Copenhagen—the capital of Denmark—is a genuine Christmas city, where it is impossible not to get in the spirit for the Christmas holiday season.

The best place to soak up that wonderful Scandinavian ‘hygge’ atmosphere is at one of Copenhagen’s Christmas markets. And why not add to your experience of this friendly country—where all ages speak excellent English and public transport is simple to navigate and very easy on the pocketbook—with a short train ride out of Copenhagen to the city of Roskilde, with its UNESCO World Heritage cathedral, and where Santa arrives at the historic harbor by ship.

Freetown Christiania

Copenhagen’s oldest (and most exotic) Christmas market dates all the way back to 1851 and today is an unconventional Yuletide fair reminiscent of an Oriental bazaar. Step into the hustle and bustle and take in the scented ambience of this vibrant and very different market in the Grey Hall in Christiania and participate in a time-honored Copenhagen Christmas tradition. You’ll find more than 100 stalls with products from all over the world. (6 – 20 December 2017)

Nyhavn Harbor

During Christmas time, the picturesque old Nyhavn harbor is transformed into one of the cosiest Christmas markets in Copenhagen. Here you’ll find entertainment, delicious Christmas foods and brews, mulled wine and much more. All along the water in the old harbor, stalls are set up and decorated, offering traditional Danish Christmas specialities and gifts. (10 November – 23 December 2017)

Kongens Nytorv

Visit a marvelous Christmas market in the very heart of Copenhagen. In the historic setting of Kongens Nytorv, located between Nyhavn and Strøget, enjoy all the traditional Christmas decorations on the Hotel D’Angleterre and the Magasin department store, while shopping the charming stalls. (17 November – 22 December 2017)

Hans Christian Andersen Christmas market

The market at Nytorv Square is named after everybody’s favorite and world-renowned Danish storyteller. The stalls are all named for Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales, and the market also has a genuine old-time carousel for the kids, a Christmas caravan and of course Santa himself. (17 November – 23 December 2017)

Tivoli Gardens

Christmas in Tivoli Gardens is a dear tradition amongst Copenhageners. Santa Claus welcomes visitors to the 27 fun rides and the historic gardens of this city center amusement park are full of decorated wooden houses, snow-covered trees, reindeer, Christmas lights, and the true Nordic Christmas atmosphere. (18 November – 31 December 2017)

Roskilde: Christmas Market at Stændertorvet

A cozy market in the heart of Roskilde, with a beautiful, historical setting by the old city hall and the cathedral. You’ll find 20 cabins filled with pottery, knits, art, woodwork and crafts plus other must-have items.

Roskilde: Musicon Market

A unique market in a rising revitalized part of Roskilde where old factory workshops, office buildings and empty spaces are being transformed into a new creative neighborhood with a distinct vibe. Be sure to allow time for a visit to Ragnarock, Musicon’s innovative rock museum.

Find additional information on getting around and more at Visit Copenhagen, Visit Roskilde and Visit Denmark.
Cover photo of Tivoli Gardens by Lasse Salling