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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny 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. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a medieval, fascinating, and active town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen and Kilkenny: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Kilkenny?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Copenhagen than Kilkenny, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Copenhagen is well known for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. Also, Copenhagen is famous for Tivoli Gardens. Kilkenny is well known for its medieval castle and long running history.

How is Copenhagen different from Kilkenny?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
Kilkenny

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

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 Kilkenny. It's seeped in history and there are many historic landmarks in the area including Kilkenny Castle. Also make sure you check out the National Design & Craft Gallery, Saint Mary's Cathedral, and the Medieval Mile Museum.


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

Copenhagen
Kilkenny

Copenhagen is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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

Kilkenny has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town has two Michelin starred restaurants as well as many Irish pubs and international restaurants to choose from.

Is Copenhagen or Kilkenny Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Kilkenny

Copenhagen is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Kilkenny has a few options to choose from. You'll find traditional pubs and local breweries around town. The town also hosts several local music festivals.

Is Copenhagen or Kilkenny Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Kilkenny

Both Copenhagen and Kilkenny have superb historic old towns worth visiting.

Copenhagen is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Kilkenny. Known as the Medieval Mile, the old town dates back 1,500 years and is filled with city walls, cathedrals, and meandering lanes.


Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Kilkenny?

Copenhagen
Kilkenny

Copenhagen is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Copenhagen make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Kilkenny has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of shopping malls, shopping streets, and local markets. Make sure you check out Market Cross Shopping Centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Connolly's Red Mills, and Castleinch Sunday Market.

Is Copenhagen or Kilkenny Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Kilkenny

Copenhagen is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kilkenny. The obvious activity is visiting the Kilkenny Castle, but there are so many other adventures that your family can have. You can do the zip line and other outdoor adventures at Castlecomer Discovery Park, try out falconry, or visit the National Reptile Museum. There's also river rafting, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures in the area.

Is Copenhagen or Kilkenny Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Kilkenny

Copenhagen is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Copenhagen has plenty to offer. The city is filled with a positive energy that will rejuvenate any couple. You can hire a bike or hop on a boat to explore town, or simply wander through the cobblestone streets. There are many parks and gardens to explore and culture lovers will appreciate the many museums.

Kilkenny is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Adventure lovers will enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and cycling through the area. There are also Michelin starred restaurants and other romantic settings that make for a great couple's weekend.


Is Copenhagen or Kilkenny Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Kilkenny

Copenhagen is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Copenhagen is a great city to visit for backpackers. While the city is expensive, there are still plenty of free things to do like simply wandering the neighborhoods. The city has a relaxed and friendly vibe that will almost make you forget all of the money you're spending.

It's common for backpackers to visit Kilkenny. The area has some unique hostels that offer interesting experiences while you're in town.

Is Copenhagen or Kilkenny Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Kilkenny

Copenhagen is a great destination for students. However, Kilkenny is not popular with students.

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

Kilkenny is not popular with students.

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

Copenhagen
Kilkenny

Copenhagen is terrific for its public transit. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Kilkenny offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses through town.


Is Copenhagen or Kilkenny a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Kilkenny

Copenhagen is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Kilkenny is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Kilkenny is a very walkable destination. The town is easy to walk around and most areas can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kilkenny or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Kilkenny?

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

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

One day in Copenhagen or Kilkenny?

The beautiful city of Copenhagen offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With museums and nightlife around the ancient town of Kilkenny, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kilkenny, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Kilkenny?

Copenhagen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Copenhagen, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Kilkenny, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 town.


Five days in Copenhagen or Kilkenny?

Copenhagen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Copenhagen, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kilkenny, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Kilkenny?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Kilkenny 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 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny is $95. 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 Kilkenny in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $89
    Kilkenny $47
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $178
    Kilkenny $94
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Kilkenny

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Kilkenny? 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 Kilkenny


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 Kilkenny Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $71
    Kilkenny $22
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

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Kilkenny?

Prices for flights to both Kilkenny 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
    Kilkenny $31
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
    Kilkenny $16
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 Kilkenny

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

  • Best of Kilkenny, two hour walking tour with a qualified guide: $13
  • From Dublin: 5-Day Tour of Ireland's South-East: $1,287
  • Fun Family Walking Tour in Kilkenny: $217
  • Fun Family walking tour in Kilkenny: $426
  • Fun Walking Tour during Christmas in Kilkenny: $533
  • Fun Walking Tour during Christmas in Kilkenny: $271
  • Historical tour of Kilkenny in French.: $13
  • Hurling Tours Ireland - Freshford Experience: $32
  • Hurling Tours Ireland - Kilkenny City Experience: $32
  • Hurling Tours Ireland - O'Loughlin Gaels : $33
  • Kayak and SUP Tours Kilkenny: $27
  • Kilkenny Haunted Dark Tours: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $13
    Kilkenny $13

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Kilkenny

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

  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour: $150
  • Kilkenny Culinary and Brewery Tour : $158


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

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Kilkenny?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Kilkenny. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Kilkenny, 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 Kilkenny?

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 Kilkenny in the Summer?

Both Kilkenny and Copenhagen during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kilkenny for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Copenhagen is a little warmer than Kilkenny in the summer. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

Copenhagen usually gets more rain in July than Kilkenny. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Kilkenny 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Kilkenny in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Kilkenny. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Kilkenny because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Kilkenny. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Copenhagen in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Kilkenny averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In October, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F) 
    Kilkenny 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Kilkenny in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Kilkenny. The winter months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kilkenny this time of year.

The weather in Copenhagen can be very cold. In January, Copenhagen is generally much colder than Kilkenny. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 1°C (33°F), and Kilkenny fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in January than Kilkenny. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F) 
    Kilkenny 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Kilkenny in the Spring?

Both Kilkenny and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kilkenny for the natural beauty.

Copenhagen is cooler than Kilkenny in the spring. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Kilkenny fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In April, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Kilkenny. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kilkenny receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F) 
    Kilkenny 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Kilkenny and Copenhagen

Copenhagen Kilkenny
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 5°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 15°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)