City Ambassadors program

City Ambassadors and Tips

Aalborg

Aarhus

About the city

Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city, is a welcoming and dynamic place known for its strong academic community, vibrant cultural life, and seaside charm. Often called “The City of Smiles,” Aarhus blends history and modernity, from the colorful streets of the Latin Quarter to the cutting-edge architecture of Dokk1. It’s a city made for biking, with easy access to nature, forests, and clean urban beaches. Whether you’re exploring the ARoS Art Museum’s rainbow rooftop, wandering through Den Gamle By (The Old Town), or enjoying sea views from Salling Rooftop, Aarhus offers something for everyone. As a university city with a youthful, international vibe, it’s a great place to live, study, and connect.

What you need to know

English is widely spoken, but learning a few Danish phrases like Hej (Hello), Tak (Thank you), or Undskyld (Excuse me) is always appreciated. To access healthcare, banking, and most public services, you’ll need to register for a CPR number—Aarhus University’s International Centre will guide you through this process. The city has excellent public transport and extensive bike paths. Denmark has a high cost of living, so budgeting is important, especially in your first months. Be prepared for changing weather—rain jackets and bike lights are everyday essentials!

Tips for newcomers

Getting connected early makes a big difference. We recommend joining Aarhus Internationals or Aarhus Girl Gone International (for women) on Facebook—both are vibrant communities where you can find social events, housing tips, and friendship. You can also explore AU’s newcomer events, international cafés, and Danish language courses (for free). For weekend outings, check out the Moesgaard Museum, Marselisborg Deer Park, the Botanical Garden, or nearby Mols Bjerge National Park. Aarhus is a city that welcomes you with open arms—and a smile.

Copenhagen

About the city

Copenhagen is Denmark’s capital and a leading hub for innovation, research, and sustainability.  Almost one third of Denmark's population lives in the Great Copenhagen area, and most of the country Universities are located in the area (either with the main campus or an extension campus). Known for its high quality of life and work-life balance, Copenhagen is ideal for living, working, and networking.

What you need to know

Copenhagen concentrates most of MCAA Denmark Chapter members. Therefore, most of the MCAA events are also held around the city.

Tips for newcomers

Besides MCAA events, there are many opportunities for learning more about life in the city and in Denmark. Try checking the International House Copenhagen, Studenterhuset, Folkehuset Absalon, among other places. 

For transport, although most tourists use DOT app, you can usually get cheaper tickets for public transport by registering the Rejsekort app or DSB app. 

For any interest you have (from football to disk golf, from singing to cup stacking), there is a club in Copenhagen. Clubs are a great way to get to meet new people and specially locals.

Odense

About the city

Odense is the third biggest Danish city. A well rounded city for families. It is the city of origin of H. C. Andersen.

What you need to know

Odense is quite in the middle between Aarhus and Copenhagen and, despite being a positive side allowing to reach easily these two cities, sometimes lacks non family-oriented events.

Tips for newcomers

Odense offers still nice opportunities: check Studenterhus, Posten, and Storms Pakhus for events and concerts