Public transport, the card is gone, the app is king
Updated July 2026Reviewed July 2026
The one-line versionDenmark's public transport is excellent and integrated - one ticket covers bus, train and metro across zones. The physical Rejsekort is being retired (last day 28 May 2026); travel now runs through apps: Rejsekort, Rejsebillet and DSB.
One integrated system
Bus, metro, S-train, regional train, light rail and harbour bus all run on one zone-based ticketing system - a single ticket for the right zones covers them all within its validity. It is reliable, clean and extensive. The catch in 2026 is that the tools are changing.
The 2026 shift: apps replace the card
The plastic Rejsekort is being phased out - the last travel day is 28 May 2026. What replaces it:
Single tickets and commuter passes (replaced DOT Billetter)
DSB app
Intercity trains; look for cheaper Orange tickets
Basiskort
Transitional physical card (one-off ~DKK 50) if you avoid apps
City Pass
Unlimited travel by time/zone - good for visitors and heavy days
For journey planning, Rejseplanen is the "Google Maps of Danish transport".
Rough Copenhagen fares (2026)A minimum 2-zone ride is around DKK 24; airport to centre (3 zones) about DKK 30. The Rejsekort app's off-peak discount (~20%) rewards flexible travel; City Pass wins on days with several trips. Up to two children under 12 usually travel free with an adult.
Always have a valid ticket - fines are steepCheck in before you travel and keep your phone charged for inspection. Travelling without a valid ticket means a fine of roughly DKK 750 on trains and metro and DKK 1,000 on buses. A dead battery at inspection is no excuse.
Bikes: free on the S-train, ticketed on the metroYou can take a bike free on the S-train, but the metro needs a bike ticket and bars bikes at peak times (roughly 07:00-09:00 and 15:30-17:30 on weekdays). See cycling culture for getting around on two wheels.
Common questions
Is the physical Rejsekort still usable?
Only until 28 May 2026. After that, switch to the Rejsekort app, Rejsebillet, or a Basiskort.
Which app should I use?
Rejsebillet for single tickets and commuter passes; Rejsekort app for pay-as-you-go with an off-peak discount; DSB app for intercity trains; Rejseplanen to plan.
What if I travel without a ticket?
Expect a fine around DKK 750 on train/metro and DKK 1,000 on buses. Always check in and keep your phone charged.
Verified July 2026 against official sources: rejsekort.dk, rejsebillet.dk, danskretursystem.dk (deposit system), the Danish Road Traffic Authority and lifeindenmark.borger.dk. Fares, fees and deposit amounts are 2026 levels and change - always check the official apps and sites. General information, not legal advice.
