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Copenhagen’s City Hall is one of the most iconic and charming locations for a wedding. Whether you're dreaming of a simple elopement or a small, intimate ceremony with loved ones, City Hall offers an elegant and historic setting that perfectly captures the essence of romance. With its beautiful architecture, rich history, and the picturesque City Hall Garden, this venue provides the ideal backdrop for a memorable wedding day.
Here’s everything you need to know about tying the knot at Copenhagen City Hall, including how to book your ceremony, what to expect, and how to make your day truly unforgettable
Why Choose Copenhagen City Hall for Your Wedding?
Choosing the right venue for your wedding is one of the most important decisions you'll make, and Copenhagen City Hall offers a variety of features that make it a perfect choice. Here are some of the top reasons why couples choose this iconic venue:
1. Historic and Stunning Architecture
Copenhagen City Hall, or Københavns Rådhus, was built in 1905 and is a masterpiece of historic architecture. Its stunning interiors feature beautiful woodwork, intricate details, and a grandeur that perfectly complements the significance of a wedding ceremony. The building's Renaissance Revival style adds an air of elegance and romance, offering a backdrop that’s both timeless and sophisticated.
The wedding rooms inside are equally beautiful, with ornate details and rich history that give every couple a feeling of connection to the past. The combination of this architectural splendor and the intimate ceremony spaces creates the perfect environment for saying “I do.”
2. An Easy Process for International Couples
Denmark is known for having one of the most straightforward and efficient marriage processes in Europe, making it a top destination for international couples. The legal procedure for getting married at Copenhagen City Hall is simple and accessible. This makes it an ideal venue for couples who want to avoid the often complicated paperwork involved in getting married in their home country.
You don’t need to be a Danish resident to marry at City Hall, and many international couples choose Copenhagen for its easy, stress-free process. The English language options further simplify the experience, so you can enjoy the day without worrying about language barriers.
3. Central Location in Copenhagen
Copenhagen City Hall is centrally located, which means your wedding is right in the heart of the city. You’ll have easy access to iconic landmarks, charming streets, and picturesque locations for post-wedding photos. Check here the most popular and beautiful locations for photo sessions in Copenhagen.
4. A Welcoming Space for All Couples and super LGBTQ+ friendly
Copenhagen was one of the first cities in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. In 2023, ILGA-Europe recognized Denmark as one of Europe's top LGBTQ+ friendly nations, ranking it third for its supportive policies and environment. And Copenhagen City Hall has always been a welcoming space for all couples. Whether you’re a couple of any sexual orientation or gender identity, this venue proudly embraces inclusivity and celebrates love in all its forms. As a wedding photographer in Copenhagen, it's an honor to capture special moments for LGBTQ+ couples in a society that values inclusivity and respect.
How to Book Your Wedding Appointment at Copenhagen City Hall
Booking your wedding at Copenhagen City Hall involves a few steps, but it’s a simple process that can be done entirely online. Here’s how you can book your ceremony:
Step 1: Submit a Marriage Notice
All couples must submit a marriage notice through the Danish Agency of Family Law. This can be done online, and you’ll need to provide the following documents:
Valid passports or national IDs.
Certificates of marital status.
Divorce or death certificates (if applicable).
Step 2: Wait for Approval
After your marriage notice is submitted, it will be reviewed, and you'll receive an approval notice. This typically takes about 2–3 weeks, so be sure to plan your wedding date accordingly. Once approved, you’ll be ready to proceed with scheduling your ceremony.
Step 3: Schedule Your Ceremony
Once you’ve received approval, you can contact Copenhagen City Hall’s Wedding Office to book a date and time for your ceremony. Depending on availability, you may be able to choose a specific time that works best for you.
Practical Information: What You Need to Know
Here are some additional details to ensure your day goes smoothly:
Fees: The cost of getting married at Copenhagen City Hall varies depending on the day and time. Typically, it ranges from 500 to 2,000 DKK (about 70–270 EUR), with additional fees for services like interpreters or extra witnesses.
Timing: Ceremonies are held Monday through Friday, typically between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. There are also occasional Saturday ceremonies, though availability can be limited.
What to Expect on Your Wedding Day
The Ceremony Experience
The ceremony typically lasts 7–15 minutes. While brief, it’s filled with significant moments, such as the exchange of vows, the signing of the marriage certificate, and the confirmation of your commitment to each other. Despite its short duration, the ceremony is deeply personal, meaningful, and focused entirely on the two of you as a couple.
