Best Time to Visit Copenhagen (Weather, Events, & More)

Planning your next getaway to the Danish capital? Figuring out the best time to visit Copenhagen can make all the difference in your travel experience. Whether you're looking to explore the vibrant Tivoli Gardens, wander through historic streets, or indulge in Danish cuisine, timing is key. This guide will help you decide when to book your trip to enjoy Copenhagen at its best.

Best Overall Time to Visit Copenhagen

The best time to visit Copenhagen is during the late spring and early summer months, from May to June, and in early fall, around September. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, and the city is less crowded than in peak summer. You'll get to enjoy the long daylight hours and the outdoor dining scenes, as well as the numerous festivals that the city hosts.

Visiting Copenhagen during the low season, from November to March, has its pros and cons. On the upside, you'll benefit from lower prices and fewer tourists, making it easier to explore the city without the crowds. However, the cons include shorter days and colder weather, which might limit your ability to enjoy some of the outdoor activities and sights that Copenhagen is famous for.

Monthly Overview of Copenhagen

Detailed Monthly Analysis

Here’s what to expect in Copenhagen in each month of the year:

Copenhagen in January

Visiting Copenhagen in January means you're in for a chilly and cozy experience. The city is quiet after the holiday buzz, offering a peaceful atmosphere. Streets might be draped in snow, and the crisp air is invigorating. It's the perfect time to explore indoor attractions or enjoy the winter landscapes.

• Average Temperature: 0°C / 32°F
• Days of Rainfall: 17 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Ice skating at Frederiksberg Runddel, visiting cozy cafes, exploring museums like the National Museum, enjoying the winter sales in boutiques.

Copenhagen in February

Visiting Copenhagen in February means bundling up for the chilly weather, but it's a great time to experience the city without the crowds. The streets and attractions are quieter, giving you a more authentic glimpse of local life. Plus, cozy cafes and warm Danish hygge are in full swing, making it perfect for those who enjoy a slower travel pace.

• Average Temperature: 0°C / 32°F
• Days of Rainfall: 8 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Winter Jazz Festival, visiting museums, exploring indoor food markets

Copenhagen in March

Visiting Copenhagen in March is all about crisp air and the slow awakening of spring. The city shakes off its winter chill, and while you might still need a warm coat, the days gradually grow longer, giving you more time to explore. It's a quieter time before the rush of summer tourists, so you can enjoy the city's attractions with fewer crowds.

• Average Temperature: 3°C / 37°F
• Days of Rainfall: 10 days
• Season: Late winter, early spring
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Visiting museums like the National Museum of Denmark, enjoying the Winter Jazz Festival, exploring the historic Tivoli Gardens which reopens in late March

Copenhagen in April

Visiting Copenhagen in April is a delightful experience as the city shakes off the last chills of winter and welcomes spring. The streets begin to buzz with outdoor cafes and the blooming of cherry blossoms, especially at Bispebjerg Cemetery, which is famous for its picturesque cherry tree avenues.

• Average Temperature: 8°C / 46°F
• Days of Rainfall: 7 days
• Season: Transition from wet to dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Visiting Tivoli Gardens, exploring cherry blossoms at Bispebjerg Cemetery, enjoying the Night of Culture (Kulturnatten)

Copenhagen in May

Visiting Copenhagen in May is a delightful experience as the city begins to bloom with the warmth of spring. The streets are lively with cafes setting up outdoor seating, and the longer days allow for extended sightseeing and enjoyment of the city's parks and waterfronts.

• Average Temperature: 11°C / 52°F
• Days of Rainfall: 10 days
• Season: Transition from wet to dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Visiting Tivoli Gardens, enjoying the Night of Culture, exploring the Copenhagen Beer Festival

Copenhagen in June

Visiting Copenhagen in June is a delightful experience, as the city bursts into life with long, sunny days and mild temperatures. It's the perfect time to explore the outdoor cafes, lush parks, and vibrant street life that Copenhagen is famous for.

