With 7 main Christmas markets in the city center, Copenhagen becomes a magical winter wonderland come November. After visiting the city several times, I finally had the chance to spend four days in the city during peak Christmas market season, and I can’t recommend it enough for a cheerful holiday getaway. From evenings at Tivoli Gardens to strolling the Nyhavn Canals at night, there is a lot to enjoy here that combines both city exploring and the Christmas Markets.
With fewer crowds, charming streets, and so much to do, it’s such a cozy atmosphere and the perfect way to experience Danish hygge. And you’ll find Christmas markets throughout Copenhagen, with delicious food, stalls selling crafts and design-forward goods, ice skating, and so much more festive goodness.
From the classic Christmas market at Copenhagen’s much-loved Tivoli Gardens to the free markets around central Copenhagen and more, I’ve put together my personally tested guide to Copenhagen’s Christmas markets in 2026. If you’re wondering which Christmas markets to visit, this can help you plan visiting markets during your trip to Copenhagen.
Short on Time? Here’s My Quick Guide to the 2026 Copenhagen Christmas Markets:
Quick Facts for 2026
- Market Dates:
- H.C. Andersen at Nytorv and Gammeltorv: November 6–December 21, 2026
- Tivoli: November 13, 2026–January 3, 2027
- Højbro Plads: November 14–December 20, 2026
- RAW Marked: November 28, 2026, 11 am to 5 pm
- Other market dates are still to be confirmed.
- Christmas Eve: Tivoli is closed on December 24.
- Cost: Central street markets are free to enter. Tivoli adult admission costs 210–230 DKK (rides are extra).
- Best Time to Go: The first two weeks of December (for fewer crowds, weekday evenings at opening is best)
- Getting Around: All markets are within a 10- 15-minute walk of each other
- After Christmas: Most street markets close by December 21, but Tivoli’s Christmas market is open through January 3, 2027.
Copenhagen Christmas Markets at a Glance
- Tivoli Gardens, for the best overall market (paid entry)
- Rådhuspladsen (New for 2026), for the best new market
- H.C. Andersen at Nytorv and Gammeltorv, for the best free market
- Nyhavn, for the best photos
- Christiania at Den Grå Hal, for the best handmade gifts
- Kongens Nytorv, best for ice skating
- Højbro Plads Market (New for 2026), for the best new family-friendly market
Travel Tip: Højbro Plads Market Update for 2026 — The original Højbro Plads Market was canceled for the location and moved to the new Rådhuspladsen market at City Hall, and a new market from the Copenhagen Visitor Center is taking its place at Højbro Plads.
Where to Stay
I recommend staying in Indre By, which is 10-15 minute walk to the main markets.
- Hotels: Hotel Sanders ($$$), Nobis Hotel Copenhagen ($$), Hotel Petra ($$)
- Airbnbs: 2 Bedroom Charming Apartment with Huge Terrace, 2 Bedroom Luxury Townhouse, 2 Bedroom Chic Apartment
Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip
For everything you need for visiting Copenhagen, don’t miss my Copenhagen itinerary and guides to where to stay, the best things to do, restaurants, and coffee shops in Copenhagen!
The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Copenhagen Christmas Markets
Where to Stay for Copenhagen Christmas Markets
My suggestion is to stay within a 10- to 15-minute walk of the markets, which would be right in the heart of Indre By. My guide to where to stay in Copenhagen breaks down areas and hotels in more detail, but my top picks for the city are:
Hotels
- Hotel Sanders ($$$), for a chic Scandinavian design hotel (my #1 pick!)
- Nobis Hotel Copenhagen ($$), for a hotel where historic touches meet modern design
- Hotel Petra ($$), for sleek Danish minimalism on a budget
Airbnbs
- 2 Bedroom Charming Apartment with Huge Terrace, for the best spacious stay
- 2 Bedroom Luxury Townhouse, for the best designed stay
- 2 Bedroom Chic Apartment, for the best walkable stay
The Best Christmas Markets in Copenhagen
Each of Copenhagen’s Christmas markets brings something a little different, and I’ve loved exploring between them. They’re perfect for a festive, magical atmosphere, trying delicious food, and are naturally a great spot to pick up some souvenirs. Tivoli is Copenhagen’s most complete Christmas experience, but the best market depends on whether you want atmosphere, photos, shopping, or free entry.
