Housing
Housing
Is it financially viable if you are a student on SU and have your own home? Yes, it can. But it’s a little easier if you’re sharing rent and fixed expenses.
If you want to study at SAFD in Copenhagen and have your own accommodation, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. You can apply for a dorm room or invest in your own apartment, but there are many other ways to live in Copenhagen.
Options and Housing Types
There are many ways to live in Copenhagen. As a student, you can apply for a dorm room or invest in your own apartment, but there are many other options.
Residence halls and youth housing
In youth housing and halls of residence, you live among other students. Youth housing is a little more private than dormitories and often has more space. On the other hand, they can also be more difficult to assign.
Cooperative or owner-occupied apartments
If you want more privacy, you can invest in a cooperative or condominium, or you can share the apartment with someone else and cut the cost in half. Housing prices depend on where in Copenhagen you want to live. With a half-hour commute to and from SAFD, you can stay much cheaper than if you live in central Copenhagen.
Collectives and Cohousing
Here you can live with more than one person. You share the costs of rent, internet, heating and electricity. Often there will be a weekly meal plan, as well as regular cleaning jobs and the like.
Help with housing
Students have to find their own accommodation. Like all other major student cities in the country, Copenhagen also has a wide range of dorm rooms, dedicated student apartments and regular rental and owner-occupied housing.
Housing Portals and Housing Websites
One way to explore your current options is to visit:
- CIU.dk – A portal that, together with the City of Copenhagen, has introduced a special prioritization of housing for students in the metropolitan area
- AkutBolig.dk – Denmark’s largest free rental housing portal with rental properties from more than 600 different professional landlords
- Ledige-Lejligheder.dk – Free housing ad market when you need to rent, let, sell or buy an apartment or room, for both private and professional
- Boligbesked.dk – Free rental housing portal. The rental housing portal matches tenant and landlord, so both parties avoid drowning in hundreds of ads and inquiries
- KollegiernesKontor.dk – A portal where you can find available dorm rooms
- UngdomsBoliger.dk – Provides both dormitories and youth housing
- FindKollegie.dk – Gathering place for all the country’s dormitories, you can search and find over 500 dormitories
- FindBolig.nu – A housing portal where you can find vacant apartments and youth housing throughout the country for free and sign up for waiting lists
- Andelsboliger.dk – A Danish housing search engine that brings together all available cooperative housing in Denmark
- HousingAnywhere.com – An international portal for exchange students, but also used by Danish students.
We also recommend you visit the following sites:
- BoligPortal.dk – Student housing in Copenhagen
- StudenterGuiden.dk – Student housing in Denmark
- LejeBolig.dk – Rental properties in Copenhagen
- FindRoommate.dk – Student housing in Copenhagen
- Bolig.dk – Rental properties in Copenhagen
- BoligPortal.dk – Rental and student housing in Copenhagen
- VoresLejebolig.dk – Rental properties in Copenhagen
Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are also great for finding apartments and rooms. Try the following groups, for example:
- Facebook – Rental housing for young people and students
- Facebook – ESN CPH: Give-Buy-Sell-Rent
- Facebook – Apartments or rooms for rent/lease/buy/sell
- Facebook – Copenhagen Rent Housing for young people and students
Colleges
Like websites and Facebook groups, it’s also possible to apply for a room at a number of private dorms. However, these are coveted and often have long waiting lists, so apply well in advance. Here is a list of halls of residence in Copenhagen:
Portals for collectives and cohousing communities
- Cohousing.dk – Find cohousing communities and collectives across the country
- Kollektivet.dk – Forum for housing ads, especially alternative living options
- Roomies.dk – Meet other young people looking for tenants/roommates
Nørrebro, Vesterbro, Østerbro
Ørestad / Amager
Public housing associations with youth housing in Copenhagen
You often have to sign up here, but some have shorter waiting lists outside the city center:
- KAB-bolig.dk – Manages many social housing units in Copenhagen
- fsb.dk – Has both family housing and youth housing
- DABbolig.dk – Housing company with apartments throughout the country
- Bo-Vita.dk – Cohousing communities and social housing in Copenhagen
Subletting and Short-term Rentals
Many students start with a temporary place (e.g. subletting for 1-6 months), which can give them peace of mind to look for more permanent accommodation.
