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

Should you visit Copenhagen or San Francisco?

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 San Francisco 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.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a eccentric, one-of-a-kind, and scenic coastal 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 live music, food, and beaches.

Copenhagen and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Copenhagen or San Francisco?

Visitors will generally find more to do in San Francisco than Copenhagen. While Copenhagen is larger than San Francisco, San Francisco has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. San Francisco is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Copenhagen is known for its nightlife and historical sights. San Francisco is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also home to The Golden Gate Bridge. Copenhagen is popular for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population.

How is Copenhagen different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Francisco is renowned for its museums and history. Also, Copenhagen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in San Francisco are world-renowned. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Is Copenhagen or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a coastal city with good options for its theatre productions. However, Copenhagen is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Copenhagen is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Copenhagen and San Francisco.

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 San Francisco, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

Is Copenhagen or San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

Copenhagen has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is Copenhagen or San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is a coastal 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 San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Copenhagen is not a live music destination.

Is Copenhagen or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is a very popular place for the beache. However, Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

The beaches at San Francisco attract visitors from all over. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

Is Copenhagen or San Francisco Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, San Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Copenhagen to see the historical old town. 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.

San Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Is Copenhagen or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is renowned for its hiking trails. However, Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Around San Francisco visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Copenhagen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or San Francisco?

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Copenhagen and San Francisco.

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.

San Francisco is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Is Copenhagen or San Francisco Better for Families?

Both Copenhagen and San Francisco are first-rate to visit with kids.

Copenhagen is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city almost feels like it was designed with kids in mind. There are countless playgrounds, beaches, and other kid-friendly places to explore. Also make sure you stop by Tivoli Gardens, which has rides and rollercoasters that everyone can enjoy. The city also has an aquarium, zoo, and even a deer park. The Little Mermaid statue may fascinate Disney lovers, and if you want to get out on the water there are boat tours through the canals.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Francisco is very family-friendly. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Is Copenhagen or San Francisco Better for Couples?

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Copenhagen has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is Copenhagen or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen and San Francisco are both high quality 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.

San Francisco is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Is Copenhagen or San Francisco Better for Students?

Both Copenhagen and San Francisco are high quality 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.

Many students visit San Francisco. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

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

Visitors will find first-rate public transit in both Copenhagen and San Francisco.

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

Public transit in San Francisco is top-notch. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Is Copenhagen or San Francisco a more walkable city?

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its walkability.

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.

San Francisco is very walkable. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or San Francisco?

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

Couples should spend more time in Copenhagen than San Francisco. 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 San Francisco than Copenhagen 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 San Francisco.

One day in Copenhagen or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the welcoming destination of Copenhagen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

When visiting San Francisco, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

When visiting San Francisco, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the progressive destination of Copenhagen. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

San Francisco, a popular coastal city, 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 coastal city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Copenhagen or San Francisco?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful city of Copenhagen. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Francisco is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Copenhagen and San Francisco, we can see that San Francisco 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. Even though Copenhagen is in Europe and San Francisco is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or San Francisco?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 58% larger than the population of San Francisco. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and San Francisco, 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 San Francisco?

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 San Francisco in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and San Francisco. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Copenhagen is around the same temperature as San Francisco. Typically, the summer temperatures in Copenhagen in July average around 17°C (63°F), and San Francisco averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Copenhagen or San Francisco in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as San Francisco. The autumn months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

In October, Copenhagen is generally much colder than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 10°C (50°F), and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Copenhagen usually gets more rain in October than San Francisco. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or San Francisco in the Winter?

Both San Francisco and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Copenhagen in the winter. Copenhagen is much colder than San Francisco in the winter. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and San Francisco fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

In January, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than San Francisco. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Copenhagen or San Francisco in the Spring?

Both San Francisco and Copenhagen during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to San Francisco in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Copenhagen is much colder than San Francisco. Typically, the spring temperatures in Copenhagen in April average around 7°C (45°F), and San Francisco averages at about 58°F (14°C).

Copenhagen usually gets more rain in April than San Francisco. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Copenhagen