Start Here – Your Copenhagen Arrival Guide
Touching down at Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is just the beginning of your Danish journey. Whether you’re landing at sunrise or twilight, the city is ready to welcome you. With its compact size, world-class transport, and vibrant neighborhoods, you’re never far from your first unforgettable experience. This guide is your companion from runway to Nyhavn, from baggage claim to canal tours.
- Travel time to city centre: 13–25 minutes
- Top 5 attractions within 30 mins: Nyhavn, Tivoli Gardens, The Little Mermaid, Christiania, Rosenborg Castle
- Local tip: Avoid rush hours (07:00–09:00 / 16:00–18:00) for a smoother trip
Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a week, the ease of getting from Copenhagen Airport to the heart of the city sets the tone for an enjoyable stay. Below, we break down all the transport options, including insider tips and scenic routes to make your transfer part of the adventure.
Airport to City: All Transfer Options from CPH
Quick Comparison Table: Transfer Options
| Mode | Time | Cost (DKK) | Best For | Notes |
| 🚆 Train | 13 mins | ~36 | Speed, budget travelers | Direct to Copenhagen Central |
| 🚇 Metro | 15 mins | ~30 | 24/7 service, inner-city stops | No ticket barriers |
| 🚖 Taxi | 20–30 min | ~250–350 | Comfort, door-to-door | Fixed-price or meter options |
| 🚗 Private | 25–35 min | ~400–800 | Families, business class | Pre-booked, luggage-friendly |
| 🚌 Bus | 30+ min | ~24–36 | Budget, scenic route | Best during off-peak hours |
Which Transfer is Right for You?
Train: Best for travelers headed straight to Copenhagen Central Station or those staying near Vesterbro, Tivoli, or København H. Trains run every 10 minutes and are rarely late.
Metro: If you’re staying in Indre By, Nørrebro, Christianshavn or near Kongens Nytorv, the metro is your best friend. It operates around the clock, every 4-6 minutes during the day.
Taxi: Ideal for door-to-door service. Especially convenient if you’re staying in less-connected areas or have heavy luggage, small kids, or elderly companions.
Private Transfer: A premium experience with added comfort, space, and peace of mind. Great for groups or if you’re arriving on a red-eye flight and don’t want to navigate public transport.
Bus: Slowest, but cheapest and scenic. Routes like 5C can take you through local neighborhoods, offering an early feel of daily Copenhagen life.
Booking Tips & Local Know-How
- Mobile tickets: Use DOT or DSB apps to buy zone-based tickets (Zone 3 for airport to city).
- Ticket validation: No need to validate Metro tickets manually.
- Cash or card? Card is king. Most locals don’t carry cash, and that includes taxis.
- Children under 12: Often travel free with an adult on public transport.
- City Pass: Consider a 24/72-hour City Pass for unlimited public transit including airport trips.
Arrival Itinerary: Making the Most of Your First Day
After your transfer, most travelers check into hotels or Airbnbs in neighborhoods like:
- Indre By: Historic center with Nyhavn, Amalienborg, and Strøget shopping street.
- Vesterbro: Trendy cafes, Kødbyn (Meatpacking District), close to Central Station.
- Christianshavn: Bohemian, canalside charm, and easy Metro access.
Once you’ve dropped your bags, it’s time to start exploring. Here’s how to pair your arrival with unforgettable sights.
Top 7 Places to Visit in Copenhagen (With Transfer Tips)
1. Nyhavn – Postcard Perfect, All Year Round
Once a gritty sailor’s district, Nyhavn is now Copenhagen’s most photographed spot. On sunny afternoons, locals picnic by the harbor baths while jazz musicians play near the moored wooden boats. The pastel facades have become a symbol of hygge—that uniquely Danish sense of cozy contentment.
How to get there from CPH: Take Metro M2 to Kongens Nytorv (15 mins), then walk 5 minutes.
Local tip: Visit in the golden hour (18:00–20:00) for breathtaking canal-side photos and fewer crowds.
2. Tivoli Gardens – Where Fairy Tales Meet Roller Coasters
Opened in 1843, Tivoli is one of the world’s oldest amusement parks—and still one of its most magical. Imagine Hans Christian Andersen rides mixed with Michelin-starred dining and open-air concerts.
How to get there from CPH: Train to Central Station (13 mins). Tivoli is across the street.
Insider tip: Come at night when the park lights up. It’s a romantic wonderland.
3. The Little Mermaid – Small Statue, Big Icon
Inspired by Andersen’s tale, this 1913 sculpture is a must-visit. While she’s smaller than many expect, her location by the sea and the surrounding park make the journey worthwhile.