Here’s a breakdown of what will happen:
The Registrar’s Introduction: The ceremony begins with a short speech from the registrar, followed by a brief exchange of vows.
Ring Exchange: If desired, you can exchange rings during your vows.
Signing of the Marriage Certificate: After confirming your vows, you will sign the official marriage documents.
Wedding Certificate: Once the ceremony concludes, you will receive your marriage certificate.
More information:
The ceremony can be conducted in Danish, English, or German, and you can choose your preferred language when booking. It's essential that both partners understand the language used during the ceremony. If neither of you understands Danish, English, or German, an interpreter must be provided.
You'll need two witnesses for your ceremony. If you don’t have anyone to accompany you, City Hall can provide official witnesses for you. This is particularly useful for couples who choose to elope or keep their ceremony private. Having witnesses present not only ensures that the ceremony remains legally valid but also adds a sense of tradition and meaning. An added benefit is that your photographer can also serve as one of your witnesses. This allows you to have someone who is already part of your special day, capturing the moment and ensuring everything runs smoothly.
After the Ceremony: What to Do Next
Once the vows are exchanged and the ceremony is complete, it's time to celebrate. Copenhagen offers a wealth of options for couples to make the most of their wedding day, whether you're looking for a romantic moment together or a grand celebration with family and friends.
Photography Spots
There are many iconic locations in Copenhagen that are perfect for post-wedding photos. Here are some of the best places to capture those magical moments:
City Hall Garden: Located just steps away from the City Hall, this serene garden provides a tranquil and beautiful space for wedding photos. With lush greenery, well-maintained flower beds, and beautiful architecture, this is a perfect spot for both candid and posed photos.
Town Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen): The lively, vibrant square outside City Hall makes for an excellent backdrop, with its dramatic buildings and bustling atmosphere. It’s ideal for couples who want a more dynamic setting for their photos.
Nyhavn Harbor: Just a short walk or drive away, the colorful buildings lining the canals of Nyhavn offer one of the most iconic views in Copenhagen. This picturesque location provides an excellent setting for romantic portraits and celebratory photos as you enjoy the beauty of the city.
I would highly recommend this blog post I suggested earlier and also this one if you like to explore more spots.
Celebrating After the Ceremony
Copenhagen is home to a rich culinary scene that offers something for everyone, from intimate fine-dining experiences to casual celebrations with friends and family. Here are a few dining options to consider:
Noma: For couples who want to experience one of the world’s best restaurants, Noma offers a Michelin-starred experience that’s perfect for a celebration dinner after the ceremony.
Alchemist: A unique and artistic fine-dining experience, ideal for couples seeking something extraordinary.
Høst: A cozy, chic restaurant offering a delightful dining experience in a relaxed setting. We love the testing menu there.
Kilden i Haven: Located inside Tivoli Gardens, this beautiful spot offers an intimate dining experience surrounded by nature. It’s also one of my favorite places to capture wedding photos, with a serene, natural vibe.
For couples on the go, these quick yet delicious sandwiches are perfect for a fast, tasty meal when you don’t have time to sit down and relax. Smagsløget and Blue House are the best!
Exploring the City
Copenhagen is a city full of charm, history, and romance. If you have time after your ceremony, consider taking a romantic stroll or embark on one of these delightful activities:
Take a canal tour: Hop on a boat for a romantic tour of Copenhagen’s canals, enjoying views of the city from a different perspective.
Visit the Little Mermaid statue: This iconic symbol of Denmark is a must-see for visitors to Copenhagen. It’s also a great spot for a photo opportunity as you begin your married life together.
Stroll through Tivoli Gardens: One of the world’s oldest amusement parks, Tivoli Gardens is especially enchanting in the evening when the lights twinkle and the atmosphere is magical. It’s a wonderful spot for couples to celebrate their love.
Do you want to explore more? Then read this blog post:
Your Ultimate Guide to Copenhagen: What to Do, Where to Stay, What to Eat, and All the Hidden Spots Waiting for You. 🇩🇰 where you will find all the tips you need for your Copenhagen trip!
Ready to tie the knot at Copenhagen City Hall? Contact me today for your perfect wedding photography experience! 🌻📸
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