Is Copenhagen Expensive? Cost of a Trip to Copenhagen (2024)
Copenhagen, the Danish Capital, is a city with a rich history and beautiful architecture.
It’s also known for being one of the most environmentally friendly cities in the world, thanks to its many initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable living.
In Copenhagen, you can enjoy all the benefits of a large city while also enjoying plenty of green spaces and fresh air.
Copenhagen has many things to offer tourists from the beautiful architecture, to amazing food, delightful things to do and it has a rich history.
While it’s not as cheap as some of the smaller towns and villages in Denmark, it still offers a lot of value for your money.
Here is an overview of the cost of a holiday in Copenhagen, including some tips on how to save money while you’re there.
So, is Copenhagen Expensive?
Spoiler alert: Yes, Copenhagen can be very expensive.
But with a little careful planning, you can enjoy a fabulous holiday here without breaking the bank.
We’ll take a look at some of the most affordable things to do in Copenhagen as well as some tips on how to save money while you’re here.
Accommodation Prices in Copenhagen
No matter where you are travelling one of the biggest costs when travelling is accommodation and Copenhagen is no different.
Copenhagen does not have a shortage of accommodation options, from a bed in a shared dormitory to the glitz and glamour of the Nimb Hotel in the famous Tivoli Gardens you will be spoilt for choice.
But, when it comes to choosing accommodation you need to think about what really matters to you. Are you just looking for a place to rest your head after a busy day of sightseeing and you only need the basics, are you looking for a spa hotel in Copenhagen to really unwind after a busy day or is utmost luxury is super important to you?
Depending on the type of accommodation you are looking for will really determine whether Copenhagen is expensive for accommodation or not.
Hostels in Copenhagen
If you’re looking for a centrally located, affordable place to stay in Copenhagen, a hostel is the way to go.
Not only are they typically much more affordable than hotels, but many also come with free breakfast and cooking facilities.
This can be a great way to save money on your trip and meet new people.
You should budget approximately $45/night per person for a decent hostel — although many of them charge more on the weekends, in the summer and over the Christmas and New Year period.
These prices are simply for a bed in a shared dorm room. If you would prefer to have a private room, be prepared to pay anywhere from $70-$180.
Here are some great recommendations for hostels in Copenhagen:
If you’re looking for a centrally located and affordable place to stay in Copenhagen, the Copenhagen Downtown Hostel is a great option.
Just a five minute walk from City Hall Square and Tivoli Gardens, the hostel has a popular bar with occasional live music, and simple rooms with either private or shared bathroom facilities.
Guests can relax in the lounge, or join in on free walking tours that are organized twice a day.
There’s also a variety of rooms to choose from, from a single bed private room to a ten bed mixed dorm with shared bathroom.
So whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, the Copenhagen Downtown Hostel has something for everyone.
Generator Copenhagen has you covered with dorm rooms that are cosy with modern decor and private rooms with TV and Chrome Cast.
The hostel offers 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi throughout the property and a late night bar.
There are also laundry facilities and luggage storage onsite.
Generator Copenhagen is very centrally located, it is located 150m from Kongens Nytorv Square and a 10 minute walk of Strøget pedestrian street. The gorgeous waterfront of Nyhavn is only 1km away.
This charming hostel is located just steps away from the Nyhavn waterfront and pedestrian Strøget street, making it easy to explore all that the city has to offer.
Guests can choose from guest rooms or shared dormitory options, and bathroom facilities are shared. There is also a 24 hour reception desk on site.
The hostel also offers bike hire, so be sure to take advantage of that during your stay!
Charlottenborg Palace is 300 meters away from Bedwood Hostel, while Christiania is 1.7 kilometers from the property. The nearest metro station is Kongens Nytorv, just 600 meters away.
Bed linen is included in your nightly stay but towels can be hired from reception.
Hotels in Copenhagen
You won’t have any trouble finding hotels in Copenhagen, from budget hotels, to three star hotels, to spa hotels and even the fanciest hotels you could imagine.
Hotels in Copenhagen are often located in the central areas, around the train station and close to most of the tourist attractions.
While they’re not going to be the cheapest option, you can find a number of choices that are priced between $75-$100 per night, especially if you look for a 3 star hotel in Copenhagen.