Best Overall: Christmas in Tivoli Gardens
Christmas in Tivoli Gardens is truly magical, with twinkly lights and an undeniable festive atmosphere. Tivoli Gardens, as the third-oldest amusement park in the world, is always worth a visit. But over the Christmas season, it absolutely transforms into something so magical. A true winter wonderland!
Tivoli is my absolute favorite Christmas market in Copenhagen. I’d say it’s the best one if you’re looking for that iconic Christmas market atmosphere. The stalls are decorated beautifully and so festive, and there’s an ice skating rink, a carousel, permanent restaurants, and plenty of rides.
- Location: Tivoli Christmas Market is in Tivoli Gardens in central Copenhagen.
- 2026 Opening Dates: The market is open between November 13, 2026, and January 3, 2027. The Tivoli Christmas Market is closed on December 24, 2026.
- Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 11 AM to 10 PM, and Friday to Saturday from 11 AM to 12 AM. Be sure to always double-check current hours in advance of your visit.
- Time Needed: I’d recommend giving yourself around 3 hours to explore Tivoli, and more if you want to go on the rides, watch a light show, or have another bigger activity in mind.
- Entry and Ride Costs: For adults, the Entrance Pass costs between 210-230 DKK and the combined Entrance and Ride Pass is 409-449 DKK. Prices vary slightly depending on which day you visit, with prices increasing over the weekends and closer to Christmas. I’d recommend double-checking for your exact dates.
Is Tivoli’s Entry Fee Worth It?
The cost is the main drawback of Tivoli, since the entry fee doesn’t include rides (unless you buy the combination Entrance and Ride Pass). Plus, you’ll also spend money on food and souvenirs. That being said, I’d say the entry fee for Tivoli is absolutely worth it since it’s such an iconic experience, as long as it doesn’t feel like too much of a stretch.
Especially if you’re visiting with kids and interested in the rides, it can really be worth it. If you’ll only be visiting the stalls, I’d say it’s only worth it if you’re really looking for that evening Christmas market atmosphere and are curious to visit the iconic Tivoli.
Best New Market: Rådhuspladsen Christmas Market (Copenhagen Town Hall)
In 2026, Copenhagen will host a new Christmas market at Rådhuspladsen, or the City Hall Square. With Christmas decorations and gifts on offer at stalls, cozy food and drink, and a festive atmosphere, this market is expected to be a good one. It’s a short 5-minute walk from Tivoli Gardens, making it a perfect add-on before or after Tivoli.
- Location: At Rådhuspladsen, Copenhagen’s City Hall Square
- 2026 Opening Dates: Opening dates are yet to be confirmed, but are expected to be between December 11 and December 20, 2026
- Opening Hours: Opening hours for the Christmas market at Rådhuspladsen are yet to be confirmed.
- Time Needed: This is a new market in a large square, and I’d estimate around two hours would be enough to wander through the stalls.
Best Free Market: H.C. Andersen Christmas Market at Nytorv and Gammeltorv
The Hans Christian Andersen Christmas Market is all fairy-tale themed, based on the namesake stories from Hans Christian Andersen. Think decorations, twinkling lights, and there’s even an actor playing Hans Christian Andersen. This charming market is family-oriented and is actually situated within the Nytorv and Gammeltorv Christmas Market, in Nytorv Square.
- Location: Nytorv Square in Copenhagen’s historic center (a 5-minute walk from Gammel Strand metro station).
- 2026 Opening Dates: The market is open between November 6 and December 21, 2026.
- Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday from 11 AM to 7 PM, Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 9 PM, and Sunday from 12 PM to 7 PM. Be sure to always double-check current hours in advance of your visit.
- Time Needed: This small market can be easily explored in an hour or even less, although you could spend more, especially if you’re with kids who want to visit Santa Claus or ride the carousel.
