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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Kinsale?

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 Kinsale 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 progressive, friendly, and happy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kinsale

Kinsale is a charming, quaint, and picturesque seaside town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen and Kinsale: 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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Kinsale?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Copenhagen than Kinsale, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Copenhagen is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Kinsale is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Kinsale is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its colorful houses, excellent restaurants, and beautiful seaside walks. Copenhagen is well known for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. Also, Copenhagen is famous for Tivoli Gardens.

How is Copenhagen different from Kinsale?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Copenhagen is great for its historical sights. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its sights and museums.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kinsale. In addition to the colorful old town, you can check out Charles Fort, James Fort, and Old Head Signal Tower. The town is filled with history and many unique landmarks that are worth exploring.


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

Copenhagen
Kinsale

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at world-class restaurants in both Copenhagen and Kinsale.

Many restaurants in Copenhagen have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Eat your way through Kinsale, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For such a small town, it really has an impressive food scene and many people consider it to be the culinary capital of Ireland. The food scene includes Michelin starred restaurants and local cafes.

Is Copenhagen or Kinsale Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its evening party scene.

Copenhagen has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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 Kinsale specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town that's not known for its nightlife scene. There are a couple of traditional Irish pubs in town.

Is Copenhagen or Kinsale Better for Beaches?

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Kinsale is a decent place to visit for the beache. However, Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Kinsale. You'll find a number of beaches within about 20 minutes of town. The closest is Kinsale Beach, which is about 3 kilometers from the center of town. For a more peaceful setting, head out of town and check out Sandycove Beach, Garrylucas Blue Flag Beach, and Coolmain Beach.

Copenhagen is not a beach destination.


Is Copenhagen or Kinsale Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Both Copenhagen and Kinsale have great 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 Kinsale. The old town is filled with brightly colored houses, and it offers a unique setting that's different from many of Europe's more standard old towns.

Is Copenhagen or Kinsale Better for Hiking?

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Kinsale is a seaside town with good options for its hiking trails. However, Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Kinsale. There are many seaside walks just outside of town.

Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Kinsale?

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to Kinsale to go shopping. There are a number of shops around town that highlight Irish designers and local brands.


Is Copenhagen or Kinsale Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its family-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Kinsale is a family-friendly place to visit. If your kids need a break from the tourist circuit, there are a couple of playgrounds and outdoor centers around town. There's also one hour pony treks available at the Kinsale Equestrian Centre.

Is Copenhagen or Kinsale Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for couples.

Copenhagen is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Kinsale is a good city for couples to visit. From coastal walks to quaint streets, there are many picturesque places that a couple can explore. The town also has an impressive restaurant scene where couples can enjoy a great meal.

Is Copenhagen or Kinsale Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Copenhagen is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Kinsale. There are a couple of hostels around town where you can meet other backpackers.


Is Copenhagen or Kinsale Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Copenhagen is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Kinsale is not popular with 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.

Kinsale is not popular with students.

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

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Kinsale is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Copenhagen is top-notch. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

Public transit is generally limited in Kinsale. The town has buses that pass through.

Is Copenhagen or Kinsale a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Kinsale

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Kinsale is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its ease of walking around.

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.

Kinsale is a somewhat walkable city. The town itself is relatively compact and walkable. There are also many seaside walks just outside of town.


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

Should I spend more time in Kinsale or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Kinsale?

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

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

One day in Copenhagen or Kinsale?

In Copenhagen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Copenhagen or Kinsale?

In Copenhagen, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Copenhagen has to offer.

Even though Kinsale is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the food. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this seaside town.

Five days in Copenhagen or Kinsale?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Copenhagen has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Kinsale, a popular seaside 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 Kinsale?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Copenhagen. 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.

Kinsale is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the food. 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 Tours for Seniors to Ireland, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin.


Which place is cheaper, Kinsale 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 Kinsale is $138. 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 Kinsale in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $89
    Kinsale $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $178
    Kinsale $158
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Kinsale

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Kinsale? 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 Kinsale


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 Kinsale Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $71
    Kinsale $18
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: $866
  • Fredericia Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Copenhagen city: $866
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $333
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Private Transfer to Copenhagen: $318
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport(RKE):Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $265
  • Copenhagen hotel or address to Malmö City - Private Round-Trip Transfer: $255
  • Private Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $249
  • Private Transfers in Copenhagen – to/from airport or hotel: $146
  • Private transfer to/from hotel from/to airport Copenhagen: $143
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport CPH to Copenhagen by Luxury Van: $141
  • Departure Transfer: Copenhagen to Airport CPH by Luxuy Van: $141
  • Departure Transfer: Copenhagen city to Copenhagen Cruise Port: $130

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Kinsale?

Prices for flights to both Kinsale 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
    Kinsale $49
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
    Kinsale $5.36
Typical Entertainment Prices in Copenhagen

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


  • Boat Tour
    $8.56
  • Coffee
    $14

Tours and Activities in Copenhagen

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

  • 3 Hours Tour To Wonderful Copenhagen Highlights: $262
  • 3h walking tour, small group max 10 people Copenhagen: $62
  • Light Version Adventures in Forgotten Giants : $144
  • 1-Hour Private Segway Tour Copenhagen: $73
  • 2 Hour Copenhagen Segway Tour: $77
  • 2 Hour Copenhagen Tour on Electric Scooter "Stand Up Bike" : $77
  • 2 Hours Copenhagen E-Bike Guided Tours: $77
  • 2 Hours Guided Kayak Tour in Copenhagen Harbor: $58
  • 2-Hour Private Copenhagen Segway Tour: $92
  • 3 Hour Private Guided Copenhagen Walking Tour: $118
  • 3-hour Culinary Bike Tour in English: $97
  • Bagsværd Lake Boat Tour : $15

Tours and Activities in Kinsale

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kinsale.

  • Cobh Evening Ghost Tour: $43
  • Titanic Trail Guided Walking Tour Cobh: $21
  • Visit 16 Sites Key Historical Sites And Experience Cobh Rebel Tours: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $13
    Kinsale $17

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 Kinsale

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

  • (Small Group) Shore Tour from Cork: Blarney Castle & Jameson Distillery: $147


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

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Kinsale?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Kinsale. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Kinsale, 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 Kinsale?

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 Kinsale in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Kinsale. The summer months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kinsale this time of year.

Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Kinsale in the summer. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Kinsale fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Kinsale. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Kinsale 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Kinsale in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Kinsale. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kinsale for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Copenhagen is cooler than Kinsale. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Copenhagen in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Kinsale averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in October than Kinsale. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F) 
    Kinsale 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Kinsale in the Winter?

Both Kinsale and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kinsale in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Copenhagen. In January, Copenhagen is generally much colder than Kinsale. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 1°C (33°F), and Kinsale fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kinsale. In January, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Kinsale. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F) 
    Kinsale 6°C (43°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Kinsale in the Spring?

Both Kinsale and Copenhagen during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kinsale for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Copenhagen is cooler than Kinsale in the spring. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Kinsale fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in April than Kinsale. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kinsale receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F) 
    Kinsale 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Kinsale and Copenhagen

Copenhagen Kinsale
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 6°C (43°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (45°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (60°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (57°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 101 mm (4 in)