Traveling between Copenhagen, Denmark, and Malmö, Sweden is a seamless experience—fast, convenient, and surprisingly affordable. Much like the connections between Stockholm and Copenhagen, or between Copenhagen and Aarhus, there are several options for making the journey. The two cities are linked by the striking Øresund Bridge—also known as Öresund Bridge or Øresundsbroen—a marvel of engineering that spans 8 kilometers and includes an additional 4-kilometer tunnel. Opened in 2000 and designed by COWI and architect George KS Rotne, this iconic bridge not only serves a critical transit role but also offers stunning views of the Flinte Channel.
The journey between these two vibrant cities takes about 35 minutes by either road or rail, making day trips and weekend getaways a breeze. With plenty to explore in both Copenhagen and Malmö, it’s no surprise that many commuters traverse this route regularly. But what’s the best way to get between the two?
Here are the most scenic, budget-friendly, and quickest routes to travel between Copenhagen and Malmö.
Fastest Route
The construction of the Øresund Bridge transformed travel between Copenhagen and Malmö into a swift affair. Whether you choose to take the bus, train, or drive, the one-way journey is typically around 35 minutes. However, because this is a popular commuter route, expect heavy traffic during peak hours (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM). For a consistently quicker option, the train emerges as the most reliable choice.
Train Between Copenhagen and Malmö
The train service connecting these two cities is the Øresundståg. A ticket costs around 77 DKK or 110 SEK each way, with trains running throughout the day between Copenhagen and Malmö Central Station. You can catch a train approximately every ten minutes. Tickets are available at either station, or you can secure the best price online.
Book your train ticket here.
Cheapest Route
Bus Between Copenhagen and Malmö
If you’re looking for the most economical option, the bus is your best bet, with fares as low as 69 DKK or 89 SEK one way. FlixBus operates around 15 services daily, while Nettbuss runs seven, ensuring you’ll have no trouble making your way across the bridge!
Book your bus ticket here.
Most Scenic Route
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, crossing the Øresund Bridge offers picturesque views of the shimmering waters and soaring architecture. If you’re behind the wheel, however, you might find it challenging to appreciate the scenery. For a more relaxed perspective, opt for the train or bus and take the time to soak in the stunning surroundings.
Book your train ticket here or your bus ticket here.
Driving Between Copenhagen and Malmö
While it might not be the grand Scandinavian road trip you envisioned, the drive from Copenhagen to Malmö typically takes 35 minutes in light traffic. Be aware that crossing the bridge incurs a toll of about 360 DKK or 515 SEK. If you’re renting a car, check with your rental company as there may be additional fees for crossing an international border.
We recommend Rentalcars.com for finding top-notch rental deals in Copenhagen, as they provide a diverse selection of options from both major and independent car rental agencies, helping you secure the best prices available.
Compare rental cars here!
Can I Fly Between Copenhagen and Malmö?
While flying between Copenhagen and Malmö is indeed possible, it’s the least practical option. The two cities are only about 30 kilometers (or 19 miles) apart, connected by that impressive Øresund Bridge—a venture costing 30.1 billion Swedish kronor. Given the speed and affordability of alternative transport, air travel isn’t recommended due to its environmental impact as well.
If air travel is absolutely necessary, Norwegian Airlines and SAS offer options, though it’s worth noting that there are no direct flights. Most flights connect through Oslo or Stockholm, making the total travel time as long as 5.5 hours from airport to airport.
How Do I Get to the Airport from Copenhagen?
Fortunately, getting to Copenhagen Airport from the central train station is a straightforward task; both the train and the metro offer service that can whisk you to the airport in about 30 minutes.
Do I Need a Passport to Travel Between Copenhagen and Malmö?
In 2015, strict passport controls were introduced between Copenhagen and Malmö, but these were lifted in 2017. Still, it’s wise to keep your passport handy in case of random checks at the border, which do occur from time to time. And of course, it’s always prudent to be prepared for the possibility that those controls might be reinstated.
Interested in more Scandinavian adventures? Discover how to travel between Copenhagen and Oslo.
Illustration: Freya McOmish
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