Public Transport in Denmark in 2025 | exploringdenmark

Public Transport in Denmark in 2025

Denmark’s public transport is fast, reliable, and easy to use—whether you’re in Copenhagen, Aarhus, or the countryside. Here’s how to get around by train, bus, metro, and more.

Overview: Getting Around Denmark

Denmark’s cities are connected by trains, buses, metro, and light rail. Most people use apps or travel cards—cash is rare. Transport is safe and on time, but can be pricey if you don’t use discounts or subscriptions.

  • Key cities: Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, Aalborg all have excellent public transport.
  • Nationwide travel: Intercity trains reach almost everywhere, and cycling is popular too.
  • Payment: Use apps (DOT, Rejseplanen), contactless cards, or a Rejsekort travel card.
  • English-friendly: All info, announcements, and apps are available in English.

See below for ticket types, journey planning, and insider tips.

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Did you know? In Copenhagen, over 50% of residents commute by public transport or bike—and almost all tickets and timetables are available in English.

Types of Public Transport

🚆 Trains DSB (national), S-tog (Copenhagen), light rail (Aarhus/Odense). Fast, frequent, and reach most cities.
🚇 Metro Driverless and 24/7 in Copenhagen—connects the city centre, airport, and suburbs.
🚌 Buses Urban, suburban, and intercity buses cover everywhere—even small villages.

Major Networks & Connections

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Copenhagen: Metro, S-trains, city buses, harbour ferries (Movia, DOT).
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Rest of Denmark: DSB (national trains), Arriva, FlixBus, plus regional buses and light rail (Letbanen).
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Airports: Metro to Copenhagen Airport; direct trains to Billund, Aalborg, Aarhus airports.
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Cycling: Combine bike and train with dedicated bike carriages (small fee may apply).

Tickets & Payment

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Contactless & Cards: Most pay with Rejsekort (travel card), bank card, or phone.
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Mobile Tickets: Buy tickets via DOT Billetter, DSB, or Midttrafik apps. All apps have English.
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City Pass & Subscriptions: Unlimited travel in city zones (24, 48, 72+ hours). Monthly cards for regular users.
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Discounts: Children under 12 travel free with adults; youth and pensioner discounts available.

Apps & Journey Planning

🗺️ Rejseplanen Best for planning all trips—train, bus, metro, ferry. Works nationwide and in English.
📱 DOT Billetter Buy digital tickets for Copenhagen area—easy and instant.
🚆 DSB App Buy intercity and S-train tickets, see delays, and manage seat reservations.
🚌 Midttrafik App For buses/light rail in Central Jutland (Aarhus region).
📲 Rejsekort Manage your travel card and top-up online or via app.
🌍 Google Maps & Apple Maps Fully integrated with Danish transport schedules for easy navigation.

Tips & Danish Transport Etiquette

🕒 Always Validate Your Ticket Spot checks are common and fines are steep—always have a valid ticket or travel card.
📶 WiFi & Charging Free WiFi and power outlets on most long-distance trains and stations.
🤫 Quiet Zones Many intercity trains have “quiet zones” for working or resting. Respect the silence.

Useful Resources & External Links

🏠 Find Housing in Denmark Tips on where to live and how to get started
💼 Finding a Job in Denmark Job search tips for internationals
🏙️ Living in Denmark Everyday life, tips, and essentials

Frequently Asked Questions

🚉 Can I use one ticket for all transport? In cities like Copenhagen, yes—one ticket covers metro, S-tog, and buses in your zones. For intercity, separate ticket needed.
💳 Can I pay with my bank card? Yes! All networks accept contactless cards and mobile payment. Rejsekort offers extra discounts for regular travel.
🚌 Are English signs and announcements available? Yes—English is standard on apps, displays, ticket machines, and most announcements.
🕒 How late do buses and trains run? Major cities have night buses and 24/7 metro. Most trains stop between 1–5 am outside cities.
🚲 Can I bring my bike on trains/buses? Yes, usually for a small fee. Check DSB or local bus rules before travel.
📲 What’s the best app for planning? Rejseplanen covers all transport nationwide, in English.