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

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Should you visit Copenhagen or London?

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 London 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

London

London is a global, international, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Copenhagen and London: Pros and Cons

Copenhagen
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
London
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


How is Copenhagen different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
London

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

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.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put London on the map. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.


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

Copenhagen
London

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Copenhagen and London.

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.

Dining out in London is an experience not to be missed. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Is Copenhagen or London Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
London

The nightlife scene is relatively similar in Copenhagen and London.

Copenhagen is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

London has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or London?

Copenhagen
London

Shoppers can find a variety of stores in both Copenhagen and London.

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.

London is a world class destination for shoppers. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

Is Copenhagen or London Better for Families?

Copenhagen
London

Both Copenhagen and London are fun to visit with kids.

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.

With a huge array of activities for kids, London is very family-friendly. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.


Is Copenhagen or London Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
London

Both Copenhagen and London are good destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

London is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

Is Copenhagen or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
London

Copenhagen and London are both good destinations for backpackers.

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

London is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

Is Copenhagen or London Better for Students?

Copenhagen
London

Both Copenhagen and London are popular destinations for 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.

London is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

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

Copenhagen
London

Visitors will find public transit in both Copenhagen and London.

Copenhagen has a great public transit system. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

Public transit in London is top-notch. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.


Is Copenhagen or London a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
London

Copenhagen and London are similar when it comes to walkability.

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

Getting around London on foot is easy. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

Should I spend more time in London or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or London?

Both Copenhagen and London have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in London than Copenhagen.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Copenhagen is 2-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to London is 3-7 days.


  • How many days in Copenhagen or London? Ideal Length of Stay
    Copenhagen 2-5 
    London 3-7

One day in Copenhagen or London?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Copenhagen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

When visiting London, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Copenhagen or London?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

When visiting London, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Copenhagen or London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

London, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Copenhagen or London?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly destination of Copenhagen. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

London is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Which place is cheaper, London or Copenhagen?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Copenhagen is $215, while the average daily cost in London is $237. 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 London in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $93
    London $154
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $186
    London $308
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and London

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or London? 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 London


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 London Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $75
    London $32
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:

  • Departure Private Transfer: Copenhagen City to Copenhagen Airport CPH by Minibus: $266
  • Copenhagen Private One-Way Airport Transfer by Van: $218
  • Departure Private Transfer from Copenhagen City to Copenhagen Port in Minibus: $200
  • Copenhagen Private Transfer from Copenhagen city centre to Copenhagen airport: $183
  • Copenhagen hotel or address to Malmö City - Private Round-Trip Car Transfer: $182
  • Round Trip Copenhagen Kastrup Airport (CPH) Transfer to Copenhagen City Center: $155
  • Departure Private Transfer: Copenhagen to Copenhagen Airport CPH in Luxuy Van: $142
  • Copenhagen hotel or address to Copenhagen Port - Private Round-Trip Car Transfer: $139
  • Copenhagen Hotel Transfer: $137
  • Private Airport Transfer: Copenhagen to Copenhagen Airport (CPH): $136
  • Departure Private Transfer Copenhagen City Copenhagen airport CPH Luxury Van: $125
  • Departure Private Transfer Copenhagen to Copenhagen Airport CPH by Luxury Car: $125

Typical Local Transportation prices in London

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in London:


  • Taxi Ride
    $18
  • Heathrow Express
    $22
  • Luggage Storage
    $9.96
  • London Map
    $1.61
  • Oyster Card
    $45
  • Train to Gatwick Airport (2)
    $27
  • Oyster Card
    $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in London

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

  • private transfers from London to Heathrow airport: $167
  • private transfer shopping trip from London to Bicester village wr (8 hours): $745
  • private transfer from central london to city airport: $186
  • Warner Bros Studio Private Executive return Transfer from London: $214
  • VIP Departure Transfer from London Center to Heathrow Airport: $113
  • Ultra - London Private Airport Transfer from City Centre to Heathrow Airport LHR: $8.71
  • Ultra - London Airport Transfer from City Centre to London Gatwick Airport LGW: $8.71
  • Transfer to the Cruise ports from your London accommodation: $67
  • Transfer in private vehicle from London City to London Airport (LHR): $51
  • Transfer in private vehicle from London City Center to Heathrow Airport: $56
  • Transfer in private car from London City to London-Gatwick Airport (LGW): $68
  • Transfer in Private Vehicle from London City Center to Gatwick Airport: $73

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or London?

