copenhagen sweden trip

5 day trips from Copenhagen to Sweden worth doing

A city trip to Copenhagen basically guarantees a fun time. The city has it all – from picturesque streets and interesting tourist attractions to cute café spots or parks. But what if you ran out of things to do Copenhagen or just need some time away from the city life? If this is you, there are some very good news: Sweden is not far and can be reached within 20 minutes by train or car. How about some day trips from Copenhagen to Sweden? And Sweden will not only provide you with a new and long list of things to do and places to see but also invite you to get lost in the beautiful nature.

Shortly, it gives you all you could possibly ask for. And if you want to keep it short with as less effort as possible, some of the places are the perfect day trips from Copenhagen. You can easily reach them within less than 2 hours and return in the evening. Thanks to the well-working train network and the affordable prices, you can be sure that your day trip will be nothing but a blast. Here are the 5 best day trips from Copenhagen to Sweden which you should know about:

1. Explore the Swedish city life in Malmö

The shortest day trip to Sweden leads you to Malmö. The city is located right at the other side of the Öresund Bridge, which connects Denmark and Sweden. Malmö is the third biggest city in Sweden and perfect for a day trip. It offers a wide list of things to do which range from a relaxed picnic in the park to a visit of the Disgusting Food Museum and a city stroll. You can go for a walk along the sea and take a look at the quite impressive Öresund bridge. On a clear day, you can even wave to Denmark on the other side. 

Malmö is famous for shopping and offers many cute cafés for the typical Swedish fika – a thing to do you absolutely cannot miss when visiting Sweden! Stroll through the Kungsgarden afterwards or Ribersborgsstranden.

How to get to Malmö from Copenhagen:

From Köpenhamn H (the central station of Copenhagen) you take the train to Malmö C. They leave about every 20 minutes and cost around 13 Euros one way. If you select the 24-hour ticket, you will be charged 24 Euros for a return ticket, plus it allows you to choose the time flexibly. Perfect for a day trip! 

The journey lasts 39 minutes and will as well give you the experience of crossing the Öresund Bridge – I mean driving over the sea is quite fun, right?

Notes-from-a-traveller´s tip: 

When you are travelling from Copenhagen to Sweden, you will mostly be moving around in the Skåne area. This is the most Southern region of Sweden. To get discounts (if you are travelling as a group for example) and all updates on your trips, make sure to download the Skånetrafiken App before your trip. Here you can see all the connection available as well as the timetables and where the train or bus currently is. Definitely a helpful tool for your day trips from Copenhagen to Sweden.

2. Visit the picturesque Lund

It is good that one of the prettiest Swedish cities isn’t far from Copenhagen. We are talking about Lund, a typical university town with a laid-back atmosphere. It is a lively city with picturesque streets and historical buildings. During the summer months, you can visit the botanical garden and witness the city in its beautiful blossom. Make sure to stroll over the campus of the Lund University, have a fika in a cute traditional café. And of course, just stroll through the streets. Lund is a small but very beautiful city which invites you to experience the Swedish lifestyle: laid-back and slow. Take your time. 

How to get to Lund from Copenhagen:

The train to Lund is the same as you take when you are planning a day trip to Malmö. Except for the duration, as you need to sit a little bit longer to arrive in Lund. The train from Köpenhamn H to Lund C takes 54 minutes and leaves every 20 minutes. If you get the return ticket (24 hour ticket) you will need to pay 30 Euros. The ticket also allows you to stop in Malmö, if you want. 

3. Experience the beach in Åhus (Kristianstad)

A bit further from Lund, you will pass Kristianstad. The small city itself is not that special (or at least not worth a whole day trip from Copenhagen), but the closely located village of Åhus definitely is. It can be reached within 30 minutes from Kristianstad by bus and is the perfect address for some beach vibes in Sweden.

How about the perfect beach day with clear blue water and all the cute little Swedish holiday homes? How about a beach which is nearly empty and leaves you enjoying the stunning view almost by yourself? If this is what you´re searching for, Åhus should be on your list for the best day trips from Copenhagen to Sweden. The reason why it is recommended to visit from Copenhagen is because it´s easier to reach by train and bus. You only need to switch from the train to the bus in Kristianstad and you´re already there. 