The following platforms are relevant:
- Uniplaces.com – Focus on temporary housing for students
- Sublet.com – International sublet homes
- BoligPortal.dk (sublet category) – Many posts about temporary rooms and apartments
Search Online
You can also find information by searching Google with these keywords:
- Available apartments
- Copenhagen Municipality
- Youth housing
- Find accommodation
Often, being in Copenhagen and talking to other students will help you find more opportunities. In our own experience, all students have found a place to live after the first month.
Checklist for your house hunt
Here we have gathered a number of concrete tips to help you get an overview and get started on your house hunt. It takes a little patience and initiative – but with the right tools and an active effort, it’s entirely possible to find accommodation in Copenhagen as a student.
- 1. Start in good time
Apply as soon as you've decided to study in Copenhagen - even if you haven't received final admission yet. - 2. Sign up in multiple locations
Portals like FindBolig.nu, CIU.dk, KAB-bolig.dk and KollegiernesKontor.dk have waiting lists - the earlier you sign up, the better. - 3. Think temporary and flexible
You may want to start with subletting or short-term rentals - many people find their permanent home once they arrive in the city. - 4. Consider living outside the city center
Districts like Valby, Brønshøj, Vanløse, Amager, Sydhavnen and surrounding municipalities like Glostrup, Rødovre, Herlev and Lyngby are often cheaper and have good train, metro and bus connections. - 5. Use networking and Facebook
Share with friends and family that you are looking for a home - and be active in Facebook groups. Many rooms are not officially announced. - 6. Check dormitories and student housing often
Some dormitories have sudden vacancies, especially around the start of the semester. Check their websites and contact them directly if possible. - 7. Avoid housing scams
Be critical of ads that seem too good to be true. Never pay a deposit until you've seen the property and received a rental contract. - 8. Use English language portals when needed
Portals like HousingAnywhere.com and Uniplaces.com are also used by Danish students - especially for temporary solutions. - 9. Consider living with others
Cohousing and collectives can be both socially and economically affordable. Check out Bofællesskab.dk, Roomies.dk or Kollektivet.dk. - 10. Talk to your fellow students
Some have a spare room, others move out and can recommend their place to others. Word of mouth often works better than housing portals.
The City
Byen
Copenhagen, the beautiful capital of Denmark, is not just a place of impressive historic buildings and a lively cultural scene. It is also a vibrant and dynamic student city that attracts students from all over the world. With a perfect blend of old charm and modern innovation, Copenhagen is a city that not only offers an education, but also a lifestyle.
Students in Copenhagen benefit from a unique balance between academic excellence and quality of life. The city’s bicycle-friendly infrastructure, green parks, cultural events and iconic canals provide an atmosphere of harmony and well-being. At the same time, Copenhagen is known for its progressive and inclusive culture, which makes it easy for international students to feel at home.
The multicultural environment in Copenhagen helps to create an enriching experience for students. Interacting with fellow students from different backgrounds opens doors to intercultural understanding and friendships across borders. The city’s creative and innovative vibe also becomes a source of inspiration for students in art, design and entrepreneurship.
Copenhagen is not only a place to study, but also a source of personal growth and adventure. The city’s cafes, restaurants, galleries and theaters offer an endless range of experiences that enrich student life. From the cobbled streets of the inner city to the modern neighborhoods like Ørestad, there is always something new to explore.
Culture
As a student at SAFD in Copenhagen, you open the door to a city rich in cultural experiences and opportunities. Copenhagen, with its unique mix of history, art, architecture and dynamic modern lifestyle, is a study city like no other.
Art lovers will find themselves in paradise when they explore the city’s many art museums and galleries. From the impressive SMK (Statens Museum for Kunst), which houses an impressive collection of Danish and international art, to the avant-garde Louisiana Museum of Modern Art on the coast, you will be deeply inspired by the various artistic expressions.
