Why Couples Choose Copenhagen for Their Wedding
Copenhagen has become one of the most popular destinations in Europe for international couples looking to get married. Denmark is known for having a relatively simple legal process for foreign couples, which makes the country an attractive option for small weddings and elopements.
Copenhagen City Hall (Københavns Rådhus) is located in the heart of the city and hosts wedding ceremonies throughout the year for both Danish and international couples.
As a Copenhagen wedding photographer, I often photograph intimate ceremonies here followed by portraits around the beautiful streets, canals and gardens nearby.
The Legal Process for Getting Married in Denmark
Before you can get married in Denmark, couples must receive approval from the Danish authorities.
Applications are submitted to the Danish Agency of Family Law (Familieretshuset). After the application is approved, couples receive a Certificate of Marital Status (Prøvelsesattest) confirming that they meet the legal requirements to marry in Denmark.
Once you have received this approval, you can book your ceremony with Copenhagen City Hall (Københavns Rådhus).
For the most up-to-date official information about the process, you can also visit the City of Copenhagen’s official guide to getting married at City Hall:
Getting Married in the City of Copenhagen
https://international.kk.dk/live/cpr-registration-and-documents/marriage/getting-married-in-the-city-of-copenhagen
Copenhagen City Hall Wedding - What the Ceremony Is Like
Wedding ceremonies at Copenhagen City Hall take place in one of the historic ceremony rooms inside the building.
The ceremony is conducted by a marriage registrar (vielsesmyndighed) and usually lasts around 10–15 minutes. Couples may exchange rings and invite a small number of guests to attend.
If the couples do not bring bring witnesses, Copenhagen City Hall can provide two official witnesses for the ceremony.
The atmosphere is simple, relaxed and meaningful, which is why many couples choose this type of intimate wedding or elopement.
Best Locations for Wedding Photos Near City Hall
One of the advantages of getting married at Copenhagen City Hall is that many beautiful photo locations are within walking distance.
Popular portrait locations include:
City Hall Square (Rådhuspladsen)
Nyhavn harbour
Frederiksberg Gardens (Frederiksberg Have)
The historic streets of central Copenhagen
The canals near Christiansborg Palace (Christiansborg Slot)
These locations provide beautiful Scandinavian architecture and natural light that works perfectly for wedding portraits.
Hiring a Photographer for Your City Hall Wedding
Even though City Hall ceremonies are short, many couples choose to hire a photographer to capture the experience.
Typical coverage includes:
Arrival at Københavns Rådhus (Copenhagen City Hall)
The ceremony itself
Congratulations with friends and family
Couple portraits around Copenhagen
If you’re planning a simple ceremony or elopement, you can also take a look at my elopement photography package which is designed specifically for small weddings and City Hall ceremonies in Copenhagen.
With more than 16 years of experience photographing weddings, my approach is relaxed and documentary. I focus on capturing natural moments and genuine emotions so you can simply enjoy the day.
Tips for Planning a Copenhagen City Hall Wedding
If you are planning a ceremony at Copenhagen City Hall, here are a few helpful tips:
Apply early through Familieretshuset (Danish Agency of Family Law)
Book your ceremony date with Københavns Rådhus as soon as you receive approval
Allow time after the ceremony for portraits around the city
Consider scheduling your ceremony earlier in the day for the best natural light
Copenhagen offers a beautiful mix of historic architecture, waterfront views and charming streets that make it a wonderful setting for wedding photography.
Planning a Wedding in Copenhagen?
If you are planning a ceremony at Copenhagen City Hall (Københavns Rådhus) and are looking for a Copenhagen wedding photographer, feel free to get in touch to check availability.
I would love to help capture your wedding story in one of the most beautiful cities in Scandinavia.