Embrace the Copenhagen winter days
Visit Copenhagen in the colder months, and you’ll find a different kind of warmth than the one you feel from the sun — it’s the warm feelings that arise between people when the temperatures make you seek togetherness rather than shade.
So, dear visitors, consider this your warm welcome to a cool city - an invitation to uncover the truth that Copenhagen is warmest when it's cold.
Top 5 things to do in Copenhagen in winter
Winter experiences and activities
Copenhagen doesn't slow down during winter, from culinary and cultural experiences to outdoor activities and events, there's plenty for you to dive into.
In Copenhagen, we embrace the chill of winter by taking our activities outdoors.
Copenhagen is ready to entertain you. From royal history to contemporary art and design classics.
Whether you are into bistros or Michelin-starred restaurants, you will find it in Copenhagen.
We have listed attractions, services, places to stay and more right here.
Highlights
Here you'll find some of the unique highlights of Copenhagen. From delicious seasonal pastry to insider tips and local recommendations.
In February, Copenhagen is, for the seventh year in a row, filled with beautiful light installations as the Copenhagen Light Festival takes over the city.
Futuristic, unparalleled ski slope and recreational hill on top of a new resource handling centre.
Every February, the leading bakeries turn on their “fastelavnsbolle” game and serve extraordinary takes on the traditional pastry.
Whether you're a Copenhagen local or visiting, you will discover plenty of new spots in this podcast!
Explore this collection of our best winter recommendations from the Copenhagen unfolded newsletter.
Plan your winter holiday
All the practical stuff that will help you to plan the best possible trip to Copenhagen. Useful before and during your stay.
Where to stay in Copenhagen
How to get around Copenhagen
Save money with Copenhagen Card
Get answers about Copenhagen in Winter
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about visiting Copenhagen in winter.
What's the winter weather like in Copenhagen?
What's the weather like in Copenhagen?
The climate in Copenhagen follows the four seasons of the northern hemisphere, but temperatures can vary considerably during the year. February is generally the coldest with an average of 2 degrees Celcius and 35 degrees Fahrenheit. Unfortunately, snow is not something we can guarantee each winter. When it occurs, it’s typically from December until spring, but snow rarely lasts long.
Temperatures in Copenhagen
The average winter temperatures in Celcius in Copenhagen are (month: day / night):
- Dec: 3,7 / -0,5
- Jan: 1,9 / -2,0
- Feb: 2,0 / -2,4
Month: day / night (average temperatures in Fahrenheit):
- Dec: 38,7 / 31,1
- Jan: 35,4 / 28,4
- Feb: 35,6 / 27,7
What to wear in Copenhagen in winter?
There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.
In Denmark, we have a saying: "There is no bad weather, only bad clothing." This couldn’t be more true in winter. While temperatures may not look extreme on paper, the high humidity and biting westerly and northerly winds can make it feel much colder. Without the right clothing, exploring Copenhagen during winter can quickly become an uncomfortable experience.
Layers is the key
The key to staying comfortable is layering. Start with a good cotton or wool base layer that fits snugly to your body. Add a thicker, slightly looser wool sweater or fleece for insulation, and top it off with a high-quality jacket that’s both waterproof and windproof. Pair this with long underwear, a cozy beanie, and you’ll be ready to enjoy hours outdoors in the beautiful winter scenery of Copenhagen.
Why wool?
As you might have noticed, there’s a recurring theme here: wool. For generations, it has been a trusted material in the Nordic region—and for good reason. Wool naturally regulates temperature, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer, making it the perfect thermal material. Plus, a classic Nordic wool jumper isn’t just practical—it looks fantastic too. Embrace the local style and wrap yourself head to toe in wool for both comfort and charm.
What's open in the winter in Copenhagen?
Restaurants, museums and shops are all open all year round, in winter you're just more likely to bump into a local than another tourist. Outdoor experiences, like canal cruises, also operate year-round, though some operate with fewer boats in the winter season, so keep that in mind.
Tivoli is one exception. In winter, it’s usually open only for Christmas, from mid-November to the end of December, and then remains closed until reopening for Easter in April.
Looking for more information on all seasons? Visit our Copenhagen weather guide.