Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is known for its rich history, modern architecture, world-class design, and vibrant cultural scene. But, like many European cities, it can also be expensive. If you’re traveling on a budget, you might worry that you won’t be able to experience the best the city has to offer without breaking the bank. Fortunately, Copenhagen is more affordable than it first appears, especially if you know where to look.
In this article, we’ll show you how to make the most of your trip to Copenhagen without spending a fortune. From budget accommodations and affordable food options to cheap attractions and money-saving transport tips, we’ll cover everything you need to know to travel cheaply in this beautiful city.
Finding Budget Accommodations in Copenhagen
Accommodations in Copenhagen can be pricey, but there are still plenty of affordable options if you know where to look. Here are some ideas for staying in the city on a budget.
Hostels and Budget Hotels
Copenhagen has a variety of hostels that offer affordable rates for travelers. Hostels are an excellent choice if you don’t mind sharing a room and want to meet other travelers. Some top budget hostels in Copenhagen include:
Generator Copenhagen: A popular chain offering modern amenities and dormitory rooms at reasonable prices. It’s located near the central train station, making it easy to get around.
Copenhagen Downtown Hostel: This hostel is in the heart of the city and has a lively atmosphere, perfect for young travelers.
Budget hotels are another good option. Many of these are still fairly affordable compared to higher-end hotels. Consider booking a room at places like:
Wakeup Copenhagen: A budget hotel that combines simplicity and comfort. It offers great value for money and is centrally located.
Hotel Ansgar: A small hotel with clean rooms and a very affordable price tag.
Airbnb and Short-Term Rentals
If you prefer a more private space, consider looking for an Airbnb. Renting a room in someone’s apartment can be a cost-effective way to stay in Copenhagen, especially if you’re traveling in a group. You can also find entire apartments, although they tend to be more expensive.
Airbnb prices vary depending on the location, but there are plenty of affordable options to choose from in districts like Vesterbro, Nørrebro, or even around the city center.
Camping and Alternative Accommodation
If you’re an adventurous traveler, you could also consider camping. Copenhagen has some well-kept campgrounds that are cheaper than most hotels.
For example, Copenhagen Camping is a lovely spot close to the beach and a great option for those looking to stay outside the city center.
Eating on a Budget in Copenhagen
Danish cuisine is delicious, but eating out in Copenhagen can get expensive. Luckily, there are ways to enjoy tasty meals without draining your wallet.
Street Food and Food Markets
Street food is one of the best ways to eat cheaply in Copenhagen. The city is home to many food markets where you can find affordable and delicious options. Some popular spots include:
Reffen – Copenhagen Street Food: Located on the Refshaleøen island, Reffen is a popular street food market offering a wide variety of international cuisine. You can find everything from tacos to vegan burgers, all at reasonable prices.
Torvehallerne: A food market near Nørreport station, Torvehallerne is filled with gourmet food stalls selling fresh produce, ready-to-eat meals, and local snacks. It’s a great place for a cheap lunch.
Budget-Friendly Restaurants
While many restaurants in Copenhagen are expensive, there are still some that offer good food at lower prices. Try these spots for an affordable meal:
Dalle Valle: A chain offering buffet-style meals at fixed prices. You can fill your plate with a variety of dishes, from salads to hot meals, all for a reasonable price.
Höst: This trendy restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a menu focused on Scandinavian flavors. They offer affordable lunch specials, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Supermarkets and Grocery Stores
Another way to save money on food is by buying groceries from local supermarkets. Copenhagen has several large grocery chains, such as Netto, Føtex, and Rema 1000, where you can pick up fresh produce, snacks, and ready-made meals at low prices.
If you’re staying in a hostel or Airbnb with kitchen facilities, cooking your own meals is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to save money.
Affordable Ways to Get Around Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a bike-friendly city, and there are many ways to travel around without spending too much money.
Biking Around the City
Copenhagen is famous for its extensive network of bike lanes and is one of the best cities in the world for cycling. Renting a bike is an affordable way to explore the city. Many hostels and hotels offer bike rentals at reasonable prices, or you can use one of the city’s bike-sharing services.
Bycyklen: This is Copenhagen’s bike-sharing system, where you can rent bikes for short periods. The bikes are easy to find and can be unlocked using an app.
Renting a bike for a day or two will cost you much less than public transport or taxis, and it’s a fun and eco-friendly way to get around.
Public Transport
Copenhagen has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and the metro. A single ticket on the metro or bus costs around 24 DKK (roughly $3.50 USD), but you can save money by purchasing a Copenhagen Card or multi-ride passes, which offer unlimited travel within the city for a fixed price.
The Copenhagen Card is a great option for tourists who plan to use public transport frequently and visit several attractions. It also includes free entry to many of Copenhagen’s museums and attractions.
Walking
Copenhagen is a very walkable city, and many of its main attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Walking around the city is not only free but also allows you to experience the charm of Copenhagen’s streets, squares, and canals up close.
Free and Cheap Things to Do in Copenhagen
Copenhagen is packed with free or low-cost attractions that are perfect for budget travelers.
Explore the City’s Beautiful Parks and Gardens
Copenhagen has many beautiful parks and gardens that are completely free to enter. Some highlights include:
King’s Garden (Kongens Have): Located near Rosenborg Castle, this is one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in Copenhagen. It’s a great place for a picnic or a relaxing stroll.
Frederiksberg Gardens: This park is a little further from the city center but is worth the visit for its beautiful landscapes, lakes, and historic buildings.
Visit Free Museums and Galleries
Many of Copenhagen’s museums offer free entry on certain days of the week. For example:
The National Gallery of Denmark (Statens Museum for Kunst): Free entry on Tuesdays, making it a great option for art lovers.
The Workers Museum (Arbejdermuseet): Learn about the city’s working-class history with free entry on the first Sunday of every month.
Stroll Through Nyhavn and Christianshavn
These iconic neighborhoods are free to visit and are perfect for a relaxing afternoon walk. Nyhavn is the colorful canal street filled with historic ships, while Christianshavn is known for its modern architecture and trendy atmosphere.
Tivoli Gardens (Affordable Admission)
While Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, is a paid attraction, it’s still an affordable option compared to other theme parks in Europe. The entrance fee is around 135 DKK (about $20 USD), and you can spend hours exploring the beautiful gardens, enjoying free concerts, or people-watching in the lively surroundings.
Save Money by Shopping Smart
If you plan to shop in Copenhagen, there are ways to save on your purchases.
Shop at Flea Markets
Copenhagen is home to a number of flea markets where you can find everything from vintage clothing to antiques at bargain prices. Popular markets include:
Vesterbro Flea Market: Held every Sunday, it’s a great place to hunt for unique treasures.
Nørrebro Flea Market: Another great spot for second-hand items and quirky finds.
Discount Stores
There are also several discount stores in Copenhagen where you can pick up affordable souvenirs, snacks, or clothing. Tiger and Flying Tiger Copenhagen are both popular for their budget-friendly products.
Conclusion
Traveling on a budget in Copenhagen is entirely possible with a little planning and the right tips. From affordable accommodation options and delicious street food to bike rentals and free attractions, there are many ways to explore the city without breaking the bank. By following these budget-friendly strategies, you can enjoy all that Copenhagen has to offer while keeping your expenses low. So pack your bags, plan your trip, and get ready to discover Copenhagen without spending a fortune!
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