What is hygge? And where to find it in Copenhagen
Sitting by the fire on a cold winter night, wearing your favorite oversized sweater, while drinking hot chocolate and reading a book surrounded by candles. That's definitely "hygge".
What does hygge mean?
Hygge is a concept that describes a feeling of comfort, togetherness, and enjoyment of the simple pleasures of everyday life. It can be spending time with friends and family, sharing a meal, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in a warm and relaxed setting.
Hygge is usually inadequately translated as ‘cosiness’. But it is so much more than that. One of the most common questions we come across in Denmark is visitors asking, “what is hygge?” But hygge isn’t just a word; it’s a concept, and as such, there’s really no direct translation.
The Danish word 'hygge' is pronounced 'hoo-gah' in English.
A few years ago, if you asked a group of Danes to translate the word "hygge," they would probably become a bit hesitant. Some would fall back on 'cosiness' to define it, others would say that it's about the sense of contentment that comes from being with friends and family. These days, the term has become so all-pervasive that it was short-listed for the Oxford Dictionary Word of the Year. Find a photo on Instagram of a candlelit bar and a #hygge hashtag is almost obligatory.
Friends meeting in the street might say that it has been hyggeligt to see each other, and someone who is fun to be with can be called a hyggelig fyr when he would hardly be described as a ‘cosy guy’. The truly emotive depth of the word hyggelig is best captured by considering its opposite, uhyggeligt, which means anything from cheerless through sinister to downright shocking and grisly.
Where the word comes from
The word hygge has roots in the Old Norse word hyggja, meaning “to think, believe, or be content with”. According to Den Danske Ordbog (The Danish Dictionary), the modern meaning of hygge comes from Norwegian, where the word developed the sense of “to comfort” or “to bring joy”.
How Danes hygge
To have a hyggelig time is social nirvana in Denmark. Candlelight is used to encourage a hyggelig atmosphere. In fact, the Danes are mad about candles and use them everywhere, both in public places like cafes, stores, bars, restaurants, and in their homes. The dim lighting helps to soften the clean, uncluttered surfaces and uncompromising white walls that are typical features of Danish living rooms. Everyone’s ideal is to have a Christiania kakkelovn (antique stove) or an open fireplace and feel the warmth from its hyggelige glow.
But hygge isn't reserved for cold and dark days. Danes value hygge all year round. In spring and summer, hygge often moves outdoors, as friends and family come together to enjoy each other's company. Whether gathering around a table, spending time outside, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, hygge is part of everyday life in Denmark all year round.
Where to find hygge in Copenhagen
There are plenty of places to experience Danish hygge for yourself. Discover some of our favorite places to enjoy hygge in Copenhagen.
Cosy cafés
Cafés are an easy place to experience hygge in Copenhagen. Settle in with a cup of coffee, take a break from exploring the city and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere at one of Copenhagen’s cosy cafés.
Candle-lit dinners
Hygge and good food often go hand in hand. Spend an evening over dinner in the warm glow of candlelight and experience a classic part of Danish hygge.
Hygge in Nørrebro
Nørrebro has plenty of places to slow down and enjoy a hyggelig moment. Explore the neighbourhood’s cafés and bars, whether you are stopping for coffee during the day or meeting for a drink in the evening.
Fællesspisning
Hygge is often about spending time with others, and fællesspisning, or communal dining, is one way to do just that. Share a meal around the table with others and experience the social side of hygge in Copenhagen.
Hygge beyond Copenhagen
Hygge is also very much alive beyond Copenhagen. Head to Dragør and spend some time exploring the town while experiencing a different side of hygge outside Copenhagen.
Hygge in winter
The Danes fight the cold and dark winter days with one of their best weapons: hygge. During the Christmas season, Copenhagen lights up with candles and festive lights, while a warm glass of gløgg adds to the hygge. Discover more ways to enjoy winter in Copenhagen in our guide to Copenhagen’s winter days.
FAQ Frequently asked questions
How to experience hygge in Copenhagen?
You can experience hygge in Copenhagen in many different ways, from spending time in cosy cafés and enjoying candle-lit dinners to sharing a meal at a fællesspisning. Hygge is not tied to one particular place or activity, but is about slowing down, enjoying the moment, and spending time with others. Learn more about hygge and where to find it in Copenhagen here.
What is a hygge lifestyle?
A hygge lifestyle is about making time for comfort, togetherness, and being present in the small moments of everyday life. Learn more about hygge and where to find it in Copenhagen here.
How to practice hygge daily?
You can bring hygge into your daily life by making time for the people and activities you enjoy. Share a meal, meet a friend for coffee, light a candle or simply slow down and enjoy a quiet moment. Learn more about hygge and where to find it in Copenhagen here.
Hygge is a part of Copenhagen all year round
Though hygge's prime seasons are fall and winter, it also strives in the spring and summer when friends and family come together to enjoy each other's company.
