When winter arrives, Copenhagen lights up with twinkling lights, steaming treats, and pure Scandinavian hygge.
Visiting a Christmas market here is not just about shopping — it’s about feeling the season with all your senses.
🎄 Where to go
There are several magical spots around the city, but these are local favorites:
- Højbro Plads – in the heart of the old town
- Kongens Nytorv – wrapped around the skating rink
- Tivoli Gardens – a sparkling wonderland with rides and lights
- Nyhavn – small but picturesque by the canal
Each one has handmade gifts, Danish pastries, decorations, and seasonal cheer.
☕ What to expect at Copenhagen Christmas Markets
- Warm drinks (coffee, tea – or gløgg if you like!)
- Wool blankets on wooden benches
- Candles everywhere
- The scent of cinnamon, almonds, and fir trees
- Quiet music and soft laughter
It’s a winter fairytale that feels completely real.
✂️ Want to make your own keepsake?
Add something truly unique to your trip by joining a private workshop in a local home and weaving your own Danish paper hearts – just like Danes have done for generations.
Enjoy tea, coffee and sweet treats as you create a little piece of tradition to bring home.
🔗 Book the paper heart experience here
Local tip
Go in the early evening when the lights sparkle brightest. And bring gloves – you’ll want to hold your warm drink and wander slowly.
Photo credit:
© Rolands Varsbergs / VisitDenmark
Rikke V. Stoltz is the founder of Ugly Duckli, where she has spent more than 25 years sharing the Danish tradition of woven Christmas hearts, creativity and cultural heritage.
She hosts private paper heart workshops in Copenhagen, delivers keynote talks and creates products that connect Danish traditions, storytelling and meaningful experiences.
As an international keynote speaker and licensed TEDx Curator, Rikke draws on more than 30 years of international business experience. She speaks about leadership, entrepreneurship, fundraising, artificial intelligence, shipping and the green transition, always combining practical experience with inspiration and leaving audiences with fresh perspectives and ideas they can put into practice.
Alongside Ugly Duckli, Rikke also serves as a professional board member and strategic advisor through stoltz.dk.