• Average Temperature: 16°C / 61°F
• Days of Rainfall: 10 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: High
• Activities: Midsummer celebrations, outdoor concerts, canal tours

Copenhagen in July

Visiting Copenhagen in July is a delight, as the city basks in the warmth of the summer sun. The streets are alive with locals and tourists alike, enjoying the long days and mild evenings. It's the perfect time to explore the city's outdoor cafes, vibrant festivals, and picturesque parks.

• Average Temperature: 20°C / 68°F
• Days of Rainfall: 10 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: High
• Activities: Jazz Festival, outdoor cinema nights, harbor swimming, visiting Tivoli Gardens

Copenhagen in August

Visiting Copenhagen in August is a delightful experience, as the city basks in the warmth of late summer. The streets are lively with both locals and tourists enjoying the pleasant weather, and the city's parks and outdoor cafes are particularly inviting. It's a great time to explore the vibrant neighborhoods and enjoy the numerous festivals that take place during this month.

• Average Temperature: 20°C / 68°F
• Days of Rainfall: 8 days
• Season: Dry season
• Cost: High
• Activities: Copenhagen Pride, Copenhagen Cooking & Food Festival, outdoor concerts, canal tours

Copenhagen in September

Visiting Copenhagen in September is a delightful experience as the city transitions into the mildness of autumn. The weather is generally pleasant, perfect for walking around and exploring the vibrant streets and historical sights. Plus, the tourist crowds of summer begin to thin out, making it a more relaxed time to visit.

• Average Temperature: 16°C / 61°F
• Days of Rainfall: 13 days
• Season: Transition from wet to dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Attending the Copenhagen Blues Festival, exploring the Night of Culture (Kulturnatten), enjoying the last outdoor events of the season.

Copenhagen in October

Visiting Copenhagen in October is all about cozy vibes and autumnal beauty. The city begins to cool down, and the leaves start turning, painting the town in vibrant hues of orange and red. It's a quieter time to explore, with fewer tourists and a genuine local feel.

• Average Temperature: 10°C / 50°F
• Days of Rainfall: 14 days
• Season: Transition from wet to dry season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Enjoying the fall foliage in parks, Halloween events, visiting cozy cafes, and exploring museums like the National Museum of Denmark.

Copenhagen in November

Visiting Copenhagen in November is all about cozy cafes, crisp air, and the early whispers of winter. The city begins to quiet down from the tourist rush, offering a more authentic glimpse of local life. You'll need to bundle up and be ready for shorter days and the charm of pre-Christmas buzz in the air.

• Average Temperature: 5°C / 41°F
• Days of Rainfall: 17 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: Moderate
• Activities: Christmas markets, visiting museums like the National Museum of Denmark, enjoying hot chocolate in cozy cafes

Copenhagen in December

Visiting Copenhagen in December is all about cozy vibes and festive lights. The city is beautifully adorned with Christmas decorations, and the air is crisp, often filled with the scent of roasted almonds and mulled wine from the holiday markets. It's a magical time to explore the charming streets and experience Danish hygge at its best.

• Average Temperature: 1°C / 34°F
• Days of Rainfall: 17 days
• Season: Wet season
• Cost: High
• Activities: Christmas markets, Tivoli Gardens' Christmas theme, ice skating rinks

Special Events in Copenhagen to Look Out For

Copenhagen Jazz Festival

• Date: Early July
• Description: This annual jazz festival fills the streets, cafes, and concert halls of Copenhagen with jazz music from both local and international artists.

Copenhagen Cooking & Food Festival

• Date: Late August
• Description: Foodies rejoice! This festival celebrates Nordic cuisine, local produce, and gourmet culinary experiences with events spread across the city.

Copenhagen Pride Week

• Date: Mid-August
• Description: A vibrant and colorful celebration of love and diversity, featuring a parade, concerts, and numerous other events promoting LGBTQ+ rights.

