The Nordic countries have a very special atmosphere in winter. True, the days are short and it can be very cold, but the beautifully illuminated Copenhagen and its warm atmosphere promise an enchanting visit.
After all, isn’t winter the ideal time to discover Copenhagen?
A fun discovery for all the family
Travelling to Copenhagen with the family this winter? Give your children an unforgettable experience with a guided tour specially designed for them!
Our private tours for families with children aged 6 to 12 turn the city into a real adventure playground, with amusing anecdotes, games and interactive discoveries all along the way
👉 Special mention must go to our “Discovering the Vikings“ tour: a 100% indoor experience at the National Museum of Denmark, where children can immerse themselves in the fascinating world of Scandinavian warriors through captivating stories and fun activities.
It’s the perfect way to explore history in the warmth of the coolest days!
👉 Discover all our family visits on Scandikidstours.
The land of fairy tales
Denmark was the birthplace of the famous author Hans Christian Andersen, who penned such masterpieces as The Little Mermaid, The Match Girl, The Princess and the Pea, The Ugly Duckling and many more.
It’s a fairytale atmosphere that can be found throughout the Danish capital, because when winter comes, Copenhagen is more magical than ever!
1 – Dreaming of Tivoli
It’s impossible to talk about winter in Copenhagen without mentioning the famous amusement park and its incredible decorations, which every year plunge us into a magical world worthy of the most beautiful Christmas tales.
A magnificent fireworks display is organised for Christmas, which only adds to the magic of the place!
Whether you just want to stroll through the gardens or enjoy the thrills of the various attractions, Tivoli is undoubtedly a must-see on your visit to Copenhagen, whatever the season.
The park will be open until 5 January before closing, and will reopen on 4 April 2025.
www.tivoli.dk
Vesterbrogade 3, 1630 København V
Sunday to Thursday 11am to 10pm / Friday and Saturday 11am to midnight
2 – Photographing The Little Mermaid
Now one of the city’s landmarks, The Little Mermaid is worth stopping to contemplate for a moment. It may seem a little smaller than you imagined, but what could be better than seeing for yourself?
Erected by Carl Jacobsen, son of the founder of the Carlsberg brewery, as a tribute to H.C. Andersen, this statue is a national symbol.
If your stay allows for it, we can’t recommend going to Odense, the birthplace of H.C. Andersen, where you can visit the museum dedicated to him and learn more about his story.
H.C. Andersen Haven 1, 5000 Odense C
3 – A lyrical soaring at the Opéra
What could be more magical than being transported by music? Designed by Danish architect Henning Larsen, the Copenhagen Opera House is the very symbol of Danish architectural expertise.
In 2025, it will celebrate its 20th anniversary, so the start of the year is a great opportunity to discover this impressive building, whose silhouette is reflected in Copenhagen harbour.
The interior of the building is made of high-quality materials that also contribute to the prestige of the place.
Ekvipagemestervej 10, 1438 København K
This winter’s programme : https://kglteater.dk/calendar
4 – Marvel at the fireworks
One of the most magical winter events in Copenhagen is undoubtedly New Year’s Day and the impressive number of fireworks displays across the city. Some are organised by the city itself, while others are simply fired off by local residents.
The sky lights up with colour, offering a majestic spectacle that will appeal to young and old alike.
5 – Copenhague on ice !
Winter means ice and ice rinks! Whether you’re a regular or a beginner, there are ice rinks all over the city. Most of them are kid-friendly, with penguins to support the little ones.
- Frederiksberg Runddel, 2000 Frederiksberg
Weekdays from 11am to 9pm and weekends from 10am to 9pm
- Broens Strandgade 95, 1401 København
Weekdays from 11am to 9pm and weekends from 10am to 9pm
- Enghaveparken Ejderstedgade 10, 1761 København
All week from 10am to 8pm
- Pusher Street (quartier de Christiania) 1440 Copenhagen, Denmark
Sunday to Thursday, 11am to 9pm / Friday to Sunday, 11am to 10pm
- Reffen – Refshalevej 167, 1432 København
Monday/Tuesday 3pm-9pm / Friday 3pm-10pm / Saturday 11am-10pm and Sunday 11am-9pm.
Walking around Copenhagen
The extraordinary thing about Copenhagen is that you can soak up the city’s unique atmosphere by simply strolling through the streets.
You’ll have no trouble immersing yourself in the magic of winter and the festive season: music, illuminations, the smell of delicacies – Copenhagen exudes hygge (cosyness) !
6 – Discovering Christmas markets
As tradition dictates, Christmas markets are scattered all over the city at the end of the year, giving visitors the chance to wander around the various stalls and treat themselves to some unique creations.
You can also enjoy a good gløgg (mulled red wine with spices) and æbleskiver (spherical Danish pancakes).
7 – Colourful Nyhavn
Copenhagen’s famous street, with its beautiful colourful houses, is lit up like never before during the winter months, giving you the chance to walk along the canal in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
It’s a great place to take photos, with the boats moored here and the glittering street providing an enchanting backdrop.
8 – Lights on the balconies
It’s not just Nyhavn that is decked out in lights come winter. The Danes are in the habit of hanging outdoor garlands on their balconies or in their courtyards. As well as adding charm to the neighbourhood, these lights are also perfect for illuminating dark streets.
Let yourself be carried away and stroll through different districts of the capital to admire the light show that is such an integral part of Copenhagen’s charm in winter.
Welcoming winter
One of the characteristics of the Danes is their resilience to the weather. When the winter cold comes and the night that accompanies it, it’s no problem for anyone. In Copenhagen, we know how to welcome winter and make room for the hygge moments that are so precious at this time of year.
9 – Coffee and hygge
Copenhagen is full of cafés where you can enjoy a delicious hot chocolate to warm you up after your walk in the heart of the Danish winter.
Outdoor heaters and blankets are available to help you make the most of this hygge moment even more.
10 – For those with a sweet tooth
The Danish winter is all about good food. This is your chance to discover a range of local specialities during your stay.
Simplicity, finesse and seasonal vegetables define this increasingly popular cuisine. Local beer, smørrebrød, festive meals (such as roast pork served with caramelised potatoes and red cabbage), the city’s restaurants will whet your appetite.
The Danish capital also boasts a number of Michelin-starred restaurants: https://guide.michelin.com/fi/en/article/michelin-guide-ceremony/full-list-of-michelin-star-restaurants-in-the-nordic-countries
Copenhagen in winter is a city full of magic, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Exploring the Danish capital is all the more enjoyable when you’re dressed for the occasion and unbothered by the cold and wind. Make sure you wear thermal clothing or layer up to stay warm.
Guaranteed to keep you warm during your visit!