Three star hotels are very comfortable but also good value for money.
The further away from the city center and the main attractions the cheaper the hotels will be.
Here are some recommendations for hotels in Copenhagen that won’t break your budget (and maybe one hotel for the perfect wee splurge):
If you want a charming and historic place to stay in Copenhagen, look no further than Jørgensen Hotel.
This hotel is located in the famous Lichtenbergs Mansion, which was built in 1744.
You’ll love the 24-hour reception, terrace, shared lounge room, and WiFi. Plus, the beautiful restaurant offers an amazing free buffet breakfast.
The hotel is so clean and cosy that you will get that Hygge feeling all around the hotel, it is the perfect place to relax after a busy day sightseeing.
Many of the big sights are located within walking distance of the hotel but if you would prefer to cycle around the city you can hire a bike from reception at the hotel.
Are you looking to take a day trip out of Copenhagen? You can also hire a car from reception or if you have brought you own car there is free parking at the hotel.
Wakeup Copenhagen – Borgergade
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel in the heart of Copenhagen, Wakeup Copenhagen – Borgergade is a great option.
Whilst this is definitely not a luxury hotel it is very good value for money.
This modern hotel offers rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi, and it’s just 250 meters from Kongens Nytorv.
To save some money on food stock up on the free continental breakfast served in the morning.
The Strøget and Nyhavn are both within 5 minutes’ walk, so you’ll have no trouble finding things to do during your stay.
And if you need to catch up on work or want to relax with a good book, the hotel’s 24-hour reception area has everything you need.
If you’re looking for a clean, modern and comfortable place to stay in Copenhagen, the Go Hotel Saga is a great option. This hotel is located in the Vesterbro District, just 150m from Copenhagen central station.
You’ll be close to all the action, yet far enough away that it’s quiet at night.
The private rooms at the Go Hotel Saga come with either a private bathroom or a shared bathroom with in room basin – so no need to fight for space in the shower!
And if you’re feeling peckish, there’s always Ham, cheese, breads and pastries on offer for breakfast.
Plus, bikes are available for rent from reception – perfect for exploring everything this amazing city has to offer.
Although not budget friendly if you are looking for a wee splurge while on your stay in Copehagen look no further than 71 Nyhavn Hotel.
This hotel is a charming and picturesque place to stay, housed in 2 former warehouses from the 1800s and is found in the vibrant Nyhavn District.
From your room, you’ll have beautiful views of the waterfront and can enjoy watching the world go by as boats sail down the canal.
Daily housekeeping, bathtubs in each room, extremely comfortable and spacious rooms make this hotel a wonderful choice for your stay in Copenhagen.
Many rooms have exposed beams and beautiful views of the waterfront. World class free continental breakfast is also included with your stay.
And if that’s not enough, world famous canal tours depart from just outside the hotel!
Apartments in Copenhagen
If you’re looking for a more authentic Copenhagen experience, consider staying in an apartment rather than a hotel.
Apartments often come with fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities, which can save you money on food and laundry expenses. Staying with a group of travellers can also split the cost.
Longer stays often attract discounts from the apartment owner or management company.
Reach out to the host to discuss possible discounts.
You will be staying in a locals home (usually when they are out of town) so you can get a feel for what it is like to be a local.
Here are some recommendations for apartments in Copenhagen:
Absolute Deluxe Apartment on Kongens Nytorv
If you’re looking for a luxurious and centrally located place to stay in Copenhagen, the Absolute Deluxe Apartment on Kongens Nytorv is a great option.
This beautiful apartment comes with amazing views of the city and a perfect location within walking distance of some of the most popular tourist destinations in Denmark.
The apartment is spacious and bright, with four bedrooms – one with an ensuite – a fully equipped kitchen, and a lounge room with sofa bed. There’s also a roof top terrace for guest use.
A Charming and Beautiful Oasis in the Heart of Copenhagen
If you’re looking for a charming and beautiful oasis in the heart of Copenhagen, look no further than this one bedroom apartment.
Located just 700 meters from Tivoli Gardens and 400 meters from The National Museum of Denmark, this apartment is well equipped with everything you need and boasts a light and airy atmosphere with a warm ambiance.
