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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Cambridge?

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 Cambridge 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 relaxed, beautiful, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a collegiate, scholarly, and charming university town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen and Cambridge: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Cambridge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Copenhagen than Cambridge. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Copenhagen is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Cambridge attracts visitors for its small town charm. Cambridge is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its iconic university and the many colleges associated with it. Copenhagen is famous for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also well known for Tivoli Gardens.

How is Copenhagen different from Cambridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
Cambridge

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

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 Cambridge. The history is rich and impressive in this university town. There are countless museums and architectural sights that you should check out. High on the list are the Cambridge University buildings, The Fitzwilliam Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, The Round Church, and many more.


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

Copenhagen
Cambridge

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cambridge. You'll find college pubs, local eateries, and fine dining, all in one charming town. Enjoy afternoon tea or fish chips at one of the many local restaurants around town.

Is Copenhagen or Cambridge Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Cambridge

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Copenhagen is a world class 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.

Cambridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is centered around the student culture and you'll find many university pubs, some lively clubs, theaters, and wine bars around town. Whether you're looking for a chill night with friends or a more wild experience, there are options in Cambridge.

Is Copenhagen or Cambridge Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Cambridge

Copenhagen is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Cambridge does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Cambridge does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Cambridge?

Copenhagen
Cambridge

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Copenhagen. 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.

Cambridge is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town offers independent boutique shops, local brands, and a 7 day a week market. The three main shopping areas in town are The Grafton, Lion Yard and Grand Arcade.

Is Copenhagen or Cambridge Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Cambridge

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cambridge. Kids will enjoy following the Treasure Trail, or climbing to the top of the Great St Mary’s Tower. Punting is another iconic experience. On a rainy day, head to the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, the Museum of Zoology, or the Cambridge Science Centre.

Is Copenhagen or Cambridge Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Cambridge

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Cambridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The quaint town is fun to explore as a couple. Try your hand at punting or take a tour of one of the colleges. You can also enjoy a picnic in the botanical gardens or have tea at the Orchard Tea Garden.


Is Copenhagen or Cambridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Cambridge

Copenhagen is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Copenhagen is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 budget travelers visit Cambridge. With a handful of hostels and a vibrant student population, the town makes for a fun stop on your backpacking trip.

Is Copenhagen or Cambridge Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Cambridge

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

Cambridge is a very popular university town for students. The town is home to more than 25,000 students who come from 140 different countries. This is one of the most iconic university towns in the world, and there's really no better place for students to visit or reside.

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 Cambridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Copenhagen
Cambridge

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Copenhagen has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

You'll find some public transit in Cambridge, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a regional bus service that operates through town.


Is Copenhagen or Cambridge a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Cambridge

Copenhagen and Cambridge are fantastic 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 Cambridge on foot is easy. Walking is the best way to explore the town.

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

Should I spend more time in Cambridge or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Cambridge?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Copenhagen or Cambridge to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Copenhagen than Cambridge because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cambridge.

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Cambridge. 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 Cambridge. 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Copenhagen 2-5 
    Cambridge 1-2

One day in Copenhagen or Cambridge?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Copenhagen. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With museums and nightlife around the scholarly university town of Cambridge, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cambridge, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Cambridge?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the progressive destination of Copenhagen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Cambridge, 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 university town.


Five days in Copenhagen or Cambridge?

You'll find nightlife and food around the progressive city of Copenhagen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Cambridge, a popular university 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.

A week in Copenhagen or Cambridge?

Copenhagen is a popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Cambridge 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 3-Day Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cambridge 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 Cambridge is $166. 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 Cambridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $89
    Cambridge $90
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $178
    Cambridge $180
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Cambridge

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Cambridge? 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 Cambridge


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 Cambridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $71
    Cambridge $29
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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cambridge

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

  • Private Transfer Heathrow To Cambridge: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Cambridge?

Prices for flights to both Cambridge 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
    Cambridge $52
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
    Cambridge $28
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 Cambridge

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

  • Guided Historic Walking Tour of Cambridge with Guide and Peek: $25
  • A Guided Public Tour of Historic Cambridge: $32
  • Cambridge - Shared Punting Tour: $13
  • Cambridge Highlights Walking Tour by Cantab Tours: $25
  • Cambridge Instagram Self-Guided Tour - Top Photo Spots: $6.35
  • Cambridge Science Tour : $32
  • Cambridge's History & Secrets with Self-Guided Walking Tours: $32
  • Cambridge’s Colleges and Classic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • 2-Hour Private University Walking Tour: $94
  • Adventure Through Cross-Disciplinary Revolutions: $22
  • Chauffeured Punting Tour: $62
  • Chinese University Student-Guided Walking Tour: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $13
    Cambridge $28

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 Cambridge, we can see that Copenhagen is more expensive. And not only is Cambridge much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cambridge would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cambridge 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 Cambridge.

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Cambridge?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Cambridge. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Cambridge, 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.