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The Nordic Nomad

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen’s 7 best Christmas markets to spark your festive spirit

The Nordics • See & do • Copenhagen’s 7 best Christmas markets to spark your festive spirit

Your ultimate guide to festive Christmas market fun

Copenhagen transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season, with its julemarked (Christmas markets) offering a cosy and magical atmosphere. The city’s markets are a must-visit for first-time visitors looking to embrace Denmark’s Christmas traditions. Picture twinkling lights, charming wooden stalls and the irresistible scent of gløgg (mulled wine) and Danish treats filling the crisp air. From handmade crafts and local delicacies to festive entertainment like carol singing and ice skating, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts or simply soaking up the festive spirit, the Christmas markets here capture the heart of Copenhagen’s holiday magic.

What is a Danish Julemarked and what is different from other Nordic or international christmas markets?

A Danish julemarked, or Christmas market, stands out with its distinctively cosy and intimate atmosphere, capturing the essence of hygge.

While sharing similarities with other Nordic and international markets – such as traditional wooden stalls, festive lights and holiday decor – Danish markets offer unique cultural elements. Expect a range of local foods like æbleskiver (pancake puffs) and gløgg (mulled wine), alongside beautifully crafted handmade gifts. These often include wooden toys, artisan candles, knitwear such as scarves and hats and finely made ceramics. These items, crafted by local artisans, are thoughtful gifts that reflect Danish traditions, sustainable practices and a personal, handcrafted touch.

The focus on natural decor, traditional crafts, and locally sourced materials creates an understated yet charming atmosphere, where shoppers can pick up meaningful, unique presents. The simplicity and authenticity of these markets make them different from the more commercialised offerings found in larger international markets, enhancing their cosy, intimate feel.

When do the Christmas markets in Copenhagen open and how long do they run?

Copenhagen’s Christmas markets usually open around mid-November and run until just before Christmas Eve, with Tivoli Gardens staying open slightly longer, often into early January.

Most markets open daily from late morning, typically around 11:00 and close in the evening, usually between 20:00 and 22:00, depending on the market and day of the week. The extended evening hours, particularly on weekends, allows plenty of time to explore the festive stalls and enjoy the twinkling lights in the city’s cosy winter atmosphere.

How do I best plan my visit to the Copenhagen Christmas markets?

To fully explore Copenhagen’s Christmas markets, plan for at least two to three days. This allows ample time to visit the main markets like Tivoli Gardens, Nyhavn, Kongens Nytorv and the market at Højbro Plads.

To plan a visit to Copenhagen’s Christmas markets, start by checking if tickets are required – Tivoli Gardens, for example, charges an entrance fee while other markets like Nyhavn are free to enter. Allocate a half day for larger markets like Tivoli and enjoy smaller ones in the remaining time.

Weekdays and mornings are less crowded, giving you a better chance to explore stalls and attractions comfortably. Most markets and market stalls accept both cards and cash, but cards are preferred. Moving between markets is easy using public transport, with most centrally located and accessible by metro, bus or walking.

Tivoli Julemarked

During the festive season, Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen becomes a winter wonderland like no other. As you enter, you’re greeted by millions of sparkling lights and a festive landscape dotted with charming wooden stalls. Here, you can browse unique handmade gifts, decorations and indulge in Danish favourites like roasted almonds and mulled gløgg. The park’s famous rides continue to whirl, but with a holiday twist, adding even more magic to the atmosphere. The real showstopper? A glittering ice skating rink beneath the Christmas tree, surrounded by snow-dusted trees and whimsical Christmas scenes. Tivoli’s Christmas market is truly a must-visit.

Tivoli Julemarked
Vesterbrogade 3
Copenhagen
Denmark

Photography courtesy of tivoli

Julemarked Højbro Plads

Amid the festive buzz of Copenhagen, the Julemarked at Højbro Plads transforms the city into a Christmas wonderland. Stroll through rows of charming wooden cabins, each packed with unique Danish and international crafts – think handmade glass ornaments, intricate paper cut-outs and soft knitwear. Beneath twinkling lights and sparkling Christmas trees, you can sip on mulled gløgg or savour hearty German-style barbecue. The magic is complete with live reindeer and Santa’s sleigh, a delight for visitors young and old. Don’t miss the chance to meet Father Christmas himself! It’s the perfect spot to soak up a cosy holiday atmosphere and find those one-of-a-kind gifts.

