Europe is filled with wonder and adventure all throughout the year; however, during Christmas time, Europe turns into a winter wonderland and is…oh so dreamy. Germany and France typically top the Christmas market charts every year, but Copenhagen is one that tends to be overlooked.
How to get around
Upon arriving at Copenhagen airport, the easiest way to get to the city center is via train. The train system is very easy to use and a great way to get to the city center and also to the outside of the city to see more of the countryside including the wide array of castles Denmark has to offer.
Copenhagen is a very walkable city, but don’t hesitate to hop on a bike to explore the city like a local. Most of in the inner-city streets are blocked off to cars which makes strolling down the cobblestone streets while you window shop or take in the meticulous architecture of the buildings easy.
Where to stay
I stayed at the 4 star Copenhagen Admiral Hotel which was neighbored the Royal Palace and was just a few blocks from the colorful Nyhavn. The building itself was converted from an 18th century warehouse and seems to have retained the large wooden beams within the rooms in order to retain some of its historical intrigue.
Despite the many wonderful hotels Copenhagen has to offer in the city center, don’t forget to check out Airbnb if you want to live like a local. New to Airbnb? Here’s $40 off your first rental!
Christmas Markets
1. Nyhavn
Nyhavn is an absolute must. Besides walking among the most colorful buildings of Copenhagen, the street is lined with lights as far as the eye can see. All along the canal there are stalls set up filled with all sorts of different ornaments and trinkets to take home. If you get the munchies or get too cold, don’t forget to stop by one of the stalls where you can try Glogg or Danish rice porridge. These will surely warm you right up from the bitter cold.
Open from November 9th – December 23rd
2. Hans Christian Andersen Market
Take a step back into your childhood memories of the stories of “The Little Mermaid”, “The Ugly Duckling”, “The Snow Queen”, and many others while walking through the Hans Christian Andersen Market located in Nytorv Square. Each stall is named after one of his well known fairy tales, there is a majestic carousel for the kids, and of course Santa. Walking through this market will spark your imagination as you fill up on more mulled wine and hot chocolate.
Open from November 16th – December 21st
3. Freetown Christiania
Besides the Christmas market, Freetown Christiania is a unique experience in itself. The area and the market are unconventional, but provide an abundance of intrigue and sometimes even bewilderment. Along the street walls you will see a multitude of street art that brightens up the town, but gives it its character. While walking among the stalls, take in the unique handmade items, while also talking in the scented ambiance of the market.
Open from December 8th-20th
4. Kongens Nytorv
Not far from Nyhavn, wander to the Christmas stalls of Kongens Nytorv in the heart of the city where you will get the best views of the traditional Christmas decorations and lights on the Hotel D’Angleterre and the Magasin department store.
Open from November 16th – December 22nd
5. Tivoli Gardens
Perhaps the most festive and best Christmas market of them all is at Tivoli Gardens. It has remained tradition to turn these gardens into a true winter wonderland filled with rides, wooden houses, life size trains, Christmas trees of all sizes and decorations, snow filled areas, sleighs, and so much more. It is as if you have been transported to the North Pole where all your Christmas dreams come true!
Open from November 17th – December 31st
You won’t regret adding Copenhagen to your Christmas Market destination list. There’s so much for the senses and one’s imagination, but just be sure you check out the dates of the markets so you don’t miss out on anything!
Skål!
roaminholiday925059442.wordpress.com 