My Erasmus Experience in Copenhagen, Denmark

Why did you choose to go to Copenhagen, Denmark?

I had already gone to high school in Copenhagen as I'd been interested in the Danish lifestyle and culture from a really young age. Before continuing, I just want to clarify that I'm not an Erasmus student, but actually doing an internship in architecture.

How long's your stay? What financial aid do you receive?

I was initially supposed to stay for 6 months but the company when I work asked me to stay for 6 more months and after having travelled to Sweden and Finland, I realised that Copenhagen really is the city to be in for a good life! I receive 560 euros for my accommodation and 500 euros to live off. I didn't receive an Erasmus grant because I'm on a placement year (a year gaining work experience, approved my university). I generally wasn't paid for the first 6 months but I will be paid around 800 euros from now on.

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What's the student vibe like in Copenhagen?

I have a few Erasmus friends who are having a blast! There are a lot of very cosy bars and a lot of shops with really beautiful clothes and things for your house that you can't find in other countries. There are many nightclubs and concerts organised, but be aware that they tend to play 80's music and most tracks are hits from very funk and disco eras. However you can find decent electronic music and bars with live music from bands. As in any self-respecting capital, there is something for everyone.

Would you recommend the city or university to other students?

The city, yes! I don't know what the university is like as I never went there but its architecture is of a really high quality and is one of the hardest to get hold of.

What's Denmark's food like?

They eat quite a few vegetables and a lot of potato. You'll often find that Danish dishes include a lot of sauce and tend to add a touch of sugar, like berries on cheese and apples in salad, for example. It's difficult to find red meat but you can find duck, steaks and meat balls.

Did you have any problems finding accommodation in Copenhagen?

Oh wow, now there's a long story! I spent a month there without accommodation; it's extremely difficult to find accommodation, especially in August. Finding accommodation in Copenhagen is a real assault course, so arm yourself with courage and a list of possibilities!

What are living costs like in Copenhagen?

It's approximately the same as in Paris; I spend around 550 to 600 euros a month going out, visiting places at the weekend, drinking hot chocolates in cafes and eating out. I think it's possible to live off 450 euros a month.

What's it like learning the language there? Did you take part in a language course organised by the university?

Not yet, but I very much hope so. Learning the language is extremely difficult and I don't expect to be speaking Danish after one year but to be able to understand basic structures.

What's the most economical way to get to Copenhagen from your home town?

The cheapest way to get around Copenhagen is by bike, they're not expensive and are around 1000 DKK.

Where do you recommend to go out in Copenhagen?

The Meatpacking District and a few bars in the city centre.

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And to eat in Copenhagen? What are your favourite places?

The kebabs in the Nørrebro district, Danish people adore them!

And what cultural places do you recommend going to see?

There are lots of things to see if you're interested in architecture. There are also designer shops. You should go visit Christiana, Copenhagen Street Food, Tivoli Gardens, the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art and the M/S Maritime Museum of Denmark.

Any advice for future students going to Copenhagen?

Come a good two weeks in advance if you don't already have accommodation; it's easier to find somewhere if you're actually there and I think one week is cutting it a bit fine if you're not familiar with finding accommodation. I'm going to update my blog here which is where you can find all the necessary information on practically everything you'll need to know, including my own experience. (It's in French by the way. )

That's about it! Make the most of each moment. Yes a year or 6 months may seem like a long time, but it goes by so quickly!