Transfer Options from Copenhagen Airport to the City Center

April Dwyer

Travel/Copy Writer - 10+ years with private, NGO and startups | Adventure Seeker/World Explorer

September 17, 2024

Copenhagen Airport, Denmark’s busiest airport, is located just 7 km outside the city center. There are five main ways to travel to the city center, with options to suit every need and budget.

The easiest and most convenient choices are a Copenhagen Airport taxi or a private Copenhagen Airport transfer. These take between 20 and 35 minutes and are the only door-to-door service with no walking involved.

The quickest and cheapest option would be the metro or train. They run 24/7 and take between 13 and 15 minutes to reach Copenhagen Central Station in the city center, with regular services throughout the day.

The bus journey costs the same as the metro and train but takes 40 minutes, without wait times. Since this is the slowest option, the only benefit to taking the bus if you’re not traveling directly to Central Station is so that the bus can drop you closer to your destination than the tram.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Copenhagen at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€40	20min	24/7
Metro	€8	13min	24/7
Train	€8	15min	24/7
Bus	€8	40min	24/7
Welcome Airport Transfer	€99	20min	24/7

How to get from Copenhagen Airport to the city center by taxi

Taking a Copenhagen Airport taxi to the city center is the most convenient way to travel. Taxis are highly regulated making them a safe option and take between 20 and 35 minutes to reach the city center, depending on how busy the roads are. Regular sedan taxis seat up to 4 passengers, otherwise, for an additional fee you can request a larger vehicle that can accommodate up to 8 passengers.

How much does a taxi cost from Copenhagen Airport to the city center?

Copenhagen taxis don’t charge on a flat rate basis. Instead, they charge using a distance-based taximeter. While the final price of your journey will depend on your exact destination in Copenhagen, the average cost of a taxi from Copenhagen Airport to the city is €40 (DKK 299) during the day, inclusive of the airport surcharge fee.

Taxi prices

Day time
(05:00–24:00)

Night time
(00:00–05:00)

Duration

CPH TO CITY CENTRE

€34

20 min

CPH TO MALMO

€125

30 min

Cost

€40

Trip Duration

20 Min.

*Rates may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Copenhagen Airport.

Where do I catch a taxi from?

You can find the Copenhagen Airport taxi rank outside the Terminal 3 Arrivals Hall. Taxis can easily be recognised by their yellow colour along with their distinctive black and yellow ‘Taxi’ roof sign.

*Taxis also drop off passengers outside Terminal 2 so if the line is long at Terminal 3, you may have more luck grabbing one from here.

Convenience

A Copenhagen Airport taxi is the only public transport option that will take you from Copenhagen (CPH) Airport directly to your accommodation in the city center, without needing to wait for a train, bus or metro or wrap your head around tickets and timetables.

Editor’s Note

Each taxi company sets their own fare rates, however, they must display the prices in their taxi window for passengers to see.

Useful Tips

Some hotels have an arrangement in place with certain taxi companies and can offer a fixed price fare. This is ideal if you're traveling during peak hours when traffic can impact the price.

Night-time taxi rates are usually 30% higher than during the day.

You can pay by card in most Copenhagen taxis.

Taxi tips are typically included in the fare for your Copenhagen taxi so there is no need to add one on top.

Make sure your driver resets their taximeter before you begin your journey.

Getting from Copenhagen Airport to the city center by metro

The metro line from Copenhagen Airport to the city is very fast and efficient, reaching downtown in as little as 13 minutes. The M2 line towards Vanløse Street stops at Kongens Nytorv and Nørreport Station in Indre By, the most popular area for tourists. Travelers can change at Kongens Nytorv to the M4 line to get to one of the cruise terminals, or to the M3 line to travel on the city loop.

How much is the metro from Copenhagen Airport to the city center?

A single journey on the metro from Copenhagen Airport to the city costs €4 (DKK 30) which is valid across 3 zones for 1 hour and 30 minutes. You may purchase your tickets from the DSB ticket counter or from the automatic machines in the metro station using coins or a credit card, but no notes. Your metro, train and bus tickets are interchangeable.

Cost

€4

Trip Duration

13 Min.

The metro runs every 4 to 6 minutes during the day and every 15 to 20 minutes during the night.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The metro is available 24/7 from Copenhagen Airport.

Where do I get the metro from?

