Check food prices in Copenhagen and learn how to eat cheaper. See how much dinner, coffee, and shopping cost in Denmark.
Copenhagen has long been ranked among the most expensive cities in Europe, which is why many people planning a trip to the Danish capital ask: “Is food expensive in Copenhagen?” The answer is yes, but that does not mean every meal has to cost a fortune. Food prices in Copenhagen are higher than in Poland, however proper planning can significantly reduce spending on restaurants and groceries. In the city, you can find both high-end restaurants serving Nordic cuisine and cheaper bars, food halls, and street food spots. In this article, we will look at current food prices in Copenhagen, the cost of restaurant meals, coffee, beer, and grocery prices in stores. We will also show where to eat cheaply and how much money you should budget for food during your stay in the Danish capital.
How much does eating in restaurants in Copenhagen cost?
Restaurant prices in Copenhagen are among the highest in Europe, but the final cost depends on the type of place and its location. In a budget restaurant or lunch bar, you usually pay around 120–180 DKK (approx. 70–105 PLN) for a single dish. In mid-range restaurants, main courses typically start at 180–250 DKK, while a three-course dinner for two people can cost 700–1200 DKK or more.
A slightly cheaper alternative is street food in Copenhagen, where burgers, pizzas, or Asian dishes cost around 80–150 DKK per meal. It is worth remembering that prices include high labor and operating costs in Denmark, which is why bills may seem high compared to Poland. However, Copenhagen still offers many places where you can eat well and relatively cheaply, especially outside the city center.
Coffee, beer, and drinks prices in Copenhagen
Visitors to the Danish capital often wonder not only about food prices in Copenhagen, but also about the cost of coffee, beer, and drinks. In popular cafés, a cappuccino or latte usually costs 40–60 DKK (approx. 23–35 PLN). Beer lovers should also expect higher prices, as a 0.5L beer in a bar typically costs 50–80 DKK, and even more in tourist areas.
A cheaper option is buying drinks in supermarkets, where prices are significantly lower. A bottle of water costs around 10–20 DKK, while soft drinks cost 15–25 DKK. It is worth noting that locals often drink tap water, which is high quality and safe, helping to reduce daily expenses.
How much are groceries in Copenhagen?
Grocery prices in Copenhagen are usually lower than eating out, which is why many visitors choose to prepare some of their own meals. However, food prices are still significantly higher than in Poland, especially for meat, dairy, and imported products.
A loaf of bread costs around 8–20 DKK, a liter of milk about 10–15 DKK, and a pack of 10 eggs around 20–30 DKK. Meat and cheese are among the most expensive categories — chicken breast costs around 50–80 DKK per kg, while cheese can range from 40–120 DKK depending on type.
Budget-conscious shoppers should visit discount supermarket chains such as Netto, Rema 1000, and Lidl, where prices are more affordable than in smaller local shops. Cooking your own meals can significantly reduce the total food budget during a stay in Copenhagen, especially for longer trips.
Where to eat cheap in Copenhagen
If you are wondering where to eat cheaply in Copenhagen, the best options are food halls, street food markets, and casual eateries outside the city center. One of the most popular places is Reffen – the largest street food market in Scandinavia, where meals typically cost around 85–155 DKK. Another great option is Torvehallerne, a year-round food hall offering smaller dishes and quick meals in a similar price range.
The cheapest food in the city is often found at “pølsevogn” hot dog stands, where meals cost around 35–50 DKK. Good budget-friendly options can also be found in districts like Nørrebro and Vesterbro, where there are many kebab, falafel, pizza, and Asian street food places used by locals.
For baked goods, well-known bakeries include Sankt Peders Bageri, famous for traditional Danish pastries, and Andersen & Maillard, known for high-quality croissants and modern baked goods.
How to save money on food in Copenhagen
If you want to save money on food in Copenhagen, it is best not to rely only on restaurants, as they significantly increase your budget. The biggest savings come from shopping in supermarkets such as Netto, Rema 1000, and Lidl, where prices are much lower than in restaurants.
Another good strategy is to use lunch deals, which are often cheaper than dinner menus and include set meals at fixed prices. Street food and food markets are also a good way to eat affordably without paying for full table service. Buying simple breakfast items from bakeries or supermarkets instead of eating every meal out can also reduce costs. With these strategies, it is possible to significantly lower your food expenses even in one of the most expensive cities in Europe.