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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Leiden?

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 Leiden 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 relaxed, beautiful, and laid-back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Copenhagen is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Copenhagen travel costs.

Leiden

Leiden is a cultural, scholarly, and historic city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Leiden travel costs.

Copenhagen and Leiden: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Leiden?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Copenhagen than Leiden, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Copenhagen is popular for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also home to Tivoli Gardens. Leiden is popular for its many museums and renowned university.

How is Copenhagen different from Leiden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Leiden. There are a huge number of museums around town. Some are affiliated with the museum, while others are not. Some of the favorites include the National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden), Naturalis Biodiversity Center, The Boerhaave Museum, the Corpus Museum, and the National Ethnological Museum.

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

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Copenhagen has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Leiden makes for a great culinary experience. There's a diverse food scene with many international flavors such as Japanese, Chinese, and French. The cafe culture influences the culinary scene and you'll find many cozy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat.

Is Copenhagen or Leiden Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Copenhagen is a world class party destination. 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.

Leiden has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The large student population means that there is a good nightlife scene. There are a variety of bars, pubs, and cafes where you can enjoy a drink, with options ranging from cozy, intimate spots to larger, more vibrant venues. The Oude Markt area, with its charming historic setting, is a hotspot for nightlife, offering a mix of traditional Dutch bars and international-themed pubs.

Is Copenhagen or Leiden Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Leiden does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Leiden does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Leiden?

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Copenhagen specifically to go shopping. 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.

Leiden is a great destination for shopping. There are a mix of unique boutiques, international brands, and charming local stores. The Breestraat and Nieuwe Rijn are popular shopping streets, and they're lined with a variety of shops selling everything from fashion and accessories to books, art, and antiques. The city also has several markets, including a weekly Saturday market near the Pieterskerk, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and vintage items.

Is Copenhagen or Leiden More Beautiful?

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

Copenhagen is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Leiden is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Copenhagen or Leiden Better for Families?

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Leiden is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has a mix of educational, cultural, and fun activities for all ages. There are many family-friendly museums like Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where kids can explore dinosaurs and wildlife, and the National Museum of Antiquities, which brings history to life. There's also the Corpus Museum, which takes visitors on a unique, interactive journey through the human body.

Is Copenhagen or Leiden Better for Couples?

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Copenhagen 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.

Leiden is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy charming towns and world class museums will enjoy their time here. The town also has picturesque canals, historic bridges, and cozy street cafes. Couples can explore places like the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands, or enjoy a quiet moment in the scenic Leidse Hout Park.

Is Copenhagen or Leiden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Leiden. The city offers affordable accommodations, including hostels and budget-friendly hotels, as well as reasonably priced eateries serving Dutch classics and international cuisine. Many of Leiden’s attractions, like its historic canals, charming streets, and open-air markets, can be enjoyed for free.

Is Copenhagen or Leiden Better for Students?

Both Copenhagen and Leiden are superb destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Many students visit Leiden. It feels like a university town and it's home to Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands. The university is known for its academic excellence and vibrant student community. The town also has a young atmosphere with plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and cultural events that influence the student life. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike, and the abundance of libraries, study spaces, and museums provides ample resources for learning and inspiration. Housing can be difficult to find though.

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

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Copenhagen has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

You'll find some public transit in Leiden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The Leiden Central Station is the main hub for trains, which connect the city to other towns throughout the country. Around town there are buses that are reliable and convenient.

Is Copenhagen or Leiden a more walkable city?

Copenhagen is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Leiden is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Leiden is very walkable. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot, with many of its attractions, cafes, shops, and historical sites located within walking distance of each other.

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

Should I spend more time in Leiden or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Leiden?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Copenhagen or Leiden to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Copenhagen than Leiden because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 1-2 days is enough time in Leiden.

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Copenhagen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and nightlife around the historic city of Leiden, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Leiden, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Leiden?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With nightlife and food around the destination of Leiden, 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.

Five days in Copenhagen or Leiden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Leiden, 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.

A week in Copenhagen or Leiden?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Copenhagen. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Leiden 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 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Leiden?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Leiden. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Leiden, 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 Leiden?

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 Copenhagen or Leiden in the Summer?

Both Leiden and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Leiden for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Leiden. Typically, the summer temperatures in Copenhagen in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Leiden averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Leiden. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Leiden in the Autumn?

Both Leiden and Copenhagen during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Leiden because of the shopping scene.

In October, Copenhagen is generally around the same temperature as Leiden. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 10°C (50°F), and Leiden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in October than Leiden. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Leiden in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Leiden. The winter months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Leiden this time of year.

It's quite cold in Leiden in the winter. The weather in Copenhagen can be very cold. Copenhagen is much colder than Leiden in the winter. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Leiden fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In January, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Leiden. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Leiden in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Leiden. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year.

In the spring, Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Leiden. Typically, the spring temperatures in Copenhagen in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Leiden averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in April than Leiden. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Leiden receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Leiden and Copenhagen