December is a wonderful time to visit Copenhagen, as the city comes alive with winter and Christmas magic. From sparkling lights to cozy cafés and indoor museums, there are plenty of things to see and do for all ages. Our guide will help you make the most of your visit, whether you want to explore Christmas markets, enjoy unique tours, or find free winter activities.
Looking for festive things to do in Copenhagen in December? Be sure to explore the city’s many Christmas markets, each offering its own cozy atmosphere and local specialties. Browse through beautiful ornaments, handmade gifts, and enjoy traditional glögg and æbleskiver as Christmas music fills the air.
There are several markets in the city center, including Nytorv, Højbro Plads, Gammeltorv, and Axeltorv. They are open daily until Christmas.
Want to visit a true winter wonderland this December? Stop by the always-magical Tivoli, transformed into something straight out of a fairytale. The iconic amusement park twinkles with lights and cheerful decorations, while the scent of delicious food mingles with laughter and joyful screams from the rides.
Take the kids to see Santa in his house, rent ice skates and test your skills on the ice, and enjoy all the attractions.
A trip to Tivoli is an absolute must when in Copenhagen, and if you want to skip the entrance line, you can buy your ticket with us.
Experience Christmas in Tivoli from November 14, 2025 through January 4, 2026. Please note that Tivoli is closed on December 24, 2025.
Address: Vesterbrogade 3
Getting there: Join Stromma's Hop On-Hop Off buses to stop 12
Photo credit: Tivoli Gardens
For a unique twist on what to do in Copenhagen in December, hop on board Stromma’s Christmas Jazz Cruise. Enjoy live jazz as you sail through the narrow canals of Copenhagen, where a jazz band plays their own versions of beloved holiday classics.
You’re welcome to bring something to drink, perhaps glögg or hot chocolate from a nearby Christmas market.
The Christmas Jazz Cruise lasts one hour and departs from Nyhavn 3. The boat is covered and heated, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy a cozy winter tour through the city.
In December, several ice-skating rinks pop up across Copenhagen, turning the city into a winter playground. You don’t need your own skates or a reservation, so it’s easy to join in whenever you feel like it.
One of the most popular spots is Broens Skøjtebane, beautifully set between Nyhavn and Christianshavn. Here, you can glide across the ice surrounded by twinkling lights and the scent of hot drinks and street food from nearby stalls.
Another favorite is Frederiksberg Runddel, located right by Frederiksberg Garden. Locals and visitors alike gather here to skate, laugh, and enjoy the wintry atmosphere.
If you’re up for something new, head to Refshaleøen, where Skøjteøen by Reffen offers a creative twist on the classic skating experience with waterfront views and festive surroundings.
Ice skating in Copenhagen is one of the most joyful things to do in December. Whether you’re spinning gracefully or holding onto the railing, it’s the perfect way to embrace the winter spirit and a little hygge on ice.
Photo from Broens ice-skating rink
Is there anything more delicious than a sticky cinnamon bun, a tasty Danish, or a gooey chocolate chip cookie? In the land of hygge, these mouthwatering treats rank high on the self-care scale, and that’s probably why the city has so many amazing bakeries.
It’s impossible to choose a favorite, but here’s a list of five of the absolute best and must-try bakeries in Copenhagen:
Founded by Richard Hart, former baker at the Michelin-awarded restaurant Noma, Hart Bakery is famous for its exceptional quality and off-the-charts flavor. Locals and food lovers alike come for the sourdough bread, croissants, and cardamom rolls.
At Lille Bakery, it’s more than just baked goods, it’s an experience. Being both a bakery and an eatery, you can stop by for a coffee and a roll with cheese or stay for lunch. They work closely with local farmers and mainly use Danish, locally produced ingredients.
Here you’ll find traditional baked goods like croissants and pain au chocolat, as well as Danish favorites such as tebirkes and Nutella buns. They also serve breakfast and brunch if you’re craving more than just a pastry.
Apotek means pharmacy in Danish, but here they serve a different kind of remedy for the soul. Instead of medicine, you’ll find comforting fruit tarts, waffles with compote, caramelized cinnamon buns, and sourdough rolls that make any day a little better.
This bakery loves to spoil its customers. Try a double chocolate pain au chocolat or one of their creative cross-laminated pastries combining banana caramel, cake crumble, and roasted pecans in one perfect pastry covered with maple syrup glaze. They also offer pizzas, garlic bread, cakes, and coffee.
Explore these incredible bakeries and find your very own favorite. Check the map below for their locations.