The host provided lots of goodies including tea, milk, bottled water and wine, making your stay even more comfortable.
Transportation Prices in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is one of the most beautiful and efficient cities in the world.
And as a tourist, there’s no better way to see it than by taking public transportation.
From taking the super clean driverless metro to riding bikes around the city there are plenty of options for getting around Copenhagen.
Train/Metro Travel
Metro Travel
Copenhagen is a city that is known for its cleanliness, safety and reliability.
The metro system is one of the best in the world and runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
There are three metro lines that run throughout the city.
The trains are clean and come often, but they are most frequent during rush hours. If you’re traveling late at night, don’t worry – there’s still a train waiting for you!
After midnight on Friday and Saturday nights the metro comes every 15 – 20 minutes
Thursday – Sunday after midnight the metro arrives every 20 minutes.
The basic ticket costs DKK20 (€2.70) for adults and DKK10 (€1.40) for children. Most normal metro tickets can also be used on the buses and the trams.
Train Travel
If you’re looking for a convenient and affordable way to travel around Copenhagen, the city’s excellent S-train system is definitely worth checking out.
The trains are available every day from 5am until 12:30am, and they run in all of the city’s urban areas except for Amager. Lines A,B,C and E depart every 10 minutes, Line F every 4 – 5 minutes and Line H runs every 20 minutes.
On Friday and Saturday nights Line F runs every half hour from 1am until 5am, while Lines A,B,C,E and H run once an hour from 1 am until 5am.
Bus travel
If you’re looking for a convenient and affordable way to get around Copenhagen, the bus is definitely the way to go.
With three different bus services that run throughout the city, there’s bound to be one that meets your needs the A-bus, the S-bus, and night buses.
The A-bus is the main bus service in the middle of Copenhagen and runs 24/7.
Buses depart every 10 minutes, except for during rush hour when buses leave every 3-7 minutes.
The S-Bus makes less stops than the A-buses and departures are every 20 minutes.
However, during rush hour they depart every 5 – 10 minutes.
Night buses run between 1am and 5am and any bus with a N indicates it is a night bus.
Renting a bike in Copenhagen
If you’re looking for a fun and affordable way to explore Copenhagen, renting a bike is the way to go! With nearly half of all commuters cycling to work or school, the city is well-equipped with bike lanes and traffic lights in favor of cyclists.
And thanks to companies like Donkey Republic, it’s easier than ever to find a rental bike – no matter how long you plan to stay.
If you’re looking for a fun and affordable way to explore Copenhagen, renting a bike is the way to go! With nearly half of all commuters cycling to work or school, the city is well-equipped with bike lanes and traffic lights in favor of cyclists.
And thanks to companies like Donkey Republic, it’s easier than ever to find a rental bike – no matter how long you plan to stay.
Donkey Republic is a company that operates primarily through your smart phone.
There are several different ways you can rent bikes through them, but the longer you rent the bike, the cheaper it will be.
For example, one hour of rental is 37DKK but 6 hours is only 82DKK.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting for a few days, renting a bike from Donkey Republic is an excellent way to get around Copenhagen on your own schedule.
You can find rental stores all over the city, and prices start at just 104DKK for three hours or 134DKK for 24 hours.
Many hotels and hostels also offer bike rentals at the front desk, so it’s easy to find a bike no matter where you’re staying.
If you’re looking for a more guided experience, there are also many bike tours available in Copenhagen.
The tours typically last three hours, but at the conclusion of the tour you can often extend your bike rental at a reduced rate.
Food prices in Copenhagen
From street food to sit-down restaurants, you can find something to fit your budget and taste preferences.
Food prices in Copenhagen aren’t cheap but they don’t have to break the bank either.
The average sit down restaurants will set you back between 300DKK and 400DKK per person for a drink and a two course dinner.
However, there are plenty of street food options which can help keep your costs down. A meal at a food market will cost around 150DKK.
A popular food market is Reffen food market, which used to be known as Paper Island. Tivoli Gardens also has a food market that is open even when Tivoli Gardens amusement park is closed.
While cafes are another option for grabbing a small meal for breakfast or lunch and a meal will cost ~150DKK.
