A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Copenhagen vs. Alesund for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Copenhagen or Alesund?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Copenhagen and Alesund 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.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a happy, welcoming, and relaxed city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Alesund

Alesund is a welcoming, friendly, and scenic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen and Alesund: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Alesund?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Copenhagen. Although Copenhagen and Alesund are popular destinations, Copenhagen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Copenhagen is famous for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also well known for Tivoli Gardens. Alesund is famous for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords.

How is Copenhagen different from Alesund?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Copenhagen
Alesund

Copenhagen is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Copenhagen offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Alesund offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.


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

Copenhagen
Alesund

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Copenhagen is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Alesund has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

Is Copenhagen or Alesund Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Alesund

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to Copenhagen just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Alesund. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and live music venues.

Is Copenhagen or Alesund Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Alesund

Copenhagen is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Alesund does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Copenhagen. 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.

Alesund does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Alesund?

Copenhagen
Alesund

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Copenhagen is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alesund. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Copenhagen or Alesund Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Alesund

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Copenhagen is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Alesund is a family-friendly city. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.

Is Copenhagen or Alesund Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Alesund

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Copenhagen makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Alesund makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.


Is Copenhagen or Alesund Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Alesund

Copenhagen is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Copenhagen. 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.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.

Is Copenhagen or Alesund Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Alesund

Copenhagen is a well-known place for students. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Plenty of students visit Alesund. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.

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

Copenhagen
Alesund

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Copenhagen can get you around easily. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

Alesund has some public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.


Is Copenhagen or Alesund a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Alesund

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Alesund is a somewhat walkable place. The city center can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Alesund or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Alesund?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Copenhagen and Alesund. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Copenhagen than in Alesund. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 2-3 days is enough time in Alesund.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Copenhagen than Alesund 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 Copenhagen or Alesund? Ideal Length of Stay
    Copenhagen 2-5 
    Alesund 2-3

One day in Copenhagen or Alesund?

In Copenhagen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the laid back city of Alesund, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Alesund?

In Copenhagen, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Copenhagen has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Alesund, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Copenhagen or Alesund?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Copenhagen has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Alesund, a popular city, 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.

A week in Copenhagen or Alesund?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Copenhagen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Alesund 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Alesund or Copenhagen?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Copenhagen is $208, while the average daily cost in Alesund is $99. 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 Copenhagen and Alesund in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $89
    Alesund $53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $178
    Alesund $106
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Alesund

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Alesund? 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 Copenhagen


Hotels in Alesund


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.
    Copenhagen $71
    Alesund $25
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Copenhagen

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


  • Bicycle Renting
    $61

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Copenhagen

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

  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen Port to Roskilde Airport RKE: $61
  • Private Transfer from Roskilde Airport (RKE) to Copenhagen Port: $61
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen Hotels to Copenhagen Port: $63
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen hotel/address: $63
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen Hotels to Copenhagen Airport: $66
  • Copenhagen City to Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE)- Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE)- Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $79
  • Copenhagen hotel/address to Copenhagen Port - Departure Private Transfer: $79
  • Kastrup hotel or address to Malmö City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $103
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $103

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alesund

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alesund:

  • Tour from Alesund to Trollstigen Land of Trolls with Transfer: $149
  • Private Transfer from Molde Cruise Port to Alesund City Hotels: $58
  • Private Transfer from Alesund hotels to Geiranger Cruise Port: $185
  • Private Transfer from Alesund city hotels to Maloy Cruise Port: $58
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Vigra Airport (AES) to Molde Port: $37
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Cruise Port to Alesund City Hotels: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Alesund Cruise Port: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Maloy Cruise Port: $58
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Geiranger Port: $185
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer To and From Airport in Ålesund: $71

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Alesund?

Prices for flights to both Alesund and Copenhagen 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
    Copenhagen $61
    Alesund $30
Typical Food Prices in Copenhagen

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


  • Hot Dogs
    $14

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Copenhagen

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $33
  • Food Tour in Multi-Cultural Nørrebro District: $91
  • Copenhagen Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $125
  • The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour: $146
  • Private Authentic Home Indian Cooking & Dining Experience: $146
  • The 10 Tastings of Copenhagen Private Food Tour: $218

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Copenhagen $31
    Alesund $16
Typical Entertainment Prices in Copenhagen

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


  • Boat Tour
    $8.56
  • Coffee
    $14

Tours and Activities in Copenhagen

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Danish Design: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Monstour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Danish Folk Legends: $5.20
  • Danish Design: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Tour of the Danish Resistance during World War II: $5.32
  • App-Based City Exploration Game & Tour: $5.33
  • Castle Island’s Royal History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Slotsholmen: $5.99
  • The Philosopher's Last Walk: An audio tour on the life of Søren Kierkegaard: $5.99
  • Royal History Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Danish Folk Legends Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Copenhagen's Royal History: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Tour: $6.93

Tours and Activities in Alesund

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Alesund are as follows:

  • Ålesund Round Trip – A Great Kayak Adventure: $186
  • Ålesund Sightseeing and Viking Saga Islands: $101
  • Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour: $42
  • 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Audio-Guided Tour in Alesund : $42
  • 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway: $111
  • Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour: $125
  • City Sightseeing Alesund Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $45
  • E-bike And Hiking Tour In Ålesund: $139
  • Fjord Paddle in Hellesylt - Half Day Kayaking Tour: $121
  • Fjordcruise Ålesund Geirangerfjord T/R: $163
  • Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord: $55
  • Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $13
    Alesund $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Copenhagen

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

  • Alternative Nightlife Pub Crawl: $36
  • Guided Party Pub Crawl with 4 Shots and 1 Drink: $43
  • Danish Wine Tasting Tour with Guide in Copenhagen Nyhavn: $357


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Copenhagen and Alesund, we can see that Copenhagen is more expensive. And not only is Alesund much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alesund would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alesund 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 Alesund.

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Alesund?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Alesund. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Alesund, 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 Copenhagen or Alesund?

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 Copenhagen or Alesund in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Alesund. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Alesund in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Copenhagen is generally a little warmer than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 17°C (63°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in July than Alesund. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Alesund 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Alesund in the Autumn?

Both Alesund and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Alesund for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Copenhagen is a little warmer than Alesund in the autumn. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Alesund fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Alesund. In October, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Alesund. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F) 
    Alesund 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Alesund in the Winter?

Both Alesund and Copenhagen during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Alesund because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Alesund can be very cold. Copenhagen can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Copenhagen is much colder than Alesund. Typically, the winter temperatures in Copenhagen in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Alesund averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Alesund gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Copenhagen usually gets less rain in January than Alesund. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F) 
    Alesund 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Alesund in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Alesund. The spring months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Alesund this time of year.

It's quite cold in Alesund in the spring. In April, Copenhagen is generally much warmer than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 7°C (45°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

In April, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Alesund. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F) 
    Alesund 5°C (40°F)

Typical Weather for Alesund and Copenhagen

Copenhagen Alesund
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 188 mm (7.4 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (42°F) 187 mm (7.4 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (38°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)