Transit Guide

How to Get the Train From Copenhagen to Malmo

The Öresund train connects Copenhagen and Malmö in 35 minutes, crossing the iconic bridge that links Denmark and Sweden. Trains depart every 20 minutes throughout the day, with reduced frequency during late-night hours. This guide covers departure points, ticket options, border procedures, and what to expect on the journey.

7 min read Updated 2026-09-01 Fact-checked
How to Get the Train From Copenhagen to Malmo

Quick answer

Trains from Copenhagen to Malmö depart from Copenhagen Central Station (Bernstorffsgade 16, 1577 Copenhagen) and run 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes, with trains operated by Öresundståg crossing the Öresund Bridge. A single adult one-way ticket costs 97 DKK, and you can purchase tickets at the station, online at oresundstag.se, or via the Skånetrafiken app.

The Öresund Bridge carries more than 20,000 commuters and travelers between Copenhagen and Malmö every weekday, making it one of Scandinavia's busiest cross-border rail links. Opened in 2000, the combined bridge-and-tunnel connection turned what was once an hour-long ferry crossing into a seamless 35-minute train ride, fundamentally reshaping the economic and cultural geography of the Öresund region. Taking the train from Copenhagen to Malmö begins at Copenhagen Central Station, located near Tivoli Gardens and the city's main hotel district. Öresundståg trains depart from platforms on the main concourse, clearly marked with digital departure boards showing Swedish destinations. No advance booking is required—walk-up tickets are available from yellow self-service machines in the main hall, staffed ticket counters, or the Öresundståg mobile app. Trains run approximately every 20 minutes during daytime hours, with reduced frequency after 23:00. The journey crosses the Öresund Bridge roughly 10 minutes after departure, offering brief but striking views of the strait below before entering Swedish territory. Both Denmark and Sweden are part of the Schengen Area, so there are no routine passport checks, though travelers should carry valid identification as spot checks occasionally occur. The train continues north through Malmö's industrial outskirts before arriving at Malmö Central Station, a modern hub with onward connections to Lund, Helsingborg, and destinations across southern Sweden. Frequent service and consistent scheduling make the Copenhagen-Malmö rail link one of the easiest international train crossings in Europe. Morning departures between 07:00 and 09:00 tend to fill with commuters heading into Malmö for work, so travelers prioritizing comfortable seating should consider slightly earlier or later departures. The return journey mirrors the outbound experience, with equally frequent service throughout the day and evening.

“The Öresund Bridge carries more than 20,000 commuters between Copenhagen and Malmö every weekday, making it one of Scandinavia's busiest cross-border rail links.”
Directions

How To Get The Train From Copenhagen To Malmo: Direct Routes And Logistics

The train journey from Copenhagen to Malmö utilizes the Øresundståg service, which connects the two cities directly via the Øresund Bridge. Trains depart frequently from Copenhagen Central Station (København H) and provide a straightforward link to Malmö Central Station.

Train 35–40 min 97 DKK

Øresundståg from København H to Malmö Central

Train 50–55 min

Øresundståg from København H to Lund Central

The station is located at Bernstorffsgade 16, 1577 Copenhagen, Denmark. For the most comfortable seating, aim for the 07:00–09:00 arrival window to avoid the peak morning commuter rush.
Opening hours

Operating Schedule For How To Get The Train From Copenhagen To Malmo

The train service between Copenhagen and Malmö operates continuously, providing 24-hour connectivity throughout the week. Travelers can access departures at any time regardless of the day.

Monday 00:00–23:59
Tuesday 00:00–23:59
Wednesday 00:00–23:59
Thursday 00:00–23:59
Friday 00:00–23:59
Saturday 00:00–23:59
Sunday 00:00–23:59
Trains run continuously throughout the night, meaning there is no final admission or closing time for the service.
Timing

Best Time Of Day To Catch The Train From Copenhagen To Malmo

The best arrival window is 07:00–09:00 to avoid peak morning commuter rush for more comfortable seating. Traveling outside of traditional business hours provides a quieter experience on the Oresundstag trains.

Mid-week (Tue-Thu)

Moderate

Mid-week travel avoids the heavy Friday and weekend leisure crowds. Arrivals within the recommended window ensure easier seating capacity

May and September

High

Mild temperatures, 13–18°C

These months offer balanced weather for walking in Malmo and Lund. Expect busier platforms during these peak shoulder-season periods

Weekday mornings

Peak

Commuter volume is highest during early hours. Plan for extra time to navigate the station environment during these periods

Verdict: The best arrival window is 07:00–09:00 on Tuesday to Thursday during May or September.

Nearby

Combining Your Trip: How To Get The Train From Copenhagen To Malmo And Then To Lund

The rail connection between Denmark and Sweden makes it practical to explore both Malmö and Lund within a single day. These cities are separated by a short train ride, allowing you to transition between Malmö's urban waterfront and Lund's historic university atmosphere efficiently.

Malmö Central Station

Malmö Central Station

0 min walk

This is your arrival hub and the starting point for regional connections to Lund.

Lund Cathedral

Lund Cathedral

15 min train ride

Located in the heart of Lund, this Romanesque cathedral is a short walk from the station and provides a contrast to Malmö's modern architecture.

Turning Torso

Turning Torso

20 min local bus

A landmark of modern Nordic design, this tower is easily accessible from the Malmö station area if you want to see contemporary engineering before heading to Lund.

Lund University

Lund University

10 min walk from Lund station

The historic main building and surrounding parkland reflect the academic character that complements a visit to the city.

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Questions

Frequently asked questions about how to get the train from copenhagen to malmo

Everything you need to know about how to get the train from copenhagen to malmo

How to get the train from copenhagen to malmo?
To learn how to get the train from copenhagen to malmo, head to Copenhagen Central Station where frequent Øresundstog services depart. The journey across the bridge takes you directly into Sweden, making it an efficient choice for travelers comparing independent travel against a guided Malmö and Lund tour.
Do I need a passport for the train to Malmö?
Yes, you must carry a valid passport or national ID card, as border control checks can occur when crossing the international boundary. These identity verifications are standard for all passengers entering Sweden via the rail link.
Is there a direct train from Copenhagen to Lund?
You can easily reach Lund by taking the same rail line used to understand how to get the train from copenhagen to malmo, as many trains continue north after stopping in Sweden. Check the final destination on the electronic display to ensure the service serves your stop.
How often do trains run across the Öresund Bridge?
Services typically operate around the clock, providing consistent transit options throughout the week. Because these trains run frequently, you have flexibility when planning your day trip to explore historic Swedish landmarks.
What is the best way to travel between these cities?
Independent rail travel is often preferred by those researching how to get the train from copenhagen to malmo because it offers significant freedom compared to rigid tour schedules. It allows you to spend as much time as you like visiting the local cathedrals and city squares.
Can I buy tickets for the Øresundstog at the station?
Tickets can be purchased at the station, where a single adult one-way ticket is 97 DKK. Please ensure you have your fare ready before boarding to avoid any issues during your transit.
Are children allowed on these trains?
Children are welcome on board and typically travel at discounted rates or with accompanying adults. Always verify the current age-based fare structure at the station ticket machines or the official site to ensure you have the correct documentation for your family.
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