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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Portland?

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 Portland 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 friendly, happy, and welcoming city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Portland

Portland is a laid-back, progressive, and quirky city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, hiking, and shopping.

Copenhagen and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Copenhagen than Portland. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Copenhagen is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Portland attracts visitors for its music, hiking, and small town charm. Portland is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. Copenhagen is famous for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also well known for Tivoli Gardens.

How is Copenhagen different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Copenhagen is very popular for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Copenhagen or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen is very popular for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Copenhagen is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Copenhagen or Portland Better for Music?

Portland is a city with good options for its live music scene. However, Copenhagen is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Copenhagen is not a live music destination.

Is Copenhagen or Portland Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Portland does not have a historic old town.

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.

Portland does not have a historic old town.

Is Copenhagen or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland 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 Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Portland?

Copenhagen is very popular for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Copenhagen. 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.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Copenhagen or Portland Better for Families?

Copenhagen is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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 Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Copenhagen or Portland Better for Couples?

Copenhagen is very popular for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Copenhagen or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen and Portland are both great 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.

Portland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Is Copenhagen or Portland Better for Students?

Copenhagen is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Portland is popular with students. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

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

Copenhagen is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Copenhagen has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Copenhagen or Portland a more walkable city?

Copenhagen is very popular for its walkability. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of 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.

Portland is a very walkable city. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Portland?

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

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Portland. 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 Portland. 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 Portland 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.

One day in Copenhagen or Portland?

The beautiful city of Copenhagen offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With shopping and nightlife around the tree-lined city of Portland, 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 Portland?

Copenhagen is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Copenhagen, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Portland, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Five days in Copenhagen or Portland?

Copenhagen is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Copenhagen, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Copenhagen or Portland?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Portland is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Copenhagen and Portland, we can see that Copenhagen is more expensive. And not only is Portland much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Copenhagen is in Europe and Portland is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Portland would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Portland 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 Portland.

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

Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Portland?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Portland. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Portland, 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.

When is the best time to visit Copenhagen or Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

Both Portland and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In July, Copenhagen is generally cooler than Portland. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 17°C (63°F), and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Portland. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Copenhagen during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Copenhagen is cooler than Portland in the autumn. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in October than Portland. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Portland in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Portland. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Portland in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Copenhagen. In the winter, Copenhagen is much colder than Portland. Typically, the winter temperatures in Copenhagen in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Portland averages at about 40°F (4°C).

Portland receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Portland. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Portland in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Portland. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Copenhagen is generally much colder than Portland. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 7°C (45°F), and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in April than Portland. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland and Copenhagen