Copenhagen during Christmas is a picture-perfect scene of twinkling lights, cozy markets, and festive traditions that make the city uniquely charming. The Danish capital comes alive with holiday spirit, from the glow of Tivoli Gardens to the aromatic scent of æbleskiver baking in street stalls. We love Tivoli Gardens Christmas Season Entry Ticket for its enchanting rides and stunning light displays, and Copenhagen: Christmas Walking Tour with Treats and Drinks for a deep dive into Danish Christmas traditions. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly outing, a romantic stroll, or an active adventure on a bike, Copenhagen offers a variety of experiences that truly highlight the holiday magic.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a selection of the best Christmas tours and experiences in Copenhagen, from the classic to the quirky. Expect festive markets, scenic tours, cultural performances, and even holograms — all designed to make your holiday visit memorable. Each tour stands out for its special focus, whether it’s the fairy-tale atmosphere at Tivoli or the local charm of Christmas markets. Ready to explore? Let’s get started.
1. Tivoli Gardens Christmas Season Entry Ticket
At number 1 we have the Tivoli Gardens Christmas Season Entry Ticket, a staple for anyone wanting to experience Copenhagen’s most iconic festive attraction. For just one day, you’ll step into a winter wonderland filled with over 1,000 spruce trees decorated with lights, and enjoy the thrill of Tivoli’s famed rides under a canopy of holiday lights. This ticket grants access to the park’s enchanting Christmas market stalls, where you can pick up handcrafted gifts and enjoy Danish holiday classics like honey cakes and æbleskiver—delicious small pancakes dusted with powdered sugar.
Tivoli’s highlight during Christmas is its spectacular light displays and live performances. Shows in the Concert Hall and Glass Hall add a magical touch, making it perfect for families, couples, or anyone who loves festive spectacle. This experience is simple but effective, offering a full day immersed in holiday cheer. The reviews praise its atmosphere and lighting effects, with a 4.6/5 rating from over 400 reviews. The main consideration? It’s a full-day activity that’s best suited for visitors who enjoy rides and lively markets.
Bottom line: If you want a quintessential Danish Christmas experience with festive rides and sparkling lights, Tivoli is hard to beat.
2. Copenhagen: Christmas Walking Tour with Treats and Drinks
Next on our list is a 3-hour guided Christmas walking tour that takes you through Copenhagen’s historic streets while sharing Danish holiday traditions. This tour offers a chance to learn about Christmas customs, dance around a tree, and sample local treats. Your guide, a passionate local, will take you to some of the city’s most charming spots, including hidden markets and cozy squares. The highlight? Tasting traditional Danish Christmas goodies like gløgg (mulled wine), baked apples, and pastries.
This tour is also interactive—participants get to play a Christmas game that makes the experience lively and fun. The reviews are glowing, with a 4.8/5 rating from 35 reviews, emphasizing the guide’s warmth and knowledge. It’s an intimate way to dive into Danish holiday culture, perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a deeper cultural understanding.
At just $76 per person, it offers excellent value considering the personalized experience. The only potential downside is that it’s a walking tour, so some mobility is needed, especially in winter weather.
Bottom line: For a taste of Danish Christmas traditions with local insights, this tour offers warmth, treats, and cultural charm.
3. Christmas Magic in Copenhagen – Walking Tour
Coming in at number 3 is the Christmas Magic in Copenhagen walking tour, a short but highly-rated experience that showcases the city’s Christmas spirit in just 2 hours. With a perfect 5.0/5 from 3 reviews, this tour stands out for its curated route through the most inspiring and festive spots in Copenhagen.
The tour includes stops at Tivoli Gardens, which hosts a beloved Christmas event with dozens of lights and decorations, as well as Hoejbro Plads, known for its bustling Christmas market selling Danish delicacies. You’ll also visit Stork Fountain for holiday performances and watch local artisans selling traditional crafts. Finally, you’ll experience the Kongens Nytorv skating rink, where locals glide across the ice amidst the city’s historic buildings.
This experience emphasizes vibrant street scenes and local culinary delights, offering a more intimate and visual immersion into Copenhagen’s holiday atmosphere. Its short duration makes it ideal for travelers pressed for time but eager to see the highlights.
Bottom line: For a quick, high-impact introduction to Copenhagen’s Christmas charm, this walking tour is a perfect choice.
4. Copenhagen: Christmas Bike Tour with a local Guide
Number 4 is the Copenhagen Christmas Bike Tour, a lively way to explore the city’s festive spots on two wheels. For around $60, you’ll cycle through beautifully lit streets and past major landmarks like Tivoli, Christiansborg Palace, and Amalienborg Palace. The guided tour lasts about 3 hours, offering an active, eco-friendly way to experience Copenhagen’s holiday ambiance.
