A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Copenhagen vs. Cairngorms National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a serene, picturesque, and tranquil national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and hiking.

Copenhagen and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Copenhagen. Although Copenhagen and Cairngorms National Park are both popular with visitors, Copenhagen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Copenhagen is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cairngorms National Park is known for its hiking. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. Copenhagen is popular for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also home to Tivoli Gardens.

How is Copenhagen different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Copenhagen is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Copenhagen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Copenhagen is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Cairngorms National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Copenhagen is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Copenhagen is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of 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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park?

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Copenhagen is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Copenhagen specifically to go shopping. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Copenhagen is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Cairngorms National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.


Is Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Copenhagen is renowned for couples. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Cairngorms National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Is Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Copenhagen is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Is Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Copenhagen is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

Copenhagen is very popular with students. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.


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

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Copenhagen is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Cairngorms National Park

Copenhagen is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Copenhagen Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park, 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 Cairngorms National Park. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Cairngorms National Park. 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 Cairngorms National Park. 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 Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Copenhagen 2-5 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and shopping around the progressive city of Copenhagen, there's plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food around the tranquil national park of Cairngorms National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the progressive destination of Copenhagen, there's plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With food around the destination of Cairngorms National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park?

With museums and nightlife around the beautiful city of Copenhagen, there's plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Cairngorms National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cairngorms National Park 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 Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park is $148. 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 Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $89
    Cairngorms National Park $69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $178
    Cairngorms National Park $138
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Cairngorms National Park


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 and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $71
    Cairngorms National Park $66
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 to/from hotel from/to airport Copenhagen: $143
  • Private Transfers in Copenhagen – to/from airport or hotel: $146
  • Private Transfer: Cruise Port to Copenhagen Airport CPH: $130
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen Port to Roskilde Airport RKE: $61
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen hotel/address: $63
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen Hotels to Copenhagen Airport: $67
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen CPH to Copenhagen Port by Sedan: $123
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen Airport to Copenhagen Port: $104
  • Private Transfer Copenhagen City Center to Kastrup Airport (CPH): $67
  • Private Luxury Van Transfer from Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen: $123
  • Private Copenhagen Airport Transfer to Copenhagen: $117
  • Luxury Vehicule Transfer from Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen CPH: $123

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park 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
    Cairngorms National Park $38
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: $147
  • Private Authentic Home Indian Cooking & Dining Experience: $147

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Copenhagen $31
    Cairngorms National Park $33
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:

  • 3 Hours Tour To Wonderful Copenhagen Highlights: $262
  • 3h walking tour, small group max 10 people Copenhagen: $62
  • Light Version Adventures in Forgotten Giants : $144
  • 1-Hour Private Segway Tour Copenhagen: $73
  • 2 Hour Copenhagen Segway Tour: $77
  • 2 Hour Copenhagen Tour on Electric Scooter "Stand Up Bike" : $77
  • 2 Hours Copenhagen E-Bike Guided Tours: $77
  • 2 Hours Guided Kayak Tour in Copenhagen Harbor: $58
  • 2-Hour Private Copenhagen Segway Tour: $92
  • 3 Hour Private Guided Copenhagen Walking Tour: $118
  • 3-hour Culinary Bike Tour in English: $97
  • Bagsværd Lake Boat Tour : $15

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

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

  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222
  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $13
    Cairngorms National Park $10

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: $358


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

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



When is the best time to visit Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Copenhagen is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Copenhagen in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Copenhagen during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Cairngorms National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Copenhagen is generally around the same temperature as Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 10°C (50°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Copenhagen usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cairngorms National Park. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Cairngorms National Park. The winter months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cairngorms National Park in the winter. The weather in Copenhagen can be very cold. Copenhagen is much colder than Cairngorms National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In January, Copenhagen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Cairngorms National Park. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Cairngorms National Park. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Copenhagen in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Copenhagen usually gets more rain in April than Cairngorms National Park. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Copenhagen

Copenhagen Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)