December is the perfect time to visit Copenhagen, the vibrant capital of Denmark. Bursting with Christmas cheer, cozy cafés, and unique experiences, Copenhagen is a must-visit destination during winter. Here are some top things to do in Copenhagen in December.
Copenhagen in December
Visiting Copenhagen in December is a journey into the heart of the Christmas spirit. The city, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, welcomes you to a winter trip like no other. Every street corner seems to whisper tales of Yuletide cheer, inviting you to join the celebration. Whether you’re sipping on warm gløgg or strolling through the enchanting Christmas markets, Copenhagen in winter wraps you in a magical embrace, making every moment unforgettable. This is not just a trip; it’s a festive immersion into a wonderland of joy and merriment.
Visit the Tivoli Gardens
Experience the magical winter wonderland at the Tivoli Gardens, adorned with twinkling lights and Christmas decorations. You can also visit Christmas stalls in Tivoli and try cozy and wild rides. If you really searching for the Christmas Disney World vibe, this is one of the perfect places to visit on a cold winter’s day! Fun fact: the Tivoli Gardens was the inspiration for Disneyland!
Explore the Christmas Markets
Soak up the festive atmosphere at the various Christmas markets that pop up across Copenhagen. The Christmas market is a tradition in Denmark. Here, you can find everything from beautiful handmade crafts to delicious Danish treats. Make sure to try the traditional sweet mulled Danish wine, gløgg, and some æbleskiver (Danish pancake balls) while wandering through the markets.
Attend the Lucia procession
Witness the beautiful Saint Lucia’s Day procession on 13th December. It is a traditional Scandinavian celebration of light, with girls dressed in white dresses and candlelit wreaths on their heads. A recommendation could be Nyhavn in the evening on 13th December because you are exploring Saint Lucia on the canals of Copenhagen. Nyhavn is a beautiful spot every day and at all times of the year. You have to explore it!
Go ice-skating
It’s perfect to explore ice skating in the cold weather at one of the city’s various outdoor rinks. It’s an excellent opportunity to indulge in some physical activity while enjoying the winter scenery. Copenhagen’s most popular ice skating rinks are Broens Gadekøkken, Frederiksberg Have, and Kongens Nytorv. And don’t worry, you can rent ice skates at the rinks!
Visit the National Museum of Denmark
Take a break from the cold weather and explore Danish culture and history at the National Museum of Denmark. It’s free to enter, and you can learn about Vikings and ancient civilizations and see the famous Golden Horns of Gallehus. You can also explore Design Museum Denmark, which showcases the history of Danish design and its impact on the world.
Relax in a Danish Hygge café
Experience Danish coziness, known as Hygge, in one of the many local cafés. Sip on some hot chocolate or sweet mulled or Danish wine, and indulge in traditional Danish pastries while snuggling up with a warm blanket. It’s the perfect way to escape the cold weather and immerse yourself in the local culture. You can also explore Danish winter food and try traditional dishes like the hearty stegt flæsk or warm æblekage for dessert.
Take a canal tour
You can explore Copenhagen from a new perspective by taking a winter canal tour. Moreover, you can admire the city’s beautiful architecture while learning about its history and culture from a knowledgeable guide. You can also enjoy the festive decorations along the canals, making it an even more magical experience. You also see the famous little mermaid statue from the boat. The boat trip is not a day trip. It takes around 1 hour.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve
End your December trip to Copenhagen with a bang by celebrating New Year’s Eve in style. The city hosts various events and parties, including a spectacular fireworks display at midnight. You can also join the locals in watching the Queen’s New Year’s speech and indulging in some delicious traditional Danish meal. It’s a perfect way to end your winter trip to Copenhagen with memories that will last a lifetime.
Walk along Nyhavn
Enjoy a stroll along the picturesque Nyhavn harbor, beautifully lit with Christmas lights. You also see the Nyhavn Christmas market, and there are many restaurants, pubs, and cafes to choose from. It’s a great spot to experience the festive atmosphere and snap some Insta-worthy photos. Don’t forget to try some Danish street food like hot dogs, fish cakes, and smørrebrød (open-faced sandwich) while exploring Nyhavn.
Explore the beautiful architecture
December in Copenhagen reveals the city’s architectural beauty in a new, frosty light. Walk to the City Hall Square, where the grandeur of Danish design greets you amidst a winter backdrop. Here, the intricate details of the buildings shine under the soft, white snow. A visit to the Christiansborg Palace Tower is a must. As you gaze out from the top, the city unfolds like a historical tapestry, telling stories of the most famous Scandinavian kings. Each building and street holds centuries of history, now blanketed in December’s serene charm. The crisp air amplifies the majesty of these structures, making your architectural journey through Copenhagen an unforgettable experience.
Go sight-seeing
Exploring Copenhagen in December offers a unique blend of frosty charm and historical wonder. Start at Amalienborg, the royal residence, where changing the guards is a must-see. Just a short walk away, encounter the iconic Danish sculpture, The Little Mermaid, perched gracefully by the waterside. Despite the cold, she remains a timeless symbol of the city’s artistic heritage. Don’t miss the Round Tower, an architectural marvel offering panoramic views of the snow-dusted cityscape. For a different perspective, wrap up warm and embark on a canal cruise. Gliding through the waterways, you’ll see Copenhagen’s beauty from an enchanting angle, each turn revealing more of this winter wonderland.
Visit Christiania
For a unique experience, take a trip to the self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood of Christiania. This alternative community is known for its vibrant street art, quirky shops, and laid-back atmosphere. You can also visit their Christmas market, showcasing handmade gifts from local artists. It’s a great place to get a taste of Danish counterculture and support local businesses. Just remember to respect the community’s rules and regulations while visiting.
Tips for visiting Copenhagen in December
When you visit Copenhagen in December, prepare to step into a winter wonderland. First tip: dress warmly! Thick jackets and winter boots are essential as you explore the Copenhagen city center, sparkling under a blanket of snow. Walk the cobbled streets easily, your boots crunching softly in the frosty air. The city’s charm multiplies in winter, with cozy cafes and vibrant Christmas markets at every turn. Remember, daylight is shorter, so plan your outdoor adventures early. Embrace the chill; the city’s festive spirit makes every cold moment worth it. Experience Copenhagen’s winter magic, one snowy step at a time.
Ready to explore?
Thank you for reading! These are some of the top things you can explore in Copenhagen in December, but there are many more activities and experiences to discover. So bundle up, grab a hot beverage, and explore this charming Scandinavian city during the most beautiful time of the year! Remember to pack warm clothes, as Copenhagen’s weather can be pretty chilly during December. Happy travels! However, don’t let the cold weather stop you!
Don’t forget to check out our other blog posts about Copenhagen here!
- Escape to the best spas in Copenhagen
- Where to find the best second-hand furniture in Copenhagen
- Fall activities in Copenhagen
- Guide to the best second-hand shopping in Copenhagen
- How to spend your summer in Copenhagen
This blog post was written by our intern, Maja.