How to eat cheaply in Copenhagen
There are plenty of great options for cheap eats in the city:
1) Head to one of the city’s many food markets for a quick and affordable meal. Some of our favorites include Reffen food market and Tivoli Gardens food market
2) Have breakfast or lunch at a cafe instead of dinner at a restaurant. Breakfast and lunch items are usually cheaper than dinner items at cafes
3) Stick to standard beers instead of cocktails or wine. You’ll save a lot of money by drinking beer rather than cocktails or wine at bars and restaurants
4) Make the most of the free breakfast at your hotel/hostel
5) Stay in an apartment or a hostel with a fully equipped kitchen and prepare your own meals
6) If you are visiting Copenhagen in winter eat at the Christmas markets – the bratwurst at Nyhavn Christmas markets are amazing
How much does Alcohol in Copenhagen cost
The city’s nightlife can be expensive, there are ways to enjoy drinks without spending too much.
Here’s a look at what you can expect to pay for alcohol in Copenhagen.
Copenhagen is known for its world-class nightlife and high prices.
But don’t let that scare you away – there are plenty of affordable drinking options available if you know where to look.
Beer is the most popular drink in Denmark, and while prices can vary depending on the bar or club, you can generally expect to pay around 40DKK-75DKK per pint.
If cocktails are more your thing, expect to pay around 100DKK-120DKK per drink.
Wine is also popular in Denmark, and start at around 110DKK in most bars and clubs.
If you’re looking for some cheaper alternatives, head to one of Copenhagen’s many grocery stores where you can find beer for as little as 20DKK and wine starting at 90 DKK a bottle.
The Cost of Activities in Copenhagen
There are many things to do in Copenhagen, in fact, there are probably too many things to do in Copenhagen that it can be overwhelming when planning a trip to Copenhagen.
If you are travelling on a strict budget there are plenty of free activities to do in Copenhagen such as visiting the Little Mermaid, wandering the beautiful cobblestone streets, window shopping on the pedestrian street, jumping on the trampolines at Nyhavn, exploring the parks and visiting The National Museum of Denmark.
However, most activities are paid and some are cheaper than others.
A few examples of the costs of activities in Copenhagen are:
- Tivoli Gardens: 150DKK (450DKK for entrance with unlimited rides)
- The Round Tower: 30DKK
- Rosenborg Castle: 135DKK
If you are planning on visiting quite a few attractions in Copenhagen it might be worth checking out the Copenhagen Card.
The Copenhagen Card allows you access to 89 attractions and over a certain time period from 24 hours (450DKK) to 120 hours (1,100DKK).
Each adult card allows free entrance for two children (up to 11 years old) and free public transport.
–> PURCHASE YOUR COPENHAGEN CARD HERE
Additional costs in Copenhagen
Remember, most trips will include additional and unforeseen costs that you may not have budgeted for.
It is important to always allow a little extra in your budget than what you think you may need.
Tipping in Copenhagen
Whether someone has carried your bags to your room, you’ve taken a trip in a taxi or you’re being served at restaurant, tipping is not expected in Copenhagen.
In Denmark, service fees and taxes are worked in the cost of your bill. Also, wages are fair and workers are provided with decent benefits such as sick, annual and parental leave.
However, if you feel the service you were provided with was above an beyond you can round your bill up or you can leave the change on the table.
Travel insurance in Copenhagen
Another big cost when travelling (depending on the type and length of your trip) is travel insurance.
When I was younger I always thought I couldn’t afford travel insurance, in my mind, it was an unnecessary cost.
However, when I was stung by a Jelly Fish in Greece I was left with a huge bill that I really couldn’t afford. In fact, travel insurance for this 7 day trip would have been cheaper.
In this day and age of travel you often need to show your travel insurance policy before boarding a flight or staying at some hotels.
Travel insurance doesn’t only cover your medical bills (make sure you check your policy carefully to know what is covered) but it can help cover cancelled or delayed travel plans, lost luggage and help getting home in case of emergencies.
When I travel, I always purchase my travel insurance the moment I make my first booking on my trip.
World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.
Some tips on saving money in Copenhagen
Despite being an expensive city there are some ways you can save money during your trip to Copenhagen.
