Christmas in Tivoli: Copenhagen's festive amusement park

Every winter the historic Tivoli Gardens in central Copenhagen reopens for Christmas, covered in lights, trees and decorated stalls. Rides, food and the Scandinavian idea of hygge make it a cosy evening out.

Fun facts

• Tivoli Gardens opened in 1843 and is one of the oldest amusement parks in the world.
• Many of the park's rides operate during the Christmas season.
• Tivoli is said to have inspired Walt Disney when he visited Copenhagen.

What to see

• The lake lit up with thousands of lights.
• The Christmas market stalls with Nordic decorations.
• Nyhavn harbour with its colourful houses, a short walk away.

What to taste

• Æbleskiver, round pancake balls with jam and powdered sugar.
• Gløgg, Danish mulled wine with raisins and almonds.
• Risalamande, rice pudding with cherry sauce.

What to do

• Ride the old wooden roller coaster.
• Visit the Christmas market at Nyhavn.
• Walk along Strøget, Copenhagen's main shopping street.

💡 Tip: The metro and trains connect Copenhagen Airport with the city centre in about 15 minutes, and the main station is next to Tivoli. Buy park tickets online in advance and go on a weekday evening to avoid the longest queues.