Copenhagen transforms into a winter wonderland each December, bringing the holiday spirit to life with magical Christmas markets scattered throughout the city. Each one has its own unique charm, from cozy wooden chalets brimming with crafts to stalls serving traditional Danish treats. Here's a guide to the must-visit Christmas markets in Copenhagen for the holiday season!
1. Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market
Location: Tivoli Gardens
Dates: 13 November to 3 January
Highlights: Enchanting decorations, Christmas lights, family-friendly rides
A visit to Tivoli Gardens is essential any time of year, but it becomes truly special during the holidays. The gardens transform into a Christmas paradise filled with thousands of twinkling lights, snow-dusted decorations, and beautifully decorated Christmas trees. The market itself offers handcrafted goods, unique ornaments, and cozy food stalls where you can enjoy æbleskiver (Danish pancake puffs) and gløgg (a warm, spiced wine).
For families, Tivoli’s rides provide hours of entertainment. The fairytale atmosphere, combined with traditional Nordic Christmas charm, makes this the top pick for anyone visiting Copenhagen during the holidays.
2. Nytorv & Gammeltorv Julemarked
Location: Nytorv Square
Dates: 6 November to 21 December 2026
Highlights: Ice skating rink, family-friendly, classic Danish snacks
This market is especially popular with families, as children can enjoy fun activities, meet Santa, and browse fairy-tale themed stalls. It’s also a great spot to grab Danish Christmas goodies like frikadeller (meatballs) and risalamande (a traditional Danish rice pudding with cherry sauce). This market is perfect for visitors who want a taste of Danish folklore alongside their holiday treats. You can also find a free ice skating rink here!
3. Højbro Plads Christmas Market
Location: Højbro Plads Square
Dates: 14 November to 20 December 2026
Highlights: Danish street food, handcrafted gifts, fairy-tale setting
For those looking for a traditional market experience, Højbro Plads Christmas Market is the perfect choice. This charming market is nestled near the picturesque Amagertorv Square and offers a cozy and festive atmosphere with small wooden stalls selling high-quality crafts, ornaments, and delicious Danish treats. With an emphasis on traditional craftsmanship, this market offers beautifully carved decorations, jewelry, and cozy woolen goods that make for unique gifts.
4. Copenhagen Winter Wonderland
Location: Kongens Nytorv
Dates: 13 November to 30 December 2026
Highlights: Big ice-skating rink on the square, Danish street food
Copenhagen Winter Wonderland Christmas Market transforms the city into a magical winter destination, filled with festive decorations, twinkling lights and a cosy Christmas atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy traditional Danish Christmas treats, warm gløgg, delicious street food and charming stalls offering seasonal gifts, or take to the ice on the market’s impressive large ice-skating rink. It’s the perfect place to soak up the Christmas spirit and experience the magic of Copenhagen during the holiday season!
5. Rådhuspladsen Christmas Market
Location: Rådhuspladsen
Dates: 6 November to 21 December 2026
Highlights: Central location in front of the city hall
The Christmas market at Rådhuspladsen brings festive magic to the heart of Copenhagen, with charming wooden stalls and sparkling Christmas lights. Visitors can browse traditional Danish Christmas decorations, handmade gifts and seasonal treats. Warm up with a glass of gløgg and enjoy the cosy atmosphere of a Scandinavian Christmas in the city centre!
6. Nyhavn Christmas Market
Location: Nyhavn Harbor
Dates: early November to late December
Highlights: Iconic location by the water, Danish street food, live music
Nyhavn, with its iconic, brightly-colored buildings lining the canal, is one of Copenhagen's most photographed spots, and it becomes even more magical during the Christmas season. Nyhavn’s market is smaller than others, but the waterfront views and lively atmosphere more than make up for it. This is the perfect spot for a relaxed stroll along the canal, stopping to sip on hot drinks while you take in the sights.
7. Christiania Christmas Market
Location: The Free Town of Christiania, in the Grey Hall
Dates: 8-20 December, every day from 12:00-20:00
Highlights: Unique, alternative market, bohemian atmosphere, artisan crafts
For a truly unique Copenhagen Christmas experience, head to the Christiania Christmas Market, held in the city’s iconic alternative neighborhood. This market is perfect for those who want a break from the traditional offerings and are looking for something more eclectic and handcrafted.
Inside the cozy Gray Hall, you’ll find a variety of artisanal goods from independent creators. From hand-painted ceramics to one-of-a-kind jewelry and artwork, this market offers gifts with a personal touch. The festive decorations are DIY, giving the entire market an authentic and down-to-earth atmosphere.
Christiania’s community vibe, combined with live music and an impressive array of vegan and vegetarian food options, makes this market a great choice for anyone looking for something different.
Tips for Visiting Copenhagen’s Christmas Markets
Bundle Up: Copenhagen can get chilly in November and December, so wear warm layers and comfortable shoes.
Sample Local Treats: Don’t miss out on Danish Christmas favorites like gløgg and æbleskiver.
Plan Your Route: Some markets are close enough to visit in one day, but it’s best to take your time and savor the experience.
Enjoy Hygge Moments: The Danish concept of hygge, coziness and warmth, is at its peak during Christmas. Embrace it by sipping hot drinks, staying warm by the fire pits, and soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Copenhagen’s Christmas markets bring a touch of magic to the holiday season, each offering unique charms, from traditional crafts and foods to waterfront views and fairy-tale atmospheres. Whether you're after handmade gifts, delicious treats, or simply a cozy spot to enjoy the festive spirit, these markets have something for everyone. So, grab a cup of gløgg, embrace the hygge, and get ready to experience the best of Copenhagen’s holiday cheer.