In Åhus you can stroll through Äspet, relax by the beach, visit the Klosterbageriet for a fika or walk along the canal. During the summer months you can get some ice cream or a drink by the water as well. Unfortunately, you cannot see the sun set in this area of Sweden but the mood in the evening hours is still worth staying for. 

How to get to Åhus from Copenhagen:

Again, this is the same conncection as you take if you plan to visit Malmö or Lund. From Köpenhamn H the journey to reach Kristianstad C takes 1 hour 44 minutes and the train leaves every hour. Make sure to take a connection without transfers so you do not need to change the trains. The return ticket is 43 Euros plus 4 Euros for the bus to Åhus. 

When you arrive in Kristianstad, take the bus 551 and exit either at Åhus Rönnowskolan or Åhus Äspetvägen. Depending on what you plan to do, you can take the first exit to see a bit of the center of the village or head directly to Äspet to walk to the beach. 

4. Visit Helsingborg and explore the West Coast  

If you simply cannot get enough of Swedish cities, here is another option to take as a day trip from Copenhagen: Helsingborg. The city is located directly at the sea in the Northwest of Skåne. The area and the city itself is famous for the stunning nature, the swimming opportunities and the many trips you can take in the surrounding region. If you want to experience the Swedish west coast, this is your chance. Next to the typical city stroll and the Swedish fika, make sure to watch the sunset at the sea and spend time at the beach. And if you want to know more about the city itself, you can visit the Sofiero Castle or the botanical garden. 

How to get to Helsingborg from Copenhagen

From Copenhagen, there is a direct train to Helsingborg C which only takes 1 hour 30 minutes. The train leaves around every 10 minutes, but if you want to get a direct train you need to check the Skånetrafiken app. There are a few available, which leave around every two hours. 

5. Fall in love with the Swedish nature in Österlen

Ready for some Swedish countryside? Luckily you cannot only visit cities as a daytrip from Copenhagen. Österlen is the region in between Brösarp, Simrisnhamn, Mälarhusen and Romelilla. Basically, it is the Southeast of Skåne and known for the wide landscapes and the rough seaside. If you cannot wait to see the Swedish countryside and get to know the stunning nature the country has to offer a little bit better, make sure to put Österlen on your list. You can visit the rock formation at Ales Stenar, go swimming in Backåkra, visit Skillinge or Glimmingehus.

How to get to Österlen from Copenhagen:

The best way to reach the area of Österlen is to take the train to Simrishamn station. The journey takes 2 hours 11 minutes and you need to change your train in Malmö. For the 24 hour ticket you can expect to pay around 40 Euros. 

Österlen is also a great destination as a day trip if you travel with a car. This leaves you with more flexibility and you can explore the whole area. 

Sweden is waiting for you!

With these 5 day trips from Copenhagen you cannot only explore Sweden as well but add a little bit more spice to your city trip. The trips will show you more of the beautiful Scandinavia and hopefully make you fall in love with Sweden.

Click here to get more information about Southern Sweden. 

Need more insights into your trip to Copenhagen? I got you.

Leave a comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Southern Sweden vs. Northern Sweden – an honest insight for the right choice

Why you should spend an Erasmus semester abroad

• Choose language
• Price Match Guarantee
• Free Cancellation on most bookings
• No hidden costs or commission charges

JavaScript seem to be disabled in your browser.

You must have JavaScript enabled in your browser to utilize the functionality of this website.

A day trip to Sweden from Copenhagen (Day 4)

Tourists are always interested in what they can see nearby. And in this particular case we suggest you visit the area around Copenhagen. To the north there are some beautiful castles , and across the bay you will find yourself in Sweden. So why not organize a round trip like this (see itinerary on the map)?

As you can see, the route passes first through the towns of Hillerød and Helsingør and from there you will reach Sweden where you can visit Helsingborg, Lund and Malmö .

Page last updated: March, 2024.

When you cross the Swedish border, you will be asked to present your documents so don't forget to take them!

Description of the day

You can do this trip on a Monday, when the museums in Copenhagen are closed. The Copenhagen Card will be useful for this excursion because you can travel free of charge on the trains of the northern region, visit two castles, take a boat trip close to Hillerød castle and even receive a discount for the ferry to Sweden!