Best for Photos: Nyhavn Christmas Market
Nyhavn is Copenhagen’s most scenic Christmas market. Along the canals and with the backdrop of Copenhagen’s colorful buildings, it’s truly picturesque. Walk along the cobblestone streets, have a mug of gløgg, and pick up a few Christmas ornaments or some cozy new mittens.
I’d recommend crossing the bridge to get a view of the market from the other side of the river, too. This small market is quite exposed to the wind, so be sure to bring warm layers if you visit.
- Location: Along the Nyhavn canal (a short walk from the Kongens Nytorv metro station).
- 2026 Opening Dates: Opening dates are yet to be confirmed, but the market usually runs from mid-November to late December.
- Opening Hours: Opening hours for the Christmas market at Nyhavn are yet to be confirmed.
- Time Needed: This is a small Christmas market. I’d give yourself around an hour to walk down the canal and stop for a warm drink.
Best for Ice Skating: Copenhagen Winter Wonderland at Kongens Nytorv
The main reason to visit Kongens Nytorv isn’t the market, but mostly the ice skating. A huge ice skating rink is the feature here, with incredible views of Hotel d’Angleterre, Charlottenborg Palace, and the Royal Theatre. You’ll find a small Christmas market on one side with food stalls, but don’t expect a traditional market experience. Instead, expect a cozy, festive atmosphere that’s perfect for ice skating.
- Location: In Kongens Nytorv Square, in the middle of the city (right by Kongens Nytorv metro station).
- 2026 Opening Dates: While opening dates haven’t been confirmed, the ice rink is usually open from mid-November to early January.
- Opening Hours: Hours have yet to be confirmed. You can book your skating experience in advance for busier times.
- Time Needed: Ice skating sessions typically run for a little less than an hour. I’d recommend an hour to an hour and a half to accommodate getting set up and stopping for a warm drink.
Best for Handmade Gifts: Christiania Christmas Market at Den Grå Hal
The Christiania Christmas Market at Den Grå Hal fits the spirit of Christiania with an eclectic, lively atmosphere. This huge indoor market includes stalls with some of the best handmade goods and fun live music. This is in a distinct community in Copenhagen with its own etiquette that’s important to respect. For example, don’t take pictures of people and don’t bring strollers directly into the market.
It’s also best to bring cash, as not all stalls accept card payments. Note that there isn’t parking in Christiania, but you can easily take the metro or a bus.
- Location: At Den Grå Hal in Christiania, a 15-minute walk from the Christianshavn metro station.
- 2026 Opening Dates: Dates for 2026 have not yet been confirmed, but the market usually runs from around December 6 to December 20, 2026.
- Opening Hours: The market is typically open from 12 PM to 8 PM, and closes early on December 20, 2026.
- Time Needed: I’d recommend between one and two hours to explore the different stalls, listen to music, and sample some delicious festive treats.
Best New Market for Families: Højbro Plads Market
With the original Højbro Plads Market supplier moving to Radhuspladsen, a new market is opening, created by the Copenhagen Visitor Center at Højbro Plads. So yes, there will still be something there to enjoy! This new market is all geared towards children primarily, and some adult things as well, with stalls selling drinks and snacks. There will be everything from entertainment to activities, with music. One of the big things they’re talking about having is market stalls amidst “magical talking trees.” These magical trees will talk about the Christmas tale of Julius Klejne and are meant to be an active sensory experience for little kids, which just sounds so much fun.
- Location: Højbro Plads
- 2026 Opening Dates: November 14–December 20, 2026
- Opening Hours:
- Monday–Wednesday: 11 am to 7 pm
- Thursday: 11 am to 8 pm
- Friday–Saturday: 11 am to 9 pm
- Sunday: Noon to 7 pm
- Time Needed: 1 hour
Smaller Craft and Neighborhood Markets Worth Planning Around
Copenhagen’s Christmas markets are incredible for the atmosphere, delicious food, and overall festive experience. But if you’re really looking for some locally made gifts, I’d say the small design-focused markets beat the central stalls. While you can arguably get something special at any of the markets, these stalls attract more local artisans. I’d recommend them if you’re looking to do some Christmas shopping or simply pick up some souvenirs from your trip.
