Moving to Copenhagen

A First Timer's Guide on Moving to Copenhagen

Moving to a foreign city where a different language is spoken and a completely new way of life awaits can be daunting. Whether it's adapting to a new workplace, making friends, learning the language, or understanding the locals, be prepared for an adventure and sometimes a stressful experience.

Copenhagen is unique, proud, somewhat entitled, and aesthetically pleasing.

This guide offers tips on how to adapt and thrive while working and living in the Danish capital:

Cycling: Purchase a bike and ride contentedly but adhere to the laws – wait at traffic lights, use hand signals and your bell, and stay on the right unless overtaking. Copenhagen has numerous stores selling both new and second-hand bikes, and several local websites advertise bicycles.

Respect others’ privacy: Everyone has the right to be themselves and do as they please. Danes value privacy and are wary of intrusive questions. Don't fret about small talk – be direct and truthful. Danes appreciate honesty irrespective of gender, class, or ethnicity.

Weather: In Denmark, there's no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. This Danish saying rings especially true in winter when many Danes prefer wearing black to match their mood.

Socialising: If you want to meet people, introduce yourself politely; Danes rarely initiate introductions as it's seen as an intrusion of privacy.

Modesty: Avoid appearing more important or knowledgeable than others (Janteloven). Also, don't be overly demonstrative of happiness, as Danes may view this with suspicion.

Appreciate Danish life: Danes take pride in their way of life and genuinely believe they do things better than anyone else. Appreciate their exceptional design in furniture, jewellery, crockery, and fashion.

Respect cultural norms: Avoid interfering with Danish customs like leaving babies in prams outside cafes (even in winter), children not giving up seats for the elderly on public transport (considered disrespectful), or expecting immediate service without manners (Danish lacks an official word for 'please').

Expressing emotions: Danes openly display their moods in public, at work, and at home, much like they're comfortable sharing many aspects of their lives in public.

Small talk: When asking a Dane "how are you?" be prepared for a detailed response. In Danish society, this question is literal and invites a thorough answer starting with 'well, actually...'

Once you get to know them, Danes are incredibly friendly and reliable. Breaking into Danish social circles may take months or even years, but once accepted, expect invitations to everything.

The contrast between seasons in Denmark can be stark. In summer, Copenhagen blooms as locals gather in gardens, canals, and outdoor cafes and bars, revelling in newfound happiness, freedom, and delight.

For much of the year, Copenhagen is grey, dark, and cold – a reality Danes embrace by 'hibernating' in the comfort of their homes (learn about the concept of 'hygge'). Winter spirits are lifted by celebrations like the Winter Solstice and the Danish tradition of Fastelavn, where a piñata filled with sweets replaces the historic cat-in-barrel custom.

In Danish society, standing out or claiming superiority over others is frowned upon. Wellbeing, fairness, and collective achievements are celebrated, while individual accomplishments and recognition are discouraged. For instance, Danish schools rarely award individual certificates.

Janteloven or the Law of Jante underpins Scandinavian societal beliefs. While Danes believe it's less influential today, its principles still influence daily life in Denmark.