Erasmus Experience in Copenhagen, Denmark by Janja

Why did you choose to go to Copenhagen, Denmark?

Because I wanted to experience living in high standard country to see if it is really that great.

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

I came here to do Erasmus internship and unfortunately my scholarship doesn't cover my living costs at all. I only got scholarship for 4 months of my staying (I am staying here for half a year) and I am not paid. I really advise you to have some savings if you want to come here, because it is pretty expensive.

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

I would definetely recommend the city to everyone, because it is really beautiful, especially when it is sunny (come in spring and summer). People are friendly and ready to help you out all the time. Just take your map out and people will be all around you asking if you need some help.

What is the food like?

Food is expensive, but really good. If you have tons of money you should visit Noma (the best restaurant in Europe or even world), but I don't have that much money so... Another great option to try amazing food is Paper Island and Street Food Copenhagen. Every Thursday they have discounts for students, so take advantage of that. My favourite is duck burger and korean curry. You must also try smørrebrød or open sandwich and hot dogs. Cakes in Copenhagen are delicious so give yourself a treat every now and then. In Nordvest part of Copenhagen you can get pretty cheap kebabs, pita brøds, pizzas and food like this. 

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Copenhagen?

It is hard, especially if you are a couple. Plus it can be really expensive and some people have the strangest rules I have ever heard of. Like: don't use to much of kitchen and bathroom on the weekend. Or: you have to wake up between 7-8 and go to sleep between 21-22.

How much does it cost to live in Copenhagen?

For me it is around 500€-600€. It mostly depends on your rent. I don't go out drinking and I am rarely eating outside. With shopping for your food in Netto, Fakta and Lidl and then cooking you can save a lot of money. When you are looking for some things from your home, try arabic shops (these are the ones where they sell fruit and veggies outside and candy stores). If you won't find it there then they probably don't have it anywhere else as well. Be careful in their candy stores and always check a green paper on the door, where there are smilies. It will tell you if it is a good store or restaurant or not. 

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

Ryanair to Budapest.

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

Dalle Valle is pretty cheap, Street Food Copenhagen. Try the app Too good to go and get yourself a whole box of food from some buffets for around 30 kr. I heard that at CBS you can also get some food for reasonable prices. 

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Christiania, Frederiksberg, parks and cemetery (they use them as a park mostly), Amager standerpark, Lakes, Nyhavn, Amalienborg, Louisiana, cultural houses in every neighbourhood. You should visit Blå Planet - aquarium and Maritime Museum in Helsingør. Most museums are free on specific days so check their website before. 

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

Save enough money, with English you will get around easy, get yourself a bike as soon as possible. Go on some flea markets - they are amazing, happening all the time and you can find some great cheap stuff there you might need.