Shopping in Copenhagen
Long gone are the days when tourists left satisfied with Little Mermaid ornaments. Today, visitors come for the Scandinavian shopping scene alone, as Copenhagen is packed with cutting-edge fashion houses and contemporary furniture stores.
Key areas
The main international chains and designer boutiques are located around Strøget. The street Jægersborggade in the Nørrebro neighbourhood has turned from dodgy to hipster-cool with shops selling vintage clothes, ceramics and jewellery.
Markets
Flea markets abound in Copenhagen during warmer months. The best ones are:
• Loppemarked i Ravnsborggade (Ravnsborggade)
• Loppemarked i Bella (Bella Center, Center Boulevard 5)
• Onkel Dannys Loppemarked (Onkel Dannys Plads 1)
• Loppetorv på Frederiksberg (Smallegade 1, Frederiksberg)
• Rita Blå's Lopper (Kbh Volume; Enghavevej 80-82)
• Kongens Nytorv Market (Kongens Nytorv)
Shopping centres
Magasin du Nord, the largest department store in Scandinavia, is situated on Kongens Nytorv. Illums Bolighus is the premier centre for contemporary furniture, lamps, kitchen and bathroom items, ceramics, porcelain, silver, and glassware.
Opening hours
Most shops catering to tourists open from 1000-1800 (Mon-Thurs), 1000-1900 (Fri), 1000-1600 (Sat) and 1200-1600 (Sun). The sale of alcohol from retailers is forbidden after 2000 hour.
Souvenirs
Royal Copenhagen porcelain and Georg Jensen silver make great gifts, while quirkier purchases could include exquisite, hand-made Christmas decorations. Mid-century modern furniture was born in this city, and collectors will want to check out vintage stores in the hope of finding their own little piece of Arne Jacobsen.
Tax information
VAT of 25% is charged on most goods. Nationals of countries outside the EU and Scandinavia can claim this back at the airport, but only if you purchase goods worth at least Dkk 300 in a single shop, or Dkk 1,200 per item if you are Norwegian. Items must be declared and stamped by customs authorities on departure.
