danish food and drinks, such as gløgg (mulled wine) or æbleskiver (round pancakes), shop for traditional decorations and other gifts, and even meet Santa himself.

For art and design, visit trendy Nørrebro where more than 100 Scandinavian and Danish exhibitors sell their crafts in this indoor market. On the other side of town, Christiana hosts its own quirky market full of jewellery, clothes and handicrafts. Or for a family day out, head north of Copenhagen to Esrum Abbey’s Christmas market, where you’ll find tasty Christmas treats, handmade presents from Danish artists, and fun activities for kids.

A unique Christmas experience at Tivoli

Tivoli Gardens is an amusement park located in the heart of Copenhagen, just opposite the Central Station. But Tivoli is much more than a summer attraction. Since 1994, Tivoli has opened its gates for the Christmas season, attracting more than 1 million visitors during its 2018 Christmas season alone.

Tourists and locals alike come to enjoy the park’s exciting rides, twinkling decorations and famous Christmas market. In addition to a wide variety of food and drinks, visitors can enjoy shopping for Christmas gifts, decorations and unique souvenirs created by Tivoli’s own designers. The park’s entertainment also makes for a festive experience. Guests can visit Santa’s grotto, listen to live Christmas music from the Tivoli Youth Guard Christmas ensemble, or watch the evening’s spectacular light show over the lakes.