A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Copenhagen vs. Isle of Skye for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Copenhagen or Isle of Skye?

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 Isle of Skye can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a beautiful, laid-back, and progressive city. 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.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a stunning, diverse, and dramatic island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Copenhagen and Isle of Skye: 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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Isle of Skye?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Copenhagen. Although Copenhagen and Isle of Skye are popular destinations, Copenhagen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Copenhagen is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Isle of Skye attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. 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 Isle of Skye?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Copenhagen is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Copenhagen or Isle of Skye? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Copenhagen is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

Is Copenhagen or Isle of Skye Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Copenhagen is terrific for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Copenhagen is a must-see party destination. The nightlife scene stays active until the early morning hours with many bars and clubs staying open until 5 or 6 in the morning. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Istedgade and EnghavePlads in Vesterbro, Sankt Hans Torv in Nørrebro and some areas around Frederiksberg.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Copenhagen or Isle of Skye Better for Beaches?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a very popular place for the beache. However, Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Isle of Skye attract visitors from all over. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Copenhagen is not a beach destination.


Is Copenhagen or Isle of Skye Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Copenhagen is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Copenhagen or Isle of Skye Better for Hiking?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Around Isle of Skye visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Isle of Skye?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Copenhagen is terrific for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Copenhagen or Isle of Skye Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Copenhagen is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

Is Copenhagen or Isle of Skye Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Copenhagen is terrific for romance. Also, Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

Is Copenhagen or Isle of Skye Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Copenhagen and Isle of Skye are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Many 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.

Isle of Skye is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.


Is Copenhagen or Isle of Skye Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Copenhagen is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Copenhagen is terrific for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Copenhagen can take you anywhere. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Copenhagen or Isle of Skye a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Isle of Skye

Copenhagen is terrific for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Copenhagen Worth Visiting? and Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Isle of Skye or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Isle of Skye?

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

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

One day in Copenhagen or Isle of Skye?

In Copenhagen, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this progressive city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With food around the picturesque island of Isle of Skye, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 Isle of Skye?

Copenhagen is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With food around the destination of Isle of Skye, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Copenhagen or Isle of Skye?

In Copenhagen, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this beautiful destination offers. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Isle of Skye, a popular island, 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 island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Copenhagen or Isle of Skye?

Copenhagen is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Isle of Skye is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Isle of Skye or Copenhagen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Copenhagen is $211, while the average daily cost in Isle of Skye is $144. 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 Isle of Skye in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $91
    Isle of Skye $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $182
    Isle of Skye $128
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Isle of Skye

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Isle of Skye? 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 Isle of Skye


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 $72
    Isle of Skye $68
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Copenhagen

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Copenhagen:


  • Bicycle Renting
    $62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Copenhagen

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

  • Private Transfers in Copenhagen – to/from airport or hotel: $148
  • Private Transfer: Cruise Port to Copenhagen Airport CPH: $125
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen city to Fredericia Cruise Port: $170
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen Port to Roskilde Airport RKE: $62
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen CPH to Copenhagen Port by Sedan: $125
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen Airport to Copenhagen Port: $105
  • Private Luxury Van Transfer from Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen: $125
  • Private Direct Transfer From Copenhagen to Malmo: $123
  • Luxury Vehicule Transfer from Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen CPH: $125
  • Kastrup hotel/address to Malmö City - Private Arrival Transfer: $46
  • Kastrup hotel or address to Malmö City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • Departure Transfer: Copenhagen to Airport CPH by Luxuy Van: $135

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Isle of Skye?

Prices for flights to both Isle of Skye 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 $62
    Isle of Skye $40
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:

  • The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour: $150
  • Private Authentic Home Indian Cooking & Dining Experience: $150
  • The Award-Winning PRIVATE Copenhagen Food Tour: 6 or 10 Tastings: $168

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Copenhagen $31
    Isle of Skye $24
Typical Entertainment Prices in Copenhagen

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Copenhagen's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Boat Tour
    $8.69
  • Coffee
    $14

Tours and Activities in Copenhagen

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

  • 3h walking tour, small group max 10 people Copenhagen: $63
  • Amitylux 3h Small-Group max 10 people Biking Tour Copenhagen: $83
  • Light Version Adventures in Forgotten Giants : $144
  • 1-Hour Private Segway Tour Copenhagen: $75
  • 2 Hour Copenhagen Segway Tour: $79
  • 2 Hours Copenhagen E-Bike Guided Tours: $79
  • 2 Hours Guided Kayak Tour in Copenhagen Harbor: $59
  • 3 Hour Private Guided Copenhagen Walking Tour: $120
  • 3-Hour Private City Walking Tour including a Rosenborg Castle Ticket : $225
  • 3-Hour Private City Walking Tour with a Canal Tour ticket: $175
  • 3-Hour Private Tour Copenhagen Food & Drink: $158
  • 3-hour Culinary Bike Tour in English: $98

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $231

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $14
    Isle of Skye $9.72

Sample the Local Flavors in Copenhagen

Also in Copenhagen, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Copenhagen: $45


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

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Isle of Skye?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Isle of Skye, 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 Isle of Skye?

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 Isle of Skye in the Summer?

Both Isle of Skye and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Copenhagen is generally a little warmer than Isle of Skye. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 17°C (63°F), and Isle of Skye fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Isle of Skye. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Isle of Skye in the Autumn?

Both Isle of Skye and Copenhagen during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Isle of Skye in the autumn. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Isle of Skye fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Copenhagen usually gets less rain in October than Isle of Skye. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F) 
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Isle of Skye in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Isle of Skye. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine during these months.

Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. Copenhagen can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Copenhagen is much colder than Isle of Skye. Typically, the winter temperatures in Copenhagen in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Isle of Skye averages at about 4°C (40°F).

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Isle of Skye. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F) 
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Isle of Skye in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Copenhagen is generally around the same temperature as Isle of Skye. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 7°C (45°F), and Isle of Skye fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in April than Isle of Skye. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Isle of Skye receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F) 
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Isle of Skye and Copenhagen

Copenhagen Isle of Skye
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)