The itinerary is not short, so you need to depart about 8 am. The first castle opens at 10 am, but it will take about an hour to get there (+ time to have breakfast). The route is marked on the map. Open this link from your mobile phone so you have the map of the trip at your fingertips. It is very useful because Google knows the schedules for all trains and ferries and that will simplify the journey for you.

The town of Hillerød and the castle of Frederiksborg

Hillerød is located in the north of the region . Take the train “A - Hillerod” from Copenhagen central station and you'll be there in 40 minutes. The train leaves every 8-12 minutes. The main monument of the town is the castle of Frederiksborg , and it stands right opposite the lagoon area.

The walk through the walls of the palace is fascinating for anyone! Do not miss the opportunity to take a look at the park-garden of Frederiksborg and see the fountain of Neptune in the courtyard. We also suggest you take a boat trip on the lake: the view of Frederiksborg from the lake is simply irresistible!

Price: the train to the town, entry to the castle and the boat tour on the lake are included in the Copenhagen Card .

Opening times: from 10 am to 5 pm (all year round) but it closes at 3 pm in winter.

Duration of the visit: 1-2 hours.

Elsinore (Helsingør) and the castle of Kronborg

A direct train from Hillerød to Helsingør leaves every half hour and takes approximately 30 minutes. This port city has become famous all over the world thanks to Shakespeare. The writer chose the castle as the setting for his famous play Hamlet, the Danish prince.

Whether or not Hamlet actually existed is not known, but the castle of Kronborg, whose history is lost in the distant 1420, lives on at Helsingør still today. The castle is huge! And while you walk in the quiet underground royal casemates, actors interpret the tragedy of “Hamlet” right there in the rooms of Kronborg . Between its imposing marble walls, any legend can become reality.

Price: train and visit to the castle are included in the Copenhagen Card .

Opening times: from 10 am to 5.30 pm.

Duration of the visit: from 40 minutes without the show, up to 2 hours if you see everything.

By ferry to Sweden: Elsinore - Helsingborg

There is a Scandlines terminal at the Copenhagen station, where you can purchase a one-way ticket and present your documents before boarding. You will find supermarket shopping and bars on the ferry. This will surprise you, but the prices are lower here than on the mainland!

Price: with the Copenhagen card about 3 euros, without the card approximately 5 euro.

Duration of the trip: 20 minutes, departure every 15 minutes.

Helsingborg and the promenade in the center

When you get off the ferry head towards the town hall (Rådhuset) and then to the Kärnan tower where you can see the whole city from the top. Along the street, stop to taste the Swedish sweets at “Fahlmans Konditori”, for example. Prices in Sweden are almost half what they are in Denmark. All tourist places are shown on the map .

Trains in Sweden are not included in the Copenhagen Card, so before departure buy your tickets at the automatic vending machines. Use your credit card or change some cash in the station. The ticket is valid for a couple of hours after purchase. Trains run often and are faster, so you will move around more quickly in Sweden.

In Sweden the city of Lund is called “the ancient pearl”. It is a small residential center, but worthy of note and very green. In Lund take a stroll in the center and the park near the University, and visit the Cathedral , immersed in the atmosphere of the Romanesque style. It is open till 6 pm, but it is very beautiful here even if you don't go inside the cathedral.

Price: the train ticket will cost less than 100 SEK / €10 / $11.

Duration of the trip: about 30 minutes, departures every 7-10 minutes.

You can breathe the charm of this historic town on the sea of Malmö especially in the old quarter. By following our itinerary, you will arrive in this town in the evening, so take a walk to the center of Malmö . The monuments here are located on what is known as the “small square”. It is surrounded by restaurants and prices are lower here, compared to Denmark. This is a nice place to unwind and try the local dishes. There is always time to return to Copenhagen because trains run 24h/day .

Price: about 50 SEK / €5.10 / $5.50.

Duration of the trip: less than 10 minutes, leaving every 5 minutes.

Returning to Copenhagen

To return to Copenhagen from Malmö buy a ticket to Copenhagen Lufthavn (Airport) at the ticket machine. The rest of the trip is included in the Copenhagen Card. When you cross the Bay, you will travel on one of the most famous and complex bridge constructions in the world, the Øresund Bridge. This is a bridge cum tunnel which is unique in its genre: one part passes above the water and the other part beneath the water. A phenomenal work of engineering!

