Winter in Copenhagen - nice cold outdoor activities
Winter in Copenhagen falls in the months December to February. It gets dark early and can be grey, cold and dreary. But there is much to do outside if you dress wisely in a warm jacket, wollen cap and gloves. Keep in mind that the sun sets as early as half past three on the darkest day (December 22).
The weather in Copenhagen in the winter
In December through February the temperature mostly stays below 10° celsius and sometimes drops below freezing. This might not seem so bad. However, keep in mind that the wind, the humidity and the overcast sky makes it feel a lot colder. Be prepared – it is too cold to sit outside for drinks, unless you are the outdoorsy type.
Copenhagen is not a sunny place during these months. Often the sun is hidden behind a thick layer of clouds for days – and weeks. Silver and many shades of grey are the colours that are most prevalent when you look around. However, the sun do shine once in a while and brings with it a lighter mood on the faces of the citizens.
What to do in the winter in Copenhagen
In spite of the prevalent cold and dreariness there are things to do outside. My favorite things to do are
Ice skating
You can do this numerous places. It is possible to rent skates for a fair amount (about 50 kr per hour).
Just across the harbour from Nyhavn (there is a bridge) there is an ice rink waiting for you and your best pirouettes: Broens Ice Skating.
In Vesterbro you can ice skate in Enghaveparken.
Long walks wearing a warm jacket
Take the classic tour around the Lakes or a long one around the Harbour.
Visit the Tivoli Gardens
They are open for Christmas and winter holidays in February.
Taking a dip in the harbour
Just kidding – it is not my favorite thing to do. But it IS possible and I have done it once.
The most centrally located and very basic version is the Islands Brygge ‘Harbour Bath’ where some trailers have been set up for changing. After that just jump into the water in the enclosed basins. The luxury version – and for people who do not favour cold water – you will find at Refshaleøen, where CopenHot awaits you with heated outdoor harbour hot tubs (stationary or sailing), drinks and saunas.
Go shopping
Yes, the many good shopping streets are still good even in the rain. Strøget, Nørrebrogade, Vesterbrogade, Istedgade are all places to browse around. January is the time for one of the best sales of the year.
In the winter grey, silver and blue are the colors of the wind.
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