Are you planning to celebrate Christmas or New Year’s Eve in the enchanting city of Copenhagen? Each year, we receive a flurry of inquiries about the holiday season here, so it’s time to share our ultimate guide to enjoying the festivities in this vibrant metropolis.
The winter months can feel long, but they are filled with rich traditions, especially around Christmas and New Year’s Eve. In this blog post, we will lead you to the best dining spots and local delights that make the holiday season in Copenhagen truly magical.
Christmas Lunch
Gathering with friends and family for a traditional Christmas lunch is a cherished local custom in Copenhagen. This feast typically revolves around ‘smørrebrød,’ or open-faced sandwiches, where an array of toppings lets you create your own culinary masterpiece. Pair your meal with a refreshing beer or a shot of snaps—a flavorful, locally produced spirit. Don’t be surprised if the table next to you breaks into spirited snaps songs; it’s all part of the festive experience.
Make sure to book ahead—locals reserve their spots well in advance!
Café Gammeltorv – The Traditional
For an authentic Christmas lunch reminiscent of home-cooked meals, head to Café Gammeltorv in the heart of the city. The menu features classic holiday fare, including pickled herring, pork roast, and rice pudding. While the menu is only available in Danish online, trust us when we say that you won’t leave hungry or disappointed.
Restaurant Lumskebugten – The Modern
Located near the iconic Little Mermaid, Restaurant Lumskebugten beautifully marries traditional flavors with contemporary twists. Their Christmas offerings showcase local, seasonal produce in both traditional and modern formats.
Restaurant Selma – The Innovative
For those craving a fresh take on ‘smørrebrød,’ Restaurant Selma is a must-visit. As the first smørrebrød restaurant to earn a Bib Gourmand in the Michelin guide, their bold flavors and inventive combinations exhibit both creativity and respect for tradition. Their Christmas menu features exciting reinterpretations of classic dishes like pickled herring, smoked salmon, and duck.
Traditional
Christmas Eve holds a special place in Danish hearts, celebrated with a feasting frenzy and the joy of gift-giving. As families gather around the table, singing carols and dancing hand-in-hand around the Christmas tree, the atmosphere is nothing short of magical. The traditional meal typically features roast duck or pork roast accompanied by gravy, boiled red cabbage, and two varieties of boiled potatoes—one plain and the other caramelized. Dessert consists of rice pudding with almonds and warm cherry sauce, where finding the hidden almond brings good fortune—often symbolized by a delightful marzipan pig.
Christmas Eve
If you intend to experience Christmas Eve among locals, securing a reservation is crucial, as options dwindle quickly. Visitors often find that Copenhagen turns into a quiet haven on this evening, with most places closed aside from a handful of takeout spots. Here are our top recommendations for celebrating Christmas Eve in the city.
Mrs. Nimb – The Traditional
Adjacent to Tivoli Gardens, the exquisite Nimb Hotel offers a traditional Danish Christmas feast at their restaurant Fru Nimb, complete with custom wine pairings and festive surprises. It’s a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in local holiday traditions.
Kokkedal Castle – The Gourmet
For a truly enchanting experience, consider celebrating Christmas Eve at Kokkedal Castle, just a short train ride from Copenhagen. Surrounded by lush forests and scenic views of the sea, this castle offers an indulgent gourmet Christmas dinner that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
Absalon CPH – The Social
If you’re seeking a more communal atmosphere, join the festive gathering at Absalon, a community house in Vesterbro. Here, you’ll connect with locals over a shared meal, vibrant conversation, and a unique perspective on Danish holiday celebrations.
New Year’s Eve
If you find yourself in Denmark as the calendar turns, here’s a brief insight into our New Year’s customs. At 6 PM, we tune in for the Queen’s New Year speech. While it may not come with English subtitles, it sets the stage for later celebrations. As the clock strikes midnight, we leap onto our chairs for a jump into the New Year—a tradition believed to bring luck. Champagne flows and we indulge in ‘Kransekage,’ a delightful marzipan cake. Many restaurants in Copenhagen present special New Year’s Eve menus, and here are some of our favorites, now open for reservations.
Restaurant Pluto – Family-Style Dinner
For a relaxed atmosphere, look no further than Restaurant Pluto, a popular choice for locals. Enjoy a delightful ten-course family-style dinner, perfect for bidding farewell to the old year while relishing incredible cuisine. And yes, their cocktail selection is fantastic!
Restaurant Kokkeriet – Join Local Traditions
At Michelin-starred Kokkeriet, guests are treated to a nine-course tasting menu and an opportunity to celebrate the New Year alongside the staff, who share in the champagne toast well past midnight.
Hotel D’Angleterre – A Night of Luxury
For an unforgettable experience, the historic Hotel D’Angleterre invites you to a lavish New Year’s celebration featuring nine exquisite courses paired with fine wines. From the central location at Kongens Nytorv, you’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of Copenhagen’s midnight fireworks.
‘Merry Christmas and Happy New Year’
In Danish, we say “Glædelig Jul og Godt Nytår” to share our holiday cheer. If you spend Christmas here, it’s a delightful opportunity to pick up some local phrases. We’ll continue updating this blog post to ensure you enjoy the best of Copenhagen during the holiday season. For more insights on local traditions and sweet treats, don’t miss our previous Copenhagen Christmas Guide, filled with information on markets, food souvenirs, and delightful holiday confections.
