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

Should you visit Dubai or Copenhagen?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dubai and Copenhagen can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dubai

Dubai is a glamorous, opulent, and modern city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a happy, welcoming, and relaxed 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.

Dubai and Copenhagen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Copenhagen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dubai. Although Dubai and Copenhagen are both popular with visitors, Dubai has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dubai is more popular for its skiing, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Copenhagen is known for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Dubai is more touristy than Copenhagen and is known for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. It is also home to Burj Khalifa. Copenhagen is popular for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Copenhagen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Copenhagen and Dubai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen Better for Skiing?

Dubai is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Copenhagen is not a skiing destination.

Dubai is a fun local destination for snow skiers. Despite being a desert city, Dubai became famous for its massive indoor ski complex that covers 22,500 square meters. It is located in the Mall of the Emirates.

Copenhagen is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dubai or Copenhagen?

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Copenhagen and Dubai.

Many visitors head to Dubai specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most famous landmark is the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world. Head to the observation deck for stunning views.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Copenhagen can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 the Food Better in Dubai or Copenhagen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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, Dubai makes for a great culinary experience. The national dish in the area is khuzi, or ghuzi, which is a meal of roasted lamb or mutton, prepared with rice vegetables and nuts.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find amazing options in both Dubai and Copenhagen.

People head to Dubai just to party. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

The nightlife in Copenhagen is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen Better for Music?

Dubai is renowned for its live music scene. However, Copenhagen is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Dubai. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Copenhagen is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen Better for Resorts?

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

Dubai is a world class resort vacation destination. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Copenhagen is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a city 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 Dubai. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Copenhagen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a city with good options for the beache. However, Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Dubai. There are a number of both private and public beaches in the city. They are almost all man-made, so they are large, flat, and have soft sand. It's also generally safe to swim at most beaches.

Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai 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.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Copenhagen?

If you're looking to go shopping, Dubai and Copenhagen both offer plenty of amazing spots.

Many people travel to Dubai specifically to go shopping. With its many malls, souks, and shopping areas, this is the place to go for luxury shopping. Popular items to purchase include gold and diamond jewelry, shawls, and Persian rugs.

Copenhagen is a famous shopping destination with plenty of 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.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen Better for Families?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Dubai is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city has family-friendly resorts, skyscrapers with spectacular views, and amusement parks that are fun for the whole family. There are also plenty of fountains that the kids can splash around in.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen Better for Couples?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Dubai is a nice destination for couples. From the spectacular views to the high end resorts, couples can enjoy a romantic retreat to the city.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Dubai is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It is known to be an expensive and not so backpacker friendly city, but there are some hostels around that you can stay at.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen Better for Students?

Dubai is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Copenhagen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Dubai is a very popular city for students. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Many students visit 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.

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

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Copenhagen can get you around easily. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

Dubai has a few public transit options. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Is Dubai or Copenhagen a more walkable city?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known 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.

Dubai is generally not very walkable. It is one of the less pedestrian-friendly cities around the world. There is lots of road work, even in the more walkable areas, so getting around on foot can be challenging.

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

Should I spend more time in Copenhagen or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Copenhagen?

In either Dubai or Copenhagen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than Copenhagen because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 2-5 days is enough time in Copenhagen.

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Dubai. 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 Dubai. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Copenhagen that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Copenhagen than Dubai 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 Dubai or Copenhagen?

When visiting Dubai, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Copenhagen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this happy 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.

A weekend in Dubai or Copenhagen?

When visiting Dubai, people usually allow for lots of time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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.

Five days in Dubai or Copenhagen?

Dubai, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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.

A week in Dubai or Copenhagen?

Dubai is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this city makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxed 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dubai, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Arab Emirates, The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dubai and Copenhagen, we can see that Dubai is more expensive. And not only is Copenhagen much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dubai is in Middle East and Copenhagen is in Europe, 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 Copenhagen would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Copenhagen 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 Dubai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dubai than you might in Copenhagen.

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

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Copenhagen?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Dubai. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Copenhagen, 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 Dubai or Copenhagen?

Copenhagen has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Dubai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Copenhagen in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Copenhagen. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Also, many visitors come to Copenhagen in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Dubai can become quite hot in the summer. In July, Dubai is generally much warmer than Copenhagen. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 35°C (95°F), and Copenhagen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Copenhagen. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer. June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Should I visit Dubai or Copenhagen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Copenhagen. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, 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.

Dubai is much warmer than Copenhagen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 29°C (84°F) in October, and Copenhagen fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Copenhagen. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Copenhagen in the Winter?

Both Copenhagen and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Copenhagen can be very cold. In the winter, Dubai is much warmer than Copenhagen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubai in January average around 19°C (66°F), and Copenhagen averages at about 1°C (33°F).

In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Copenhagen. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The rainy season in Dubai is January to March.

Should I visit Dubai or Copenhagen in the Spring?

Both Copenhagen and Dubai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year.

In April, Dubai is generally much warmer than Copenhagen. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 26°C (79°F), and Copenhagen fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Copenhagen. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year. June to August is the dry season in Dubai.

Typical Weather for Copenhagen and Dubai