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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Monaco?

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 Monaco can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a progressive, friendly, and happy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Monaco

Monaco is a posh, glitzy, and glamorous coastal resort area. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Copenhagen and Monaco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Monaco?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monaco than Copenhagen, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monaco is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Copenhagen is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Monaco is more touristy than Copenhagen and is popular for its grand hotels, luxurious casinos, opulent malls, and popularity with celebrities. Also, Monaco is famous for Monte Carlo. Copenhagen is well known for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population.

How is Copenhagen different from Monaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
Monaco

Copenhagen is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Copenhagen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Copenhagen
Monaco

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Copenhagen has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Monaco has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The cuisine is heavily influenced by both French and Italian cuisines. You'll find many dishes that take advantage of the coastal location, with seafood being very common. The national dish is Barbagiuan, which is a deep-fried pastry that is filled with ricotta cheese, Swiss chard, and other vegetables.

Is Copenhagen or Monaco Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Monaco

The amazing nightlife scene is relatively similar in Copenhagen and Monaco.

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.

Monaco has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's where sophistication meets glam, with many luxury nightclubs, cocktail bars, casinos, and even opera houses that you can explore. The city attracts celebrities, wealthy business people, and jetsetters who are looking to socialize, see, and be seen.

Is Copenhagen or Monaco Better for Resorts?

Copenhagen
Monaco

Monaco is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Copenhagen is not a resort destination.

Monaco is a world class resort vacation destination. As the playground for the rich and famous, this city has its share of luxury resorts. Famous hotels include the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, and the Fairmont Monte Carlo.

Copenhagen is not a resort destination.


Is Copenhagen or Monaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Copenhagen
Monaco

Monaco is a coastal resort area with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Copenhagen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Monaco. There are both beaches that offer walk-in snorkeling spots as well as boat tours that you can book that will take you to some of the best snorkeling and dive sights around Monaco.

Copenhagen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Copenhagen or Monaco Better for Beaches?

Copenhagen
Monaco

Monaco is a coastal resort area with good options for the beache. However, Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Monaco. Located along the French Riviera, the beaches are a mix of pebbles and sand. The only public beach is Plage du Larvotto in Monte Carlo and there are a number of activities available including jet skis and wind-surfing. This is also a very family-friendly beach that kids of all ages can enjoy.

Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

Is Copenhagen or Monaco Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Monaco

Copenhagen is well known for its old town. However, Monaco does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Copenhagen. 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.

Monaco does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Monaco?

Copenhagen
Monaco

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

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.

Monaco is a world class destination for shoppers. A visit would not be complete without experiencing the city's shopping. There are couture, luxury brands as well as local boutiques that are frequented by the wealthy and famous. Popular shopping areas include Le Metropole Shopping Center, Fontvieille Shopping Centre, and La Condamine Market.

Is Copenhagen or Monaco Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Monaco

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Monaco is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

For families, Monaco is not always the best place to visit. The city has a few family-friendly activities like an Oceanography Museum, a Zoological Park, and a harbor where kids can explore. You can also check out the Changing of the Guards in the Old Town. The public beach in town, Plage du Larvotto, is very family-friendly as well.

Is Copenhagen or Monaco Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Monaco

Both Copenhagen and Monaco are amazing 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.

Monaco is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Filled with luxury, a couple can enjoy perusing the yachts in the harbor, dining on fine cuisine at an award winning restaurant, or staying at one of the many fancy hotels in town. You can also explore the area by air, by taking a truly spectacular helicopter tour.


Is Copenhagen or Monaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Monaco

Copenhagen is well known for backpackers. However, Monaco is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Copenhagen is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Monaco is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Known for it's luxury accommodation and posh visitors, this coastal area isn't known for its backpacker friendly atmosphere. Most budget travelers skip the glitz and glam of this microstate in order to save a few bucks.

Is Copenhagen or Monaco Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Monaco

Copenhagen is well known for students. However, Monaco is not popular with students.

Copenhagen is very popular with students. 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.

Monaco is not popular with students.

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

Copenhagen
Monaco

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Monaco offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system.


Is Copenhagen or Monaco a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Monaco

Copenhagen and Monaco are amazing 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 Monaco on foot is easy. It's small and compact size means that it is easy to explore the entire area on foot in a short amount of time.

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

Should I spend more time in Monaco or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Monaco?

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

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

One day in Copenhagen or Monaco?

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 Monaco, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Monaco, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Monaco?

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 Monaco, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal resort area.


Five days in Copenhagen or Monaco?

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.

Monaco, a popular coastal resort area, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Monaco?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the progressive 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.

Monaco 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, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark.


Which place is cheaper, Monaco 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 Monaco is $205. 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 Monaco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $89
    Monaco $129
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $178
    Monaco $258
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Monaco

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Monaco? 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 Monaco


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $71
    Monaco $19
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:

  • Arrival Transfer: Airport CPH to Copenhagen by Luxury Van: $141
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen Port - Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $104
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Private Transfer to Copenhagen: $316
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $331
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH): Transfer to Fredericia Port: $863
  • Copenhagen City to Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE)- Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen Airport (CPH)- Departure Private Transfer: $104
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE)- Departure Private Transfer: $76
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $80
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport(RKE):Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $264
  • Copenhagen hotel or address to Malmö City - Private Round-Trip Transfer: $255

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Monaco

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Monaco:

  • Private Transfer from Nice to Monaco: $149
  • Private Transfer from Monaco to Nice: $192
  • Port Hercule (Monte Carlo Monaco Port): Transfer to Monaco: $227

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Monaco?

Prices for flights to both Monaco 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
    Monaco $58
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
  • The 10 Tastings of Copenhagen Private Food Tour: $218

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Copenhagen $31
    Monaco $25
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:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Danish Design: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99
  • Monstour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Danish Folk Legends: $5.20
  • Danish Design: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Tour of the Danish Resistance during World War II: $5.32
  • App-Based City Exploration Game & Tour: $5.33
  • The Philosopher's Last Walk: An audio tour on the life of Søren Kierkegaard: $5.99
  • Copenhagen's Royal History: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Danish Folk Legends Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • Royal History Self-Guided Walking Tour: $5.99
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Tour: $6.93
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $7.45

Typical Entertainment Prices in Monaco

Here are a few typical costs in Monaco for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Grand Prix for Two
    $109

Tours and Activities in Monaco

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

  • Excursion to Eze and Half Day Shared Tour 5h: $69
  • Eze and Full Day Shared Tour: $101
  • From Nice: Eze, Monaco and Monte Carlo Half Day Tour: $69
  • From Nice: French Riviera Full Day Tour: $105
  • From Nice: Full-Day Monaco, Monte-Carlo & Eze Tour: $38
  • From Nice: Italian Riviera, Monaco, & Monte Carlo Tour: $719
  • Italian Riviera & Monaco/ Monte-Carlo Sightseeing Tour: $719
  • Jewels of Monaco – Walking Tour for Couples: $468
  • La Condamine: City Highlights Walking Tour: $372
  • Monaco & Monte-Carlo: Guided Hidden Gems Tour: $139
  • Monaco City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.39
  • Monaco Old Town Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $13
    Monaco $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: $357

Sample the Local Flavors in Monaco

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

  • Nice: Wine Tasting Class in City Center: $72


When comparing the travel costs between Copenhagen and Monaco, we can see that Copenhagen 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.

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Monaco?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 1130 times larger than the population of Monaco. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Monaco, 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.