Plan ahead
You can save a lot of money by planning your trip ahead and booking your accommodation, flights and activities in advance.
Many hotels, airlines and activity providers will give you a discount if you book early.
Use Copenhagen Card
If you are planning on visiting several attractions while in Copenhagen then the Copenhagen Card is great value for money.
The card allows you access to 89 attractions and over a certain time period from 24 hours (450DKK) to 120 hours (1,100DKK). Each adult card also allows free entrance for two children (up to 11 years old) and free public transport.
–> You can purchase your Copenhagen Card here
Eat like a local
Eating out in Copenhagen can be expensive but you can save money by eating like a local.
Many supermarkets and bakeries sell delicious food at a fraction of the price you would pay at a restaurant.
You can also eat picnic style in one of Copenhagen’s many parks.
Walk or cycle
Walking and cycling are great ways to see a city and they are free.
Copenhagen is relatively small and flat so it is easy to walk or cycle around.
Many of the main sights in Copenhagen are also within walking distance from each other.
Free walking tours
A great way to see a city is on a free walking tour.
Copenhagen Free Walking Tours offers two different tours, one of the Old Town and one of the New Town.
The tours run every day (except Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve) at 11am and 2pm respectively and they last around 2.5 hours.
No booking is required, you can just turn up at the meeting point 10 minutes before the tour starts.
Donations are appreciated at the end of the tour.
Bring your own water bottle
One small way to help the environment and save money is to bring your own water bottle and fill it up at one of the many water fountains around Copenhagen.
Copenhagen Tap Water is some of the cleanest in the world so feel free to drink from the tap.
How expensive is Copenhagen? Average daily costs in Copenhagen
How expensive is Copenhagen?
Well, go on, you decide!
Here is a wee table showing the average cost of per person per day and for 3 days in Copenhagen.
*All costs shown are in Danish Krone (DKK)
Wrap Up: Is Copenhagen Expensive?
Copenhagen can be an expensive city to visit, but there are ways to enjoy the city without spending too much.
Beer is the most popular drink in Denmark and is generally cheaper than cocktails or wine, so stick to beer when drinking out.
If you’re looking for some cheaper alternatives, head to one of Copenhagen’s many grocery stores where you can find beer for as little as 20DKK and wine starting at 90 DKK a bottle.
Many activities in Copenhagen are also paid, but there are plenty of free things to do such as visiting The Little Mermaid, wandering the beautiful cobblestone streets, window shopping on the pedestrian street, jumping on the trampolines at Nyhavn, exploring the parks and visiting The National Museum of Denmark.
Planning ahead by booking your trip in advance can help save money on flights and accommodation.
Additionally, taking advantage of free walking tours or cooking at home can further reduce your costs while travelling in Copenhagen.
Although Copenhagen can be expensive compared to other European cities, with a bit of careful planning it is possible to have a great time without breaking the bank.
FAQs: Is Copenhagen Expensive?
How much does a meal cost in Copenhagen?
A meal in a restaurant in Copenhagen will generally cost between 100DKK and 300DKK per person, but there are plenty of cheaper options available such as cafes and food markets.
Supermarkets sell food at much lower prices and many restaurants have set menus for lunch which offer good value for money.
Is Copenhagen Cheap or Expensive?
In general Copenhagen is expensive.
However, you can travel Copenhagen on a budget.
Trying to walk or take public transport where possible rather than taxis or ubers, eating street food, staying in a hostel and enjoying the free attractions Copenhagen has on offer.
How much does a beer cost in Copenhagen?
Beer is the most popular drink in Denmark and is generally cheaper than cocktails or wine, so stick to beer when drinking out.
Beer is the most popular drink in Denmark, and while prices can vary depending on the bar or club, you can generally expect to pay around 40DKK-75DKK per pint.
If you’re looking for some cheaper alternatives, head to one of Copenhagen’s many grocery stores where you can find beer for as little as 20DKK and wine starting at 90 DKK a bottle.
How much money do I need per day in Copenhagen?
For everything including accommodation, transport, activities, food and drink you can expect to pay 670DKK to 1200DKK per person per day in Copenhagen.