Copenhagen is also known for its impressive architecture, ranging from medieval structures to modern masterpieces. Take a walk around the city and you will experience the beautiful mix of old and new, including iconic buildings such as The Little Mermaid, Round Tower and the futuristic BLOX.
The music scene is an important part of Copenhagen’s culture. The city offers concerts in a wide range of genres, from classical music in the Koncerthuset to alternative concerts at Vega and jazz in Jazzhus Montmartre. You will always find a place to enjoy live music and discover new talents.
Copenhagen is also known for its thriving theater and theater scene. From the Royal Theater to smaller alternative venues, there is always a performance to look forward to, whether you are interested in drama, dance or comedy.
In addition, Copenhagen offers a number of festivals, events and cultural happenings all year round. From the colorful and festive Pride Week to the night of culture, when the city opens its doors to cultural institutions and events at night – there is always something exciting to take part in.
Overall, Copenhagen is a student city that offers a unique mix of culture, art and lifestyle. Whether you want to explore museums, attend concerts, enjoy theater performances or simply wander through the city’s charming streets, Copenhagen will always have something to offer you as a student at SAFD.
Food and drink culture
The food and drink culture in Copenhagen is an experience in itself. The city is known for its many restaurants, which range from traditional Danish dishes to international culinary experiences. Here you will be enriched with a food and drink culture that reflects the city’s diversity and creativity. The Danish capital is known for its mix of traditional dishes and modern gastronomy, which gives you a unique experience as a student.
As a student, you will also discover that Copenhagen is home to a growing scene of street food markets. Places like Reffen and Paper Island (Papirøen) offer a diverse selection of food from around the world, perfect for meeting up with friends and enjoying different culinary experiences.
As for drinking culture, Copenhagen is home to a lively coffee and tea scene. You can enjoy a cup of quality coffee or explore a wide selection of teas in the many cozy cafes around the city. And when it comes to the evening, Copenhagen has a rich selection of bars and clubs where you can enjoy everything from classic cocktails to local craft beers.
Overall, Copenhagen gives you as a student a unique opportunity to explore an exciting food and drink culture. Regardless of whether you are into traditional Danish dishes or international culinary experiences, you will find that Copenhagen has something for every taste – a perfect way to enrich your student life at SAFD.
Fitness and Training
As a student at SAFD, you not only get access to an enriching education in the world of fashion, but also to a wide range of training opportunities that can help keep both body and mind in balance. Copenhagen is known for being a bicycle-friendly city with many parks and recreational areas that allow you to maintain an active lifestyle.
With SAFD’s location in the heart of the city, you have easy access to gyms, yoga studios, jogging paths and outdoor training facilities. Whether you prefer to exercise indoors or enjoy the fresh air, you will find options to suit your preferences.
If you are interested in traditional exercise, there are several gyms and exercise studios nearby that offer a wide variety of exercise classes and equipment. From strength training to cardio and crossfit, there is something for everyone.
For those looking for more peace and contemplation, Copenhagen also offers a multitude of yoga studios. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, you’ll find classes to fit your experience level and schedule. Yoga is not only good for the body but also for the mind and can help reduce stress and improve your creativity.
Copenhagen is also known for its beautiful parks and scenic areas that are ideal for outdoor exercise. Go for a run along the lakes or in one of the city’s many parks, and enjoy the beautiful nature while keeping fit.
As a student at SAFD, you have a busy schedule, but it is important to find time to take care of your health and well-being. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just want to stay active, Copenhagen will give you access to a wide range of exercise options that can help you stay balanced and have the energy to explore the exciting world of fashion and design.
Nightlife
Nightlife in Copenhagen as a student at SAFD is an experience that combines vibrant energy with stylish creativity. As a city known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere and diversity, Copenhagen offers a nightlife that perfectly suits the fashion-conscious and artistic souls at SAFD.
After a day of creative challenges and teachable moments at SAFD, you step out into a city that never sleeps. Copenhagen is known for its trendy clubs, cozy bars and lively music scenes. Whether you’re into electronic music, live bands or intimate jam sessions, you’ll find something to suit your taste.
Students at SAFD often like to explore the creative neighborhoods like Vesterbro and Nørrebro, where you can find everything from small art galleries to underground clubs. When it comes to fashion, Copenhagen is also home to a thriving street scene that constantly challenges convention.
