Organize your stay Copenhagen
Money Copenhagen
The official currency is the Danish krone, DKK or Kr. Danish coins have featured a crown since 1234, but the name was not officially used until 1600, during the reign of Christian IV. The first banknotes appeared in 1913. In a referendum, the decision was made not to use the euro. Nevertheless, the Danish krone is part of ERM II, so its exchange rate is linked to that of the euro, with a fluctuation band of 2.25%.
You'll be handling banknotes of 500, 200, 100 and 50 DKK and coins of 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20 DKK or 20 and 50 øre. The crown is divided into 100 øre.
The exchange rate is fixed: €1 = DKK 7.46 and DKK 1 = €0.13.
Commission charges apply to withdrawals and purchases in DKK. Ask your bank for details. You'll find cash dispensers and exchange offices as soon as you arrive in Copenhagen, notably after the baggage reclaim area, towards the exit of the airport hall.
Budget & Tips Copenhagen
Life is expensive in Denmark in general and in Copenhagen in particular. As far as accommodation is concerned, youth hostels are the best way to keep your budget in check, costing around €35 for a bed in a dormitory. Otherwise, expect to pay a minimum of €120 for a double room in a hotel.
An interesting offer at the hotel: the "breakfast included" package. Breakfast is served as a buffet. They are very hearty, and offer both savory and sweet dishes. Like our Danish friends, you should opt for this meal, so that a snack is sufficient at lunchtime.
The average restaurant meal costs €40 per person. Water in a carafe is not offered, as is not customary here, and wine is a more expensive beverage than in France.
Passport and visas Copenhagen
As an E.U. member country, there are no special formalities for European nationals; however, you must have a valid identity card, especially if you are arriving by air. Likewise, your identity papers will come in handy in the event of a problem.
Remember to photocopy or scan them, as this can be very useful in the event of loss or theft.
Driver's license Copenhagen
The French nationaldriving license is accepted in Denmark. Before taking to the road, please consult the website of the French Embassy in Denmark for information on driving regulations (https://dk.ambafrance.org/Permis-de-conduire-au-Danemark)
The minimum age forrenting a car is 19, and the driver's license must have been issued more than one year previously.
A deferred debit credit card imprint, in the name of the main driver, will be required as a deposit when you pick up the vehicle (your credit card must be marked "credit"), along with your identity papers (passport or ID card). Before renting, make sure you have the necessary credit limit on the credit card that will be in the driver's name, in order to secure the deposit for the rental company: from DKK 5,000 depending on the category of vehicle chosen.
Health Copenhagen
In the event of illness or accident during your stay, be sure to take your European Health Insurance Card with you. You can apply for this card directly from AMELI or via their online website (www.ameli.fr/assure/adresses-et-contacts/lobtention-dun-document/commander-une-carte-europeenne-dassurance-maladie-ceam). It will enable you to be reimbursed for treatment and medication.
Special features in Denmark: treatment in Danish hospitals is free for visiting foreigners. However, if you wish to visit a doctor on duty, you will have to pay cash on the spot.
If you have a Visa or Mastercard credit card, your contract includes health insurance and medical repatriation assistance for stays of less than 90 days. Check conditions with your bank.
Security Copenhagen
There's no particular danger in Copenhagen, and it's very pleasant to feel safe. Denmark has the reputation of being one of the safest countries in the world. There is no such thing as zero risk, so be careful with your belongings. Pickpockets do exist, as they do in all the world's major cities, and operate in stations and on public transport.
The website of Frenchembassies and consulates provides a wealth of useful information. https://dk.ambafrance.org
Spoken languages Copenhagen
The official language is Danish. English is the second language spoken in Denmark, and is compulsory at school. Websites are systematically available in the language of Shakespeare, but the language of Molière is not yet well established. So if you're fluent in Danish, all the better!
Communication Copenhagen
You can use your mobile phone with complete peace of mind, at no extra cost since 2017. Wifi is everywhere and 4G is going pretty well.
Electricity and measurements Copenhagen
Here, no difference. 220 volts and plugs identical to the rest of Europe. Same for the measuring system. It's just like at home!
Luggage Copenhagen
Take along the basics that will guarantee an unforgettable stay, i.e. an umbrella or rain hat. Rubber boots are also a good idea, as a little drizzle is always a possibility, especially in autumn. You'll also need good walking shoes, as the city can be covered on foot and there are many cobblestones, as well as clothing suitable for snow. In winter, don't forget your gloves and a hat. It's better for cycling when temperatures start to cool. In summer, travel lighter and take along some sunglasses, as the sun's rays are bright!
