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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Brussels?

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 Brussels 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 laid-back, progressive, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brussels

Brussels is a multicultural, historic, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen and Brussels: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Brussels?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels. Although Copenhagen and Brussels are popular destinations, Brussels has more sights and attractions for tourists. Brussels is very popular for its big city activities, while Copenhagen attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and impressive beauty. Copenhagen is famous for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Copenhagen different from Brussels?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Brussels 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 Brussels?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Copenhagen and Brussels.

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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

Copenhagen is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Copenhagen, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Brussels has a huge number of terrific restaurants. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Is Copenhagen or Brussels Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Copenhagen or Brussels Better for its Old Town?

Both Copenhagen and Brussels have very good historic old towns worth visiting.

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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Brussels?

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Copenhagen and Brussels.

Known for shopping, Copenhagen draws large crowds to its 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.

Brussels is a world class destination for shoppers. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Is Copenhagen or Brussels Better for Families?

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

With a huge array of activities for kids, Copenhagen is very family-friendly. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Brussels is very family-friendly. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Is Copenhagen or Brussels Better for Couples?

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

Copenhagen is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Is Copenhagen or Brussels Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen and Brussels are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

Brussels is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Is Copenhagen or Brussels Better for Students?

Both Copenhagen and Brussels are very good destinations for 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.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

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

Visitors will find fantastic public transit in both Copenhagen and Brussels.

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

Public transit in Brussels is top-notch. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

Is Copenhagen or Brussels a more walkable city?

Copenhagen is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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.

Brussels is a very walkable city. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Brussels or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Brussels?

In either Copenhagen or Brussels, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Copenhagen has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Copenhagen than Brussels. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 1-5 days is enough time in Brussels.

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Brussels. 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 Brussels. 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 Brussels 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.

One day in Copenhagen or Brussels?

The beautiful city of Copenhagen offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

When visiting Brussels, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brussels, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Brussels?

Copenhagen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Copenhagen, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

When visiting Brussels, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Copenhagen or Brussels?

Copenhagen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Copenhagen, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Brussels, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Copenhagen or Brussels?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Brussels is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Brussels?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Brussels, 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 Brussels?

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 Brussels in the Summer?

Both Brussels and Copenhagen during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Copenhagen is generally around the same temperature as Brussels. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 17°C (63°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in July than Brussels. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Brussels in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Brussels. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Copenhagen is cooler than Brussels in the autumn. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Brussels fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In October, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Brussels. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Brussels in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Brussels. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Brussels can be very cold during winter. Copenhagen can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Copenhagen is much colder than Brussels. Typically, the winter temperatures in Copenhagen in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Brussels averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in January than Brussels. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Brussels in the Spring?

Both Brussels and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city.

In April, Copenhagen is generally cooler than Brussels. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 7°C (45°F), and Brussels fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In April, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Brussels. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Brussels receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Brussels and Copenhagen