Price: about 110 SEK / €11 / $12.

Duration of the trip: 35 minutes, departure every 10-15 minutes; every hour between 1 am and 3 am.

Text printed from www.best-of-copenhagen.com website

The Perfect Road Trip to Denmark and Sweden

A few trips are as exciting and invigorating as a road trip to Scandinavia. The impressive landscapes, the idyllic villages, and the enchanting nature are just a few of the reasons that make such a trip unique. But a road trip through the whole of Scandinavia takes time. Only a few days are not enough to get to know this beautiful place in depth. That’s why a road trip to Denmark and Sweden is the ideal choice for anyone looking to experience Scandinavia in just a few days.

One week is enough for a Denmark and Sweden road trip! Not to see everything you want, but certainly, enough to get a good taste of these two beautiful Scandinavian countries. It mainly requires a passion for adventure, good planning, and some tips. So let’s get started!

Things to prepare before your road trip to Denmark and Sweden

The ideal starting point for a road trip to Denmark and Sweden is Copenhagen. With that in mind, you’ll need to take care of the following:

Rent your car

There are numerous car rental companies in Copenhagen. All are reliable and surprisingly offer quite low prices. You can pick up the car of your choice, either from the airport or from the city center. The road network of Denmark and Sweden is among the best in Europe. Therefore, choose your rental car based on the number of people who will accompany you on your trip.

Pack your luggage

Do not overpack! Take only the essentials with you. You will definitely need some comfortable clothes for driving. Also, don’t forget to pack some warm clothes, even if you’re planning a summer road trip. One of the destinations is Swedish Lapland, where the temperature can drop to 0 degrees in the summer months!

Prepare some car-friendly activities

You will need to spend more than 50 hours in the car for a road trip to Denmark and Sweden. The view will compensate you, but there will definitely come times when you will feel tired or bored. So make sure you spend your time pleasantly and productively. Think of some games you can play in the car and download your favorite audiobooks.

Check the weather

The weather will not affect your route, but you will definitely need to check it before forming your program, in the beginning, and during the road trip. You can avoid some stops or choose others, depending on whether it’s raining or shining.

Your one-week road trip to Denmark and Sweden Itinerary

Based on our experience, the ideal road trip follows a circular route so you can enjoy the most out of Scandinavia in one week. Unfortunately, time is enough for just a taste of Denmark, but a much larger trip through Sweden.

Day One: Copenhagen

The first day of the road trip involves little to no driving! You can spend it exploring the capital of Denmark. Copenhagen is a relatively small city that you can walk around in a day.

There are many things to do in Copenhagen for free or at a small cost. You can drink your coffee in the most beautiful area of the city, Nyhavn. Then walk to Kastellet Park and see the famous statue of the Little Mermaid, next to the park. Then you can visit the magnificent Christiansborg Palace and the Copenhagen Cathedral .

There is enough time to visit the National Museum of Denmark or one of Copenhagen’s many free museums . You should definitely try the famous Danish pastries and have a drink in one of the picturesque bars of the city. But don’t stay up all night because the next day will be much more tiring!

Day Two: Helsingør, Helsingborg, Sodertalje

The next morning, starting from Copenhagen and crossing the east coast of Denmark, you will reach Helsingør in less than an hour. You can spend a couple of hours exploring this cute little seaside town. The most popular tourist destination is Kronborg Castle , the setting of Shakespeare’s Hamlet!

From Helsingør, the ferry will take you to Helsingborg, Sweden, in less than 30 minutes! There are routes every 20 minutes, and you don’t need to book your ticket in advance. It’s a pleasant little trip with great views of the Danish and Swedish coasts. The price is €33 for the car and €12 for each adult.

Helsingborg is a lovely small town, and it is perfect for a stop for lunch and sightseeing. Park your car in the free parking lot outside the port and spend a few hours seeing the Sofiero Palace and Gardens, the Kärnan Tower, and having a seaside lunch with a view. Everything is in the city center, so you won’t have to wander around for too long.

