You’re eagerly waiting to board a plane because it’s finally time for some Scandinavian adventure. You can’t hide the excitement and you have every right to feel that way. Because Copenhagen and Stockholm are two of the finest European gems that continue to amaze their visitors.
From historical sites and gorgeous views to amusing activities, your vacation will never go stale in these cities. The constant presence of tourists can prove that a trip to these places is so worthwhile. You’ll be delighted by the warm and positive energy of the people there.
It’s so amazing how these European cities embrace modernity while staying true to their roots. Let their clean and colorful surroundings enhance your getaway and make it magical. Food is always a highlight so you should taste the best dishes of Denmark and Sweden.
You’re going to fall in love with the stunning visuals and positive energy of Copenhagen and Stockholm. Stop worrying and let the wonderful sensations take you for a ride to soothe your body and soul. Escape the dreadful trap of monotony and give yourself a chance to experience new and exciting stuff.
Copenhagen
It’s not a secret that Copenhagen is such a picturesque city. On every street and every corner, there’s a fun experience to have. You’re asking yourself if this colorful place in Europe is worth visiting. There’s no other answer but yes!
Upon landing, the city’s beauty and its people’s positivity will captivate you in no time. Visitors are going to have an excellent time inside the heart and capital of Denmark. Its peacefulness will undoubtedly draw you in.
Copenhagen’s irresistible, dream-like appeal makes it perfect for vacations. Artists gather here to get inspired. The relaxing ambiance within its borders can stimulate people’s cheerful and creative side. If you’re looking for fun, there’s always something awesome going on in Copenhagen.
It is a clean and super-friendly place. Once you’re there, you’re going to feel so comfy as if it’s your new home. Leave your troubles behind and let the playful version of yourself have a field day. The city of Copenhagen is inviting you to enjoy its magical attractions.
What Makes Copenhagen Unique
Kastellet
The beautiful backgrounds that you see in films are very common in Copenhagen. Kastellet (The Citadel) is an example of how majestic the city is. It’s a pentagon-shaped fortress built in the 17th century, and it’s a well-preserved historical site.
Danish forces used Kastellet as a defensive fort against the UK’s attacks during the Battle of Copenhagen. This place is now a public park although some areas are still bring used for military activities. Some of the spots you can visit are Kastelskirken, the windmill, and Livjæger Museum.
Kastelskirken is a 300-year-old baroque-style church. It’s not particularly flashy and most tourists don’t get the impression that it’s a place for worship. This minimalist church reveals the quieter and simpler side of Copenhagen.
After a long walk, this church lets you catch your breath and enjoy a few moments of silence. The trees and grass that surround the park help visitors have a beautiful and relaxing break. You can walk or jog along the trails between the greener areas.
The windmill is the most popular attraction inside this old military base. It’s an eye-catching structure because nowadays, old-fashioned windmills aren’t easy to find. There used to be 16 mills inside Kastellet. Most of them were destroyed in the battle and the surviving one is being preserved.
This old mill’s unique look will catch your attention, so don’t forget to take a snapshot. To learn more about this fortress’ rich history, a short tour inside the Livjæger Museum is also worth checking out. This place is also being used as a venue for concerts and other events, especially during summer.
The presence of black-headed gulls, gray herons, ducks, and swans makes the place more relaxing and enjoyable. If you want to take it easy, the calm atmosphere of Kastellet will comfort you. The park is open from 6 am to 10 pm every day. Feel free to stop by while you’re in Copenhagen.
The Little Mermaid
A beautiful bronze statue of a beloved fairy tale character can be found here in Copenhagen. You’ve been living under a rock if you haven’t heard about The Little Mermaid. It is among the most popular stories that came from Denmark.
From musicals to animated films, different adaptations have been made throughout the years. This famous children’s story was written by a prolific Danish author named Hans Christian Andersen. Its original version was written and published in the city of Copenhagen.
The Little Mermaid tells the story of a mermaid who wanted to have a human body and soul. A mermaid is a fictional aquatic creature that has a human-like appearance. But a mermaid’s lower body resembles the rear part of a fish. You’ll notice that the mermaid’s statue has a pair of legs.
