Is Copenhagen Expensive? Here’s what to Expect
The level of expense can vary depending on individual preferences, travel style, and specific choices made during the trip. Below, I’ll share some averages; however, just remember we’ll get to ways to save after this.
When writing this post, I thought a lot about how prices vary for people and budgets vary as well. Costs are always relative, but being prepared and knowing what to expect is helpful when planning a trip.
Food: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant/street food can cost around 80 to 150 DKK (12 to 23 USD), and costs do go up from there. The average is around 20 USD.
Accommodation: Hostels average around $80 and hotels average $182.
Transportation: There is no Uber in Denmark; taxis start at 50 DKK ($7) and 18 DKK per kilometer ($2.60). A taxi ride in Copenhagen costs significantly more than public transportation. Train tickets are 24 DKK ($3.50).
Activities: Most museums and entry are between $15 – $25 each. Guided tours and food tours are $80 – $150 a person.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one days:
- $62 (427 DKK) on meals
- $73 (500 DKK) on local transportation
- $182 (1,255 DKK) on hotels
Examples of Things to Do in Copenhagen and the Cost:
- National Museum of Denmark: Free
- Danish Museum of Art & Design:130DKK ($18.50)
- Church of Our Saviour: 69DKK ($10) to climb the spire
- The David Collection: Free
- The Round Tower: 25DKK($3.50)
- Christiansborg Palace:160DKK ($23) combined ticket
- Hirschsprung Collection:95DKK ($14)
- National Aquarium Denmark: 200DKK $28.50
- Louisiana Museum of Modern Art:145DKK ($21)
- Carlsberg Brewery:100DKK ($16) – includes two beers
- Walking tour: Free (but you should tip the guides) or up to $80+ (for paid tours)
- Bike tour: $45-$90
On average, a one-week trip to Copenhagen for two people costs $2,964 (kr20,383). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing. Budget Your Trip has collected these average travel prices from other travelers.
However, I paid below the averages listed above, and so can you! Let’s discuss ways to do that.
NOTE: Denmark uses theKroner, not the Euro.I’ve converted some of the prices to US Dollars since theDanish Krone (DKK) is a bit confusing to convert in your head, but it also fluctuates. Check outXE.comfor the latest exchange rates.
What makes Copenhagen expensive?
The short answer is that most things in Copenhagen are more expensive than in other European destinations, such as accommodation, dining, transportation, and activities. Food and alcohol, in particular, tend to cost a lot more.
Denmark prioritizes quality, offering a value proposition that leans towards sustainability and durability. The country’s wage structure, reflecting the quality of services, contributes to its high costs. High taxation in Denmark funds extensive public services, improving the overall quality of life.
So overall, most people living in Denmark experience a higher cost of living, which also leads to a high quality of life. According to the Global Peace Index, Copenhagen is also one of the safest cities.
Tips to Save on Your Trip to Copenhagen
To manage costs, travelers can do a variety of different things. As mentioned, I was able to get costs below the average using a few other methods and discounts. Below are four different ways I’d recommend saving money on your trip!
Planning and researching different options for attractions and activities can also help make the trip more budget-friendly.
PS Travel hacking and using a travel credit card are always great ways to save on pricey accommodations (I’ve done some crazy things to save in the past, but this is much more practical). If you want to learn more about travel hacking, check out my beginner’s guide to travel credit cards.
