Should I Visit Copenhagen or Amsterdam? Which is Better for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples? Which is Cheaper? Which is More Expensive? | Budget Your Trip (2024)

Should you visit Copenhagen or Amsterdam?

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 Amsterdam 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 welcoming, relaxed, and beautiful city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a party-oriented, laid-back, and scenic 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, shopping, and museums.

Copenhagen and Amsterdam: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Amsterdam?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Amsterdam than Copenhagen. While Copenhagen is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Amsterdam is better known for its music and big city activities, while Copenhagen is more popular for its food and shopping. Amsterdam is more touristy than Copenhagen and is popular for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. Also, Amsterdam is famous for The Rijksmuseum. Copenhagen is well known for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population.

How is Copenhagen different from Amsterdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Amsterdam. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

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

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Copenhagen is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Copenhagen or Amsterdam Better for Nightlife?

The first-rate nightlife scene is relatively similar in Copenhagen and Amsterdam.

Copenhagen is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Amsterdam has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

Is Copenhagen or Amsterdam Better for Music?

Amsterdam 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 Amsterdam. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Copenhagen is not a live music destination.

Is Copenhagen or Amsterdam Better for its Old Town?

Both Copenhagen and Amsterdam have high quality historic old towns worth visiting.

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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Amsterdam. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Amsterdam?

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Copenhagen make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Amsterdam. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Is Copenhagen or Amsterdam Better for Families?

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Copenhagen or Amsterdam Better for Couples?

Copenhagen is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Amsterdam is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Is Copenhagen or Amsterdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Copenhagen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Amsterdam is extremely popular for backpackers. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Copenhagen is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Copenhagen or Amsterdam Better for Students?

Copenhagen is well known for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Copenhagen is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

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

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

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

Public transit in Amsterdam is top-notch. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

Is Copenhagen or Amsterdam a more walkable city?

Copenhagen and Amsterdam are first-rate when it comes to 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.

Getting around Amsterdam on foot is easy. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Amsterdam or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Amsterdam?

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

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

One day in Copenhagen or Amsterdam?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Copenhagen. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

When visiting Amsterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Amsterdam?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the progressive destination of Copenhagen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

When visiting Amsterdam, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Amsterdam?

You'll find nightlife and food around the welcoming city of Copenhagen. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Amsterdam, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Copenhagen or Amsterdam?

Copenhagen is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Amsterdam 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark, The Best Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.

When comparing the travel costs between Copenhagen and Amsterdam, we can see that Copenhagen 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Amsterdam?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 56% larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Amsterdam, 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 Amsterdam?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Amsterdam in the Summer?

Both Amsterdam and Copenhagen during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in July than Amsterdam. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Amsterdam in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Amsterdam. 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. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year.

In the autumn, Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Amsterdam. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Copenhagen in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Amsterdam averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In October, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Amsterdam in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Amsterdam. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Amsterdam for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Amsterdam. It's quite cold in Copenhagen in the winter. In January, Copenhagen is generally much colder than Amsterdam. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 1°C (33°F), and Amsterdam fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in January than Amsterdam. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Amsterdam in the Spring?

Both Amsterdam and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Amsterdam in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Amsterdam in the spring. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Amsterdam fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In April, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Amsterdam. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Amsterdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Amsterdam and Copenhagen