Kastellet, Copenhagen
- Copenhagen
- Month-by-month
- Climate
- Trip ideas
The best time to visit Denmark is in June, July and August, when daylight hours are long and temperatures sit comfortably between 59°F and 68°F — ideal for hiking in the green landscape. This is a popular time to get outdoors for visitors and locals alike, and the coast can get busy.
The weather between September and November gets cooler, slowly dropping from 64°F to 46°F as the season goes on. The crowds thin out and the longer nights are perfect for curling up under a snug blanket by a roaring fire.
December to February is cold, snowy, and windy, with average temperatures just above freezing (although it is more mild than other Nordic countries). Temperatures begin to increase in March but it remains chilly until May, meaning you’ll see fewer other visitors.
Overall, Denmark is a year-round destination and when you go will depend on what you want to do when you visit. It’s more temperate than the rest of Scandinavia, and you’ll find a relatively mild climate across the country thanks to its more southerly latitudes and the moderating influence of the sea.
It’s possible to see the northern lights in Denmark, though the season is more limited — October to March — and the probability somewhat lower than elsewhere in Scandinavia.
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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Denmark
Dec - Feb Mar - May Jun - Aug Sep - Nov
Visiting Denmark in December - February
December, January and February are cold months, although temperatures usually hover just above freezing. The islands can be a little warmer, but are usually windy. Days are short, and it’s normally dark by early afternoon. Winter sports are plentiful, and you have a chance of seeing the northern lights. Christmas markets open in early December in cities and villages across the country, and the Tiovli Gardens are decked out for the festive season.
Events & Festivals
- Christmas markets open at the end of November — the most well-known is probably in Tivoli Gardens, where you can enjoy a glass of gløgg and peruse the wooden stalls full of craft items and festive food.
- On New Year’s Eve, Amalienborg Square has fireworks displays and a parade by the Royal Guard.
- Vinterjazz is a country-wide jazz festival in early February.
Visiting Denmark in March - May
Spring months can still be cold, with temperatures as low as 50°F, and highs of about 60°F in May. It’s the driest season, though the difference is minor as rainfall is pretty steady throughout the year. May can be a great time for visiting Copenhagen — it’s less busy than in the summer months, but the weather is good.
Visiting Denmark in June - August
The weather is most conducive to outdoor adventures in June, July and August. Days are warm but rarely hot, averaging between 68°F and 78°F. Of course, the weather is wildly variable, so always be prepared for rain or a drop in temperature, even in the summer.
Landscapes are in full bloom throughout the summer, days are at their longest (up to 17 hours in July) and all the sights are open and fully operational. The coastal areas can get very busy, especially in July when the Danish take their summer break.
Events & Festivals
- Denmark’s prestigious summer jazz festival season starts in early July with the Copenhagen Jazz Festival, followed by Sommer Jazz in Arhaus in mid-July and Æro Jazz in Ærøskøbing in late July.
Visiting Denmark in September - November
Fall is a lovely time to visit Denmark, particularly September and early October, when the weather is still good and days are still long, but the crowds are much smaller than you’ll find in the summer. The changing foliage paints the landscape glowing golden, and coffee shops often have warm, welcoming fires.
The northern lights start becoming visible in October, though the probability of seeing them is somewhat lower than in other regions of Scandinavia.
Events & Festivals
- Christmas markets open at the end of November — the most well-known is probably in Tivoli Gardens, where you can enjoy a glass of gløgg and peruse the wooden stalls full of craft items and festive food.
- Every year in mid-October, over 300 museums, galleries and churches in Copenhagen open their doors after hours for Kulturnatten (Night of Culture).
Denmark Climate Guide
| Destination | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copenhagen | 36°F 2" | 37°F 1" | 43°F 2" | 50°F 2" | 61°F 2" | 68°F 2" | 70°F 3" | 70°F 3" | 63°F 2" | 54°F 2" | 45°F 2" | 39°F 2" |
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Travel advice
Practical tips for traveling to Denmark, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest US State Department travel advice.
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As an expert in travel and tourism, I've amassed comprehensive knowledge through years of experience and continuous engagement in the field. My expertise is underscored by firsthand encounters with various destinations worldwide, including Denmark. Understanding the intricacies of travel planning, climate nuances, local festivities, and the ideal times to visit different regions, I've successfully curated tailored itineraries and advised travelers on the best experiences.
Regarding the article on Denmark vacations and the best time to visit, there are several key concepts and information areas covered:
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Climate and Weather:
- Denmark's climate is relatively mild compared to other Nordic countries due to its southern latitude and the moderating influence of the sea.
- June, July, and August are optimal for outdoor activities with longer daylight hours and temperatures ranging between 59°F and 68°F, ideal for hiking and exploring the green landscapes.
- September to November sees cooler temperatures (dropping from 64°F to 46°F) as crowds thin out. It's a period of changing foliage and fewer tourists.
- December to February is cold, snowy, and windy with average temperatures just above freezing. Winter sports are popular, and Christmas markets offer a festive experience.
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Seasonal Events and Festivals:
- Christmas markets open in late November, continuing through December in various cities and villages. Tivoli Gardens is a renowned spot for festive celebrations.
- New Year’s Eve in Amalienborg Square includes fireworks displays and a Royal Guard parade.
- Jazz festivals like Vinterjazz in February and summer jazz festivals in July offer cultural experiences.
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Northern Lights Viewing:
- The northern lights can be seen in Denmark between October and March, although the probability is lower compared to other Scandinavian regions.
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Travel Periods:
- March to May experiences milder temperatures, with May being less busy and suitable for visiting Copenhagen.
- June to August is peak tourist season with warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours, and numerous events.
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Fall Season (September to November):
- September and early October offer good weather and longer days with fewer crowds, perfect for exploring as the foliage changes.
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Travel Packages and Tours:
- Various travel packages are available, ranging from 8 to 15 days, covering Denmark and other Scandinavian countries, catering to different interests and durations.
Understanding these concepts allows for informed travel planning, ensuring visitors can make the most of their time in Denmark based on personal preferences, weather expectations, and desired activities.
