As a Copenhagen-born gal, I know that rain is a frequent visitor in this charming city, particularly during certain times of the year. Personally, I actually quite like the gloomier days as well and embrace them as an opportunity to indulge in some of my favorite things that Copenhagen has to offer, based on the concept of hygge! Hygge is a Danish word that translates to "cozy" or "comfortable," and it's a way of life in Denmark, especially on colder days. So, if you find yourself in Copenhagen on a rainy day, here are some of the best things to do that will make you feel what hygge means.
Visit a Danish bakery When the weather is gloomy outside, there's nothing better than indulging in some freshly baked goods at a local Danish bakery. A warm croissant, Spandauer, or cinnamon bun accompanied by a hot cup of coffee is the perfect way to start your day. Danish bakeries are famous for their flaky pastries, creamy cakes, and bread made with organic grains, and many of them offer vegan and gluten-free options as well. Besides enjoying the delicious treats, visiting a bakery is also a chance to observe the locals and the bustling atmosphere. Some of my favorite bakeries in Copenhagen include Lagkagehuset, Emmerys, and Brød.
Explore a cozy bookshop
Copenhagen is home to some of the most beautiful and unique bookshops in the world. The city is famous for its cozy and atmospheric bookshops, and they are the perfect place to spend a rainy day. You can curl up with a good book, sip on a hot drink, and let the sound of the rain create a relaxing ambiance. Most bookshops in Copenhagen also sell English-language books, so there's no need to worry about language barriers. In addition to traditional bookshops, some of my favorite cozy spots to read or work include BRØG Litteraturbar, Thiemers Magasin, and Paludan Bog & Café.
Visit a museum or art gallery
Copenhagen is a city that takes its art and history seriously, and it has some of the best museums and art galleries in the world. Whether you're interested in art, history, or science, there's something for everyone. Museums and galleries offer a perfect opportunity to escape the rain and immerse yourself in a different world. My favorite museums and galleries in Copenhagen include the Glyptoteket, Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, and the National Museum of Denmark.
Enjoy a cozy meal
A cozy meal is the epitome of hygge, and Copenhagen has plenty of cozy restaurants that are perfect for a rainy day. From traditional Danish cuisine to international dishes, there's something for every taste. Copenhagen is also home to a thriving vegetarian and vegan scene, making it easy to find hygge food options for everyone. Some of my favorite cozy restaurants in Copenhagen are Grød, Høst, and Kadeau. Additionally, there are several food markets in the city where you can try various street food or shop for fresh produce and snacks.
Have a hygge night in
If you're not in the mood to venture out into the rain, a hygge night in is the perfect alternative. Light some candles, make yourself a cup of tea, and curl up with a good book or movie. You can also indulge in some traditional Danish snacks, such as flødeboller or rugbrød med leverpostej. If you want to experience hygge like a local, you can also invite some friends over for a board game night or enjoy a glass of wine or beer.
Visit a spa or a sauna
The cold and rainy weather in Copenhagen can sometimes be challenging to deal with, but one of the best ways to warm up and relax is by visiting a spa or sauna. Copenhagen has a rich spa culture, and there are several places where you can enjoy a hot sauna, steam bath, or a dip in a heated pool. Some of the best spas in Copenhagen include the CopenHot Floating Sauna, the Nimb Wellness, and the Kurhotel Skodsborg
Attend a concert or theater show
Copenhagen is a city that celebrates music, arts, and theater, and attending a concert or theater show is a great way to spend a rainy evening. There are plenty of venues around the city that offer live music, from jazz and blues to pop and rock. If you're interested in theater, you can check out the program at the Royal Danish Theater, Betty Nansen Teatret, or the Bellevue Teatret. The intimate atmosphere and the quality of the performances will surely make for an unforgettable experience.
Take a leisurely walk in the rain
Lastly, if you're up for a bit of adventure, taking a leisurely walk in the rain can be a memorable experience. Put on some comfortable shoes, and a waterproof jacket, and explore the city's parks, gardens, and waterways. Copenhagen is known for its beautiful and well-maintained green spaces, and walking in the rain can provide a unique perspective of the city (and plenty of Instagram-worthy Copenhagen pics). You could, for instance, stroll past some of Copenhagen's famous landmarks, such as the Little Mermaid statue or the colorful houses in Nyhavn.
Copenhagen has plenty of things to offer on a rainy day, and with the concept of hygge deeply ingrained in Danish culture, you'll never run out of cozy and warm experiences. Whether you prefer indulging in some delicious pastries, exploring a cozy bookshop, or relaxing in a sauna, Copenhagen has plenty of hygge to go around whatever the season. So, don't let the rain dampen your spirits, and embrace the hygge lifestyle to the fullest!
About:
Liv Hansen is a Danish-British fine artist and actress with experience living and working in diverse cultural environments such as Los Angeles, London, and Vancouver. Her art reflects a deep passion for creativity, storytelling, and the human condition, often drawing inspiration from her travels and personal experiences. With her recognizable and distinctive style, Liv's artworks capture the essence of both contemporary life and the days of the past, often centered around the beauty of the world around us. Liv is currently based in Copenhagen, Denmark.
If you would like to connect with me, you can find me on Instagram. You can also support my work by buying me a coffee here https://www.buymeacoffee.com/livhansen
Commentaires