Which to Visit: Stockholm or Copenhagen
Scandinavia has become one of the most innovative and progressive regions in the world. Stockholm and Copenhagen are two of the most progressive cities in the world. Both cities have a rich culture and show their extensive history throughout their cities. Here is the ultimate comparison between Stockholm or Copenhagen.
Quick Overview
Copenhagen
Copenhagen is the capital and largest city in Denmark. It is located on the far eastern coast of the country. The Oresund Strait is the only thing separating Copenhagen from Sweden. The city has a population of 794,000 people and over 2 million in the metro area. Originating as a Viking fishing village, it has grown to be one of the most influential cities in all of Europe. The city has many attractions from beautiful canals to historic castles.
Stockholm
Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden and has one of the most beautiful city centers in all of Europe. The city has a population of 974,000 and a metro population of nearly 2.4 million people. It is spread out over 14 different islands. Stockholm was originally founded by the Vikings as a trade route.
Geographic Setting
Copenhagen
Copenhagen is located in Eastern Denmark and is situated between two islands. The Oresund strait separates Copenhagen from Sweden which makes it extremely easy for people to travel between Denmark and Sweden. It has many areas of waterfront areas for activities even though the water temperatures are typically cold, even in the summer months.
Stockholm
Stockholm is located on the eastern coast of Sweden. Spanning 14 different islands, 30% of the city is waterways with another 30% of the city being green spaces and parks. Since the city is so far north, in the summer months it gets 18 hours of daylight and in the winter it only gets 6 hours of daylight. Having so many waterways, Stockholm has many waterfront public areas to enjoy.
Landmarks
Copenhagen
- Nyhavn is one of the most picturesque locations in all of Scandinavia. It is a canal lined with beautifully colored buildings making for a truly spectacular sight.
- Tivoli Gardens is a garden and theme park that opened in 1843. It is the 2nd oldest theme park in the world and is one of the most visited parks in all of Europe.
- Stroget is a street designated for pedestrians only. It is one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe and is 1.1km long. There are hundreds of shops lining the street featuring some of the best brands in the world as well as budget-friendly shops.
- Little Mermaid Statue is a Copenhagen icon based on the book written by Hans Christian Andersen.
- Christiansborg Palace is where the Danish Parliament and the Supreme Court of Denmark are located. It is a grand palace located in the middle of Copenhagen.
- Rosenborg Castle was built in 1606 as the summer home for Christian IV.
- Round Tower was built in 1642 as an astronomical tower. It has a massive spiral staircase leading to the top so Christian IV could ride his horse to the top to see the city.
Stockholm
- Gamla Stan is the Old Town of Stockholm. This area is one of the most picturesque areas in the city. Most people who visit Stockholm will make this their first stop during their time in the city.
- Vasa Museum is one of the most famous museums in Scandinavia. It houses the Vasa battleship which is a massive wooden ship that sunk in 1628.
- The Royal Palace sits on the water edge in the center of the city. It is the official residence of the King of Sweden. It is one of the largest palaces in Europe with more than 600 rooms.
- City Hall sits kitty-corner to the Old Town along the water’s edge. It where the Nobel Prize banquet is held every year.
- Riksdagshuset is the Parliament House of Sweden. It sits on an island in between the Old Town and the mainland.
- Drottningholm Palace is the private residence of the Swedish Royal Family. It is just outside of Stockholm but worth a visit if you have the time.
Walkability
Copenhagen
Central Copenhagen is a fairly compact city which makes it easy to get around. It is also one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world. You can rent a bike for the week or use the public bikes provided by the city.
Stockholm
The Gamla Stan or the Old Town is extremely walkable. You can see many sights within walking distance. Outside of the Old Town, Stockholm becomes more spread out because is spans 14 islands. The city offers bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams, and ferries as well as public bikes for use.
Nightlife
Copenhagen
Copenhagen is filled with bars, pubs, and nightclubs. A large cluster of nightlife can be found in the streets that branch off of Stroget. You can find raging dance parties or humble pubs throughout this area. There is something for everyone here.
Stockholm
Stockholm has a thriving nightlife. The Old Town area is known for its pubs and also has nightclubs. Just to the north of the Old Town, on the mainland, is another part of town that is filled with a raging night scene. Some of the best nightclubs in Scandinavia are found here.
Surrounding Area
- Kronborg is a castle and stronghold north of the city. It is known as Hamlet’s Castle because William Shakespeare based Hamlet on the castle. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Frederiksborg Castle is another castle to the north of Copenhagen. It is known for being the largest Renaissance-style residence in all of Scandinavia. It is also known for the incredible garden that surrounds it.
- The Island of Fyn is laid back island with castles and manors that make it perfect for bicycling.
- Sigtuna is Sweden’s oldest city, founded in 980 AD by the Vikings.
- Gripssholm Castle is located only 60km from Stockholm the town of Mariedred. It was used as a residence of the Royal Family until 1809.
- Uppsala is a city to the north of Stockholm. It is known for the University of Uppsala which was founded in 1477. It is also known for its beautiful Cathedral of Uppsala.
Overview
Copenhagen and Stockholm are both truly amazing cities. Scandinavia has some of the most unique cities in the world. Both of these cities have fascinating heritage, beautiful architecture, and some of the nicest people on the planet. If you are having a hard time debating between the two, it is obvious you need to visit both of them. It is only a five-and-a-half-hour train ride between the two.