Copenhagen Christmas Market 2026: Rådhuspladsen & Tivoli

List of Markets and Events

• Højbro Square: This free market in Copenhagen’s historic city centre is the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing or shopping in Strøget. Note: Cancelled in 2026.
• Rådhuspladsen: Copenhagen Town Hall.
• Kongens Nytorv: A classic Danish market in the historic heart of Copenhagen. Stop by to see the beautiful Christmas lights and decorations at Hotel d’Angleterre and the Magasin department store.
• Tivoli Gardens: For an actual Nordic experience, there is nowhere better than the Tivoli Gardens Christmas market. Wooden stalls are decorated with lights and pine branches, creating a cosy atmosphere amidst Tivoli’s regular amusement park rides. You do have to pay the Tivoli entrance fee to visit the market, but it’s a great experience once you’re inside.
• Carols and Kayaking: The Danish Santa Lucia parade takes place on the decorated canals of Copenhagen. Watch and listen to the kayakers as they sing Christmas carols while paddling by.
• Hans Christian Andersen: This unique market is located on Nytorv Square. The stalls are named after the fairy tales of the famous Danish author. This is a fun event for children, where they can meet Santa, create ornaments, and ride a traditional carousel. More information.
• FLIDS: A hub for Scandinavian and Danish art and design. This is the place to see local exhibitions by talented local artists and the latest in Danish design. Located in Nørrebrohallen, Flids is a sustainable market that turns into a festive market for two days at the beginning of December. There is a small entrance fee.
• Grønnessegaard: Located on the Grønnessegaard Estate near Hundested, this exclusive market is held over two days at the end of November. Note that an entry fee applies.
• Ice Skating in Copenhagen – As one of the few cities with multiple ice rinks in winter, you can effectively skate your way around Copenhagen at the ice rinks at Tivoli Gardens, Frederiksberg Gardens and also one at Toftegards Square in Valby.
• Kronprinsengade – Look up to see the ceiling of lights on Copenhagen’s busiest shopping street. The Christmas lights cover the street, creating a beautiful experience.
• Sustainable shopping – The city of Copenhagen is demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability. There are many ways to minimise your impact, which include reducing consumption and making ethical choices. Copenhagen has many shops selling sustainable products when you need to make a purchase. Many of these boutique stores are in the Nørrebro or Østerbro districts. Take the time to walk around these shopping areas or hire a bike if the weather is good.

What to Expect

About the Market

As you wander the cobblestone streets of Copenhagen, you’ll be greeted by a vibrant and festive atmosphere with lights, decorated trees, and traditional market stalls.

Rows of wooden huts sell a variety of items, including handcrafted ornaments, unique gifts, delicious Danish pastries, and traditional hot mulled wine.

Travel tip: The markets and stores in Copenhagen are generally closed from the 24th to the 26th of December.

But if you happen to be visiting on these dates when places are closed, you’ll still be able to enjoy the lights and decorations throughout the city centre.

Food Specialties

The following traditional dishes are almost essential to the Danish holiday season, offering a taste of Danish culture and tradition. Many of them can be enjoyed by vegetarians with a little adaptation, and you’ll often find these at the market stalls or local eateries.

• Æbleskiver: These are small, round pancakes typically served with jam and powdered sugar, and are a traditional Danish treat.
• Risalamande: A rice pudding dessert commonly eaten at special events in Denmark, typically topped with cherry sauce.
• Flæskesteg: Traditional dish consisting of roast pork with crispy skin, typically served with red cabbage and boiled potatoes.
• Gløgg: A warm spiced wine that is a winter classic made with red wine, spices, and almonds.
• Leverpostej is a Danish liver pate often served with pickled beets and rye bread on Christmas Eve.
• Rugbrød is a hearty Danish rye bread often served with cheese, pate, or cold cuts during the holidays.
• Brunede kartofler: These caramelised potatoes are a popular side dish.
• Grønlangkål is a Danish dish of creamed kale, often served with boiled potatoes. Vegetarian options include using vegetable broth and plant-based cream.
• Risengrød: A sweet rice porridge often served as a dessert, similar to the Norwegian dish “Risgrøt”.

Personal Insights

Copenhagen stands out as one of Europe’s coolest cities, renowned for its focus on design, organic food, and boutique shopping. It’s a haven for bakery lovers (like me) and those who can’t resist an open sandwich (also me). The city’s walkability and cycling culture add to its charm, making it easy to explore.

Travel tip: Be prepared for the cost; Copenhagen is a very expensive city.

In winter, you can stay out of the cold by shopping in unique Danish design stores, where you’ll find exceptional furniture, homewares, and jewellery.

Copenhagen’s museums, such as the Designmuseum Denmark and the National Museum of Denmark, are also worth a visit.

Local cafes offer a cosy spot for hot chocolate and specialty coffee. I recommend taking a walking food tour to experience the city’s culinary delights.

Travel Information

Not only can you experience the markets in November, December and January, but it’s also a great time to experience Danish hygge.

This is a traditional Danish experience and way of life where locals (and visitors) live in the moment with their friends and family in a cosy setting.

Christmas is a perfect time for hygge, as you can appreciate the little things that bring you happiness while participating in a quintessential Danish cultural experience.

Exploring Copenhagen

If you have some free time in Copenhagen, consider exploring other districts besides the city centre. Vesterbro, Nørrebro, and Christianshavn offer a range of activities and events, each with its unique character and charm.

To explore further, consider renting a bike to ride through the streets, taking in the lights and decorations on many corners. Copenhagen’s bike-friendly infrastructure makes it easy to navigate the city. But remember to rug up before you go!

Sustainability Tips

• To shop mindfully means thinking carefully about each purchase. Market stalls are full of unique, handcrafted items that make meaningful gifts without contributing to unnecessary consumption. Look for gifts that have a story, supporting local artisans and sustainable practices.
• Copenhagen is renowned for its cycling culture and excellent public transport network, making it easy to choose eco-friendly travel options. The city’s compact size also makes walking between different markets and attractions both feasible and enjoyable.
• Staying in a sustainable hotel in Copenhagen isn’t just a responsible choice; it’s also an experience in itself. Many hotels in the city are powered by renewable energy and follow eco-friendly practices, aligning with your sustainable travel goals.
• Reducing meat and dairy consumption is another impactful way to celebrate sustainably in Copenhagen. Many stalls and local eateries offer tasty plant-based options while lowering food-based emissions.
• Finally, enrich your experience by venturing beyond the main tourist spots. Copenhagen’s vibrant arts scene, local events, and quieter neighbourhoods offer a deeper connection with the city.

If you have visited Copenhagen and would like to share your experience, leave a comment or tips for other travellers below.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.