The bronze sculpture made by Edvard Eriksen symbolizes her strong desire to become human. In the book, she managed to have legs but each step gives her pain. But she powered through it despite the excruciating feeling so that she could entertain a human prince.
The Little Mermaid combines romantic and tragic elements to tug at the heartstrings of its readers/audience. Andersen’s original novel is a sadder version of this fairy tale. Some creative liberties were taken to put a happier spin on their interpretation of the book.
Despite the sad parts of her story, the water that surrounds her brings contentment and optimism. It doesn’t matter if you’re a fan of fairy tales or not. The beauty of this bronze mermaid will captivate you. The Little Mermaid’s statue is a symbol of Copenhagen.
This iconic work of art is just a few minutes away from Kastellet. It’s wonderful that a fictional character can make people from different backgrounds connect. If you’re looking for a spot where art lovers can chat and relax, give The Little Mermaid a visit while you’re in the city.
Rosenborg Castle
Another perfect way to relax in Copenhagen is to spend some time in Rosenborg Castle. The unique design of this popular renaissance structure will surely catch your eye. It was built in 1624 as a summerhouse during the reign of King Christian IV.
It is in the middle of the King’s Garden. An idyllic park where you can walk or just sit to enjoy the great view. This site is a great example of how peaceful and pretty Copenhagen is. Visitors are impressed by Rosenborg Castle’s appearance and calmness.
Rosenborg can easily attract visitors because it is so stylish. The closer you get to the castle, the more beautiful it’s going to look. You cannot resist its strong appeal. Some of Copenhagen’s most prized possessions are inside Rosenborg.
Each item tells a story and reveals the lavish lifestyle of Denmark’s royalty. This site’s main attraction is the collection of crown jewels that adorned the attire of different Danish rulers. The pieces of furniture, clothing, and artwork in the exhibit show how luxurious and flamboyant King Christian IV was.
If you want to take it easy and calm your nerves, spend a lazy afternoon in the garden or inside the castle walls. The soothing effect of this attraction can bring you feelings of joy and contentment. There’s no need to rush while you’re on vacation, so try to take it slow in King’s Garden and Rosenborg Castle.
Rosenborg Castle is open for tours from 10 am to 5 pm every day. The peak months are from May to October. If you’re visiting this site during winter, expect limited/reduced opening hours. Admission will cost you 12 to 18 USD, while visitors who are 18 and below can enter its premises for free.
Wienerbrød
Food is one of the best ways to experience a certain place’s uniqueness. Copenhagen is famous for its culinary excellence, so it’d be a shame if you don’t go for a food adventure. The city is more than ready to give the foodies a wonderful and tasty treat!
Wienerbrød, commonly known as Danish Pastry or Vienna Bread, is one of Copenhagen’s specialties. Its crisp outer layer and delicious filling will make your taste buds rejoice and silence your tummy’s rumbling. Danish bakers prepare the dough, cut it into thin triangular strips, and roll them up before placing them in the oven.
The plain version of this pastry is pretty much just a mix of dough, butter, and sometimes a dash of sugar. But different variants are out there. From blueberries, and cheese to chocolate, there’s a filling that will suit your taste. You will surely have a great time because of its pleasant smell, texture, and taste.
The delicious taste and variety will surely satisfy your cravings. Wienerbrød works great with a cup of coffee on the side. It doesn’t matter if you’re having breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a quick snack because this awesome food in Copenhagen is always on the menu.
Give your food adventure that authentic Danish twist by trying out Copenhagen’s specialty. Each bite is going to feel heavenly as your eyes feast on the city’s unbelievable beauty. So if you want to give yourself a treat, go to the nearest bakeshop and let this excellent food comfort you.
Stockholm
After enjoying your time in Copenhagen, a trip to Sweden is also a great addition to your vacation in Europe. Welcome to Stockholm, a city known for its innovations in different fields. From fashion to music and technology, this amazing Swedish city is, more often than not, one step ahead.
In Sweden’s capital, you’re going to find stunning views as well. It’s a perfect destination for tourists who want to enjoy a relaxing experience in a major city. Life in other cities might overwhelm you but that won’t be the case in Stockholm.
Similar to Copenhagen, Stockholm is where you can appreciate stillness without isolating yourself. If a trip to another Scandinavian city sounds appealing to you, Stockholm is a destination worth checking out. This city is made up of islands connected by 57 bridges. The combination of water and land makes it scenic.
