A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Copenhagen for Food, Families, Couples, and Old Town

Should you visit Cesis or Copenhagen?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Copenhagen can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a quaint, small, and authentic town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a laid-back, progressive, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cesis and Copenhagen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cesis or Copenhagen?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Copenhagen than Cesis, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Copenhagen is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cesis is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Copenhagen is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. Also, Copenhagen is famous for Tivoli Gardens. Cesis is well known for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Copenhagen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Copenhagen and Cesis. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cesis or Copenhagen?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Copenhagen is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Copenhagen. There are many sights and landmarks around town including Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn Harbor, and The Round Tower. Some of the most popular museums are the National Museum of Denmark and the National Gallery of Denmark.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cesis or Copenhagen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Copenhagen is renowned for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Copenhagen have been singled out for their culinary prowess. In recent years the celebrity food scene has put this city on the map. There are many Michelin star restaurants around town including the world famous Noma. But there's also a diversity of restaurants to choose from, ranging from elegant, award-winning options to cozy local eateries. Danish food includes a lot of pastries and sandwiches. Make sure you try a rød pølse, or local hot dog from one of the many stands around town.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Copenhagen Better for Nightlife?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Copenhagen is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Copenhagen is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene stays active until the early morning hours with many bars and clubs staying open until 5 or 6 in the morning. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Istedgade and EnghavePlads in Vesterbro, Sankt Hans Torv in Nørrebro and some areas around Frederiksberg.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Copenhagen Better for its Old Town?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Copenhagen is well known for its old town. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

Copenhagen is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Indre By is the oldest part of the city and where you'll find most of the sights and attractions. This is where most visitors stay and you'll find many great restaurants and activities to enjoy.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.


Is Cesis or Copenhagen Better for Hiking?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Cesis is a town with good options for its hiking trails. However, Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Cesis. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Copenhagen?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Copenhagen is renowned for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Copenhagen make it a world-class shopping destination. Design and style is notorious with Danish culture. You'll find many great local boutique or fashion design shops in town. Købmagergade is one of the busiest and most famous shopping streets in town, but you should also visit the street parallel to it, Pilestræde.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or Copenhagen Better for Families?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Copenhagen is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city almost feels like it was designed with kids in mind. There are countless playgrounds, beaches, and other kid-friendly places to explore. Also make sure you stop by Tivoli Gardens, which has rides and rollercoasters that everyone can enjoy. The city also has an aquarium, zoo, and even a deer park. The Little Mermaid statue may fascinate Disney lovers, and if you want to get out on the water there are boat tours through the canals.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.


Is Cesis or Copenhagen Better for Couples?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Copenhagen is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Copenhagen is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city is filled with a positive energy that will rejuvenate any couple. You can hire a bike or hop on a boat to explore town, or simply wander through the cobblestone streets. There are many parks and gardens to explore and culture lovers will appreciate the many museums.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Is Cesis or Copenhagen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Copenhagen is well known for backpackers. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Copenhagen is a great city to visit for backpackers. While the city is expensive, there are still plenty of free things to do like simply wandering the neighborhoods. The city has a relaxed and friendly vibe that will almost make you forget all of the money you're spending.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Is Cesis or Copenhagen Better for Students?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Copenhagen is well known for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Copenhagen. The city has a reputation as the happiest in the world, and students are no exception. There are plenty of activities for students as well as a relaxed, yet productive, atmosphere. It's easy to explore the town on foot or by bike as well.

Cesis is not popular with students.


Is Cesis or Copenhagen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Copenhagen is renowned for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Copenhagen has a great public transit system. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Copenhagen a more walkable city?

Cesis
Copenhagen

Copenhagen is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Copenhagen on foot is easy. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but there are also plenty of bikes available as well.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Cesis Worth Visiting? and Is Copenhagen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Copenhagen or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Copenhagen?

In either Cesis or Copenhagen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Copenhagen than Cesis because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 2-5 days is enough time in Copenhagen.

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Cesis. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Copenhagen, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Copenhagen than Cesis. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Copenhagen that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Copenhagen than Cesis if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Copenhagen.


  • How many days in Cesis or Copenhagen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cesis 1-2 
    Copenhagen 2-5

One day in Cesis or Copenhagen?

Cesis might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cesis, one day is sufficent for most.

In Copenhagen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this relaxed destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.


A weekend in Cesis or Copenhagen?

Even though Cesis is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cesis or Copenhagen?

