3 Day Copenhagen & Malmo Christmas Market Itinerary
Feeling the holiday spirit creep in and craving that special Christmas market magic? Then pack your cozy sweaters and get ready to explore the twinkling wonderlands of Copenhagen and Malmo with us! This three-day itinerary is designed for laid-back travelers like us, who want to maximize festive fun while keeping things relaxed and budget-friendly.
Day 1: Getting into Copenhagen
To kick things off in Copenhagen, Denmark, dive headfirst into the Christmas spirit by a day of Christmas market meandering. Remember, Scandinavians swear “there’s no bad weather, only bad clothes.” So be sure to bundle up and enjoy whatever the weather brings! This time of year is more known for crisp air or light rains, so be prepared for anything.
After settling into your cozy Copenhagen hotel, kick off the day with a visit to the iconic Tivoli Gardens. This magical winter wonderland is a must-see, with its enchanting lights, festive decorations, and fun rides. Don't miss the chance to try the Gløgg (mulled wine) and indulge in some delicious Æbleskiver (fluffy pancake balls).
Tivoli Gardens is the only Copenhagen market with an entrance fee, but the festive atmosphere and rides make it worth it. You can purchase your tickets day of at the ticket counter or in advance here. Just grab additional tickets for the rides if you're feeling adventurous. For lunch, grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls within Tivoli Gardens.
After exploring Tivoli, head to the Nyhavn Christmas Market. This picturesque canal-side market offers stunning views, cozy cafes, and unique souvenirs. In the evening, for a truly deep dive into Danish dining experience, go to Torvehallerne KBH for dinner. This vibrant food market offers a variety of fresh, local produce, artisanal cheeses, and delicious ready-to-eat meals.
Day 2: Copenhagen Christmas Market Crawl
Start the day at one of Denmark’s unbeatable cafes. There’s too many to mention here! You’re sure to find a stellar one close to your central hotel.
Start the morning off with a visit to Christiansborg Palace at about 10 a.m. This destination is home to the seat of the Danish Parliament, Supreme Court, and Prime Minister's office. While the general palace is free to visit, you can buy tickets to visit particular grand rooms such as the royal kitchen, royal stables and the ruins underneath the palace. The entire place is elaborately decorated with royal regalia.
Just down the road from the Christiansborg Palace, you can start your Christmas market crawl for the day! With several markets scattered along the famous Strøget pedestrian street, walking is the best way to experience them.
Here are a few markets to make sure to visit in an easy order: Højbro Plads Christmas Market, Hans Christian Andersen Christmas Market, Christmas market at Holmen, Kongens Nytorv Christmas Market, and back to the Nyhavn Christmas Market if you wish.
While you’re at the markets, eat your way around the markets instead of making lunch plans! For tips on what food and drinks to try, check out our Copenhagen Christmas Markets Guide.
After you’ve reached the Nyhavn canal, take a 15-20 minute leisurely walk to find the iconic Little Mermaid statue. Get all of the selfies and photo ops you’d like here! After that, walk over to Kastellet, a truly unique island with a fortress, moats, and a museum. The most unique feature is that the island park is shaped like a star. What’s even better? Admission is free!
If you’re tired from all the walking by the end of the day, take a relaxing canal cruise and admire Copenhagen's beautiful architecture from a different perspective. It's a magical way to see the city lit up for the holidays.
For a fancy dinner, head to Geranium. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience with stunning views of the city. If you're looking for something more casual, Noma is a great option for a delicious and innovative meal.
2025 Christmas Market Packing List
Unsure of what to pack? We’ve created the ultimate list to help you stay warm, cozy, and festive all season long.
Get the list here!
Day 3: Malmo Day Trip
Ready for a change of scenery? It’s time to hop on a quick 30-minute train to Malmo, Sweden, for a taste of the Swedish Christmas experience. The Malmo Christmas Market is small and offers a more intimate atmosphere, but the city is worth a visit while you’re in the area. Stroll through the charming stalls, indulge in Swedish treats, and soak up the festive atmosphere!
In contrast to Copenhagen's many busy markets, Malmo offers a small and casual market. Perfect for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere, this market boasts about a dozen charming stalls with handcrafted goods and traditional Swedish treats like gingerbread and hot cider. For more on what to expect at the market, check out our Malmo Christmas Market Guide. You’ll only need a max of 30-45 minutes to visit the market.
While the Christmas market is a quick visit, Malmo itself is worth exploring. Stroll the charming streets, soak up the history, and maybe even snag a delicious pastry at a local cafe. For lunch, check out Restaurang Bastard, a popular restaurant known for its modern Nordic cuisine. After exploring the market and grabbing a bite to eat, take some time to explore Malmo's historic center. Visit the Malmöhus Castle then wander through the city's picturesque streets all lit up for the holidays.
After a chill day exploring the country next door, take the 30-minute train back to Copenhagen and have a cozy dinner at Restaurant Sankt Anna. This restaurant offers a delicious menu of traditional Danish dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients.