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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Budapest?

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 Budapest 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 beautiful, laid-back, and progressive city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Budapest

Budapest is a historic, authentic, and bustling city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Copenhagen and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Budapest?

You'll generally find more things to do in Budapest than Copenhagen. Budapest is bigger than Copenhagen, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Budapest is better known for its big city activities, while Copenhagen is more popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Budapest is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. Also, Budapest is famous for The Hungarian Parliament Building. Copenhagen is well known for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population.

How is Copenhagen different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Budapest. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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

Copenhagen is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Copenhagen has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Copenhagen or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Copenhagen is a must-see party destination. 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.

Budapest has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Copenhagen or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Both Copenhagen and Budapest have superb 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 Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Budapest?

Copenhagen is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Copenhagen or Budapest Better for Families?

Copenhagen is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Copenhagen or Budapest Better for Couples?

Copenhagen is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Copenhagen 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.

Budapest is a very popular place to visit for couples. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Copenhagen or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Copenhagen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Budapest is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Copenhagen is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Copenhagen or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Copenhagen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Budapest is a very popular city for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Many students visit 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.

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

Visitors will find amazing public transit in both Copenhagen and Budapest.

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

Public transit in Budapest is top-notch. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

Is Copenhagen or Budapest a more walkable city?

Copenhagen and Budapest are amazing when it comes to walkability.

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

Getting around Budapest on foot is easy. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Budapest?

In either Copenhagen or Budapest, 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 Budapest. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Copenhagen or Budapest?

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 Budapest, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Budapest?

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 Budapest, 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. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Copenhagen or Budapest?

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.

Budapest, 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 Budapest?

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.

Budapest 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Copenhagen. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Budapest, 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 Budapest?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Budapest in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Budapest. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Budapest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Copenhagen is cooler than Budapest in the summer. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Budapest. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Budapest in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Budapest. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Budapest because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Copenhagen is cooler than Budapest. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Copenhagen in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Budapest averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Copenhagen usually gets more rain in October than Budapest. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Budapest in the Winter?

Both Budapest and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

It's quite cold in Budapest in the winter. The weather in Copenhagen can be very cold. In January, Copenhagen is generally much warmer than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 1°C (33°F), and Budapest fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In January, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Budapest. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Budapest in the Spring?

Both Budapest and Copenhagen during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Budapest for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Copenhagen is much colder than Budapest in the spring. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Copenhagen usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Budapest. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Copenhagen