‘I visited the beautiful European town just as pretty as Copenhagen but without tourists'

Exploring Scandinavia and its Affordable Alternatives: Discovering the Baltic Coast

For many years, regions like Britain viewed Scandinavia through a lens of perpetual winter. This perception may have stemmed from media portrayals featuring reindeer across snowy landscapes or simply the geographical location of countries like Sweden and Denmark at Europe’s northernmost reaches. However, with increased travel in recent decades, these misconceptions have dissipated. Many travellers now recognize that Scandinavia, in fact, often enjoys more favourable summer weather than parts of the UK, establishing itself as a sought-after European travel destination.

Copenhagen’s Rise to Prominence as a Top City Break

Indicating Scandinavia’s growing appeal as a prime destination, the esteemed travel guide Lonely Planet designated Copenhagen as the world’s leading city for travellers in 2019.

Copenhagen: Epitome of Scandi Cool

According to Tom Hall, then Editorial Director at Lonely Planet, Scandinavia has become a highly desirable travel hotspot, with Copenhagen spearheading this travel trend. Hall described the city as “well versed in the cutting edge,” noting its “cobbled streets boast groundbreaking menus and trend-setting design.” He further elaborated on Copenhagen‘s unique blend of historical grandeur and modern innovation:

• Centuries-old palaces, churches, and warehouses coexist with contemporary architecture.
• The former Meatpacking District buzzes with galleries, local food spots, and trendy bars.

Hall concluded, “Copenhagen is the epitome of Scandi cool and deserves to be recognised on the global stage.”

The Price of ‘Scandi Cool’: Examining Copenhagen’s Cost

However, this sought-after ‘Scandi cool’ comes at a premium. The Danish Krone exchange rate can be unfavourable for tourists, and the general cost of living in Copenhagen can make even London seem reasonably priced.

Copenhagen Expenses: A Budget Breakdown

A spending guide from The Currency Shop estimates a budget trip to Copenhagen costing approximately DKK 4,061 (around £450). For a luxury experience, travellers should anticipate spending DKK 22,436, a substantial £2,500.

Tourists should prepare for considerable expenses, as accommodation, restaurant meals, and drinks can be costly. The average hotel room in Copenhagen is roughly £100. Dining out can range from £70 to £134, and a pint of beer may cost at least £6.50.

For many British travellers, these prices may be prohibitive, particularly when more affordable destinations like Spain or Italy are available.

East Germany’s Baltic Coast: An Affordable Scandinavian Alternative

For those drawn to the charm of Scandinavian architecture, hearty cuisine, and refreshing sea air, a more affordable alternative exists. East Germany, situated across the Baltic Sea, offers a similar ambiance without the high price tag of Scandinavia.

Exploring East Germany: Nordic Vibes Without the Nordic Price

While not geographically in Scandinavia, the towns and cities along East Germany’s Baltic Coast, opposite Copenhagen and Stockholm, echo the Nordic aesthetic. Visitors will find “charming cobbled streets” and “centuries-old palaces, churches, and warehouses” reminiscent of those praised by Lonely Planet in Denmark.

Crucially, these attractions can be enjoyed without straining your finances.

Greifswald: A German Town Mirroring Copenhagen’s Appeal

The German town of Greifswald, with its triangular orange buildings and bright, flat facades, bears a striking resemblance to Copenhagen. Its extensive cityscape stretches to the waterfront, offering scenic views.

Greifswald vs. Copenhagen: A Cost Comparison

Greifswald presents a significant financial advantage over Copenhagen. Hotel rooms in Greifswald average around £55, approximately half the price of those in the Danish capital. Travelling outside peak season can further reduce costs.

Beer in Greifswald, arguably of superior quality, is significantly cheaper, costing around £3 – substantially less than in much of the UK. This price was experienced not in a bar, but at a central local brewery.

German cuisine, as hearty as Danish fare, is also considerably more affordable in Greifswald. A three-course meal cost just over £20, roughly a third of the price in Copenhagen.

Additionally, East Germany’s Baltic Coast offers respite from the tourist crowds often encountered in Copenhagen.

Conclusion: Consider East Germany for a Budget-Friendly Scandi-Style Break

For travellers seeking a Scandi-style break without excessive expense, East Germany’s Baltic Coast provides an attractive option. This region offers a similar charm and experience to Scandinavia at a fraction of the cost, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers seeking a European vacation.