- RAW Marked — This local market in Nørrebrohallen features over 80 artisans, with jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and many more crafts. This popular market is run by a non-profit and has free entry, and is a great one to stop by.
- FLID and VÄRK Design Markets — These two popular markets are also typically held in Nørrebrohallen. These are highly curated, so you can expect exceptional Copenhagen-made ceramics, jewelry, and textiles. FLID focuses more on up-and-coming and independent craftspeople, and VÄRK has a more prestigious and professional reputation.
- BaneGaarden, Frederiksberg, and Værnedamsvej — These areas in Copenhagen have pop-ups and one-weekend events. If you’re traveling to Copenhagen and love crafts, I’d definitely recommend seeing if a little local Christmas market is happening while you’re in town.
A Self-Guided Afternoon Christmas Market Walking Route
Looking to spend the afternoon and evening exploring Copenhagen’s Christmas markets? My ideal recommendation and most efficient route starts at Tivoli or Rådhuspladsen and wanders through Copenhagen’s many markets. This walking route will give you a good sense of the city’s Christmas markets and is also just a wonderful way to explore the city. It ends at Nyhavn under the lights by early evening.
- 2 pm: Start with a walk along Strøget street to Nyhavn Christmas market, about a 15-minute walk away. I’d say Nyhavn, along Copenhagen’s colorful canal, is the most picture-perfect market.
- 3 pm: If with kids, I’d pass by the new family-friendly market at Højbro Plads.
- 3:30 pm: Head over to Nytorv and Gammeltorv markets, about a 10-20 minute walk.
- 4:30 pm: Pass through Rådhuspladsen and explore the Christmas markets in the center of Copenhagen.
- 5:30 pm: End the night at Tivoli. Spend a couple of hours wandering through the stalls, or give yourself longer to go on some of the rides. It’s especially magical in the evening when the lights are twinkling; it’s a gorgeous spot to end the day.
What to Eat and Drink at the Copenhagen Christmas Markets
Danish food, especially in the winter, is all about coziness and comfort. It’s one of the things that makes the Christmas season experience so magical in Copenhagen! There’s simply nothing like warming up from wandering around the Christmas markets with a cup of gløgg. My essential order is a hot chocolate with æbleskiver. Together, they’ll likely cost between 120-200 DKK, depending on the market. A couple more popular options are roasted almonds or a flæskestegssandwich (crispy pork sandwich) for something more savory.
- Æbleskiver, these little spheres are very reminiscent of pancakes and are often dusted with powdered sugar or served with jam
- Flæskesteg, this Danish-style pork dish is tender and delicious, and is served with crackling (crispy pork skin)
- Gløgg, a Christmas tradition, gløgg is a warm and cozy alcoholic drink made with mulled wine, spices, and sometimes extra spirits
- Julebryg (Christmas Beer), Julebryg translates to Christmas beer and is a seasonal dark and rich beer often served over the Christmas season
- Warm Spiced Apple Cider, you’ll see classic apple cider at many of the markets, heated up with spices until it’s rich and flavorful. It’s perfect for a chilly day!
- Flæskestegssandwich, a traditional Danish sandwich with roast pork with crispy crackling, red cabbage, and pickles on a bun
- Brændte mandler, these are roasted and candied almonds that you’ll spot at many of the Christmas markets
- Julefrokost, this one isn’t a dish, but a meal. Julefrokost is a Christmas lunch with multiple courses served at a leisurely pace. Despite being called a lunch, it typically lasts for hours into the evening. The focus is connecting with friends and coworkers throughout the season.
- Rugbrød, a traditional Danish rye bread that’s dense and hearty. Rugbrød is eaten year-round, but you’ll see it at many winter meals in Denmark.
- Pebernødder, these traditional Danish Christmas cookies are crispy and spiced with cinnamon, white pepper, and other spices
- Risalamande, this Danish dessert is traditionally served on Christmas Eve. It’s a cozy rice pudding with whipped cream, cherry sauce, and chopped almonds
What to Expect for the Copenhagen Christmas Markets
How Much Do Copenhagen’s Christmas Markets Cost?
