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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Lillehammer?

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 Lillehammer 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 happy, welcoming, and relaxed city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a natural, adventure-filled, and sporty city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Copenhagen and Lillehammer: 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 public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • 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
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Lillehammer?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Copenhagen. Although Copenhagen and Lillehammer are popular destinations, Copenhagen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Copenhagen is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Lillehammer attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Copenhagen is famous for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also well known for Tivoli Gardens. Lillehammer is famous for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Copenhagen different from Lillehammer?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lillehammer and Copenhagen. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Copenhagen or Lillehammer Better for Skiing?

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a very popular place for skiing and snowboarding. However, Copenhagen is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Lillehammer. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Copenhagen is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Copenhagen or Lillehammer?

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Copenhagen is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Copenhagen can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Lillehammer offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

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

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Lillehammer has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Is Copenhagen or Lillehammer Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

People head to Copenhagen just to party. 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 Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.


Is Copenhagen or Lillehammer Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Copenhagen is well known for its historic old town. However, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Is Copenhagen or Lillehammer Better for Hiking?

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Lillehammer. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Lillehammer?

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Copenhagen is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lillehammer. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.


Is Copenhagen or Lillehammer Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Lillehammer is very family-friendly. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

Is Copenhagen or Lillehammer Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Lillehammer is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Is Copenhagen or Lillehammer Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Copenhagen is well known for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.


Is Copenhagen or Lillehammer Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Copenhagen is well known for students. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Lillehammer. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

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

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its public transit. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Copenhagen can get you around easily. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

While Lillehammer offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

Is Copenhagen or Lillehammer a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Lillehammer

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.


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

Should I spend more time in Lillehammer or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Lillehammer?

It's fun to spend time in either Copenhagen or Lillehammer. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Copenhagen due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 2-4 days is enough time in Lillehammer.

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer? Ideal Length of Stay
    Copenhagen 2-5 
    Lillehammer 2-4

One day in Copenhagen or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the progressive city of Copenhagen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With nightlife and food around the natural city of Lillehammer, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the happy destination of Copenhagen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With food and shopping around the destination of Lillehammer, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 city.

Five days in Copenhagen or Lillehammer?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly city of Copenhagen. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Lillehammer, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Lillehammer?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Copenhagen. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lillehammer 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, and The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer is $104. 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 Lillehammer in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $91
    Lillehammer $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $182
    Lillehammer $124
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Lillehammer

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Lillehammer? 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 Lillehammer


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 Lillehammer Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $72
    Lillehammer $3.98
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:

  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $210
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $105
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $81
  • Copenhagen Port, Airport & City Private Transfer: $127
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE) to Copenhagen - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $155
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE) to Copenhagen Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $77
  • Copenhagen hotel or address to Malmö City - Private Round-Trip Transfer: $258
  • Copenhagen hotel/address to Copenhagen Port - Departure Private Transfer: $81
  • Departure Transfer: Copenhagen to Airport CPH by Luxuy Van: $135
  • Kastrup hotel or address to Malmö City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $93
  • Kastrup hotel/address to Malmö City - Private Arrival Transfer: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Lillehammer?

Prices for flights to both Lillehammer 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
    Lillehammer $35
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
    Lillehammer $16
Typical Entertainment Prices in Copenhagen

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


  • Boat Tour
    $8.69
  • Coffee
    $14

Tours and Activities in Copenhagen

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

  • Christiania Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.75
  • Monstour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Danish Folk Legends: $5.20
  • Danish Design: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Castle Island’s Royal History: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Slotsholmen: $5.99
  • Copenhagen's Royal History: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • The Philosopher's Last Walk: An audio tour on the life of Søren Kierkegaard: $5.99
  • Copenhagen Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Boat Tour on Lake Fureso, Denmark's deepest lake : $15
  • Bagsværd Lake Boat Tour : $15
  • Boat Tour on Lyngby Lake, outside of Copenhagen: $15
  • Copenhagen Sightseeing Classic Canal Tour With Live Guide: $21
  • Small Group Tour Copenhagen Hygge and Highlights: $22

Tours and Activities in Lillehammer

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

  • Maihaugen Open-Air Museum, Lillehammer. Entry Ticket: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $14
    Lillehammer $13

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 Lillehammer, we can see that Copenhagen is more expensive. And not only is Lillehammer much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lillehammer would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer.

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Lillehammer?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Lillehammer. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Lillehammer, 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.