What makes this tour special is the chance to see the city at a slow pace while soaking in the Christmas lights and street decorations. Cycling through the most bike-friendly city in the world means you can visit several markets and neighborhoods comfortably. The guide will share insights about local traditions, and you’ll stop at key sights like Højbro Plads and Magstræde for short visits.
There are mixed reviews, but generally positive, praising the tour’s relaxed pace and the chance to see Copenhagen’s festive lighting and markets up close. It’s suitable for active travelers, families with kids over 10, or anyone who prefers exploring on two wheels.
Bottom line: If you enjoy cycling and want an authentic feel of Copenhagen’s Christmas streets, this bike tour will deliver.
5. Copenhagen: Christmas Hologram Show at HologramZoo
For something truly unique, the Christmas Hologram Show at HologramZoo offers a futuristic twist on holiday entertainment. In just 45 minutes, you’ll witness holographic animals, snowfalls, and holiday scenes brought vividly to life. Kids and adults alike will be captivated by this immersive experience, which uses cutting-edge technology to animate festive creatures and landscapes.
This show is family-friendly, with children aged 3 and up able to enjoy the spectacle, and kids under 4 get in free. It’s a quick, engaging activity that fits well into an afternoon or evening plan, especially if you’re looking for something different from traditional markets. The hologram effects are designed to delight and surprise, making it a memorable highlight.
While there are no reviews listed here, the novelty of holographic technology makes this a must-see for tech lovers and families seeking an innovative holiday experience.
Bottom line: For a high-tech holiday adventure that’s both fun and visually stunning, this hologram show will impress everyone.
6. Copenhagen Christmas Market Tour
The Copenhagen Christmas Market Tour offers a classic holiday experience, combining visits to several markets in just 1.5 hours. This tour is perfect for those who want an overview of the city’s festive lights, local food, and crafts. It’s especially good if you’re short on time but want to taste the essence of Danish Christmas.
Highlights include exploring the H.C. Andersen-inspired Christmas market, sampling traditional Danish Christmas beers, and enjoying heartwarming carols performed in historic settings. The tour offers a delightful mix of sights, smells, and sounds that define Copenhagen’s holiday atmosphere.
Rated at 4.6/5 from numerous reviews, visitors appreciate the friendly guides and the chance to try authentic treats. This experience is best suited for food lovers and those wanting a relaxed, social activity during the busy holiday season.
Bottom line: For a festive, food-focused introduction to Copenhagen’s Christmas markets, this tour is a tasty and joyful option.
7. Copenhagen: Private Christmas Boat Tour
Finally, the Private Christmas Boat Tour offers a luxurious way to see Copenhagen’s canals decked out for the holidays. During this 2-hour cruise, up to six people can relax with Moet Champagne, seasonal tapas, mulled wine, and chocolates, all enveloped in cozy Danish hygge.
This tour provides an intimate perspective of the city, with views of the illuminated buildings and bridges from the water. The private setting makes it perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a quiet, romantic experience. The tour includes a charcuterie-style tapas box and drinks, making it both a sightseeing and a culinary treat.
Though no reviews are listed, the exclusivity and comfort of this cruise make it appealing for lovers of luxury and privacy. Book early, as slots are limited.
Bottom line: For a memorable, romantic holiday experience on Copenhagen’s waterways, this private boat tour is hard to beat.
How to Choose Your Perfect Christmas Tour in Copenhagen
When deciding among these festive experiences, consider your interests and travel style. Want the classic holiday sights and rides? Tivoli’s entry ticket is ideal. Looking for culture? The Christmas walking tour offers local traditions and treats. For an active option, the bike tour combines sightseeing with exercise. Families might love the hologram show, while those seeking a romantic or luxurious experience should consider the private boat tour.
Budget-wise, the walking and market tours tend to be more affordable, while the private boat experience offers exclusivity at a higher price point. Check availability and book early—especially for popular activities like Tivoli and the private boat—to ensure your preferred time slots.
Final Thoughts
Copenhagen offers a wonderful array of Christmas experiences, whether you’re after the fairy-tale feel of Tivoli, a cultural deep-dive into Danish traditions, or a scenic cruise through lit-up canals. The city’s Christmas markets are charming, and its streets buzz with festive cheer, making it a perfect winter getaway.
For families, the hologram show and Tivoli are top picks. Couples seeking romance might prefer the private boat or bike tours, while cultural enthusiasts will enjoy the walking and market explorations. No matter your choice, booking early will help you enjoy Copenhagen’s holiday magic without stress. Get ready to make memories amid the lights, flavors, and traditions of one of Europe’s most charming Christmas destinations.