Autumn in Copenhagen - a guide to hygge

A guide to hygge in Copenhagen

What is hygge?

Hygge
/ˈh(j)uːɡə,ˈhʊɡə/
noun

Definition: Hygge is creating a warm, cozy atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people!

Denmark has ranked in the top 3 on the 'Happiest Countries' list every year since the first report was released in 2012. In fact, Denmark secured the top spot in the years 2012, 2013, and 2016. The big question is: is Hygge the reason behind the Danes being so happy? Maybe not 100%, but hygge does mean a lot to us Danes and is something that defines the way we socialize, both with family and friends, but also with school friends and colleagues.

How to "hygge" in Copenhagen

If you want to experience the feeling of hygge while visiting Copenhagen, here are some suggestions for you.

Hygge! Good company and food are important keywords for hygge! Danes love to go out for brunch, so much so that it's been made into a verb: to brunch. Brunch often involves a large amount of tasty food and a great cappuccino or café latte. It should be enjoyed slowly, ideally in company of family or friends. It’s easy to find a place to enjoy a good brunch in Copenhagen. If you like great coffee and instagrammable food, we recommend you pay a visit to Ø12 or The Union Kitchen. You won't be disappointed!

Find Ø12 at H.C. Andersens Boulevard 8, 1553 Copenhagen V
Find The Union Kitchen at Store Strandstræde 21, 1255 Copenhagen K

After indulging in a delicious brunch, why not take a long walk and enjoy the cool, crisp autumn air. Growing up with four seasons we are used to being outside all year round no matter the temperature and therefore you'll still see a lot of people out walking during the colder months. The beautiful colors, the crisp air, and the comfy, warm clothing is something most Danes love and combining this with a walk with your significant other, family or friends is the perfect recipe for Hygge. If you skipped brunch or if you're still a bit hungry, stop by one of the many cozy cafes or bakeries and grab an autumn-inspired latte and a cinnamon bun.

If you want to walk where the Copenhageners walk, then The Lakes - in Danish: Søerne - is the place to visit! This is one of the most popular places to walk and run in all of Copenhagen, and here you'll meet people of all ages and feel the vibe of the city. In total, there are 3 lakes - Sortedamssøen, Peblinge Sø, and Sankt Jørgens Sø - and you decide if you want to just walk around one of them or all three of them. The walk around all three lakes is approximately 6.4 kilometers.

Photo: The Lakes of Copenhagen

Another great place to walk is in the King's Garden. The park is located in the heart of the city and is Denmark's oldest royal garden, dating back to the early 17th century. The garden is home to a variety of sculptures, the most famous being "Hans Christian Andersen" by sculptor August Saabye. You'll also find Rosenborg Castle in the park and the beautiful castle adds a splash of history and a feel of royalty to your walk.
If you are traveling with kids, this is also the perfect place to visit as there is a playground and lots of space for them to burn off excess energy.

Enjoy Copenhagen from the water. Our Classic Canal Tour through Copenhagen’s harbor and charming canals gives you the perfect view of the city and takes you to iconic landmarks and by amazing architecture. Maybe bring a coffee or a hot chocolate, sit back and enjoy the tour. If it's really cold our boats are covered and heated. So it's the perfect way to see the city and bring some hygge into your day.