Julemarked Højbro Plads
Højbro Pl
Copenhagen
Denmark

Photography courtesy of Julemarked Højbro Plads

Torvehallerne

At Torvehallerne in Copenhagen, the festive season comes alive with not one, but two distinct Christmas markets, each offering a unique experience. One market is a haven for food lovers, with gourmet stalls showcasing seasonal Danish treats, fresh produce and international delicacies. Visitors can sample festive favourites such as mulled wine, pastries and local cheeses. The second market focuses on the annual gløgg competition, where you can taste and vote on various spiced wine recipes, adding a fun and interactive twist to your visit. Together, these markets create a cosy, gastronomic experience perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the flavours of a Danish Christmas.

Torvehallerne
Fredriksborggade 21
Copenhagen
Denmark

Photography courtesy of Torvehallerne

Nord Julemarked

The Nord Julemarked in Charlottenlund, just a hop and a skip outside Copenhagen, is a truly enchanting event that will get you into the Christmas spirit. Held at Skovriderkroen, this market is known for its stunning festive décor, with illuminated reindeer, snowmen and a twinkling canopy of lights overhead. You can explore over 100 charming wooden stalls and tents selling everything from handcrafted decorations to beauty products, homewares and unique gifts for everyone, even your pets! Kids will love the activities, including pony rides, face painting and a hunt for mischievous elves. Plus, you can enjoy Danish festive treats like apple pancakes and mulled wine in cosy food corners.

Nord Julemarked
Skovridekroen, Chalottenlund
Copenhagen
Denmark

Photography courtesy of Nord Julemarked

Julemarked Værk

Step into the magic of Julemarkedet Værk, set within the enchanting gardens of Copenhagen’s Designmuseum. This Christmas market is a haven for design lovers, with over 50 of Denmark’s finest artisans showcasing their unique works. From intricate jewellery and ceramics to beautifully crafted textiles and glass art, you’re bound to find the perfect gift – or treat for yourself. Each weekend, the selection changes, so there’s always something new to discover! The atmosphere is cosy and festive, with stories behind each handcrafted piece adding a personal touch. Plus, with free entry for under-18s and museum ticket holders, it’s the perfect stop for some seasonal shopping.

Julemarked Værk
Designmuseum Danmarks have
Copenhagen
Denmark

Photography courtesy of Julemarked Værk

HC Andersen Julemarked

Step into a storybook world at the H.C. Andersen Christmas Market, held at Nytorv in Copenhagen. This enchanting market pays homage to Denmark’s beloved storyteller, with each stall named after one of Andersen’s iconic fairy tales. The market glows with thousands of twinkling lights, offering a magical atmosphere as you browse handmade gifts, festive decorations and traditional Danish treats like gløgg and Christmas sweets. Children will delight in a nostalgic carousel and the chance to meet Santa Claus, while Mrs Claus invites little ones to create their own Christmas decorations. It’s a whimsical celebration that captures the heart of Christmas.

HC Andersen Julemarked
Nytorv
Copenhagen
Denmark

Photography courtesy of HC Andersen Julemarked

Julemarked Thorvaldsens Plads

At the Thorvaldsens Plads Christmas market in Copenhagen, you’ll find a magical blend of art and festive cheer. Located next to the Thorvaldsens Museum, this market features beautifully adorned stalls selling unique gifts, handmade crafts and delicious holiday treats. The historic architecture surrounding the market adds to the enchanting atmosphere, making it a perfect stop for art lovers and holiday shoppers alike. Visitors can enjoy seasonal food, warming drinks and browse exquisite decorations while soaking in the festive lights and charming ambiance.

Julemarked Thorvaldsens Plads
Thorvaldsens Plads
Copenhagen
Denmark

Photography courtesy of Julemarked Thorvaldsens Plads