The rest of the day involves a lot of driving! You will need to drive for 5.5 hours to arrive in Sodertalje, a small quiet town, just outside Stockholm. The highway is safe and easy to drive on. So you can cover this part of your road trip when it gets dark. Choose one of the comfy hotels in Sodertalje to rest after a full and exhausting day.

Day Three: Stockholm

After having breakfast in Sodertalje and admiring the city in the daylight, head to Stockholm. The journey will take approximately 20 minutes. Check into your hotel and then start exploring the capital of Sweden. Spend a leisurely day, with no driving at all, but with plenty of walking.

Stockholm is bigger than Copenhagen, but you can see its main attractions in one day. Start with a walk through the picturesque alleys of Gamla Stan (Old Town). Gamla Stan is the best-preserved medieval area in Scandinavia. Apart from its unique architecture, you will also love its cute little shops and traditional cafes.

Then visit the historical buildings in the city center next to Gamla Stan. The most important are the House of Nobility, the Royal Palace, and the Stockholm Cathedral. You can also choose one of Stockholm’s many free museums to visit. If you have some time, take the ferry and head to the small island of Djurgarden. Djurgarden is full of modern museums and amusement parks, including the Viking Museum of Stockholm .

Finally, don’t forget to try traditional Swedish food in one of Stockholm’s numerous quality restaurants. If you haven’t made a reservation, don’t be disappointed! In most restaurants in the city, you will find a table if you wait patiently in line for a while.

Day 4: From Uppsala to Lycksele (Swedish Lapland)

The 4th day of your road trip includes several hours of driving to Swedish Lapland. But this driving experience might be one of the most enjoyable you’ve had so far. Crossing the country’s northeastern side, you will encounter green meadows, beautiful beaches, dense forests, and clear blue lakes. You will have the opportunity to make many small stops to admire the landscapes you will find on your way. Start your journey as early as possible, so you can see as much as you can.

The first stop is Uppsala, a small town north of Stockholm, known for its university , which was founded in the 15th century. After driving for a few hours, you will leave the main highway and follow a route that combines green landscapes, picturesque towns, and countless small lakes. Make as many stops as you wish, either for food or to enjoy the scenery. There are plenty of places to park your car, even ready-made wooden facilities to sit and enjoy the view and rest from the journey.

Late at night, you will notice a change in scenery and temperature. You have just entered Swedish Lapland. The first town you come across is Lycksele, split in two by a large river. It is the ideal location to spend the night and rest from your long journey.

Day 5: Northern Lights at Jokkmokk

Swedish Lapland consists of small towns and wonderful nature. We recommend as your next destination Jokkmokk, a scenic Swedish town that has been a meeting place for the Sami people for hundreds of years. The distance from Lyksele is approximately 3.5 hours by car, and the route offers views of the magnificent landscapes of Swedish Lapland.

In the area around Jokkmokk, you can find Sweden’s most beautiful national parks. Unfortunately, there is no car access to most of them. Except one! Stora Sjöfallet is the closest national park to Jokkmokk and is a perfect sample of Lapland’s unique natural environment. So, it will definitely be one of the highlights of your road trip through Sweden.

Finally, there is no better place to see the Northern Lights than Jokkmokk and the area surrounding it. The lake next to Jokkmokk is the perfect place to relax in the evening, and observe this magical natural phenomenon. There are benches, shelters, and even campfire stones, all free for visitors.

Day 6: From Jokkmokk to Västerås

Day 6 of your Denmark and Sweden road trip is mostly driving as the return journey begins. Wake up as early as possible and head to Lycksele and then to Västerås and the province of Västmanland. After leaving Lapland, you take a slightly different route from the one you came. It also includes beautiful landscapes and a dramatic change of scenery.

We suggest that after making the necessary short stops at whichever points appeal to you the most, you take a break in the small cute town of Västerås. Built on the shore of Lake Mälaren, Västerås is small enough to see it in a couple of hours and offers plenty of options for good Swedish food.

The province of Västmanland is a beautiful quiet rural area with awesome scenery and lovely traditional houses. There are many cheap options for staying in one of them. Therefore, we strongly recommend you choose one of these houses to spend the night and have a strong Swedish experience!