At the fascinating Museum of Illusions, nothing is as it seems. The mind-bending installations will make you question what you think you see versus what’s actually there.
Catch a glimpse of infinity, walk through an upside-down world, and see yourself shrink in the illusion rooms. Explore holograms and optical illusions that reveal how vision and perception truly work.
Address: Frederiksberggade 24.
Photo credit: Museum of Illusions
The Lapidarium of Kings (Kongernes Lapidarium), located on Slotsholmen beneath the vaulted ceilings of the old brewhouse, is home to hundreds of historic statues and sculptures. These artifacts once adorned royal gardens, palaces, and buildings across Denmark. After years of weather exposure, many pieces began to deteriorate, but instead of discarding these literal pieces of Danish history, they were preserved here.
One of the highlights is the equestrian statue of King Frederik V, which once stood in the courtyard of Amalienborg Palace. It is even said that the statue cost more than the palace itself.
Address: Christian 4.s Bryghus, Frederiksholms Kanal 29.
Getting there: Take Stromma’s Hop On-Hop Off buses to stop 1
Stroll through the Arctic, Asia, Africa, and Europe in one day at the Copenhagen Zoo. Pet the friendly goats and visit the farm animals in the kid zoo. You’ll also find a large playground, and you can either buy food and snacks or enjoy your own packed meals in the picnic area.
Watch polar bears swim in the Arctic Circle exhibit, walk through the rain forest, or sit and watch the cheeky monkeys as they tease and chase each other. Don’t miss the giant pandas — they’re both adorable and surprisingly big.
For a great view of the city, head up the Zoo Tower. Please note that a separate ticket is required, available in the zoo shop near the entrance.
Address: Roskildevej 32.
Getting there: Join Stromma’s Hop On-Hop Off buses to stop 23
Photo credit: Copenhagen Zoo
Hviids Vinstue has been part of Copenhagen for more than 300 years and has always been a gathering place for locals, regulars, and artists alike. The bar has survived events such as the great fires of 1728 and 1795, the English bombardment in 1801, and the occupation during World War II. If only walls could talk.
Glögg is a Danish tradition that dates back many years, and at Hviids, they have been serving their famous mulled wine since 1945. The recipe has remained unchanged for decades and is so popular that they even bottle it. If you fall in love with it or simply want to show off your Copenhagen visit to friends and family, you can take a bottle home.
Address: Kongens Nytorv 19
Winter in Copenhagen doesn’t have to be expensive. If you're looking for free things to do in Copenhagen in December, there are plenty of exciting activities that won’t cost you a thing.
top by The David Collection, a fascinating museum featuring Islamic art, European art from the 17th to 19th centuries, and Danish early modern art. The collection includes Dutch and French paintings, chinoiserie, and European furniture. Islamic art is the largest section and covers the classical Islamic world with calligraphy, ceramics, textiles, and jewelry.
Address: Kronprinsessegade 30-32
Please note: They are closed on Mondays
Originally an anchor forge, this building was converted into a church in 1619 by King Christian IV. As the area’s population grew, the church was expanded between 1641 and 1646, giving it its characteristic cross shape.
Admire the ornate altarpiece, the unique silver collection, and the baptismal font. The church also contains memorials to historical figures such as Admiral Niels Juel and Tordenskiold, though these parts are not accessible to visitors.
Address: Holmens Kanal 21
Climb the tower of Christiansborg Palace and enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the city. The tower is 106 meters tall, and the viewing platform, 44 meters above ground, offers a perfect view of the rooftops. Can you spot Tivoli, the Marble Church, and the Round Tower? On a clear day, you can even see the Øresund Strait separating Denmark from Sweden.
Address: Christiansborg Slotsplads
Please note: The tower is closed on Mondays
Many of these sights are within walking distance of each other, making them ideal for a budget-friendly winter day. If you’re looking for even more free experiences, check out our guide on Free Things to Do in Copenhagen.
There’s no clear answer, as the weather in December is quite unpredictable. If you’re visiting for a few days, you can expect a mix of sun, wind, rain, and possibly hail or snow. Temperatures are low, so pack warm clothes. The cold wind makes gloves and a hat essential, and don’t forget waterproof shoes or boots. Snow or not, Copenhagen in December always feels like winter magic.
Below, you’ll find a map highlighting the nine best things to do and see in Copenhagen this December. Put on your most comfortable shoes, dress warmly for the winter weather, and explore these wonderful spots around the city.
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