I often get the question, if you had the choice to travel to place A or B, which would you choose? Or do you think I’d like place A or B better? And to answer that question, it really depends on the destinations you’re looking at choosing between. There are some cities that many people try to choose between if you only have one opportunity to head somewhere so if you end up having to make that choice, here’s how I’ll best help you decide in this new Land of Marvels series.
So, you’re headed to Scandinavia and you’re wondering if Stockholm or Copenhagen would be a better choice for you to explore and base yourself?
Well… both are great options to get the feel of Scandinavia but if you can only pick one, here’s my best information to help you choose!
Choose Stockholm if you…
- Want a more affordable base in Scandinavia – everything is way cheaper than Denmark!
- Are looking for a more central city layout – we found everything was located closer together in Stockholm
- Love cinnamon rolls – hand over the cinnamon rolls and everything sweet!
- Like to eat – the food in Stockholm was some of my favorites – hello Swedish meatballs
- Want to feel chic – Swedish locals are some of the chic-est you’ll come across
- Want ease of language – everyone speaks amazing English
- Are looking for colder weather – Stockholm is a little farther North, so if you’re looking for chilly weather – this is your spot.
Choose Copenhagen if you…
- You don’t mind spending money – the famous Danish city is one of the most expensive in the world.
- Want a more Central European base – the city is closer to Central Europe for ease of travel
- Want ultimate Scandinavian design – sleek design and simple architecture will light the way
- Want to bike around – everyone, I mean everyone, bikes everywhere in Copenhagen
- Like the open water – while both cities are on water, Copenhagen feels more like on open ocean
- Don’t mind walking – while the city is totally walkable, things are a bit further away from each other
- Like seafood – Copenhagen loves its fish!
More from this series for Which City to Choose.
Rachel @ STCL says
Really great tips! It’s a tough call – I’d say split your time in half and do both 🙂
Casey says
Sounds like a good idea 🙂
FearlessFemaleTravels.com says
Copenhagen didn’t really click with me, but I loved Stockholm and hope to return soon (maybe doing a house swap with a Swedish family).
Casey says
I felt exactly the same – I much preferred Stockholm!
Camila @ AdventitiousViolet says
I loved Copenhagen more than Stockholm, but i’d highly recommend both! It’s funny, maybe it’s cause we stayed more centrally but I found that Copenhagen felt much more centrally focused than Stockholm, mostly because there is so much cool stuff to go do on Djurgarden, which means taking a ferry out there.
Casey says
Interesting! I felt the exact opposite 🙂 But could have been where we stayed/explored.
nicci marquart says
I used to live in Stockholm and agree with you on all your points 🙂 But still, Copenhagen has its charm for sure! http://niccimarquart.com/
Casey says
Yay!!! Stockholm is amazing – I would love to live there for a bit!