Cesis, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Copenhagen is a fun place to experience. In Copenhagen, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Cesis or Copenhagen?

Cesis is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Copenhagen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark.


Which place is cheaper, Copenhagen or Cesis?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cesis is €108, while the average daily cost in Copenhagen is €194. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cesis and Copenhagen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cesis 47
    Copenhagen 84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cesis 94
    Copenhagen 168
Compare Hotels in Cesis and Copenhagen

Looking for a hotel in Cesis or Copenhagen? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cesis


Hotels in Copenhagen


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Copenhagen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cesis 30
    Copenhagen 67

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Copenhagen

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Copenhagen:


  • Bicycle Renting
    57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Copenhagen

Also for Copenhagen, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $210
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $81
  • Copenhagen Port, Airport & City Private Transfer: $127
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE) to Copenhagen - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $155
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE) to Copenhagen Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • Copenhagen hotel or address to Malmö City - Private Round-Trip Transfer: $258
  • Copenhagen hotel/address to Copenhagen Port - Departure Private Transfer: $81
  • Departure Transfer: Copenhagen to Airport CPH by Luxuy Van: $135
  • Kastrup hotel or address to Malmö City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • Kastrup hotel/address to Malmö City - Private Arrival Transfer: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Cesis or Copenhagen?

Prices for flights to both Copenhagen and Cesis change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cesis 41
    Copenhagen 57
Typical Food Prices in Cesis

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Cesis:


  • Lunch in town for two
    6.67

Typical Food Prices in Copenhagen

For Copenhagen, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Hot Dogs
    13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Copenhagen

For Copenhagen, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour: $150
  • Private Authentic Home Indian Cooking & Dining Experience: $150
  • The Award-Winning PRIVATE Copenhagen Food Tour: 6 or 10 Tastings: $168

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cesis 16
    Copenhagen 29

Typical Entertainment Prices in Copenhagen

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Copenhagen's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Boat Tour
    8.00
  • Coffee
    13

Tours and Activities in Copenhagen

For Copenhagen, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Christiania Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.75
  • Monstour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Danish Folk Legends: $5.20
  • Danish Design: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Castle Island’s Royal History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Slotsholmen: $5.99
  • Copenhagen's Royal History: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • The Philosopher's Last Walk: An audio tour on the life of Søren Kierkegaard: $5.99
  • Copenhagen Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Boat Tour on Lake Fureso, Denmark's deepest lake : $15
  • Bagsværd Lake Boat Tour : $15
  • Boat Tour on Lyngby Lake, outside of Copenhagen: $15
  • Copenhagen Sightseeing Classic Canal Tour With Live Guide: $21
  • Small Group Tour Copenhagen Hygge and Highlights: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cesis 17
    Copenhagen 12

Sample the Local Flavors in Copenhagen

Also in Copenhagen, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Copenhagen: $45


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cesis and Copenhagen, we can see that Copenhagen is more expensive. And not only is Cesis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cesis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cesis and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Copenhagen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Copenhagen than you might in Cesis.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cesis Expensive? and Is Copenhagen Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cesis or Copenhagen?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Cesis. When comparing the sizes of Cesis and Copenhagen, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Cesis or Copenhagen?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cesis or Copenhagen in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Copenhagen. The summer months attract visitors to Cesis because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year.

Cesis is around the same temperature as Copenhagen in the summer. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Copenhagen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Cesis usually gets more rain in July than Copenhagen. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cesis 17°C (63°F) 
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Copenhagen in the Autumn?

Both Copenhagen and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cesis is cooler than Copenhagen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cesis in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Copenhagen averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In October, Cesis usually receives around the same amount of rain as Copenhagen. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cesis 7°C (45°F) 
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Copenhagen in the Winter?

Both Copenhagen and Cesis during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cesis for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Copenhagen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Copenhagen can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Cesis. In January, Cesis is generally much colder than Copenhagen. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around -5°C (23°F), and Copenhagen fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in January than Copenhagen. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cesis -5°C (23°F) 
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Cesis or Copenhagen in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Copenhagen. Many visitors come to Cesis in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Copenhagen for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Cesis is cooler than Copenhagen in the spring. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Copenhagen fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In April, Cesis usually receives around the same amount of rain as Copenhagen. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cesis 5°C (42°F) 
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Copenhagen and Cesis

Cesis Copenhagen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -5°C (23°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb -4°C (24°F) 25 mm (1 in) 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in)
Mar -0°C (31°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 16°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 7°C (45°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 2°C (36°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec -2°C (28°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)