As you roam around, you’ll find great spots in Stockholm where you can just chill out, take nice photos, and eat. Visit a nearby park or museum and listen to feel-good music to learn more about the city’s unique culture. Don’t be afraid to explore because Sweden’s capital is a very special place.
What Makes Stockholm Unique
ABBA Museum
Sweden is famous for its contributions to music, and its capital city took the world by storm in the 1970s. One of the most celebrated acts in popular music came from Stockholm. Even if you’re just a casual listener, there’s no doubt that you’ve heard an ABBA song without realizing it.
The group was formed by Agnetha Fältskog, Benny Andersson, Bjorn Ulvaeus, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. Their rise to stardom began in the city of Stockholm back in 1972. The name ABBA is an acronym derived from the first letter of each member’s name.
Some of their most popular hits are “The Winner Takes it All”, “Dancing Queen”, “Mama Mia” and “Chiquitita”. As one of the biggest selling acts in the industry, their home city is proud of their achievements. There’s an interactive museum dedicated to this legendary pop group’s career.
Opened in 2013, the museum was inspired by The Beatles Museum in Liverpool, England. If you’re a fan or just a curious tourist who enjoys a retro-themed attraction, this museum is right for you. The presentations prove how entertaining music is. A tour can make your stay in the city a very memorable one.
The exhibit features clothing, life-sized figures, awards, and other memorabilia. There’s ABBA Karaoke for die-hard fans who want to sing their hearts out like a fifth member of the group. You can go up the stage where you can dance with the hologram images of the band for a super fun experience.
Immerse yourself in the melodic and colorful world of ABBA. There’s a shop that sells shirts, vinyl records, and other novelty items. What an awesome place for music fans. Buy some ABBA items to show support and keep them as souvenirs.
This attraction is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm. Tickets can range from 10 to 48 USD. The price of a tour will depend on a visitor’s age and number of companions. Get to know Stockholm’s most beloved pop group by spending time inside the ABBA Museum.
Stockholm City Hall
Built with 8 million bricks, Stockholm City Hall is also a tourist site that you can’t miss. It’s not a bland and ordinary public hall. Its design was inspired by the prettiest buildings in Venice, Italy. The tower has an iconic look because, at its top, you’ll see Sweden’s national emblem, the Three Crowns.
Stockholm City Hall is known for being the venue for the annual Nobel Prize Banquet. This building is decorated with magnificent works of art that celebrate the city’s rich culture. In the Blue Hall, you will find an organ with 10,270 pipes. It’s the largest pipe organ in the Scandinavian region.
The Golden Hall is decorated by colorful tile mosaics that follow a very Swedish theme. You can climb the tower by using a 365-step staircase. At the top, you’re going to get a wonderful view of Stockholm. Take a deep breath and appreciate the beautiful things around you.
From the outside, you should also see the tower light up at night. The beautiful glimmer of the Three Crowns will surely mesmerize you and other onlookers. If you want to witness the city of Stockholm’s elegance, you should try visiting this iconic hall.
Though it is open to the public, you will need to book a guided tour to access the different parts of this site. The hall is open every day. A tour usually takes 45 minutes to complete and it will cost you 9 USD from November to March. The price for admission from April to October is about 12 USD.
Skansen
If you’re a person who loves the outdoors, there’s a very cool place in Stockholm for you. Established in 1891, Skansen is the oldest open-air museum and zoo in Sweden. The 19th-century theme of this attraction is visited by a million visitors each year.
You’ll find people who are playing the roles of bakers, shoemakers, and silversmiths. Several performers are dancing to the tune of Swedish folk songs. The exhibits let visitors see what Sweden was like in the old days.
This place can attract shopaholics because of its annual Christmas market. Going to Skansen would make you feel like you’ve been transported by a time machine to a different period. The look and feel of 19th-century Sweden are accurately depicted by the replica town and the people there.
Another highlight of a Skansen tour is a trip to its zoo. Nature lovers are going to have a great time here. Some of the Scandinavian animals in this zoo are the Eurasian eagle owl, moose, reindeer, and wolverine.
