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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Flam?

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 Flam 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 welcoming, relaxed, and beautiful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Flam

Flam is a natural, breathtaking, and beautiful village. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and hiking.

Copenhagen and Flam: 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 for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Flam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Copenhagen. Although Copenhagen and Flam are popular destinations, Copenhagen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Copenhagen is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Flam attracts visitors for its hiking and small town charm. Flam is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its beautiful fjords and natural beauty as well as its popularity as a cruise ship port. 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 Flam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
Flam

Copenhagen is a great city for its historical sights. However, Flam is not known for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Flam offers a few options for museum-goers. Hiking and natural beauty is why you visit this area, but there is the Flam Railway Museum that you can visit as well.


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

Copenhagen
Flam

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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 Flam. Local restaurants make use of seasonal ingredients and local fish and meat. You'll also find many berries and a local goat cheese at many restaurants as well.

Is Copenhagen or Flam Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Flam

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Flam is not known for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Copenhagen is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Most people don't head to Flam specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people visit as a day trip, so you won't find a huge nightlife scene in this small town. There are some local bars and breweries around town though.

Is Copenhagen or Flam Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Flam

Copenhagen is a great city for its historic old town. However, Flam 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.

Flam does not have a historic old town.


Is Copenhagen or Flam Better for Hiking?

Copenhagen
Flam

Flam 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 Flam. There are many great hikes just outside of town that are varied in length and challenge level. Both tourists and locals enjoy hiking in the area, so you'll get some of the best advice on where to go from any locals that you meet. Popular trails include the Flåmsdalen hike from Myrdal to Flam and the hike to Brekkefossen Waterfall.

Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Flam?

Copenhagen
Flam

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for shopping. However, Flam is not known 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Flam has some nice offerings. There are some shopping centers and malls near town where you can grab anything you may have forgotten.

Is Copenhagen or Flam Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Flam

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village 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.

Flam is a very kid-friendly city. The fjords and mountain beauty make this a great place for a family adventure. Myrkdalen is also just 45 minutes away by car and it's filled with many mountain activities.


Is Copenhagen or Flam Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Flam

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village 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.

Flam is a very popular place to visit for couples. Stunning natural beauty and dramatic fjords make this a great romantic destination. Couples who enjoy hiking and explore nature will enjoy days in this special place.

Is Copenhagen or Flam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Flam

Copenhagen is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village 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 Flam. There are a few hostels in the area that help keeps prices more affordable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Copenhagen or Flam Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Flam

Copenhagen is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Flam is not popular with students.

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.

Flam is not popular with students.


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

Copenhagen
Flam

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its public transit.

Visitors in Copenhagen can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

Flam has a few public transit options. There is a local bus service through the area.

Is Copenhagen or Flam a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Flam

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Flam is not as popular, but is still a nice village for its high level of walkability.

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

Flam is a very walkable city. There are many great walks in the area.

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

Should I spend more time in Flam or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Flam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Copenhagen or Flam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Copenhagen than Flam 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 Flam.

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

One day in Copenhagen or Flam?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Copenhagen. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Flam might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Flam, one day is sufficent for most.


A weekend in Copenhagen or Flam?

Copenhagen is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Even though Flam is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 village.

Five days in Copenhagen or Flam?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the welcoming destination of Copenhagen. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Flam, a popular village, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Flam?

The welcoming city of Copenhagen offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Flam 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 Adventure Tours to Norway, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Flam 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 Flam is $111. 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 Flam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $89
    Flam $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $178
    Flam $116
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Flam

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Flam? 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 Flam


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
    Flam $17
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:

  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Transfer to Fredericia Port: $863
  • Fredericia Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Copenhagen city: $863
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $331
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Private Transfer to Copenhagen: $316
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport(RKE):Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $264
  • Copenhagen hotel or address to Malmö City - Private Round-Trip Transfer: $255
  • Private Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $248
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $207
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Fredericia Port: $168
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE) to Copenhagen Port- RoundTrip Private Transfer: $152
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE) to Copenhagen - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $152
  • Private Transfers in Copenhagen – to/from airport or hotel: $146

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Flam?

Prices for flights to both Flam 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
    Flam $36
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
    Flam $17
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: $261
  • 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: $91
  • 3 Hour Private Guided Copenhagen Walking Tour: $117
  • 3 Hours Small Group Biking Tour in Copenhagen: $49
  • 3-hour Culinary Bike Tour in English: $97

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $13
    Flam $3.68

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

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Flam?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 2310 times larger than the population of Flam. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Flam, 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 Flam?

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 Flam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Flam. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Flam for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Copenhagen is generally a little warmer than Flam. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 17°C (63°F), and Flam fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Flam receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Flam. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Flam receives 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Flam 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Flam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Flam. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Flam in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

It's quite rainy in Flam. Copenhagen usually gets less rain in October than Flam. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Flam receives 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Copenhagen or Flam in the Winter?

Both Flam and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Flam for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Flam can be very cold during winter. Copenhagen can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Copenhagen is much colder than Flam. Typically, the winter temperatures in Copenhagen in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Flam averages at about 2°C (35°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Flam. In January, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Flam. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Flam receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F) 
    Flam 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Flam in the Spring?

Both Flam and Copenhagen during the spring are popular places to visit. 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 Flam because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Copenhagen is generally a little warmer than Flam. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 7°C (45°F), and Flam fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Flam gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Copenhagen usually gets less rain in April than Flam. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Flam receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F) 
    Flam 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Flam and Copenhagen

Copenhagen Flam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 2°C (35°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 152 mm (6 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (38°F) 170 mm (6.7 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (56°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 15°C (58°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 283 mm (11.1 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 271 mm (10.7 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 259 mm (10.2 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 235 mm (9.3 in)