Erasmus Experience in Copenhagen, Denmark by Helen

Why did you choose to go to Copenhague, Dinamarca?

I always felt attracted to the Northern countries and heard from many people who have visited Copenhagen, that it is a wonderful city. This made me very curious and after speaking to a friend of mine who coincidentally completed her internship in CPH, I decided to apply at the same company as she spoke very positive about her time there.

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How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

It's for half a year - I received 425€ per month. I paid 400DKK rent which is approx. 540 €. I did look into finding cheaper places... however, this is a quite normal price people pay in Copenhagen.

What is the student lifestyle like in Copenhague?

As I went to Copenhagen to complete an internship for university, I did not experience the student lifestyle much...

I did meet up with a few friends that study in Copenhagen (I know them from my university in Germany) and they love the student lifestyle in this city! There are many student discounts you can get, just always ask and usually you are lucky!

Would you recommend the city and the University of Copenhague to other students?

I would definitely recommend the city to anyone who enjoys culture, city life, parks, concerts and a fun time abroad! As I mentioned before, unfortunately I did not get to experience the University of Copenhagen but I heard only positive things from friends!

What is the food like?

The food is good! You have to try Smorrebrod when being in Denmark! However, there are many places with great food. Especially some lovely markets! Just google it and you will find very neat options.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Copenhague?

No, I was lucky - I used a FB page called "Germans in Copenhagen" and there is another one called "roommate in Copenhagen". Take a look and see if you can find an apartment via FB because the websites I found online were usually fake (most people know this but I still think it is important to mention). Do not believe the offers if the person is not living in Denmark and wants you to transfer money before seeing or living in the apartment - there are many scams out there

How much does it cost to live in Copenhague?

I would lie if I said it's affordable... as a student it is very expensive! You just need to pay close attention to your expenses. I would recommend getting a bike to avoid public transportation costs and buy your groceries at the cheapest super markets (NETTO, ALDI), that saves quite a bit of money! I paid 540€ rent + 200€ groceries and depending on your interests (party, sports, shopping... ) you have of course a few more costs per month. Alcohol is unfortunately also very expensive as soon as you go to a bar or club! Pre-drinking is always a good idea.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

There are free language courses available and you just need to inform yourself. I did not learn Danish as it did not work out with my work schedule but it really depends on how motivated you are and some mother tongues might be more similar to Danish than others.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Copenhague from your city?

I used the "long distance" bus and paid 30€ one way if you book in advance (I traveled from Leipzig, Germany straight to Copenhagen).

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Copenhague?

There are great bars everywhere! I would recommend the Studenterhuset, the Barking Dog, the Living Room, etc. - just look it up on the internet or ask some student, they always know where to go!

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Copenhague?

I loved the food market Papirøen! You have to go there - I took everyone who visited me to that place and they loved it.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

The entire city is lovely to see, I would always go to the harbour and visit Nyhavn, Christianshavn (Christiania is worth it in the summertime especially because of the concerts).

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Copenhague in the future?

Have a great time, you won't regret it!