The central street markets in Copenhagen are free to enter and wander through. It’s only Tivoli that charges admission, with rides priced separately from the entry fee.
If you’ll just be exploring the city’s free markets, you can expect to spend around 100–200 DKK per person for drinks and some food, plus more if you purchase anything from the markets. Souvenir and craft prices can vary widely, from 100 DKK for ornaments and smaller items to much more for high-quality crafts and textiles. If you’re looking to keep costs low, I’d suggest just going to the free markets, where you won’t have to pay entry fees.
If you’re looking to visit Tivoli, you’ll want to add an extra 210-230 DKK for the entry fee alone, plus additional costs for food and any souvenirs. Or, around 409-449 DKK for a pass with rides included, depending on the day you visit.
A family of four could expect to spend around 1500 DKK to visit Tivoli, go ice skating, and buy some food and souvenirs. Or around 3000 DKK, including rides at Tivoli. Of course, the actual price depends on when you visit, how much you purchase, and whether you’ll be going on rides at Tivoli.
The Best Time to Visit The Copenhagen Christmas Markets
The best time to visit Copenhagen to experience the Christmas markets is in the first two weeks of December. This gives the best odds of every major market being open. Visiting in late November can also be a good option, especially as there can be fewer crowds than December. But it comes with trade-offs, like rainy weather and not all markets being open.
I’d also recommend visiting on weekday evenings over December weekends, which can get especially crowded. Keep in mind that the sun sets early this time of the year (often around 3:45 pm). The late afternoons and evenings are the busiest time, but can also have the best atmosphere. If you want to avoid crowds as much as possible, visiting the markets when they first open or at midday is your best option.
Visiting Before or After Christmas
Most street markets close by December 21, so travelers arriving after that should plan around Tivoli’s Christmas market (open until January 3, 2027), ice skating, Christmas lights, and the overall atmosphere. It’s key to know that you shouldn’t expect a huge shopping experience where you can visit all of Copenhagen’s Christmas markets, as many will be closed at that point.
Practical Tips for Visiting the Markets
Copenhagen’s Christmas markets are easy to reach without a car, with metro stations nearby and many within walking distance of each other. With transportation, weather, and more, I’ve included my top logistics tips for visiting the markets below.
- Cards, Cash, and MobilePay — At Copenhagen’s main Christmas markets, you can almost always pay by card. If you’re visiting the market in Christiania or any of the smaller, local markets, I’d recommend bringing some cash as well.
- Metro and Walking — Copenhagen’s Christmas markets are easy to reach by metro, with many of them only a short walk away from a station. Many of the Christmas markets are also walking distance, so you can plan a route walking between them (more in my self-guided walking route above!).
- Weather, Wind, and What to Wear — Weather can range from rain to wind to snow, and it’s best to bundle up if you’re visiting the markets. Check the weather for the day, and if you’re uncertain, bring layers. A thermal layer, cozy fleece, and waterproof jacket can help, along with waterproof boots with grip and warm socks for walking along cobblestone streets.
- Accessibility, Strollers, and Restrooms — Some markets have flat pathways that allow for wheelchairs or strollers. But this can be trickier at crowded times. Every market is different, and it’s best to check the specific one you’ll be visiting, as many have cobblestones. You can find restrooms in the city center for a fee, as well. For accessibility and amenities, the best option is Tivoli, which provides wheelchair access in main areas and free restrooms upon entry.
How Copenhagen Compares to Germany’s Christmas Markets
Copenhagen’s markets are smaller and more dispersed than Germany’s Christmas markets. In Copenhagen, the draw isn’t huge markets everywhere. Instead, it’s more about design-forward gifts, visiting the iconic Tivoli during the Christmas season, and the cozy hygge atmosphere that Denmark is so known for.
Copenhagen is an incredible destination itself, and the markets are simply a perk of visiting over the Christmas season, compared to Germany, which offers the larger traditional Christmas market experience.