Day 7: Malmö, Øresund Bridge, Copenhagen

The last day of your road trip begins with a 6-hour drive to Malmö, one of Sweden’s largest cities. You can go shopping in the city’s pedestrian shopping district and sit in the central square for a coffee or a meal. Malmö is 20 minutes from Copenhagen, so it’s the final destination of your exciting one-week road trip to Denmark and Sweden.

To reach the point from where you started, this time you will cross the famous Øresund Bridge. The Øresund Bridge is 16 km long and connects Denmark with Sweden. Crossing it is an experience that could not be missing from such a road trip. The cost of the tolls is 65 EUR for a regular car. Once you pass the bridge, you will be 5 minutes from the airport and the center of Copenhagen.

Some useful tips

If you don’t have much experience with demanding road trips, or if you are visiting these 2 Scandinavian countries for the first time, you will definitely face some challenges. So here are some tips to perfectly organize your road trip in Denmark and Sweden:

• Drivers : You will need to drive an average of 6-8 hours daily. Therefore, it will make your life a lot easier if you split the driving time between two drivers instead of one.
• Cost : Apart from the Øresund Bridge, you won’t have to pay for tolls anywhere else in Denmark and Sweden. Your largest expense will be fuel. So lighten your expenses considerably by renting a diesel car.
• Parking : You will have no issues finding where to park in rural areas and small towns. However, you will need to familiarize yourself with the automated parking system in larger cities such as Stockholm and Copenhagen.
• Closing hours : Danes and Swedes go to bed early! So make sure you plan your food stops and your arrival at your destinations before 9 pm. Also, always check the times you can check in at your hotel.
• Google Maps : The Google Maps app is the perfect tool to find any destination in Scandinavia and arrange your arrival time. Make sure you have enough data on your mobile phone. For any long driving distance, add at least 20-30% extra time, because of the stops you will take.

Final thoughts

Every road trip must have one key element to be successful. Spontaneity! The same rule applies to your road trip to Denmark and Sweden, as Scandinavia is a place that offers endless options even to the most demanding traveler. So even if you’re the type of traveler who wants to organize everything perfectly, leave some room for spontaneity. Our guide to the perfect road trip is indicative of how much there is to see and do, even if you don’t have all the time you need. So just adjust our road trip proposal to your own needs and desires, for a unique outdoor Scandinavian experience.

1 thought on “The Perfect Road Trip to Denmark and Sweden”

That’s great info. Can you tell me if there are any apps or good websites for finding accommodation in country town and rural areas. Thank you Jenny

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Visit Lund in Sweden on a Day Trip from Copenhagen in Denmark

The romantic university town Lund in Sweden is an easy and interesting day-trip destination from Copenhagen, CPH Airport, or Malmö.

Lund is the best day-trip destination in Sweden from Copenhagen. This picturesque small town is one of the oldest cities in Sweden and is famous for its large university, impressive Romanesque cathedral, the Kulturen open-air museum, a variety of further museums, lovely parks, and a relaxed attitude to life. Nearly half of Lund’s population is students making it a lively town in term but peacefully quiet during the vacations. Lund may be reached within an hour from Copenhagen by car or train. Day-trip tours from Copenhagen are seasonal with most including Malmö and even Kronborg .

Top Sights to See in Lund near Malmö in Sweden

Lund was founded around 990 by Danish King Svend Tveskæg (“fork beard”) but is now mostly famous for its university and Scandinavia’s largest Romanesque cathedral. Lund University was formally established in 1666 making it the second oldest in Sweden (after Uppsala) but with more than 40,000 students the largest in Scandinavia.

On a day trip, many travelers may find Lund a more interesting destination to visit than nearby Malmö (Malmø in Danish). Malmö has a compact old town and interesting museums but is the third-largest city in Sweden.

In contrast, Lund is a small university town with around 80,000 inhabitants. Its pretty historical old town center is easy to enjoy on a day trip from Copenhagen. Lund is only 10 minutes by frequent train from Malmö.

Domkyrkan – Lund’s Romanesque Cathedral

The most obvious sight in Lund is the magnificent, triple-nave 12th-century Romanesque cathedral. This is the most-impressive Romanesque building in northern Europe, although the two 55-m high towers are 19th-century additions. In contrast to the famous brick Gothic churches of Northern Europe, Lund Cathedral is in traditional sandstone with clear Rhenish architectural influences.

