A Travel Price Comparison for Denmark Copenhagen vs. Aalborg for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Copenhagen or Aalborg?

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 Aalborg 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 laid-back, progressive, and friendly city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. The famous beauty of Copenhagen is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Copenhagen travel costs.

Aalborg

Aalborg is a charming, local, and historic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Aalborg travel costs.

Copenhagen and Aalborg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Aalborg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Copenhagen than Aalborg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Copenhagen is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Aalborg attracts visitors for its small town charm. Copenhagen is famous for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also well known for Tivoli Gardens. Aalborg is famous for its half-timbered homes and waterfront setting.

How is Copenhagen different from Aalborg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Aalborg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums around town such as the House of Music and the Kunsten Museum of Modern Art.


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

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Copenhagen, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Aalborg has a huge number of terrific restaurants. You'll find an eclectic mix of trendy restaurants and local finds. There are also international options and modern street food.

Is Copenhagen or Aalborg Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is renowned for nightlife. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

The nightlife in Aalborg has something for everybody. Despite its small town vibe and relatively unknown status, Aalborg has a great nightlife scene. It's home to the longest continuous string of bars and clubs in all of Scandinavia. You'll find about 30 bars along the pedestrian street of Jomfru Ane Gade and in the early hours, drinks are also surprisingly cheap.

Is Copenhagen or Aalborg Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Aalborg. The charming streets of the old town are filled with cafes that come to life during the warm summer months.


Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Aalborg?

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is renowned for shopping. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Aalborg. There are a number of shopping malls, shopping centers, and local boutiques around town.

Is Copenhagen or Aalborg More Beautiful?

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Aalborg is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Copenhagen is one of the main draws. Known as the happiest city in the world, visitors will feel lighter just walking around this beautiful town. There's a calming effect that will make you enjoy your visit all the more.

Aalborg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Copenhagen or Aalborg Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Copenhagen is very family-friendly. 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.

Aalborg offers lots of family activities. There is plenty of outdoor space, some kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and fascinating street art. Not far from town there's also Fårup Sommerland, which is a great amusement park.


Is Copenhagen or Aalborg Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is renowned for romance. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Copenhagen is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Aalborg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Art museums, parks, and interesting restaurants make this a nice town for a weekend trip.

Is Copenhagen or Aalborg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 budget travelers visit Aalborg. There are a couple of hostels in town that offer accommodation for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Copenhagen or Aalborg Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is a great destination for students. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Aalborg. The town feels quiet during the rainy winter months but when the sun makes an appearance, it comes to life and people head outdoors and into the cafes.


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

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is renowned for its public transit. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Aalborg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a decent bus system around town.

Is Copenhagen or Aalborg a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Aalborg

Copenhagen is renowned for its walkability. Also, Aalborg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Copenhagen on foot is easy. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but there are also plenty of bikes available as well.

Aalborg is a somewhat walkable place. It's a walkable town, but it does get a lot of rain so some seasons are more pedestrian-friendly than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Aalborg or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Aalborg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Copenhagen and Aalborg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Copenhagen than in Aalborg. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aalborg.

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


  • How many days in Copenhagen or Aalborg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Copenhagen 2-5 
    Aalborg 2-3

One day in Copenhagen or Aalborg?

In Copenhagen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the historic town of Aalborg, 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.


A weekend in Copenhagen or Aalborg?

In Copenhagen, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Copenhagen has to offer.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Aalborg, 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 town.

Five days in Copenhagen or Aalborg?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Copenhagen has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Aalborg, a popular town, 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.

A week in Copenhagen or Aalborg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Copenhagen. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Aalborg 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.


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


Which place is cheaper, Aalborg or Copenhagen?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Copenhagen is $278, while the average daily cost in Aalborg is $209. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Copenhagen and Aalborg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $99
    Aalborg $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $198
    Aalborg $192
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Aalborg

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Aalborg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Copenhagen


Hotels in Aalborg


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Copenhagen Hotel Prices and Aalborg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $79
    Aalborg $35
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Copenhagen

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Copenhagen:


  • Bicycle Renting
    $68

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Copenhagen

Also for Copenhagen, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Copenhagen Airport Transfer Service | English Speaking Driver: $173
  • Airport Transfers –Taxi Service – Limousine service: $129
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport CPH to Copenhagen by Business Car: $142
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport CPH to Copenhagen by Luxury Van: $154
  • Arrival Transfer: Copenhagen Cruise Port to Copenhagen city: $142
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $256
  • Copenhagen Airport (CPH) to Copenhagen Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $256
  • Copenhagen Airport Transfer Service | English Speaking: $135
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen Airport (CPH)- Departure Private Transfer: $128
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen Roskilde Airport (RKE)- Departure Private Transfer: $119
  • Copenhagen Port to Copenhagen hotel - Private Round-Trip Transfer: $244
  • Copenhagen Private Transfer from Copenhagen city centre to Copenhagen airport: $176

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aalborg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aalborg:

  • Private Transfer from Aalborg City Hotels to Skagen Cruise Port: $210
  • Private Transfer from Aalborg Airport (AAL) to Skagen Cruise Port: $210
  • Private Airport and City Transfers in Aalborg: $96
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg city centre to Aalborg airport: $144
  • Aalborg Private Transfer from Aalborg (AAL) Airport to City centre: $144

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Aalborg?

Prices for flights to both Aalborg and Copenhagen change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Copenhagen $116
    Aalborg $89
Typical Food Prices in Copenhagen

For Copenhagen, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Hot Dogs
    $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Copenhagen

For Copenhagen, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $38
  • Hard Rock Cafe Copenhagen with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $40
  • The Nørrebro Street Art & Food Tour: $55
  • Copenhagen : Best Street Food Tour With A Local Guide: $105
  • Food Tour with 6+ Tastings of Danish Classics: $124
  • Copenhagen Cooking Class: Nordic Cooking Class with Open Bar: $125
  • Copenhagen Culinary Food Tour with 6+ Tastings of Danish Classics: $135
  • The Copenhagen Culinary Experience Food Tour: $148
  • Modern City Food Tour: $149
  • Food Tour In Copenhagen - 5 Delicious Tastings, Walking Tour : $153
  • E-Bike Guided Food Tour with 3 stops: $157

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Copenhagen $34
    Aalborg $26
Typical Entertainment Prices in Copenhagen

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Copenhagen's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Boat Tour
    $9.44
  • Coffee
    $15

Tours and Activities in Copenhagen

For Copenhagen, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Self Guided Tours Copenhagen with 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.57
  • Copenhagen Zoo Tower Entry Ticket: $3.93
  • Copenhagen Little Mermaid Exploration Game and Self-Guided Tour: $5.96
  • Hippies & Christianshavn Walking Tour: $5.96
  • Copenhagen Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $6.68
  • Copenhagen Christiania: Hidden Stories Self-Guided Adventure: $7.16
  • Monstour: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Danish Folk Legends: $7.99
  • Copenhagen Self-Guided Tour: $8.36
  • The Headless Horseman in Selfguided Walking Tour Game: $8.63
  • Copenhagen Self Guided Audio Experience: $9.00
  • Danish Architecture Center Entrance Ticket: $9.44
  • Copenhagen Exploration Game and City Tour on your Phone: $9.55

Tours and Activities in Aalborg

Here are a few actual costs in Aalborg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3-Hours Street Art Tour in Aalborg: $48
  • Denmark: Tour of Aalborg in Spanish: $118
  • Wonderful Christmas in Aalborg - Private Walking Tour: $1,434

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $15
    Aalborg $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Copenhagen

Also in Copenhagen, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Guided Party Pub Crawl with 4 Shots and 1 Drink: $47
  • Private Wine Tasting Boat Tour: $189


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

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Aalborg?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Aalborg. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Aalborg, 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 Aalborg?

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 Aalborg in the Summer?

Both Aalborg and Copenhagen during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Aalborg for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Copenhagen is generally around the same temperature as Aalborg. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 17°C (63°F), and Aalborg fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Copenhagen usually gets more rain in July than Aalborg. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Copenhagen 17°C (63°F) 
    Aalborg 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Aalborg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Aalborg. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Aalborg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Copenhagen is a little warmer than Aalborg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Aalborg fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In October, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Aalborg. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Aalborg receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Copenhagen 10°C (50°F) 
    Aalborg 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Copenhagen or Aalborg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Aalborg. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Aalborg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.


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