Beyond the Markets: Christmas in Copenhagen
The markets are only part of what there is to see in Copenhagen in December. There’s also the beautiful Lucia kayak procession on December 13, where kayaks parade down the canals lit with lights and decorated with ornaments.
The department store lights and displays are also incredible to see, such as at Illum and Magasin du Nord. Another spot is the stunning facade of the Hotel d’Angleterre, which is definitely worth a visit. There’s also ice skating, and simply exploring the city and taking in the festive atmosphere.
Another option is taking a day trip to Odense, the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen. Odense’s Old Town becomes truly magical over the Christmas season, with cozy markets and an incredible atmosphere with lights and decorations everywhere. The train from Copenhagen is about an hour and a half, making it an easy day trip.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Copenhagen Christmas Markets
When do the Copenhagen Christmas markets open in 2026?
The first markets that open in 2026 are the Nytorv & Gammeltorv Christmas Market on November 6th, and Tivoli’s Christmas Market opens on November 13th. Opening dates are still to be confirmed for the Nyhavn and Christiania Christmas markets.
Are Copenhagen Christmas markets free to enter?
Copenhagen’s street markets are free to enter. Only Tivoli Gardens charges admission.
Are the Christmas markets open after Christmas?
Note that most Christmas markets in Copenhagen close by December 21, 2026, but Tivoli runs until January 3, 2027.
Which is the best Christmas market in Copenhagen?
It all depends on what you’re looking for. I’d say the best overall is Tivoli, and the best free market is the Nytorv and Gammeltorv Market. The best for photos is Nyhavn (especially at blue hour right after sunset), and Christiania at Den Grå Hal is the best for gifts.
Is there a Christmas market at Højbro Plads in 2026?
The original Højbro Plads Market supplier is moving to the new Radhuspladsen market, but the Copenhagen Visitor Center is opening a new market in 2026 at Højbro Plads. So yes, there will still be something there to enjoy!
Is the Tivoli Christmas market worth the admission price?
I’d say it’s worth it if you want to experience the iconic Tivoli at Christmas, spend time exploring, and go on the rides. If you’re just looking to shop for souvenirs, it might be better to visit the city’s free markets.
Do Copenhagen Christmas markets take credit cards?
I can say, from first-hand experience the most Christmas market stalls take credit cards. The exception is smaller markets and Christiania. If you can, it’s always best to bring cash just in case.
Can you walk between the Copenhagen Christmas markets?
It’s easy to walk between most of Copenhagen’s Christmas markets. For example, Tivoli is around a 15-minute walk to the Nytorv Christmas Market, which is around another 15-20 minutes from the market at Nyhavn. It’s a simple walking route along Copenhagen’s charming Strøget street.
What should you eat at a Copenhagen Christmas market?
The most popular things to try are gløgg (mulled wine) and æbleskiver. A mug of gløgg can cost between 60-100 DKK, and æbleskiver can cost between 50-90 DKK, depending on the market.
Are Copenhagen’s Christmas markets better than Germany’s?
Christmas markets in Copenhagen are best for a cozy, seasonal atmosphere and design-forward gifts, while Germany has the more traditional and much larger Christmas market experience. Both are great experiences; it just depends on what you’re looking for.
Save This Post for Later on Pinterest
PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!
These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you. If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here.
1. Book Your Accommodations
I use Booking.com for hotels and Airbnb for vacation rentals. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.
2. Book Your Rental Car
Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
3. Book Your Tours & Experiences
I use Viator, Airbnb, and Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check all three as their inventory varies depending on the destination.
4. Book Your Private Transfers
For easy, reliable private transfers, I use Welcome Pickups. It’s my go-to for arranging a driver in advance — whether it’s an airport pickup, a hotel-to-hotel transfer, or a day trip. The experience is seamless, with English-speaking drivers and upfront pricing, so you can travel stress-free at every stage of your trip.
5. Get Cell Data for Your Trip
I use Holafly for international cell data. Their unlimited data eSIMs are easy to install, activate instantly on arrival, and let you skip local SIM cards and expensive roaming fees.
6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, or cancellations).
My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:
- World Nomads (best for all-around)
- Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)
Xx,
Jessica