But Copenhagen nightlife isn’t just about parties and fashion. The city also offers a range of cultural events at night, from art exhibitions and theater performances to film screenings and debates. This allows students at SAFD to enrich their creative perspectives and find inspiration outside the school walls.
Whether you prefer to dance the night away, discuss design concepts over a cocktail or get immersed in the city’s cultural scene, Copenhagen as a student at SAFD has something for everyone. The city becomes a nocturnal playground where you can explore, socialize and be inspired by all it has to offer.
Reading- and Workspots
As a student in Copenhagen, you are lucky enough to have access to a city full of inspiring and cozy study and workspots. Whether you prefer a quiet café, a green park or a modern library, Copenhagen has something for everyone. Here are some of the best study and workspots to help you immerse yourself in your studies and find the right inspiration:
- The King’s Garden: This historic park in the middle of the city is the perfect place to settle down with a book or a computer. The greenery and beautiful surroundings create a calm atmosphere ideal for concentration.
- Danish Architecture Center: If you like modern and inspiring surroundings, the Danish Architecture Center is a great place to study. You can find stylish seating with views of the harbor and city skyline.
- Reffen: This creative waterfront food market also has some great reading and workspots. Find a seat overlooking the water and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as you dive into your reading or work.
- Kaffehus Apoteket: A cozy café in the city center that exudes history and charm. Here you can enjoy a good cup of coffee and find a corner to read and work.
- The Royal Library: This impressive library building is a mecca for students. With a wide selection of books and resources as well as modern facilities, you’ll find plenty of quiet corners for study.
- Café Paludan: An iconic café in Copenhagen that combines books and coffee. The shelves are filled with books and you can find a cozy space to relax and study.
- Botanical Garden: This is not only a beautiful garden, but also a great place to study. You can find a bench or lawn and enjoy the tranquility of nature while you work.
- Laundromat Café: With its relaxed atmosphere and walls filled with books, this is the café that feels like home. Enjoy a cup of coffee and immerse yourself in your studies.
Wherever you end up settling down, Copenhagen is full of inspiring places that will help you get the most out of your study experience at SAFD. Look forward to exploring the city and finding your favorite reading and workspots.
Transport
Transport
As a student at SAFD, a world of transportation options open up to you, making it easy and convenient to explore the city and get to school. Copenhagen is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, public transport options and pedestrian-friendly streets that allow you to navigate the city in the way that suits you best.
Cycling is one of the most popular and characteristic forms of transport in Copenhagen. The city was designed with cyclists in mind, and you’ll find well-marked cycle paths that make getting around on two wheels safe and easy. Many students at SAFD choose the bicycle as their preferred means of transport, as it is not only practical, but also a great way to experience the city’s streets and atmosphere.
The public transport system in Copenhagen is also extremely efficient and comprehensive. With a combination of metro, buses and S-train, you are never far from a transport option that takes you to SAFD. This is especially useful if you live a little further away from the school or want to explore different areas of the city. With a valid student card, you can get a discount on public transport tickets, making it affordable for students to get around.
If you prefer to walk, you will also find Copenhagen very pedestrian-friendly. Many of the city’s attractions, cafes and shops are within walking distance, and it’s a great way to experience the city’s charm and beauty.
In addition to these transportation options, Copenhagen also offers shared cars and taxis, giving you the flexibility to choose the best way to get around depending on your needs and schedule.
Whether you prefer to cycle, take public transport or walk, you will find that as a student at SAFD, you are at the heart of a city designed to be easily explored. The transport options in Copenhagen give you the freedom to enjoy everything the city has to offer, while you can easily get to and from your creative education at SAFD.
Youth Card
With a youth card, you have a little less to think about. You can travel unlimitedly by bus, train and metro to and from SAFD and wherever you live.
Rental Bike
Rent a bicycle or e-bike at Swapfiets with double lock and service for a fixed monthly amount. Possibility of a student discount.
Rejsekort
Rejsekort is an electronic ticket system for public transport that you can use to travel by bus, train and metro throughout the country.