Prices for flights to both London 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 $64
    London $43
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:

  • Private Copenhagen Street Food Tour with a Local Foodie: $94
  • Traditional Nordic and Danish Cooking Class with an Expert Local: $97
  • Sweden Daytrip: Food Tour to Malmö: $1,724

Typical Food prices in London

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to London:


  • Lunch at Starbucks
    $16
  • Tea
    $7.47
  • Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason
    $49
  • Morning Tea
    $7.91
  • Pastry
    $6.23
  • Sushi Dinner for One
    $23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in London

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

  • Traveling Spoon Nepalese Momos Private Online Cooking Class: $27
  • Private Cooking Class with a London Cookbook Author: $87
  • BYOB Pizza Workshop Supper Club: $91
  • Private Cooking Class in Central London with a Food Expert: $150
  • South London Food Tour With A Local: Borough Market, Southbank & London Bridge: $150
  • Borough Market Visit & Cooking Class in Central London with a Food Professional: $164
  • 3.5-Hour Shoreditch Street Food Tour: $261
  • Private Food Tour, Cooking Class and Market Visit in London with a Food Expert: $315

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Copenhagen $31
    London $41
Typical Entertainment prices in Copenhagen

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


  • Boat Tour
    $8.63
  • Coffee
    $14

Tours and Activities in Copenhagen

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

  • Best of Copenhagen Private Tour: $578
  • Copenhagen 3 hrs Private Panoramic Tour: $482
  • Copenhagen City Highlights Private Tour & Christiansborg Palace: $908
  • Copenhagen Highlights and Torvehallerne Market Private Tour: $578
  • Copenhagen Old City Train Tours: $14
  • Copenhagen Private Walking Tour: $323
  • Copenhagen Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • Copenhagen Welcome Tour: Private Tour with a Local: $40
  • 1-Hour Canal Cruise from Ved Stranden or Nyhavn: $15
  • 2-Hour City Walking Tour: $40
  • 2-hour “Hidden Gems” Canal Tour: $61
  • 4-Hour City Highlights Walking Tour: $848

Typical Entertainment prices in London

For London, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Two Tickets to a Concert
    $103
  • London Symphony Orchestra
    $43
  • London Pass
    $59
  • Comedy Show
    $9.96

Tours and Activities in London

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

  • 'Cutty Sark' Entrance Ticket: $21
  • 'The Crown' Film Locations Private Car Tour: $370
  • 007 James Bond's London Private Half Day Tour: $690
  • 007 James Bond's London Private Half Day Tour: $690
  • 1066 Battle of Hastings Private Tour: $435
  • 1066 Battle of Hastings, Birling Gap and Seven Sisters Tour: $2,005
  • 1066 Battle of Hastings, Birling Gap and Seven Sisters Tour: $2,005
  • 12 Angry Guests: The Online Jury Experience: $11
  • 3-Day Devon and Cornwall Small-Group Tour: In Search of King Arthur: $743
  • 3-Day Tour from Stonehenge, Glastonbury, Bath and the South West Coast: $851
  • 3.5-Hour Small-Group Food Tasting Tour of Royal London: $98
  • 4 HR Private Tour Churchill War Rooms and Kensington Palace (Private Guide): $844

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $14
    London $19

Sample the Local Flavors in London

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in London:

  • The Original Shoreditch Pub Crawl: $27
  • Camden Pub Crawl with Drinks: $27
  • Sipsmith Distillery Tour and Complimentary Tasting: $35
  • Private:Brewery, Winery, and Cider & Spirit Tastings Tour in SW Ontario: $101
  • Gin Palace Crawl with Distillery Tour & Tastings: $107
  • English Sparkling Wine Tours from London: $392
  • Private London Pub History and Brewery (Full Day Tour): $621
  • Private visit to Bombay Sapphire Distillery and Stonehenge: $851

About these numbers

When comparing the travel costs between Copenhagen and London, we can see that London is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.


When is the best time to visit Copenhagen or London?

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 London in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and London. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to London for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Copenhagen is around the same temperature as London. Typically, the summer temperatures in Copenhagen in July are around 17°C (63°F), and London is about 18°C (64°F).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than London. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    London 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or London in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as London. 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. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to London because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Copenhagen is generally cooler than London. Temperatures in Copenhagen average around 10°C (50°F), and London stays around 12°C (53°F).

Copenhagen usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as London. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F) 
    London 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or London in the Winter?

Both London and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to London this time of year.

It's quite cold in London in the winter. The weather in Copenhagen can be very cold. Copenhagen is much colder than London in the winter. The temperature in Copenhagen is usually 1°C (33°F) in January, and London stays around 4°C (40°F).

In January, Copenhagen usually receives around the same amount of rain as London. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F) 
    London 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or London in the Spring?

Both London and Copenhagen during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to London for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Copenhagen is cooler than London. Typically, the spring temperatures in Copenhagen in April are around 7°C (45°F), and London is about 9°C (48°F).

Copenhagen usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as London. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for London and Copenhagen

Copenhagen London
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)


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Copenhagen vs. London Travel Comparison

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