A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Copenhagen vs. Milan for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Copenhagen or Milan?

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 Milan 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. 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.

Milan

Milan is a trendy, chic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Copenhagen and Milan: Pros and Cons

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


How is Copenhagen different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
Milan

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

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 Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.


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

Copenhagen
Milan

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

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 Milan, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Milan

The nightlife scene is relatively similar in Copenhagen and Milan.

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.

Milan has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Milan

Both Copenhagen and Milan have 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.

Milan offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Milan?

Copenhagen
Milan

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

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.

Milan is a world class destination for shoppers. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.


Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Milan

Copenhagen is considered to a better choice for families.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Milan. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Milan

Both Copenhagen and Milan 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.

Couples visit Milan frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Milan

Copenhagen and Milan 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.

Milan is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Milan

Both Copenhagen and Milan 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.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.


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

Copenhagen
Milan

Visitors will find public transit in both Copenhagen and Milan.

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

Public transit in Milan is top-notch. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

Is Copenhagen or Milan a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Milan

Copenhagen and Milan 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 Milan on foot is easy. In particular, the city center is walkable.

Should I spend more time in Milan or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Milan?

In either Copenhagen or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. You can fill a similar amount of time in either place.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Copenhagen is 2-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Milan is 1-5 days.


  • How many days in Copenhagen or Milan? Ideal Length of Stay
    Copenhagen 2-5 
    Milan 1-5

One day in Copenhagen or Milan?

In Copenhagen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this progressive destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

When visiting Milan, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Milan, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Milan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

When visiting Milan, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.


Five days in Copenhagen or Milan?

Copenhagen is a fun place to experience. In Copenhagen, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Milan, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Milan?

You'll find food and shopping around the progressive destination of Copenhagen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Milan 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.

Which place is cheaper, Milan 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 Milan 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 Milan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $93
    Milan $103
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $186
    Milan $206
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Milan

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Milan? 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 Milan


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 Milan Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $75
    Milan $38
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 Milan

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


  • Train to Airport
    $7.51
  • Malpensa Airport Train (for Two)
    $24
  • Taxi From Airport
    $97
  • Public Transit Day Pass
    $4.83
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $7.65

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Milan

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

  • Ultra - Milan private transfer from train station to Milan city centre: $9.41
  • Ultra - Milan Private Airport Transfer from city centre to Milan train station: $9.41
  • Ultra - Milan Private Airport Transfer from city Milan centre to Malpensa (MXP): $9.41
  • Transfer to all northern airports italy tour lakes: $265
  • Transfer Milano to Florence: $342
  • Transfer Milano To Rome: $498
  • Taxi Transfer Malpensa Airport or Milan City ⇔ Zermatt both ways: $1,151
  • Round Trip Malpensa Airport (MXP) Transfer to Milan City Center: $135
  • Round Trip Linate Airport (LIN) Transfer to Milan City Center: $79
  • Private transfer: Milan Hotel to Siena Hotel: $489
  • Private transfer: Milan Hotel to Florence Hotel: $416
  • Private transfer from Milan to Turin with Hotel pick-up and drop off: $265

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Milan?

Prices for flights to both Milan 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
    Milan $42
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 Milan

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


  • Snack at Train Station
    $9.23
  • Restaurant Pizza
    $7.08
  • Casual Cafe Lunch (for Two)
    $29
  • Three Course Dinner (for Two)
    $69
  • Cappuccino
    $1.75

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Milan

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

  • Evening Food Tour: $90
  • Dining experience at a local's home in Milan with show cooking: $106
  • Food Tour of Brera: $110
  • Small-group Street food tour in Milan: $111
  • Pizza and Gelato-Making Class: $112
  • Gourmet Food Tour: $113
  • Private Italian cooking class & lunch in the woods outside Milan: $118
  • 3.5-Hour Traditional and Modern Food Tour: $130
  • Central Market Tour and Cooking Class: $135
  • Market Tour and Lunch or Dinner at a Cesarina's Home: $158
  • Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Milan: $162
  • Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Milan: $180

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Copenhagen $31
    Milan $33
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 Milan

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


  • Stairs to Duomo Rooftop
    $7.51

Tours and Activities in Milan

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

  • 1.5-Hour Milan Segway Tour: $68
  • 2-Hour Milan by night walking tour: $75
  • 2-Hours Milan Segway Tour with Brera and skyline: $87
  • 2-Night Garda Lake and Verona Tour from Milan or Venice: $866
  • 3 Hours Milan Walking Tour: Leonardo Da Vinci and Renaissance: $149
  • 3-Hour Milan Private Segway Tour: $95
  • 5-Night Milan Verona and Venice Tour: $1,646
  • Bagatti Valsecchi Museum Ticket Entrance: $14
  • Bernina & St.Moritz Day Tour from Milan: $146
  • Bernina express private tour: $596
  • Best Street Food Walking Tour: $90
  • Best of PRIVATE walking tour: $149

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $14
    Milan $26

Typical Alcohol prices in Milan

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Milan:


  • Cocktail at a Bar
    $9.01
  • Beer
    $3.59

Sample the Local Flavors in Milan

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

  • Wine Tasting Experience in the City Centre: $41
  • Wine Tastings with Chef Luigi Gandola: $93
  • From Wine Tasting Tour in the Countryside: $101
  • Food and Wine Tasting enjoying the New Milan: $127
  • Milan Countryside and Wine tasting Tour: $148
  • Wine Tour Barolo from Milan: $243
  • Day trip from Valtellina and wine tasting - private tour: $603
  • Food & Wine Tour on Lake Orta from Milan - Private Tour: $695
  • Wine Tour in Franciacorta from Milan: $821


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


When is the best time to visit Copenhagen or Milan?

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 Milan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Milan. The summer months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Milan this time of year.

In the summer, Copenhagen is cooler than Milan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Copenhagen in July are around 17°C (63°F), and Milan is about 23°C (73°F).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Milan. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Milan receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Milan 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Milan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Milan. 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 Milan for 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 Milan. Temperatures in Copenhagen average around 10°C (50°F), and Milan stays around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Milan. Copenhagen usually gets less rain in October than Milan. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F) 
    Milan 15°C (58°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Milan in the Winter?

Both Milan 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 Milan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Milan can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Copenhagen. Copenhagen is much colder than Milan in the winter. The temperature in Copenhagen is usually 1°C (33°F) in January, and Milan stays around 5°C (41°F).

In January, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Milan. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Copenhagen or Milan in the Spring?

Both Milan 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 Milan for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Copenhagen is much colder than Milan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Copenhagen in April are around 7°C (45°F), and Milan is about 13°C (55°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in April than Milan. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Milan receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F) 
    Milan 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Milan and Copenhagen

Copenhagen Milan
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 5°C (41°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)


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Copenhagen vs. Milan Travel Comparison

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