15 Budget Travel Tips for Copenhagen

You've probably heard that Copenhagen can be a pricey destination. While that’s certainly true, there are numerous ways to stretch your krone further as you plan your trip.

This guide provides all the insider knowledge you need to explore Denmark's capital without overspending. Here are some creative tips to help you save money while visiting Copenhagen.

Daily Expenses

• Hostel room: 200kr-360kr (shared room); 800kr (private room)

• Basic room for two: 900kr

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): 1100kr

• Public transport ticket: 90kr (within city center zones 1-4)

• Coffee: 25kr-50kr

• Sandwich: 50kr-85kr

• Dinner for two: 500kr

• Beer/pint at a bar: 40kr-75kr

• Average daily cost: 600kr-1400kr

Low-Cost Airlines to Copenhagen

Copenhagen features a major international airport conveniently located near the city center. With most budget airlines like easyJet, Norwegian, Wizz, and Ryanair operating here, affordable flights to Copenhagen are widely available.

Depending on your starting point, you might also find budget bus options from Europe with Flixbus or even arrive by train.

Take the train or metro upon your arrival

In Copenhagen, both the metro and train services are well linked to the airport: the metro reaches the city center in 20 minutes, while the train does it in just 13.

You can purchase train tickets at the station or via the DOT Mobilbilletter app (available for iOS and Android). A 24-hour ticket for unlimited travel around the city costs 90kr. If you plan to stay in Copenhagen longer, consider stopping by a station ticket office to obtain a frequent traveler train pass (rejsekort), which offers cheaper train fares.

See if the Copenhagen Card can help you save money

If you're planning to explore museums during your stay, look into the Copenhagen Card. This card provides unlimited access to public transportation, discounts at various shops and restaurants, and free entry to many museums and attractions, including Tivoli. Two children under 11 can accompany you for free on this pass. As you prepare for your visit, you can assess whether the card will be cost-effective for you.

Follow the locals: cycle everywhere

For cycling enthusiasts, Copenhagen is a dream. Biking is the fastest, cheapest, and most convenient way to navigate the city, which is designed for cyclists. Download the Donkey Republic App to access bikes on the go, or visit a local bike shop to rent one for your stay.

Explore Copenhagen's free attractions

Copenhagen offers numerous activities that won't cost you anything. If the weather permits, take a refreshing dip in the heart of the city. Many people regard Copenhagen as the ultimate destination for city swimming. On sunny days, relax in one of the city's lush green spaces, like Ørsted Parken or the nearly-hidden Royal Library garden. You can also visit a top-notch museum on a day with free admission; for instance, the Museum of Copenhagen offers free entry on Wednesdays.

Searching for more free activities in Copenhagen? Check out our curated list of suggestions

Maximize your tax-free shopping experience

Copenhagen is a paradise for shoppers. If you're coming from a non-EU country, you can enjoy sales tax-free shopping, allowing you to save 25% on your purchases. When you spend over 300kr in a store, simply request a tax-free form. Validate the forms at the airport or at the Illum department store in the city center, and you should receive your refund within four months.

Reserve a bed or room at a hostel

Accommodation can take up a significant portion of your travel budget, so consider staying in a hostel if you're looking to save money (private rooms are available for those who prefer not to share a dorm).

Top hostels in Copenhagen with fantastic locations include Urban House, Generator, Steel House, Next House Hostel, Sleep in Heaven, Woodah Boutique Hostel, and Copenhagen Downtown Hostel. All offer stylish interiors and are conveniently located, from the trendy areas of Nørrebro to Vesterbro and the heart of the city.

Start your day with a Danish breakfast

For a simple and traditional start to your morning, skip the heavy breakfast and head to one of Copenhagen's renowned bakeries (my top picks are Juno, Hart Bageri, Depanneur, and Benji). Grab a coffee paired with a sourdough bun and cheese. For a sweet finish, treat yourself to a pastry like the tebirkes (Danish pastries sprinkled with poppy seeds).

Enjoy a budget-friendly folkekøkken lunch

Copenhagen is famous for its folkekøkken (folk kitchen) tradition. This communal dining experience involves a group meal prepared and shared at large tables, allowing you to connect with new people and engage in fascinating conversations over food. One of the best places to experience folkekøkken is Absalon, a converted church that serves as a non-profit community space. A shared meal here costs 105kr, and the food is fantastic, so make sure to reserve your spot in advance.

Enjoy stunning views of the city via public transport

As a coastal city, Copenhagen provides spectacular water views from its public Harbor Bus. Board in Nyhavn for a scenic ride past some of the city’s key waterfront landmarks, including the contemporary Opera House and the iconic Little Mermaid statue.

Discover more about Copenhagen's fantastic public transport options, from cycling to ferries – keep reading

Carry a reusable water bottle

Rather than spending your cash on drinks, take advantage of some of the cleanest drinking water in the world by bringing a reusable bottle. You can refill it as you explore, whether by asking politely in a café or locating a public refill station. This straightforward tip is great for both your wallet and the environment.

Find an affordable caffeine fix

Coffee can be pricey in Copenhagen (with an average cappuccino costing around 40kr). However, if you're a coffee enthusiast, there are budget-friendly options. Consider visiting a chain café for a low-cost filter coffee, or head to the popular Minas Kaffebar, where everything on the menu, including coffee, is very reasonably priced.

Affordable dining options in Copenhagen abound...

Eating out can be expensive in Copenhagen, but don’t worry: there are plenty of delicious choices that won't break the bank. Try Danish porridge at Grød, savor tacos and quesadillas at La Neta, indulge in dumplings at GAO, grab the daily lunch special at Absalon, or enjoy burgers at Jagger. Don’t miss Reffen, an expansive outdoor street food market featuring diverse international cuisine.

…and budget-friendly fine dining is within reach too

If you’re looking to indulge in a fine dining experience without overspending, there are excellent options. At Höst, an acclaimed Michelin-recommended restaurant with stunning decor, a three-course meal costs only 395kr, not including drinks and tips. Meanwhile, Omar and Safari serve eight-course tasting menus centered on seasonal vegetables for just 385kr. For a taste of innovative Italian, Italo Disco offers a dinner of up to nine dishes for 500kr.

For more local food and drink recommendations in Copenhagen, explore these local delights

Enjoy a bodega night out

Copenhagen nightlife is always exciting, but those cocktail tabs can add up quickly. Instead, check out one (or several) of the charming dive bars known locally as bodegas. Here, you can find affordable bottled or draught beer in a genuine atmosphere. Some classic and lively choices include Eiffel Bar, Bobi-Bar, Palæ Bar, Stefanhus, and Nørre Bodega.