Though you will find most of the major international retail names on Copenhagen's main pedestrian shopping street, Strøget, the beauty of shopping in Copenhagen really lies in its small neighbourhood shops, many of them quirky and unique. Contrary to popular belief, prices here are on a par with London and New York, sometimes cheaper, but where Copenhagen scores heavily is in its convenience. And remember, if you are a non-EU resident you are entitled to a VAT Refund! Most of the main shopping areas are within easy walking distance of each other, and you will often find that similar types of shops are located near one another, often lending entire streets a unifying theme (Kronprinsensgade for fashion, Ravnsborggade for antiques, Bredgade for art, Værndamsvej for food, and so on). Most charming of all, you will find that many of Copenhagen's shops are located in beautiful historical buildings and medieval streets, which gives Christmas shopping here that extra special atmosphere.

The main international chains and designer boutiques are located around Strøget, interspersed with cafés and restaurants. Magasin du Nord, the largest department store in Scandinavia, is situated on Kongens Nytorv. Intriguing second-hand and antique shops are thick on the ground in the Sankt Hans Torv area, while flea markets abound at Israel Plads and Gammel Strand every Saturday. Shopping hours are normally Monday-Friday 0930/1000 until 1730/1900 and Saturday 0900-1600. Danish shopping hours have now been extended to allow shops to stay open daily 0600-2000 and smaller outlets at weekends. Most shops are closed on Sundays. Outside normal shopping hours, various kiosks around town are open for the sale of tobacco, newspapers and sweets. Bakeries, florists and confectionery shops remain open most of the time. The Central Station Supermarket is open until late in the evening, as well as all day Sunday. The sale of alcohol is forbidden after 2000. Typical gifts include Royal Copenhagen porcelain, Scandinavian crystal and amber jewellery. Silver jewellery by designers such as Georg Jensen is also a good option. Contemporary Danish design can be found at Illums Bolighus, Amagertorv 10, Paustian, Kalkerbrænderilobskaj 2, and Interstudio Shop, Dampfærgevej 10. Families should remember that plastic classics Lego and Duplo are Danish creations.