Distortion

• Date: Early June
• Description: A week-long street and nightlife festival that transforms the city into a party haven with electronic music, dance, and pop-up events.

Copenhagen Light Festival

• Date: February
• Description: During the dark winter months, this festival lights up the city with beautiful and creative light installations by various artists.

Copenhagen Marathon

• Date: Mid-May
• Description: An annual event where thousands of runners from around the world compete while touring the scenic routes of Copenhagen.

Copenhagen Fashion Week

• Date: Early February and Early August
• Description: Scandinavia's largest fashion event, showcasing the latest trends from top Danish and international designers with runway shows and fashion-related events.

Copenhagen Culture Night

• Date: Mid-October
• Description: One night a year, the city bursts into life with cultural events, exhibitions, and performances as institutions open their doors to the public.

Copenhagen Christmas Markets

• Date: Late November to December
• Description: Get into the festive spirit with these charming markets that pop up across the city, offering crafts, decorations, and traditional holiday foods.

Pro Tips for Traveling to Copenhagen

• Card Over Cash: In Copenhagen, cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases, so there's rarely a need to carry a lot of cash.

• Tipping Etiquette: Service charges are usually included in your bill in Denmark, but it’s common to round up to the nearest 10 DKK to show appreciation for good service.

• Tap Water is Safe: The tap water in Copenhagen is not only safe to drink but also delicious, so save money and reduce plastic waste by refilling a reusable bottle.

• Efficient Public Transportation: Utilize Copenhagen’s extensive and reliable public transport network, including buses, trains, and the metro. Consider purchasing a Copenhagen Card for unlimited travel and access to many attractions.

• Biking is Big: Join the locals and rent a bike. It’s a great way to explore the city efficiently and authentically, as Copenhagen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world.

• Cultural Sensitivity: When visiting churches or other religious sites, dress modestly and keep noise to a minimum as a sign of respect.

• Try Smørrebrød: Don’t leave Copenhagen without trying smørrebrød, a traditional Danish open-faced sandwich, available in countless varieties.

• Embrace Hygge: Engage with the Danish concept of 'hygge' — a sense of comfort and contentment. Enjoy a cozy café, a warm drink, and the company of new friends.

• Respect the Queue: Danes are very orderly; always wait your turn and respect lines, whether at a bus stop, in a café, or at an attraction.

• Explore Beyond the City: Consider a day trip to nearby areas like the castle in Helsingør or the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art to experience more of Denmark’s charm.

Copenhagen Travel FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Copenhagen?
If you're from the EU, you won't need a visa to visit Copenhagen. For non-EU residents, Denmark is part of the Schengen Agreement, which allows tourists to enter without a visa for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Always check the latest visa requirements specific to your country before traveling.

What currency is used in Copenhagen?
The currency used in Copenhagen is the Danish Krone (DKK). While credit cards are widely accepted, it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller shops or markets.

What should I pack for a trip to Copenhagen?
Pack according to the season. For winter, bring warm layers, a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Summers are milder, but it's wise to bring a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don't forget comfortable walking shoes, as Copenhagen is very walkable, and an umbrella, as rain showers can be frequent.

Do I need to speak Danish to visit Copenhagen?
No, you don't need to speak Danish. English is widely spoken throughout Copenhagen, especially in tourist areas, restaurants, and shops. However, learning a few basic Danish phrases can be appreciated by locals.

Is Copenhagen safe for tourists?
Copenhagen is considered very safe for tourists. Common sense safety precautions are advisable, such as watching your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Is Copenhagen accessible for those with disabilities?
Copenhagen is known for being highly accessible to those with disabilities. Public transportation, major attractions, and sidewalks are well-equipped with facilities to assist disabled visitors. Always check specific venues for detailed accessibility information.

What type of outlet is used in Copenhagen?
In Copenhagen, the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power sockets that are used are of type F, which is two-pronged. If you're coming from a country that uses a different standard, you'll need a power adapter.