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

Should you visit Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta?

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 Puerto Vallarta 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. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. You'll find world class beauty in Copenhagen as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping. See Copenhagen travel costs.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a coastal, colorful, and laid-back town. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Puerto Vallarta travel costs.

Copenhagen and Puerto Vallarta: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Copenhagen than Puerto Vallarta, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Copenhagen is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Puerto Vallarta is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Puerto Vallarta is more touristy than Copenhagen and is popular for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. Copenhagen is popular for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also home to Tivoli Gardens.

How is Copenhagen different from Puerto Vallarta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Copenhagen is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Copenhagen specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Puerto Vallarta is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.


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

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Copenhagen is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Puerto Vallarta. The charming character combined with the authentic local cuisine makes for a wonderful culinary experience. There's everything from taco stands to romantic restaurants that you can try.

Is Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta Better for Nightlife?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Copenhagen is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

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.

Puerto Vallarta has a large number of nightlife venues. You'll find a mix of active clubs, cozy bars, and cosmopolitan cafes. Head to the Romantic Zone or Los Muertos Beach for some of the best places.

Is Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta Better for Resorts?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Copenhagen is not a resort destination.

Puerto Vallarta is a world class resort vacation destination. There are many different places to stay from all-inclusive resorts to high end hotels or beachfront properties.

Copenhagen is not a resort destination.


Is Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Copenhagen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Puerto Vallarta is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. Divers in the area may get to experience once in a lifetime opportunities like diving with manta rays, dolphins, whale sharks, hammerheads, or schools of jacks.

Copenhagen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta Better for Beaches?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place for the beach. However, Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Puerto Vallarta attract visitors from all over. There are many beaches spread out around town that have soft sand and blue water. Most have all of the amenities you could need. Popular beaches include Playa de los Muertos, Playa Mismaloya, and Playa Conchas Chinas.

Copenhagen is not a beach destination.

Is Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Copenhagen is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Puerto Vallarta 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.

Puerto Vallarta does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Copenhagen is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Copenhagen is a world class destination for shoppers. 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 Puerto Vallarta. There's a mix of shopping malls, open-air markets, boutiques, and international brands.

Is Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta More Beautiful?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

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

You'll find world class beauty in Copenhagen as well. 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.

Puerto Vallarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta Better for Families?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Copenhagen is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-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.

Puerto Vallarta is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will love the water parks and thrilling activities, such as Aquaventuras Water Park or Los Veranos Canopy Tour. There's rock climbing and ropes courses at Las Animas Aventura Park. You'll also find horseback riding and even pirate boat tours in the area.


Is Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta Better for Couples?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Copenhagen is renowned for couples. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Puerto Vallarta makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy sunset boat trips, horseback riding, and adventure sports. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic dinner or a refreshing drink.

Is Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Copenhagen and Puerto Vallarta are both superb 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.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels around, as well as many adventure sports or thrilling activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Is Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta Better for Students?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Copenhagen is a well-known place for students. However, Puerto Vallarta is not popular with students.

Copenhagen is very popular with students. 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.

Puerto Vallarta is not popular with students.


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

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Copenhagen is renowned for its public transit. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Puerto Vallarta has some public transit options. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around town.

Is Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta a more walkable city?

Copenhagen
Puerto Vallarta

Copenhagen is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Puerto Vallarta is very walkable. There are several walkable neighborhoods in town such as 5 de Diciembre, el Centro, and Zona Romantica.

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

Should I spend more time in Puerto Vallarta or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta?

In either Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Copenhagen has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Copenhagen than Puerto Vallarta. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 3-5 days is enough time in Puerto Vallarta.

Families should spend more time in Copenhagen than Puerto Vallarta. 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 Puerto Vallarta. 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 Puerto Vallarta 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 Puerto Vallarta? Ideal Length of Stay
    Copenhagen 2-5 
    Puerto Vallarta 3-5

One day in Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta?

The happy destination of Copenhagen offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the laid-back town of Puerto Vallarta, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta?

The city of Copenhagen offers food and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Puerto Vallarta, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta?

Copenhagen is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Puerto Vallarta, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this town. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Copenhagen. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Puerto Vallarta 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 Mexico, and The Best Luxury Tours to Mexico.


