Copenhagen To Marry: A Quick Guide to Getting Married in Copenhagen

1. Why Get Married in Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is a vibrant, romantic city that offers the perfect setting for couples looking to say “I do” in style. From its stunning City Hall to the lively streets filled with charm, the city’s beauty and energy make it an unforgettable wedding destination. Not only is Copenhagen visually captivating, but its ease of access—just a 15-minute drive from the airport—makes it incredibly convenient for couples and their guests. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and international appeal make it a top choice for couples from all over the world. In fact, many couples fall so in love with Copenhagen that they even consider making it their new home after the wedding!

The Historical Wedding Room in Copenhagen

The wedding hall at Copenhagen City Hall wasn’t part of the original design by architect Martin Nyrop, completed in 1905. It was added later due to the rise in civil marriages following the Marriage Act of 1922.

The artwork on the walls was designed by painter Joakim Skovgaard, who, at 70, chose to depict the medieval ballad Young Svejdal in the style of Old Italian frescoes. Skovgaard passed away in 1933, just before the hall’s completion.

A balcony connected to the hall offers a lovely view of the Main Hall, perfect for post-ceremony photos, though ceremonies are not held on the balcony.

2. What Will the Process Be on Our Wedding Day?

• Getting married at Copenhagen City Hall is a beautiful and memorable choice. On your wedding day, upon arrival, follow the small hearts placed on the floor, leading you from the entrance to the Great Hall.
• You’ll come across a small stone spiral staircase on the right side of the main hall. Look for the sign that reads “Bryllupssalen. Please wait here.”
• Once the registrar is ready, they will come to collect you from the waiting area in the Great Hall, guide you up the spiral staircase, and into the wedding hall where your ceremony will take place.
• The wedding office requests that couples arrive at Copenhagen City Hall 10 minutes before their ceremony. However, we recommend arriving 20 minutes early. This extra time allows you to familiarize yourself with the Town Hall and take a few photos in the beautiful surroundings before the ceremony begins.
• The number of weddings held at the City Hall varies, but on average, around 18 ‘standard’ wedding ceremonies take place each day, excluding Tuesdays and Sundays.
• When you arrive at the large wedding hall, you will find a small wardrobe where you can hang your coats. There’s also a large mirror, so you can check that your hair, makeup, and attire are all in place.
• When the registrar calls your names, you will follow them up the stairs into the main wedding hall. There, two witnesses provided by the City Hall will be waiting for you. These witnesses are included as part of the ceremony and at no extra cost.
• However, if you prefer, you are welcome to bring your own two guests to act as official witnesses. The witnesses will sign the marriage paperwork after the ceremony.
• If you choose to bring your own witnesses, they do not need to bring ID or passports, but they must be 18 years old or older. The City Hall allows a maximum of 75 guests at your wedding.
• The ceremony itself lasts no longer than 5 minutes. The registrar will deliver a brief speech about the meaning of marriage, and you will then exchange vows with the classic “I do.” If you wish, you may also exchange rings and share your personal vows (these are kindly requested to be kept brief). Afterward, you will be asked to sign the marriage paperwork.

After the Ceremony

• Once the marriage paperwork is signed, you will receive two copies of your Danish International Marriage Certificate.
• If you need more than two certificates, simply inform your wedding consultant, who will ensure the requested number of certificates is prepared. There is no additional charge for extra certificates, and you can request up to five free of charge.
• Once the paperwork is completed and you have your marriage certificates, you are free to go and begin your celebration. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy – full of love and happiness!

3. How to Get to Copenhagen?

The address of Copenhagen City Hall (Rådhuset):

Opening hours for the Document presentation

One working day before your wedding date (Monday to Friday), between 10:00 and 14:00.

From Copenhagen Airport to the City Hall
Driving from the airport to the city center takes approximately 15–20 minutes. Taking a taxi is also a good option, costing between €35 and €45, depending on traffic. The journey by public transport takes between 20 and 35 minutes, depending on the route. For routes and timetables, check the relevant Metro/train/bus schedules.

From Hamburg (Germany) to Copenhagen
A car journey from Hamburg to Copenhagen takes around 4.5 hours. If you prefer to travel by train, the journey takes approximately 6.5 hours. For routes and timetables, check train and bus schedules.

4. Top 5 Things to Do While We’re in Copenhagen?