The main international chains and designer boutiques are located around Strøget, interspersed with cafes 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.

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 might like the plastic classics Lego and Duplo, which are also Danish creations.

Shopping hours are normally Monday to Friday 0930/1000 until 1730/1900 and Saturday 0900-1600. Danish shopping hours have 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 from retailers is forbidden after 2000.

VAT (MOMS) of 25% is charged on most goods, including hotel and restaurant bills. Nationals of countries outside the EU and Scandinavia can claim this back at the airport; but only on individual items worth over Dkk300 which have been purchased from shops displaying Global Refund Denmark (website: www.globalrefund.com) or Tax Free International emblems. Items must be declared and stamped by customs authorities on departure from the EU.