Which place is cheaper, Puerto Vallarta or Copenhagen?

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

  • Copenhagen Prices
    Denmark Prices
    Puerto Vallarta Prices
    Mexico Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Copenhagen $278
    Puerto Vallarta $128

The average daily cost (per person) in Copenhagen is $278, while the average daily cost in Puerto Vallarta is $128. 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 Puerto Vallarta in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Copenhagen $99
    Puerto Vallarta $57
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Copenhagen $198
    Puerto Vallarta $114
Compare Hotels in Copenhagen and Puerto Vallarta

Looking for a hotel in Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta? 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 Puerto Vallarta


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 Puerto Vallarta Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Copenhagen $79
    Puerto Vallarta $17
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:

  • Private Transfer to/from Airport and City: $114
  • Private Transfer to/from Copenhagen Airport CPH: $126
  • Copenhagen Airport Transfer Service | English Speaking: $135
  • Private Transfer Airport To/From Cruise Port: $173
  • Private Transfer to Copenhagen Port: $274

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Puerto Vallarta

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Puerto Vallarta:

  • Sayulita hotels to Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) – Private Departure Transfer : $155
  • Puerto Vallarta Roundtrip Shuttle Airport Transfer: $32
  • Private Transfer from Punta de Mita Area to PVR Airport: $180

Is it cheaper to fly into Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta?

Prices for flights to both Puerto Vallarta 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
    Puerto Vallarta $58
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
  • 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
  • Modern City Food Tour: $149
  • E-Bike Guided Food Tour with 3 stops: $157

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Puerto Vallarta

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Puerto Vallarta.

  • Winner 2025 Downtown Vallarta Food Tour with Vallarta Food Tours: $59
  • Mexican Cooking Class, Tequila Tasting & Unlimited Margaritas: $89
  • Sayulita Tacos and Tequila Food Tour : $99
  • Puerto Vallarta- Market tour and Cooking Experience : $134
  • Rhythms of the night, sunset cruise, open bar & oceanfront dinner: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Copenhagen $34
    Puerto Vallarta $17
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:

  • Copenhagen Zoo Tower Entry Ticket: $3.93
  • Danish Architecture Center Entrance Ticket: $9.44
  • THE TUBE Copenhagen Entrance Ticket: $15
  • Danish Jewish Museum Entry Ticket: $16
  • Danish War Museum Entry Ticket: $17
  • Group Walking Tour - City Highlights - 2 Hours: $19
  • The Museum of Danish Resistance Entrance Ticket: $19
  • Amalienborg Palace Museum Entry Ticket: $20
  • Rosenborg Castle Entry Ticket: $22
  • ENIGMA Museum Day Ticket: $22
  • National Museum of Denmark Entry Ticket: $22
  • The Royal Danish Theatre Guided Tour: $24

Tours and Activities in Puerto Vallarta

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Puerto Vallarta are as follows:

  • Sayulita Minivan Transportation Service Tour: $165
  • ATV Tour Rio Cuale Sierra Madre Mountains and tequila tasting: $73
  • ATV and RZR Jorullo Bridge Experience in Puerto Vallarta: $167
  • Beachfront Massage Experience in Mismaloya: $42
  • Bioluminescence & sunset local boat tour to Los Arcos Sanctuary: $67
  • Boat and Snorkel Tour to 5 Islands of Los Arcos: $46
  • Cachasol Raicilla and Tequila Tour: $83
  • Canopy Tour Experience in Sayulita, Nuevo Nayarit.: $68
  • City tour express; butterfly, tequila, and beach an ecological day: $22
  • EcoHike experience through the jungle, mountains and hidden beach: $30
  • Edenva Ecotourist Park in Puerto Vallarta: $69
  • Food & Mixology Tour:Tequila,Tacos, Mezcal and Agave Cocktails: $98

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Copenhagen $15
    Puerto Vallarta $22

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 Puerto Vallarta, we can see that Copenhagen is more expensive. And not only is Puerto Vallarta much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Copenhagen is in Europe and Puerto Vallarta is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Puerto Vallarta would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Puerto Vallarta 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 Puerto Vallarta.

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


Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Puerto Vallarta?

Copenhagen has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Puerto Vallarta. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen and Puerto Vallarta, 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.