From CPH: Metro to Østerport, then a 15-minute walk.
Local trivia: The statue has been vandalized multiple times, but she always returns.
4. Christianshavn & Freetown Christiania
A creative haven since the 1970s, Christiania is a self-governed commune filled with murals, workshops, cafes, and unconventional charm. Explore the leafy canals of Christianshavn and end with an organic coffee on Pusher Street.
From CPH: Metro M2 to Christianshavn (15 mins).
Note: Photography is discouraged inside Christiania.
5. Amalienborg Palace & Marble Church
Home to the Danish Royal Family, Amalienborg offers daily changing of the guard ceremonies. Across the square lies the stunning Marble Church with its towering green dome.
From Nyhavn: 10-minute walk.
Royal fun fact: The guards wear bear-skin hats year-round, even in the summer.
6. Rosenborg Castle & King’s Garden
Rosenborg houses Denmark’s Crown Jewels and a fascinating glimpse into Renaissance royal life. In spring, the surrounding King’s Garden becomes a floral paradise.
From CPH: Train to Nørreport, then a 10-minute walk.
Tip: Go early morning to avoid tour groups.
7. Canal Tour (From Nyhavn or Gammel Strand)
See Copenhagen from its best angle: the water. Glide past the Opera House, Black Diamond library, and the royal docks.
From CPH: Metro to Gammel Strand (20 mins). Tours depart hourly.
Recommendation: Choose the guided option—the stories are half the fun.
Hidden Gems Near the City Center
- Reffen Street Food Market – Container park with global eats, live music, and water views.
- The Round Tower (Rundetårn) – Climb the spiral ramp for 360° views.
- Superkilen Park – Urban design meets world culture in Nørrebro.
These are all reachable within 30 minutes of your airport arrival, proving how compact and connected Copenhagen is.
Transfer Services We Offer
Why Book With Copenhagen Services?
“After a red-eye flight, our driver was waiting with a warm smile and a sign with our name. Ten minutes later, we were gliding through Copenhagen, past cyclists and cafes.” – Elena D., Spain
- Real-time flight tracking
- Meet & greet inside Terminal 3
- Free wait time + luggage assistance
- Baby seats and group vans available
- No surge pricing or hidden fees
- Vehicles for solo travelers to 75-person groups
Vehicle & Pricing Table – One-Way Transfers
| Service Type | Car Model | PAX | Luggage | CPH → City (45m wait) | CPH → City (60m wait) | City → Airport | City → City | Hourly (3h min) |
| Standard & Premium | EQE, E-Class, i5 | 3 | 3 | €125.00 | €150.00 | €120.00 | €120.00 | €120.00/hr |
| Business Class | EQS | 3 | 3 | €125.00 | €150.00 | €120.00 | €120.00 | €120.00/hr |
| Luxury VIP | S580, 7-Series, i7 | 3 | 3 | €140.00 | €165.00 | €132.00 | €132.00 | €132.00/hr |
| People Carrier | Mercedes EQV | 7 | 7 | €150.00 | €165.00 | €150.00 | €150.00 | €125.00/hr |
Group Transport Options (On Request)
| Group Size | Vehicle Type | Seats | Notes |
| Small Group | Mercedes Sprinter | 8–19 | Ideal for family or teams |
| Large Group | Mercedes Bus | 19–50 | Great for conferences, events |
| XL Group | Double Decker Coach | 50–75 | Weddings, delegations, tours |
Transparent Pricing (No Surprises)
| Fee Type | Rate |
| Credit Card Surcharge | 3% of total |
| Night Time (21:00–06:00) | +10% |
| Extra Waiting – 15 mins | €20.00 |
| Extra Waiting – 30 mins | €40.00 |
| Extra Waiting – 60 mins | €80.00 |
Customer Reviews – Travelers Love the Simplicity
“Smooth, efficient, and they even gave us restaurant tips near our Airbnb.” — Jonas K., Germany
“We traveled with a toddler and had a clean car seat ready. Driver was so patient.” — Fatima B., UAE
“Worth it for peace of mind—no meter stress, just comfort.” — Rachel M., USA
FAQs – Your Arrival Questions, Answered
Can I pay in cash or Euros?
Cards are preferred. We accept DKK and all major cards. Euros are not standard.
What if my flight is delayed?
We track flights live. Your driver adjusts accordingly—no extra cost.
Where will the driver meet me?
Terminal 3 arrivals, across from Starbucks. Look for your name sign.
Do you offer round-trips?
Yes! You can pre-book your return to the airport with one click.
Is the service available 24/7?
Yes, including holidays.
Can I book last-minute?
Yes, subject to vehicle availability.