If you want a blast from the past kind of experience in Stockholm, Skansen is a place you should visit. This is where you can freely express your love for nature and the outdoors. Skansen is open from 10 am to 3 pm during weekdays and 10 am to 4 pm on weekends. Admission costs 11 to 13 USD.
Norr Mälarstrand
Sunsets are commonly associated with feelings of nostalgia. If you’re in the mood for some sentimental stuff, you can watch the beautiful sunset at Norr Mälarstrand. Norr Mälarstrand is a street in central Stockholm where people gather to enjoy the city’s beauty before dark.
When sunlight hits the waters of Lake Mälaren, the sparkling effect will captivate you. Bring some snacks with you because Norr Mälarstrand is also perfect for picnics. Visitors are going to have a memorable and sweet experience here without breaking the bank.
Norr Mälarstrand is near the city hall so many people go here to hang out and relax. Walk around or take pictures. This is a very easygoing place in Stockholm. You can talk to other tourists while showing appreciation for the city’s gorgeous view.
The trees in the background add a green touch to this attraction. Don’t be surprised if you ever spot a couple of smiling faces around you. Because this site can bring that warm and fuzzy feeling after a tiring but fun-filled day.
You can wear a jacket or bring a nice, warm beverage. Afternoons in Stockholm can still be cold. The neighborhood beside the lake is worth noting as well because they are colorful. If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy the breeze and the sunset, come to Norr Mälarstrand.
Which Is Better – Stockholm or Copenhagen?
Both cities are amazing tourist destinations. Copenhagen and Stockholm share the same Nordic roots, so you might notice a few similarities between them. But there are a lot of things that make them very unique.
If you can, you should try to visit the finest attractions in these cities. The culture in Copenhagen is more diverse so you can expect a colorful and carefree vibe while you’re there. Since the city’s culture is diverse, it’s not hard to find dishes from other parts of the globe.
From traditional Danish food to Chinese and Indian food, there’s something for everyone’s taste. You and your friends are going to get your tummies full because of the city’s wide food selection. The city has an edgier, grittier look but it works well with the architectural theme or design of the structures.
If you’re looking for a more conservative-looking city, you can go on a trip to Stockholm. Though it is a traditional place, the people there are also fun-loving and friendly. It’s sometimes called the Venice of the North because of its waterways and the classical design of its buildings.
As far as diversity is concerned, Copenhagen is a better choice. The city stands out like a rock star because of its expressiveness that regularly attracts younger visitors. If you’re party-going years are far behind you, Stockholm is a better and cheaper destination. It’s great for family trips.
These two Nordic cities in the Scandinavian region will go head to head in a friendly way. Both of them can give tourists a warm welcome and unforgettable moments. But there are more fun attractions in the colorful streets of Copenhagen, so it’s the winning city.
FAQ
Is Copenhagen More Expensive Than Stockholm?
Products and services in Copenhagen are more expensive than what you can get in Stockholm. The average cost of staying in the city of Copenhagen for a day is 171 USD. In Stockholm, one day would cost you at least 141 USD.
Stockholm or Copenhagen in Winter?
Stockholm is a colder city during the winter season compared to Copenhagen. The average winter temperature in Copenhagen is -1 to 5 °C (30.2 to 41°F). In Stockholm, the winter months are more frigid. The city’s temperature can range from -3 to 2 °C (26.6 to 35.6°F).
Copenhagen vs. Stockholm Nightlife
Since Copenhagen has a diverse and expressive culture, its nightlife is more entertaining. The vibrant nature of the city makes it a great destination for partygoers. You can also have enjoyable nights in Stockholm but Copenhagen has a better nightlife.
Copenhagen to Stockholm Distance
Stockholm is located 406 miles (654 km) northeast of Copenhagen. Both of them are on the east coast of their respective countries. The cities between them are Helsingborg, Helsingør, Lund, Malmo, and Uppsala.
Copenhagen to Stockholm
You can travel from Copenhagen to Stockholm by bus, plane, or train. If you’re willing to go on a long road trip with multiple stopovers, you can also drive a rental car. You’ll need to present your passport and driver’s license before renting a car that you prefer to use.
Copenhagen to Stockholm Cruise
You can board a cruise ship from Copenhagen to Stockholm. June and July are the most popular months for cruising. During that period, there are 13 to 15 departures.
