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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Leipzig?

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 Leipzig 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a growing, dynamic, and cultural city. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen and Leipzig: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Leipzig?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Copenhagen than Leipzig. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Copenhagen is very popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Leipzig attracts visitors for its quaint atmosphere. Copenhagen is famous for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also well known for Tivoli Gardens. Leipzig is famous for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.

How is Copenhagen different from Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
Leipzig

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

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 Leipzig. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.


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

Copenhagen
Leipzig

Copenhagen is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Copenhagen is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Copenhagen or Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Leipzig

Copenhagen is terrific for nightlife. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Copenhagen or Leipzig Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Leipzig

Copenhagen is great for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Copenhagen to see the historical old town. 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.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Leipzig?

Copenhagen
Leipzig

Copenhagen is terrific for shopping. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Copenhagen. Design and style is notorious with Danish culture. You'll find many great local boutique or fashion design shops in town. Købmagergade is one of the busiest and most famous shopping streets in town, but you should also visit the street parallel to it, Pilestræde.

Leipzig is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

Is Copenhagen or Leipzig Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Leipzig

Copenhagen is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Leipzig is a family-friendly place to visit. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Copenhagen or Leipzig Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Leipzig

Copenhagen is terrific for romance. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Copenhagen has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.


Is Copenhagen or Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Leipzig

Copenhagen is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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

Leipzig is a good city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Is Copenhagen or Leipzig Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Leipzig

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

Copenhagen is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

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

Copenhagen
Leipzig

Copenhagen is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 in Leipzig can get you to some places easily. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.


Is Copenhagen or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Leipzig

Copenhagen is terrific for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Leipzig?

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

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

One day in Copenhagen or Leipzig?

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.

With museums and nightlife around the historic city of Leipzig, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Leipzig, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Leipzig?

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.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Leipzig, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Copenhagen or Leipzig?

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.

Leipzig, 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 Leipzig?

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.

Leipzig 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Leipzig 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 Leipzig is $178. 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 Leipzig in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $89
    Leipzig $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $178
    Leipzig $194
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Leipzig

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Leipzig? 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 Leipzig


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 Leipzig Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $71
    Leipzig $29
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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Leipzig

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

  • Private Transfer from Leipzig City to Dresden City: $83
  • Leipzig hotels to Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $68
  • Leipzig Halle Airport (LEJ) to Leipzig hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Arrival Transfer Leipzig Airport LEJ to Leipzig by Car or Van: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Leipzig?

Prices for flights to both Leipzig 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
    Leipzig $56
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 Leipzig

For Leipzig, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3-Hour Sightseeing and Food Tour: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Copenhagen $31
    Leipzig $39
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 Leipzig

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

  • 1.5-Hour Historical Tour of Leipzig with Costumed Guide: $21
  • 2 hours Leipzig exclusive: Private city tour with Panorama Tower: $217
  • Big city tour Leipzig Hop on hop off: $20
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig Südvorstadt - independent discovery tour: $44
  • City game scavenger hunt Leipzig city center - independent city tour: $44
  • City tour on foot, by S-Bahn and tram: $24
  • Combo Tour in Guided City Tour & City Sightseeing: $21
  • Corpses, Leprosy, Lucifer 75-minute Tour at the Old Cemetery: $19
  • From Day Tour to the Green Belt: $631
  • From Markkleeberg: Full-Day Guided Cycling Tour by the Lakes: $48
  • Gruseltour Leipzig 90-minute walking tour about the Dark Secrets of Leipzig: $19
  • Gruseltour A Haunted Guided Tour: $18

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $13
    Leipzig $28

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

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Leipzig?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Leipzig. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Leipzig, 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 Leipzig?

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 Leipzig in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Leipzig. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Leipzig because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Copenhagen is generally around the same temperature as Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 17°C (63°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Leipzig 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Leipzig in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Leipzig. The autumn months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Leipzig this time of year.

Copenhagen is cooler than Leipzig in the autumn. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Leipzig fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Copenhagen usually gets more rain in October than Leipzig. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Copenhagen or Leipzig in the Winter?

Both Leipzig and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Leipzig for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Leipzig. It's quite cold in Copenhagen in the winter. In the winter, Copenhagen is much colder than Leipzig. Typically, the winter temperatures in Copenhagen in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Leipzig averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In January, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F) 
    Leipzig 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Leipzig in the Spring?

Both Leipzig and Copenhagen during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Copenhagen is generally cooler than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 7°C (45°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in April than Leipzig. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F) 
    Leipzig 10°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Copenhagen

Copenhagen Leipzig
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 1°C (33°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 19°C (67°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 2°C (36°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)