Craving twinkling lights, steaming mugs of mulled wine or cider, and that special Christmas market magic? Then add the Copenhagen Christmas Markets to your travel list! Copenhagen is full of cozy vibes, delicious treats, and plenty of holiday cheer. With multiple markets, a buzzing arts and culture scene, and fantastic dining, Copenhagen has plenty to offer at Christmas time.

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Rapid-Fire FAQ'S about the Copenhagen Christmas Markets

How many markets does Copenhagen have? Copenhagen feels like one long string of Christmas markets with a few others here and there. Copenhagen has six main markets: Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market, Royal Danish Academy Christmas Market, Hans Christian Andersen Market, Julemarked Kongens Nytorv, Nyhavn Christmas Market, and Højbro Plads Christmas Market
Should I use card or cash? Mostly card! (Read more about this later in the blog.)
What are the hours of the Christmas Markets? Copenhagen's market hours vary slightly, but most are open daily from around 10:00 am to 8:00 pm. Some extend their hours on weekends.
Can you walk from one Christmas Market to the next? Yes! It's easy and highly encouraged.
Do I need to eat before I come? No! Christmas markets are basically a food crawl.
What should I wear? Typically, a sweater, pants, a good jacket, a scarf, gloves, and comfy shoes will do just fine. There are very few places to sit, so you'll be on your feet a lot.

Navigating the Language in Copenhagen

Denmark's national language is Danish. We found that most people we met at hotels, popular attractions, and markets spoke excellent English. If you run into a language barrier, you can quickly fix it with Google Translate. While you definitely don’t need to know Danish to enjoy Copenhagen, here are a few helpful words to know while exploring during Christmas:

Hej - pronounced Hi - means hello - just like in English!
Tak - pronounced Tahk - means thanks/thank you

Copenhagen Christmas Market Locations

Copenhagen Christmas Market Locations

Copenhagen has several Christmas markets spread across the city, but most are close together and within walking distance of one another. Here are a few of our favorites:

Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market: This iconic amusement park transforms into a winter wonderland. Think twinkling lights, dazzling rides, and Christmas cheer galore. Be sure to try the famous Gløgg (mulled wine) and indulge in some sweet treats. This market is the only market in Copenhagen that charges admission, but once you get there, you’ll see why - it’s a theme park! You can buy additional tickets to enjoy rides and attractions once you arrive if you wish.
Kongens Nytorv Christmas Market: This elegant market boasts a beautiful setting in the heart of Copenhagen. Here you'll find high-quality Danish design alongside classic Christmas treats.
Nyhavn Christmas Market: Experience the magic of Christmas along the colorful Nyhavn harbor. This picturesque market offers stunning views, delicious food, and a unique atmosphere.

The typical Højbro Plads Christmas Market has been canceled this year.* Find official info on that here.

Copenhagen Christmas Market Opening Dates & Times

The Copenhagen Christmas Markets will be open from November 6 – January 4, 2027. The markets have different opening dates, so be sure to check each one before you head out. Visiting during the week was quite crowded, but we thankfully didn’t encounter the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds often found on the weekend. Check the Copenhagen tourism site here for more up-to-date information on the multiple market dates.

If you can, visit on a weekday as they are less crowded. Still, the Friday-night weekend energy felt more energetic than on a Thursday. Shorter lines for goulash and mulled wine during the weekdays, though! And though the weather is often frigid, embrace the Hygge: Hygge (pronounced hue-guh) is the Danish concept of cozy contentment. Wrap yourself in a warm blanket, sip some Gløgg, and soak up the festive atmosphere. The core belief is that there is no bad weather, just bad clothes. So bundle up and enjoy the chill!

Markets & Money in Copenhagen

Like most of Scandinavia, Denmark plays its own game and uses different money. You'll need Danish Krone when you visit Copenhagen! If you're wondering whether to bring cash or a card to the Christmas markets, the answer is mostly card. Because of the different currency, you'll almost always need a card at most booths. Occasionally, it's good to have smaller bills for smaller purchases for $10 of less than $10.

Copenhagen doesn't do Christmas Market "deposits"

While most European Christmas markets tend to do "deposits" for the non-disposable mugs and plates, you won't find that in Copenhagen. Unfortunately, all of the hot drinks are served in paper cups, so there are no market deposits to deal with...nor cute mugs to take home. Food is also served on disposable dishes with disposable cutlery.

How much should I budget for food and drinks?

It's best to assume about $20 (USD) per meal per person for markets in Denmark. Hot drinks typically cost between $8-$12. Dishes such as a sandwich cost around $14. Hot dogs or simpler dishes cost between $7-10, depending on the type. Sweet treats and desserts, on average, range between $4 and $12. Though it’s one of the priciest markets we’ve been to, the food was absolutely amazing!

If you're looking to buy a more expensive and pricier souvenir, you'll be glad to have your card on hand. Always ask the vendor before ordering or buying anything which payment method they take. We found most vendors spoke some English, but if there is a communication barrier, you can easily ask about payment by holding up your credit card and asking, "Do you take card?" They will quickly answer with either hand gestures or a verbal yes or no.

Foods & Drinks to Try in Copenhagen

Copenhagen's Christmas markets are a food lover's dream. From traditional Danish treats to international goodies, there's always something delicious to try. Remember, the best way to experience Copenhagen's Christmas markets is to wander around, explore the different stalls, and indulge in whatever catches your eye.

Must-Try Danish Food & Drinks:

Æbleskiver: These fluffy pancake balls are typically served with jam and powdered sugar.
Risengrød: A comforting rice pudding often topped with cinnamon and butter.
Gløgg: A warm and spiced mulled wine perfect for chilly winter nights.
Pebernødder: Small, spicy cookies made with ginger, cloves, and nutmeg.
Honningkager: Gingerbread cookies, often decorated with icing and colorful sprinkles.
Rød pølse: A hearty and satisfying hot dog snack, often served with mustard and bread.

Must-Do's While You're in Copenhagen

Explore the Canals: Take a canal tour and see Copenhagen from a different perspective. It's a magical way to experience the city's charm and historic architecture.
Visit Nyhavn: Stroll along the colorful Nyhavn harbor, one of Copenhagen's most iconic landmarks. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, cozy cafes, and beautiful boats. While you’re there, pop into the Nyhavn Christmas market!
Experience Tivoli Gardens: Even if you're not a thrill-seeker, Tivoli Gardens is a must-visit during the Christmas season. With its enchanting lights, festive decorations, and charming rides, it's a winter wonderland.
Indulge in Danish Pastries: Denmark is famous for its delectable pastries. Don't miss the chance to try a warm cinnamon roll or a traditional Danish pastry at a local bakery.
Shop 'til You Drop: Copenhagen is a shopper's paradise. From high-end fashion to unique souvenirs, you'll find it all in the city's stylish shops and boutiques.

How to Get Around Copenhagen

Stay in or near the city center and walk! Walking is always the best way to see the city. If you'd like to go a little further, the metro runs all around town and costs about $3 per single ride. The metro runs frequently and can take you to all of the major sites in town.

Going a little further into town and need a ride? We easily used Uber to get where we needed to go. Copenhagen's main train station is easy to access and goes to many other major stations in many other cities. Close to Sweden, Norway, and Germany, Copenhagen is the perfect launching pad for more European adventures.

2026 Copenhagen Christmas Markets Guide