Copenhagen is the capital of Denmark and although it’s served by an important international airport, if you fly from certain European destinations it’s cheaper to fly into Malmo and then travel to Copenhagen by land. If you plan to visit Copenhagen, don’t miss its museums and the palaces.
Malmo is the third largest city in Sweden , easily explored by bicycle. Visit the three squares – Gustav Adolf, Big and Little – which are located in the heart of the city , and don’t miss Malmöhus Castle, either.
You can either visit Copenhagen as a day trip from Malmo, or the other way around, depending on where you prefer to set your base.
Summary
Considering the short distance between the two cities, it’s not necessary to fly. In fact, many fly into Malmo if they want to visit Copenhagen, because it’s possible to find cheaper flights from certain European destinations. The cheapest way to get between Copenhagen and Malmo is by bus, with fares starting at €5.50 one way. Trains aren’t very expensive either, as fares start at €12 one way.
Trains from Copenhagen to Malmo
SJ – the largest Swedish train operator – lists both their trains and those operated by Öresundstågen (the Danish train operator). There are trains departing Malmo every 20 min , night and day. The high speed train operated by SJ takes 28 min and the single fare starts at 135 SEK / €15 (non-refundable). The other trains take 35 min and the single fare starts at 107 SEK / €12 (non –refundable). On the way back, the same fares apply and trains run on the same schedule.
Buses from Copenhagen to Malmo
The following bus companies operate buses between the two cities:
- GoByBus (attention: the website doesn’t offer English!): there are two departures from Malmo daily, at 6:05 a.m. and 5:55 p.m. The travel time is 55 min and the adult fare is 49 SEK / €5.50 one way. The youngster fare (under 30 years old) is the same. On the way back, catch one of the three buses from Copenhagen, leaving at 8:30 am., 1 pm. and 10 p.m. The same fares apply.
- Gråhundbus (attention: the website doesn’t offer English!) operates bus 999 between Copenhagen and Malmo . The single fare is 80 DKK / €10.80 and you can also get a one day return ticket for 120 DKK / €16.20. There are seven departures per day.
Driving from Copenhagen to Malmo
You can rent a car and drive the 46 km between Copenhagen and Malmo on E20. Both countries are part of the European Union and the Schengen area, so you won’t be paying any surcharges. But it’s best to ask the rental company if you can take the rental car across the border.
The route has tolls and the travel time is about 40 min (but depends on the traffic).