A seasonal guide to Copenhagen

Many visitors plan their trip to Copenhagen in the summer, but the capital of Denmark has much to offer year-round. Search for the elusive feeling of ‘hygge’ in world-class restaurants on a wintery evening, grab a drink on a terrace during the first signs of spring, explore every corner of the city during the endless summer days, or attend one of the many autumn festivals. With each season offering a new range of experiences, there’s never a bad time to visit Copenhagen.

Winter

Winter in Copenhagen is a great time to search for the elusive Danish feeling of ‘hygge’, which roughly translates to an atmosphere of cosy companionship. The Copenhagen winter can be freezing in a very literal sense, but that just means it’s time to search out some fun in the great indoors. Copenhagen’s got a superb collection of world-class restaurants, with Noma being named the best in the world (so make sure you book in advance!) Of course, the locals are used to making the best of the wintry conditions – they’ll be happy to pass on some tips!

Spring

It’s easy to spot when spring has arrived in Copenhagen – just look out for all the Danish people out in the streets! The Scandinavian winter is generally pretty harsh, so when that hint of warmth is felt in the air the locals can’t help but celebrate. The funfairs and parks of Tivoli Gardens reopen, and even though there’s still a bit of a bite in the cool air you’ll find people sipping coffee on café terraces. May sees temperatures rise enough for carnivals and street parties, seeing Copenhagen celebrate spring’s return in true Danish style.

Summer

Looking all the more vivid in the bright light of a Scandinavian sun, Copenhagen comes alive when the summer arrives. A bustling schedule of festivals, events and markets typify the season, and the parks and waterfronts of Denmark’s capital will be packed with people almost every day. There’s plenty of sunlight hours to take advantage of too! At the height of summer, Denmark’s Midnight Sun means your explorations of Copenhagen can go well into the evening, with many attractions and bars staying open until the sun begins to set.

Fall

There’s one very good reason to visit Copenhagen in the autumn, and that’s because winter is coming. Most residents of the city know that as soon as the cold sets in, it’s time to head indoors. The autumn months are the last chance to enjoy everything the city has to offer – and this is a city that really makes the most of it. Tivoli Gardens throws a three-week Halloween extravaganza and October’s Night of Culture showcases the best of Danish art, music and literature. The autumn weather also means spectacular sunsets that bathe the city in a soft orange glow – a painting by nature that you won’t soon forget!