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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Geneva?

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 Geneva 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Geneva

Geneva is a international, professional, and classy city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen and Geneva: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Geneva?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Copenhagen than Geneva. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Copenhagen is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Geneva attracts visitors for its big city activities. Copenhagen is famous for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also well known for Tivoli Gardens. Geneva is famous for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization.

How is Copenhagen different from Geneva?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
Geneva

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

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 Geneva. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.


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

Copenhagen
Geneva

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Copenhagen, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. In recent years the celebrity food scene has put this city on the map. There are many Michelin star restaurants around town including the world famous Noma. But there's also a diversity of restaurants to choose from, ranging from elegant, award-winning options to cozy local eateries. Danish food includes a lot of pastries and sandwiches. Make sure you try a rød pølse, or local hot dog from one of the many stands around town.

Geneva has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Is Copenhagen or Geneva Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Geneva

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Geneva has a few options to choose from. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Is Copenhagen or Geneva Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Geneva

Copenhagen is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Geneva. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.


Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Geneva?

Copenhagen
Geneva

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

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.

Geneva is a world class destination for shoppers. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

Is Copenhagen or Geneva Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Geneva

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Copenhagen is very family-friendly. The city almost feels like it was designed with kids in mind. There are countless playgrounds, beaches, and other kid-friendly places to explore. Also make sure you stop by Tivoli Gardens, which has rides and rollercoasters that everyone can enjoy. The city also has an aquarium, zoo, and even a deer park. The Little Mermaid statue may fascinate Disney lovers, and if you want to get out on the water there are boat tours through the canals.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Copenhagen or Geneva Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Geneva

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Copenhagen is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The city is filled with a positive energy that will rejuvenate any couple. You can hire a bike or hop on a boat to explore town, or simply wander through the cobblestone streets. There are many parks and gardens to explore and culture lovers will appreciate the many museums.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.


Is Copenhagen or Geneva Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Geneva

Copenhagen is a great destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Copenhagen or Geneva Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Geneva

Both Copenhagen and Geneva are very good destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Copenhagen. The city has a reputation as the happiest in the world, and students are no exception. There are plenty of activities for students as well as a relaxed, yet productive, atmosphere. It's easy to explore the town on foot or by bike as well.

Many students visit Geneva. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

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

Copenhagen
Geneva

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

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

Public transit in Geneva is top-notch. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.


Is Copenhagen or Geneva a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Geneva

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Geneva is a very walkable city. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Geneva or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Geneva?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Copenhagen and Geneva. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Copenhagen than in Geneva. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 1-3 days is enough time in Geneva.

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Geneva. 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 Geneva. 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 Geneva 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 Geneva? Ideal Length of Stay
    Copenhagen 2-5 
    Geneva 1-3

One day in Copenhagen or Geneva?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Copenhagen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

When visiting Geneva, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Geneva, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Geneva?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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


Five days in Copenhagen or Geneva?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Geneva, a popular city, 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 Geneva?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the progressive destination of Copenhagen. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Geneva is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, and The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Geneva 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 Geneva is $210. 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 Geneva in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $89
    Geneva $145
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $178
    Geneva $290
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Geneva

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Geneva? 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 Geneva


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 Geneva Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $71
    Geneva $9.38
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:

  • Arrival Transfer: Airport CPH to Copenhagen by Luxury Van: $141
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Private Transfer to Copenhagen: $318
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $333
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Transfer to Fredericia Port: $866
  • Copenhagen City to Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE)- Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen Airport (CPH)- Departure Private Transfer: $104
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE)- Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $80
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport(RKE):Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $265
  • Copenhagen hotel or address to Malmö City - Private Round-Trip Transfer: $255

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • VIP Transfer: $72
  • Private Transfer: Geneva Airport to Zermatt Tasch Station: $689
  • Private Transfer from Nice to Geneve: $2,567
  • Private Transfer from Nice to Geneve: $2,214
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Hotels to Geneva Airport: $86
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Cornavin station CFF to Hotels: $108
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airpot to Geneva City: $108
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Verbier: $576
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Samoens: $291
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Geneva Hotels : $86
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to City Centre: $157
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Annemasse: $117

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Geneva?

Prices for flights to both Geneva 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
    Geneva $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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Geneva.

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $144
  • City Tour and Fondue Cooking Class: $185
  • Food tour in Geneva: $2,406

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Copenhagen $31
    Geneva $30
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:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Danish Design: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Danish Design: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Monstour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Danish Folk Legends: $5.20
  • Tour of the Danish Resistance during World War II: $5.34
  • App-Based City Exploration Game & Tour: $5.35
  • Copenhagen's Royal History: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Danish Folk Legends Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Royal History Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • The Philosopher's Last Walk: An audio tour on the life of Søren Kierkegaard: $5.99
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Tour: $6.95
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $7.48

Tours and Activities in Geneva

Here are a few actual costs in Geneva for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • (KTG210) - Geneva City Tour and Yvoire: $176
  • (KTG353) - Winter Tour: Gruyeres, chocolate tour from Geneva: $169
  • (STTG04) - Sightseeing Cruise at Geneva with Wine and Aperitif: $32
  • 2-Hour Small-Group Bike Guided Tour in Geneva: $34
  • 3 Days 2 Nights Tour Package To Siwa Oasis From Cairo: $394
  • 3 Hour Private Chocolate and Watch Walking Tour of Geneva: $168
  • 3-Hour Private Walking Tour in Geneva: $283
  • Activé Geneva Urban Art Tour 3h on a bike or ebike: $198
  • Annecy - Venice of the Alps - Tour from Geneva: $84
  • Annecy Private Guided Tour from Geneva: $354
  • Audioguided sightseeing cruise of Geneva: $21
  • Best Intro Tour of Geneva with a Local: $156

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $13
    Geneva $22

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 comparing the travel costs between Copenhagen and Geneva, we can see that Geneva is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Geneva?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Geneva. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Geneva, 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 Geneva?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Geneva in the Summer?

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

In July, Copenhagen is generally cooler than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 17°C (63°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

Copenhagen usually gets more rain in July than Geneva. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Geneva 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Geneva in the Autumn?

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

Copenhagen is cooler than Geneva in the autumn. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Geneva fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In October, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Geneva. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F) 
    Geneva 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Geneva in the Winter?

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

Geneva can be very cold during winter. Copenhagen can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Copenhagen is much colder than Geneva. Typically, the winter temperatures in Copenhagen in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Geneva averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Copenhagen usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Geneva. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F) 
    Geneva 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Geneva in the Spring?

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

In April, Copenhagen is generally much colder than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 7°C (45°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In April, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Geneva. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F) 
    Geneva 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Geneva and Copenhagen

Copenhagen Geneva
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)