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

Should you visit Helsinki or Copenhagen?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Helsinki and Copenhagen 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.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a nature-focused, coastal, and environmentally conscious city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a happy, welcoming, and relaxed city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Helsinki and Copenhagen: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Copenhagen?

You'll generally find more things to do in Copenhagen than Helsinki. Copenhagen is bigger than Helsinki, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Helsinki is well known for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene. Copenhagen is well known for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. Also, Copenhagen is famous for Tivoli Gardens.

How is Helsinki different from Copenhagen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Helsinki and Copenhagen.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Helsinki. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

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

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Copenhagen Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

People head to Copenhagen just to party. 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.

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

Is Helsinki or Copenhagen Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen is a very popular place for its old town. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Copenhagen?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Helsinki. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Is Helsinki or Copenhagen Better for Families?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

Is Helsinki or Copenhagen Better for Couples?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Couples visit Helsinki frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

Is Helsinki or Copenhagen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Copenhagen Better for Students?

Both Helsinki and Copenhagen are great destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Helsinki. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

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 Helsinki 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, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Helsinki offers a very effecient public transportation network. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

Is Helsinki or Copenhagen a more walkable city?

Copenhagen is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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

Should I spend more time in Copenhagen or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Copenhagen?

In either Helsinki or Copenhagen, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Copenhagen than Helsinki because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Helsinki, and 2-5 days is enough time in Copenhagen.

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Helsinki. 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 Helsinki. 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 Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Copenhagen?

With museums and nightlife around the active city of Helsinki, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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.

A weekend in Helsinki or Copenhagen?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Helsinki, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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.

Five days in Helsinki or Copenhagen?

Helsinki, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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.

A week in Helsinki or Copenhagen?

Helsinki 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.

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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Helsinki and Copenhagen, we can see that Copenhagen is more expensive. And not only is Helsinki much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Helsinki would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Helsinki 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 Helsinki.

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Copenhagen?

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

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 Helsinki or Copenhagen in the Summer?

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

Helsinki is around the same temperature as Copenhagen in the summer. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Copenhagen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In July, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Copenhagen. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Helsinki or Copenhagen in the Autumn?

Both Copenhagen and Helsinki during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Helsinki is much colder than Copenhagen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Helsinki in October average around 6°C (42°F), and Copenhagen averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Helsinki usually gets more rain in October than Copenhagen. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Copenhagen in the Winter?

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

Copenhagen can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Helsinki. In January, Helsinki is generally much colder than Copenhagen. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around -6°C (21°F), and Copenhagen fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In January, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Copenhagen. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Helsinki or Copenhagen in the Spring?

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

Helsinki can get quite cold in the spring. Helsinki is much colder than Copenhagen in the spring. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 3°C (37°F) in April, and Copenhagen fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Helsinki usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Copenhagen. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Copenhagen receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Copenhagen and Helsinki