Experience Copenhagen in winter

Ice swimming

Winter in Denmark is not all about hygge per se but also about challenging your inner adventurer to that extra winter thrill! Jumping into a lake full of ice cold water is a long held tradition in Denmark. It is the perfect ritual in between sauna sessions or as an icy experience on its own to strengthen your immune system and feel truly reborn afterwards.

One of the most popular outdoor pools is the Islands Brygge Havnebad. This iconic spot is located in the city centre, where you have the chance to swim directly in the harbour with a view over Copenhagen’s skyline. The water of the five pools is checked daily, so you know it is safe.

Ice skating

Danes love to go ice skating – it'll keep you warm, doesn't break the bank and is fun for the whole family! You can join the locals at an indoor ice skating facility or, if the weather is cold enough, go skating on the canals and frozen lakes in the city! Most outdoor rinks allow you to either bring your own skates or rent some for a small fee.

Broens Ice Skating Rink at the harbour offers 600m² of ice and is a popular meeting spot during the cold winter months. Here, you cannot only show off your ice skating skills but also participate in fun events, ranging from disco on ice for kids and adults, to a St. Lucia show on ice and bingo, all while enjoying a beautiful view over the harbour and accompanied by several food stalls.

Seek shelter in Copenhagen’s museums

If the winter weather in Copenhagen is just a little bit too cold for you to want to spend your days outside, consider staying indoors and exploring Copenhagen’s best museums! History buffs will enjoy themselves at the Nationalmuseet, the National Museum, covering the Danish history, culture and people. Art lovers will want to visit the National Gallery of Denmark with its vast collection of 260,000 historical art works and artefacts.  

For royalty watchers, a visit to Christiansborg Palace is a must. When the royal family does not need to make use of the palace, you can wander through the royal reception rooms, including the great hall which features the Queen's tapestries. You will also be able to visit the ruins of the original castle that sat on the same site, under the palace.

Copenhagen Light Festival

In the winter months the days are short which is perfect for the Copenhagen Light Festival! The annual light festival takes place over three weeks in February and presents artworks made from and with light by both Danish and international artists and designers. From temporary sculptural elements on historic buildings to multisensory experiences and dynamic films – the light art is presented in many different forms.

The impressive and expressive light art will be on display at at least 35 locations in central Copenhagen, Nørrebro, Vestre Kirkegård, Ørestaden and DR’s Koncerthus. The artworks are guaranteed to brighten up your experience of Copenhagen’s city centre and shine a light on the cold and dark winter days.