Scandinavian design shines through at this Danish airport where recent renovations have also increased the luxury and local labels on offer

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It may not be the most obvious location, but Copenhagen airport is, in fact, one of the biggest in Europe for international connecting passengers. If you are one of them, take a look at the new shopping streets that were added from the end of 2008 • there is lots to entice.

But before we get to the new stores, it’s worth remembering that Copenhagen is a global design capital and, as such, has a style reputation to maintain. Clean, simple and pure are the hallmarks of Danish design and Kastrup offers a range of stores and brands, from Denmark and the rest of Scandinavia, that communicate these three elements.

In the city, design disciples come to worship at Illums Bolighus, which has to be one of Europe's best showcases for well conceived and manufactured furniture, glassware, kitchenware, china, ceramics • and a whole lot more. At the airport, a pint-sized version of the store offers some of the more popular classic and modern bestsellers, in what are usually slightly fantastical settings. Brands such as Kosta Boda, Orrefors, Stelton, Ditte Fischer, Norman Copenhagen and Iittala are all here • and it is hard to walk away without picking up at least one beautifully crafted item.World renowned Danish silversmith Georg Jensen is also present in its own flagship store with collections reflecting the more modern designs of the brand. Meanwhile, Royal Copenhagen’s fine porcelain draws the eye from away from the main concourse and you can even find what some consider to be the world's most prestigious dinnerware in production today. The Flora Danica design dates back to the golden age of porcelain but retains its originality. But if lugging back a dinner service is not for you, delicate figurines and vases are also available.

As for the new wave of fashion and luxury stores, there is plenty to choose from • and if you want something a little different to show off when you get home, stick with the host of Scandinavian branded boutiques that are present.

International lifestyle men’s label J. Lindeberg and Sand, for both men and women, are strong Nordic brands that extend from formal collections to some causal and very trendy ramges. By Malene Birger is a women’s clothing store that has evolved to become a magnet for those seeking accessories including shoes, bags and jewellery and for anyone who are after high-end, regionally-inspired jewellery, look no further than Ole Lynggaard with its unique and exclusive take on jewellery design.

Women of all ages can also drop by Soaked in Luxury which claims to launch a new collection each month, while keeping its prices down. Accessories such as shoes, sunglasses, scarves and jewellery can also be had here. More widely established Scandinavian fashion brands at the airport include Peak Performance which stocks functional sportswear for activities ranging from skiing to golf, and Tiger of Sweden which has developed a line in tailoring that emphasises lean silhouettes without too much formality.

Worth remembering too is that at Kastrup you can do your standard tax-free shopping, for example liquor, tobacco and fragrances, online at home or in the hotel for pick up at one of the five tax and duty-free stores at the airport. At www.tax-free.dk you can see the majority of what’s available in-store so you can compare prices easily with downtown. Perfumes are guaranteed by the airport to beat high street department store by at least 20%. Make sure you order at least 24 hours before you get to the airport.


Copenhagen Airport Factfile

• Passengers 22.7 million in 2011.
• Terminals 3, all inter-connected.
• Main retail areas More-or-less located in a long line across the three terminals which makes the shopping easy, if you have the stamina to cover the ground!
• Hub airlines Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) and Cimber Sterling.