• December 2024

Copenhagen during Christmas is nothing short of magical. The city transforms into a winter wonderland with its twinkling lights, festive markets, cobblestone streets and cosy atmosphere.

Our long weekend was packed with unforgettable experiences, from sipping mulled wine by the canals to venturing into  neighbouring Sweden.

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Exploring Copenhagen’s Christmas Magic our adventure began with a leisurely stroll through the city’s famous Christmas markets. These markets were alive with festive cheer, selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious Danish treats.

The canals were especially enchanting, lit up with shimmering lights reflecting on the water. Sipping warm, spiced mulled wine as we took in the scene was the perfect way to immerse ourselves in the festive spirit and we did this a lot!

We walked up Strøget, Copenhagen’s main shopping street and one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets with a wealth of shops, from budget-friendly chains to some of the world’s most expensive brands.

No visit to Copenhagen is complete without seeing the iconic Little Mermaid statue. The sculpture, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, was as charming as expected.

However, what truly surprised us was the Genetically Modified Little Mermaid—a bold, modern twist on the classic. This comparison of tradition and contemporary art captured the city’s unique character.

Copenhagen’s coffee shops are a haven for anyone seeking warmth and indulgence. We sampled incredible coffee paired with decadent cakes that were as beautiful as they were delicious. Each café we visited had its own charm, from minimalist Scandinavian design to cozy, hygge-inspired nooks – I so could be Scandinavian!!

There were many highlights to our trip, one of them being a nighttime visit to Tivoli Gardens. The amusement park was aglow with millions of lights, creating a magical atmosphere. We wandered through the park, enjoyed festive treats and soaked in the holiday joy. It truly felt like stepping into a Christmas fairytale.

We couldn’t resist hopping on the train to Malmö, Sweden, for the day. The journey across the Øresund Bridge was an experience in itself and Malmö did not disappoint. We indulged in their renowned cinnamon buns, paired perfectly with Swedish coffee. The combination of crisp winter air and warm, spiced pastries was unforgettable.

Back in Copenhagen, we revisited the picturesque Nyhavn, where colourful buildings and historic boats created a postcard-perfect scene.

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Less than a kilometer from the Danish parliament lies Freetown Christiania, a unique community born in 1971 when a group of anarchists and hippies occupied an abandoned military base.

They established an independent commune with its own rules and flag, operating without a leader and making decisions collectively through consensus at communal meetings. Initially regarded as a radical “social experiment,” Christiania eventually gained legal recognition from the Danish state.

For over 50 years, the hippy neighbourhood of Christiania has served as a counter-culture haven in the heart of Copenhagen, with around 1000 residents of which include around 250 children. 

However, in recent years, it has been said organised crime and drugs have gained a foothold, leading to increased violence that unsettled the community.

Determined to take back their streets, residents decided to take action and began physically dismantling Pusher Street in a bold bid to reclaim their neighbourhood from the grip of drug dealers.  This street was known for openly selling cannabis despite the drug’s illegal status in Denmark.

It was our last day and I was intrigued to visit this place, despite having read warnings that discouraged tourists from going there.  I had also read that there was a set of rules before entering, including a strict prohibition on taking photographs.  Respecting this, I was careful in what I was taking photos off and made sure no one was in any of them. 

Walking through its “streets” provided a brief but fascinating glimpse into an alternative way of life—one that blends art, creativity, and a profound sense of freedom. It felt like stepping into a countercultural movement, rich with a distinct hippy aesthetic. However, beneath the surface, I couldn’t help but wonder if there was an underlying darkness within some parts of the village, one that I could only begin to imagine.

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Copenhagen at Christmas is a city like no other. From its festive markets and illuminated canals to its vibrant culture and cozy cafés, it offers something for everyone.

We left with full hearts, unforgettable memories and a new appreciation for Scandinavian Christmas magic.