The metro leaves from Terminal 3. To get to the station, walk out of the Terminal 3 Arrival gates and you will see the escalator heading upwards to the metro and train platforms.

If your plane lands at Terminal 2, no need to worry as the two terminals are just a short walk away from each other. However, if you land at Terminal 1, there is a free airport shuttle that will get you to Terminal 3 in just 5 minutes.

Convenience

If you’d like to get to the city center of Copenhagen as cheaply and quickly as possible, the metro is your best bet. The metro is just as affordable as the train and the bus and quicker than a taxi, plus there are several opportunities to connect with other transport means along the way. The only downside is that the service can become very crowded, especially when people are commuting to and from work, which can make traveling with luggage awkward and stressful.

Timetables

Metro timetable and journey planner

Airport – Nørreport Station

Editor’s Note

If you are traveling with children, the metro is a great option as they have a faux dashboard with control buttons at the front of each cabin for them to play with.

Useful Tips

Up to two children under the age of 12 can travel for free per one paying adult.

Although the metro runs 24/7, the service is less frequent at night.

You can use your DSB transport ticket on either the train, metro or bus.

During peak times, the metro can get busy and is hard to navigate with large luggage.

How to get from Copenhagen Airport to the city center by train

If you’re traveling onwards to another station or not staying in Indre By, then you may be better off catching the DSB-operated train from Copenhagen Airport to the center. The train takes 15 minutes to reach Copenhagen Central Station (Københavns Hovedbanegård), from where you connect with interstate trains, buses, the S-train or the metro.

Cost of the train from Copenhagen Airport to the city center

There is no difference in ticketing between the metro and train service which means from Copenhagen Airport to the city the train price will also be €4 (DKK 30). Similarly, tickets can be bought online, from the DSB counter at the airport or from self-service ticket machines.

Cost

€4

Trip Duration

15 Min.

During the day trains depart every 10 minutes and then every 20 minutes during the evening. Overnight, trains depart just once an hour.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Trains depart 24/7 from Copenhagen Airport.

Where does the train depart from?

Trains depart from the basement level of the Terminal 3 building, one floor below the Arrivals Level. It can easily be found by following the airport signage.

Convenience

The train will take you directly to Copenhagen Central Station where you can easily switch to another means of transportation or just walk to your destination. This is ideal for travelers just passing through who need to connect with an intercity train to another destination.

Timetables

Airport to Central Station

Train Timetable and Journey Planner

Editor’s Note

If you're staying further into the city center this isn't the best transport option as you'll need to make at least one transfer.

Useful Tips

Occasionally, you may be able to find a cheaper ticket if you purchase one in advance online.

You must purchase a ticket before boarding the train.

To save money, consider buying a daily or weekly ticket pass if you plan on using public transport to get around the city during your stay.

How to get from Copenhagen Airport to the city center by bus

Taking a bus from Copenhagen Airport may be the slowest option to get to the city center, but it’s also the cheapest. The 5C bus towards Herlev Hospital runs 24/7 and takes around 40 minutes to reach Copenhagen Central Station (København H), not including wait times.

How much is the bus from Copenhagen Airport to the city center?

If you choose to take the bus in Copenhagen from the airport to the city, a one-way ticket will cost €4 (DKK 30). Tickets can be purchased from the automatic ticket machines in the Arrival areas or directly from the bus driver. You also have the option of buying a Copenhagen City Pass which costs €10.80 (DKK 80) and allows unlimited travel in zones 1-4 for 24 hours.

Cost

€4

Trip Duration

40 Min.

There is a wait time of up to 10 minutes between services during the day, and 60 minutes during the night.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The 5C bus is available 24/7 at Copenhagen Airport.

Where can I catch the bus from?

The Copenhagen Airport bus station can be found right outside the Arrivals Hall of Terminal 3.

Convenience

Taking the 5C bus from Copenhagen Airport is the least convenient transfer option as the bus makes many stops along the way to the city center. Furthermore, unless there is a stop adjacent to your hotel, you will still need to find another means of transport in order to reach your final destination.

Timetables

5C Bus timetable

Copenhagen Airport – Indre By

Editor’s Note

The 5C bus stops at all major locations in Copenhagen city center, including Copenhagen Central Station, City Hall Square and Nørreport.

Useful Tips

The airport is located in Zone 4.

