A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Copenhagen vs. Orkney Islands for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Copenhagen or Orkney Islands?

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 Orkney Islands 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 laid-back, progressive, and friendly 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.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a serene, tranquil, and natural archipelago. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and museums.

Copenhagen and Orkney Islands: 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 for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Orkney Islands?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Copenhagen. Although Copenhagen and Orkney Islands are both popular with visitors, Copenhagen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Copenhagen is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Orkney Islands is known for its beaches and hiking. Copenhagen is more touristy than Orkney Islands and is known for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also home to Tivoli Gardens. Orkney Islands is popular for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

How is Copenhagen different from Orkney Islands?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Copenhagen is great for its historical sights. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its sights and museums.

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.

Orkney Islands is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.


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

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Copenhagen is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Orkney Islands makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

Is Copenhagen or Orkney Islands Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Copenhagen is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Orkney Islands is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Copenhagen or Orkney Islands Better for Beaches?

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a very popular place for the beache. However, Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Orkney Islands attract visitors from all over. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

Copenhagen is not a beach destination.


Is Copenhagen or Orkney Islands Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Copenhagen is great for its historic old town charm. However, Orkney Islands 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.

Orkney Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Copenhagen or Orkney Islands Better for Hiking?

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Orkney Islands?

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Copenhagen is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Copenhagen specifically to go shopping. 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.

Orkney Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Copenhagen or Orkney Islands Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Copenhagen is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its family-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.

Orkney Islands is a family-friendly place to visit. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.

Is Copenhagen or Orkney Islands Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Copenhagen is renowned for couples. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Copenhagen 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.

Orkney Islands is a very popular place to visit for couples. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

Is Copenhagen or Orkney Islands Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Copenhagen and Orkney Islands are both superb 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.

Orkney Islands is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.


Is Copenhagen or Orkney Islands Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Copenhagen is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Orkney Islands 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.

Orkney Islands is not popular with students.

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

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Copenhagen is renowned for times when you don't have a car. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago for its public transit.

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

Orkney Islands has a few public transit options. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

Is Copenhagen or Orkney Islands a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Orkney Islands

Copenhagen is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Orkney Islands or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Orkney Islands?

Both Copenhagen and Orkney Islands have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Orkney Islands than in Copenhagen. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 3-7 days is enough time in Orkney Islands.

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Orkney Islands. 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 Orkney Islands. 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 Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands? Ideal Length of Stay
    Copenhagen 2-5 
    Orkney Islands 3-7

One day in Copenhagen or Orkney Islands?

In Copenhagen, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and food around the remote archipelago of Orkney Islands, 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 Orkney Islands?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

With food and museums around the destination of Orkney Islands, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Orkney Islands?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Orkney Islands, a popular archipelago, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this archipelago. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Copenhagen or Orkney Islands?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Copenhagen. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Orkney Islands is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this archipelago makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this archipelago has to offer. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh.


Which place is cheaper, Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands is $161. 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 Orkney Islands in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $91
    Orkney Islands $76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $182
    Orkney Islands $152
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Orkney Islands

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Orkney Islands? 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 Orkney Islands


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 $72
    Orkney Islands $70
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 hotel or address to Malmö City - Private Round-Trip Transfer: $258
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $210
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen city to Fredericia Cruise Port: $170
  • Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE) to Copenhagen - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $155
  • Private Transfers in Copenhagen – to/from airport or hotel: $148
  • Departure Transfer: Copenhagen to Airport CPH by Luxuy Van: $135
  • Copenhagen Port, Airport & City Private Transfer: $127
  • Private Transfer: Cruise Port to Copenhagen Airport CPH: $125
  • Private Luxury Van Transfer from Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen: $125
  • Private Transfer from Copenhagen CPH to Copenhagen Port by Sedan: $125
  • Luxury Vehicule Transfer from Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen CPH: $125
  • Private Direct Transfer From Copenhagen to Malmo: $123

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Orkney Islands?

Prices for flights to both Orkney Islands 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
    Orkney Islands $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:

  • 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
    Orkney Islands $34
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:

  • 3h walking tour, small group max 10 people Copenhagen: $63
  • Amitylux 3h Small-Group max 10 people Biking Tour Copenhagen: $83
  • Light Version Adventures in Forgotten Giants : $144
  • 1-Hour Private Segway Tour Copenhagen: $75
  • 2 Hour Copenhagen Segway Tour: $79
  • 2 Hours Copenhagen E-Bike Guided Tours: $79
  • 2 Hours Guided Kayak Tour in Copenhagen Harbor: $59
  • 3 Hour Private Guided Copenhagen Walking Tour: $120
  • 3-Hour Private City Walking Tour including a Rosenborg Castle Ticket : $225
  • 3-Hour Private City Walking Tour with a Canal Tour ticket: $175
  • 3-Hour Private Tour Copenhagen Food & Drink: $158
  • 3-hour Culinary Bike Tour in English: $98

Tours and Activities in Orkney Islands

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

  • From Kirkwall - Orkney Mainland Private Tour: $277
  • Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall : $248

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $14
    Orkney Islands $8.10

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

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



When is the best time to visit Copenhagen or Orkney Islands?

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 Orkney Islands in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Orkney Islands. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Orkney Islands for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Copenhagen is a little warmer than Orkney Islands. Typically, the summer temperatures in Copenhagen in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Orkney Islands averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Orkney Islands. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Orkney Islands 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Orkney Islands in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Orkney Islands. 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. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Copenhagen is generally a little warmer than Orkney Islands. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 10°C (50°F), and Orkney Islands fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Orkney Islands. Copenhagen usually gets less rain in October than Orkney Islands. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F) 
    Orkney Islands 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Orkney Islands in the Winter?

Both Orkney Islands 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 and the cuisine are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year.

It's quite cold in Orkney Islands in the winter. The weather in Copenhagen can be very cold. Copenhagen is much colder than Orkney Islands in the winter. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Orkney Islands fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. In January, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Orkney Islands. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Copenhagen 1°C (33°F) 
    Orkney Islands 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Orkney Islands in the Spring?

Both Orkney Islands 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Copenhagen is a little warmer than Orkney Islands. Typically, the spring temperatures in Copenhagen in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Orkney Islands averages at about 6°C (43°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in April than Orkney Islands. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Orkney Islands receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Copenhagen 7°C (45°F) 
    Orkney Islands 6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Orkney Islands and Copenhagen

Copenhagen Orkney Islands
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (33°F) 51 mm (2 in) 4°C (39°F) 106 mm (4.2 in)
Feb 1°C (33°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 4°C (38°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 3°C (37°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 5°C (40°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 9°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 123 mm (4.8 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 113 mm (4.4 in)