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Is the ice safe on the Copenhagen lakes?

Only a blue sign makes it legal to go out on the ice.

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Short answer

Until the City of Copenhagen announces otherwise, all traffic on the ice is forbidden. You may only go out where a blue sign says "Færdsel på isen er tilladt" (walking on the ice is allowed). The ice must be 16–18 cm thick before the city gives permission, and it measures the thickness continuously once frost sets in. Only 11 of the city's lakes can ever be opened, Peblinge Sø is fully closed to foot traffic, and the list is updated daily in winter.

Ice skating in Denmark

Why

  1. Ice thickness and strength can change quickly with the weather.
  2. Crowds, dancing or jumping can make even thick ice dangerous.
  3. Lakes not on the city's list are never opened.

Details

The city's page "Er isen sikker?" on kk.dk shows which of the 11 lakes are open each day.

Tip

Check the list on kk.dk on the day itself, and stay off the ice if you see no blue sign.

What may differ

In mild winters the ice may never get thick enough, and no lake is opened at all.

Common misconception

If the ice looks solid and others are on it, it is safe and allowed.

What actually happens

Only the blue sign makes it allowed, and even then common sense is needed.

People also ask

  • Can you walk on the ice in Copenhagen harbour?
  • Where can you go ice skating in Copenhagen?
  • How many frost days does Denmark have?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Weather varies a lot from year to year, so check the DMI forecast before you travel.

Ice skating in Denmark
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