The Danish art of ‘hygge’ is exemplified perfectly during the festive season in Copenhagen. With cosy Christmas markets popping up throughout the city, it becomes transformed by festooned lights and tempting aromas of roasted almonds. The market stalls offer a range of crafts and handmade goods, excellent for Christmas shopping. Look out for the Santa Lucia parade on 13 December- a candlelight procession of young girls dressed in white to commemorate the Christian martyr, St Lucy. While Copenhagen offers a variety of Christmas markets, below we have summarised three of our favourites.

Højbro Plads Christmas Market

Højbro Plads Christmas Market lies within one of Copenhagen’s central squares, a romantic location surrounded by elegant buildings. Despite its central location, this small-scale market offers a wonderfully intimate atmosphere. Clusters of beautifully-lit stalls inhabit the Højbro Plads, offering a great selection of quality, handmade goods. Food vendors offer fresh food, from hearty savoury food to sweet treats, hot chocolate or mulled wine.

Tivoli Gardens

Adorned with over 1000 Christmas trees and 70,000 baubles, the Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen’s theme park, transforms into a winter wonderland during the festive season. A tempting selection of treats are offered, from delicious roast pork sandwiches to sweet gingerbread and marzipan. A programme of events runs in the Glass Hall theatre and Tivoli Concert Hall offering a selection of entertainment for your visit. You must purchase a ticket to enter, and it is recommended to book online to avoid long queues- please speak to the Kirker Cconcierge before you travel, and we would be delighted to organise this for you.

Nyhavn

Nyhavn, one of Copenhagen’s most famous streets, becomes even more picturesque during winter time. Colourful restored warehouse fronts are decorated with lights, behind the anchored yachts and barges in the canal. The street is particularly well known for its convivial restaurants and bars, and during winter the atmospheric outdoor seating is equipped with fires, blankets and sheepskin rugs. Lining the cobbled street are rows of market stalls, offering souvenirs and warm glühwein.

This area can become busy- we recommend visiting on weeknights to enjoy the market at its best.