A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Copenhagen vs. Milan for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Families

Should you visit Copenhagen or Milan?

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 Milan 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 progressive, friendly, and happy city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Many visitors also come to Copenhagen because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Copenhagen travel costs.

Milan

Milan is a trendy, chic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Milan is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food. See Milan travel costs.

Copenhagen and Milan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Milan?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Milan. Although Copenhagen and Milan are about the same size, Milan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Copenhagen is popular for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. Milan is popular for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also home to Piazza del Duomo.

How is Copenhagen different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at world-class restaurants in both Copenhagen and Milan.

Many restaurants in Copenhagen have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Eat your way through Milan, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for Nightlife?

The world-class nightlife scene is relatively similar in Copenhagen and Milan.

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.

Milan has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for Music?

Milan 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 Milan. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Copenhagen is not a live music destination.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for its Old Town?

Milan is renowned for its old town. Also, Copenhagen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Milan is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Milan?

Shoppers can find a variety of world-class stores in both Copenhagen and Milan.

Known for shopping, Copenhagen draws large crowds to its 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.

Milan is a world class destination for shoppers. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

Is Copenhagen or Milan More Beautiful?

Copenhagen and Milan are somewhat similar when it comes to the world-class scenery.

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.

The famous beauty of Milan is one of the main draws. There is stunning architecture and beautiful neighborhoods that you can explore.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for Families?

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for Couples?

Copenhagen is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Copenhagen is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen and Milan are both great destinations for backpackers.

Many 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.

Milan is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Copenhagen or Milan Better for Students?

Milan is renowned for its student-friendly activities. Also, Copenhagen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Milan is a very popular city for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

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.

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

Visitors will find world-class public transit in both Copenhagen and Milan.

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

Public transit in Milan is top-notch. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

Is Copenhagen or Milan a more walkable city?

Copenhagen and Milan are world-class 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 Milan on foot is easy. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Milan or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Milan?

In either Copenhagen or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Milan has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Milan than Copenhagen. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 1-5 days is enough time in Milan.

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

One day in Copenhagen or Milan?

In Copenhagen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this welcoming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

When visiting Milan, 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Milan, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Milan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

When visiting Milan, 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 Milan?

Copenhagen is a fun place to experience. In Copenhagen, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Milan, 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 Milan?

You'll find food and shopping around the welcoming destination of Copenhagen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Milan 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Milan?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 13% larger than the population of Copenhagen. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Milan, 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 Milan?

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 Milan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Milan. The summer months attract visitors to Copenhagen because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Milan this time of year.

In the summer, Copenhagen is cooler than Milan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Copenhagen in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Milan averages at about 23°C (73°F).

In July, Copenhagen usually receives more rain than Milan. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Milan receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Milan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Milan. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Milan for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Copenhagen is generally cooler than Milan. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 10°C (50°F), and Milan fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Milan. Copenhagen usually gets less rain in October than Milan. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Milan receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Milan in the Winter?

Both Milan and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Copenhagen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Milan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Milan can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Copenhagen. Copenhagen is much colder than Milan in the winter. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Milan fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In January, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Milan. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Milan receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Milan in the Spring?

Both Milan and Copenhagen during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Milan for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Copenhagen is much colder than Milan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Copenhagen in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Milan averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in April than Milan. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Milan receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Milan and Copenhagen