Get off at Hovedbanegården, Tivoli (Bernstorffsgade) for Central Station and Nørreport Street for Indre By.

Ticket machines only accept coins or credit cards.

To avoid the lines at the ticket machines, you can purchase your ticket directly from the driver.

How to get from Copenhagen Airport to the city center by private transfer

Since a Copenhagen Airport transfer is more expensive than other available transport options, especially public buses and trains, it may not be a suitable option for everyone’s budget. However, with so many additional perks, there are plenty of reasons why they are still the best way to travel.

Private transfers, such as those offered by Welcome Pickups, are fully customizable to suit your travel needs. You’ll receive a meet-and-greet service on arrival with a local English-speaking driver who can assist with travel tips and advice for the region, in addition to providing a mini tour of the area while on the way to your hotel. Vehicles are modern and comfortable, equipped with air-conditioning and have plenty of room for luggage.

Furthermore, unlike a taxi, you’ll receive a fixed fare price and have access to a 24/7 customer service team to help with any questions and travel arrangements.

How much is a private transfer from Copenhagen Airport to the city?

When booking a private transfer with Welcome Pickups you’ll always be given an upfront fixed fare quote before booking so there’s no confusion around pricing. This means the rate you pay at the time of booking won’t be impacted by factors such as traffic or the time of day.

The rate for a ride in one of our stylish sedans that seats 4 people is €99 (DKK 739), or if you’re traveling as a group or family and need some extra room, you can secure one of our minivans for €138 (DKK 1,030) that comfortably seats up to 7 passengers.

To book, fill in the online booking form or download the app, entering your personal details, flight information and the time and date you’d like your driver to meet you.

Cost

€99

Trip Duration

20 Min.

Your private transfer will be waiting on arrival.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Private transfers can be arranged from Copenhagen Airport 24/7.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Regardless of which terminal you arrive at Copenhagen Airport, when you enter the Arrivals Hall after collecting your luggage, your driver will be waiting for you holding up a sign with your name on it. After a welcoming introduction, your driver will lend a hand with your bags and show you to the vehicle you selected during the booking process so that you can begin your transfer straight away.

Convenience

Compared to a taxi from Copenhagen Airport to the city, a private transfer is quite pricey. You will, however, receive a fully personalized ride that is customizable to your needs, perfect for anyone on business or traveling in a group. If a private transfer isn’t within your budget, a taxi or the metro are the next best option, just keep in mind that wait times for taxis can be lengthy in summer, and the metro won’t drop you at your hotel.

Editor’s Note

We take on-time pickups very seriously so you’ll never be left waiting. Instead, you’ll be taken directly to the door of your accommodation, regardless of the destination.

Useful Tips

It's best to select a pick-up time at least 30 minutes after you're due to land so that you have time to get through Passport Control and collect your bags.

When you use a private transfer, the booking and payment is taken care of in advance to ensure a stress-free and relaxing start to your holiday.

Special requests like baby booster seats and specialized vehicles can be made at the time of booking, either online or though the app.

Your driver will be informed if your plane is delayed so they can be there to greet you when you land, with no extra waiting costs.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Copenhagen. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€104

NIGHTTIME

€104

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How much is the train ticket from Copenhagen Airport to the city? centre?

There’s the choice of a direct train or metro line that runs from Copenhagen (CPH) Airport to the city center. Both take around 15 minutes to reach Copenhagen Central Station and a one-way ticket costs €4 (DKK 30).

How do I get from Copenhagen Airport to the city center?

You have several options to transfer from Copenhagen Airport to the city center. You can either take a taxi, private transfer, bus, train or metro. Taxis and private transfers take approximately 20 minutes and will drop you at the curb of your hotel. The bus takes 40 minutes, excluding wait times, and the train and metro take around 15 minutes to reach the city center. All public transport options cost €4 (DKK 30).

Is there a metro line from Copenhagen Airport to the city?

Yes, the metro operates 24/7 and runs every 4 to 6 minutes during the day. The journey takes around 13 minutes and a one-way ticket costs €4 (DKK 30).

How much is a taxi from Copenhagen Airport to the city center?

From Copenhagen Airport to the city the taxi price will be determined by a taximeter based on the distance traveled. On average, you can expect the cost to be around €40 (DKK 299), excluding extra charges.

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