The cheapest trip will cost you 1,000 to 2,000 USD. Pricier options for a cruise trip can go up to 10,000 USD. A suite’s price can range from 4,000 to 20,000 USD.
Ferry From Copenhagen to Stockholm
While cruise trips are popular, there are no ferries that directly sail from Copenhagen to Stockholm. Ferry trips are pretty common in the Baltic Sea and the North Sea. But their routes do not include a direct trip between the two capital cities.
Ferries are smaller than cruise ships and they’re usually focused on straightforward trips. Cruise ships are used for transport too, but they also function like floating hotels and resorts. Their main thing is to offer passengers a leisurely way to travel.
Train From Copenhagen to Stockholm
You can travel from Copenhagen to Stockholm by train. SJ trains offer direct rides and an average trip takes 5 hours and a half. By train, the two cities are 324 miles (522 km) apart and there are 6 daily departures.
Is There a Direct Train From Copenhagen to Stockholm?
There are direct trains from Copenhagen to Stockholm and vice versa. Boarding a train at Copenhagen Central Station will take you directly to Stockholm Central Station. The average fare for a direct train trip on this route is 394 USD.
Night Train From Copenhagen to Stockholm
There are night trains that operate in Copenhagen and Stockholm. But unlike regular trips, you’ll need a couple of train transfers in between. During regular hours, you can board a train that will directly take you from Copenhagen to Stockholm.
Is the Train Ride From Copenhagen to Stockholm Scenic?
A train ride from Copenhagen to Stockholm is very scenic. The 5-hour-long journey lets you see some of the most gorgeous sights in Denmark and Sweden. Scenic routes help passengers have a fun and comfortable train ride.
Copenhagen to Stockholm Train Price
Direct train trips from Copenhagen to Stockholm cost 394 USD. There are cheaper alternative routes but they include a change of train in between. The price of these tickets ranges from 106 to 135 USD.
Copenhagen to Stockholm Train Time
A train ride between Copenhagen and Stockholm takes 5 hours and 30 minutes. Some trains are faster and they let you get to Stockholm half an hour earlier than the average duration. The stations that connect the two cities are Copenhagen Central Station and Stockholm Central Station.
Train From Stockholm to Copenhagen Airport
Copenhagen Airport is 324 miles (523 km) away from Stockholm Central Station. A direct train from Stockholm will drop you off at Copenhagen Central Station. From there, you can take an 8.3-mile (13.5 km) bus or taxi ride to get to Copenhagen Airport.
Driving From Copenhagen to Stockholm
Driving the distance between Copenhagen and Stockholm will take a lot of time and energy. Attempting to directly cover the distance of both cities is going to wear you out. You might need a few stopovers along the way to get some rest.
Driving between these two cities can be challenging especially during bad weather and rush hours. But if you’re itching for a road trip, you can have fun exploring. Don’t forget to bring your passport and driver’s license in case you need to present them.
Driving Distance From Copenhagen to Stockholm
The driving distance from Copenhagen to Stockholm is 410 miles (659 km). You’re going at least 7 hours to complete your journey. Keep in mind that road and weather conditions can affect the length of your trip.
After crossing Øresund Bridge, you’re going to make your way to E4. E4 is a major road/highway that will take you to Stockholm. The speed limit on this highway is 75 miles per hour (120 km/h).
Where to Stop Between Copenhagen and Stockholm
The best places for stopovers are Malmö, Force Museum, Kronborg Slot, and Uppsala Cathedral. You can also visit Kolmården Zoo and allow nature to calm you down. Some of these stops will make you take a detour.
Keep your phone handy for directions or go old school by asking around. A 7-hour drive is not a very easy one. The long road to Stockholm might even make you feel sleepy. To be safe, it’s better to make a few stops along the way to get yourself recharged.
Day Trip From Stockholm to Copenhagen
Considering the distance between these cities, you need a direct flight for a faster journey. A day trip from Stockholm to Copenhagen is still possible. But you should try picking more accessible attractions so that you can save time.
Best Way to Get From Copenhagen to Stockholm
If you’re not in a hurry, the best way to get from Copenhagen to Stockholm is a train ride. The scenic train route between these cities will help you relax. But if your target is to have a day trip, flights are faster and more convenient.