The church is also famous for its large astrological clock – a masterpiece of 15th-century engineering. The mechanism is complicated but the performance is simple: two knights clashing swords are followed by a procession led by the Three Kings marching around the Madonna with child. During the performance, two trumpeters, actually the smallest of the five organs in the church, play “In dulci jubilo”. If near the church at noon and 15:00 (13:00 and 16:00 on Sundays) it is worth seeing but hardly worth scheduling a visit around the minute-long performance.

The 15th-century oak choir stalls are amongst the largest and most impressive in Europe from this period. The carved altarpiece with 40 figures is from 1398 and is amongst the oldest Gothic retables in Sweden.

The large 1920s mosaic in the apse with a 6-m Christ is as much of Lund historicist in origin. Byzantine-style mosaics were in vogue in Europe in the late 19th, early 20th centuries. Some of the finest may be seen in Charlemagne’s Imperial cathedral (Kaiserdom) in Aachen, Germany.

Most of the rest of the church is without any art or decorations. However, do peak into the crypt with its 18 columns. Two of the pillars have figures hugging the columns. According to legend, these are the giant Finn and his wife. They helped build the church but tried to destroy it when they felt cheated. However, they turned to stone before they could tumble the pillars.

Historicist Buildings of Lund University in Sweden

Many of the buildings in Lund are historicist creations of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Kungshus (King’s House) with its prominent round tower looks like a prime example but this building actually is from the 16th century. It was erected by Danish King Frederik II and housed the university for two centuries.

The nearby white neo-classical Universitetshuset was built in 1882 as the main university building. The frogs on the large fountain symbolize the four original faculties: theology, law, medicine, and philosophy.

From here northeastwards are several blocks of university buildings. The neo-Gothic university library building in the middle of a park is interesting but more impressive is its collection: its 100,000 m of shelf space has more than 3 million books including manuscripts from the 12th century.

The nearby botanical garden is used by the university too so has a larger variety of flora than usually found in local parks. Around 7000 species are planted in the gardens with the glass greenhouses (open daily 11:00 to 15:00) divided into nine different climate zones.

Museums in Lund, Sweden

Lund has several museums but the large Kulturen complex is the easiest to enjoy. This cultural-historical open-air museum complex in the heart of the city has around 40 houses – some in their original position while others were relocated from various parts of southern Sweden. These are furnished as would have been typical and thus show how people of various social and economic classes would have lived from the Middle Ages to around 1930.

In addition to Kulturen, Lund has several further interesting museums to explore:

• The Livetsmuseum (life museum) focuses on the human body. The presentation incorporates historic and modern equipment and theories to illustrate health, diseases, and treatments through the ages. It has many interactive stations.
• The Skissernasmuseum (sketches museum) illustrates how artworks are made. Models and sketches show the whole process from conception to the final physical production of a work of art.
• The Historiska Museet (history museum) is the second-largest archaeological museum in Sweden and has an important collection of prehistoric finds, artifacts from classical antiquity and medieval religious objects and art.
• Lunds Kunsthall shows modern art both by local and international artists.
• The Drottens Kyrkoruin (free admission) shows the medieval ruins of the second largest of 27 churches that operated in Lund prior to the reformation. (Entrance via the restaurant Gattostretto!)
• The Vattenhallen Science Center explains science, especially to early teens, through practical experiments. It is usually open on weekend afternoons and is mostly in Swedish (although many of the presenters speak perfect English).

Transportation to Lund in Sweden from Copenhagen

Getting to Lund in Sweden for a day-trip visit is easy by car or train from Copenhagen (or on direct trains from Malmö, Gothenburg or Stockholm). Passport controls are often done but add surprisingly little to travel time, especially when arriving by car.

Traveling to Lund by Car from Denmark

Driving to Lund is easy. From Copenhagen Airport, cross the Øresund bridge – actually first a tunnel and then the famous bridge – and continue on the E27 / E6 highway around Malmö to Lund. Parking garages in Lund are well marked – simply follow signs to the center.

Crossing the Øresund Bridge by car is pricy but cheaper if paid online in advance and cheap savings deals are often available for day trips. If planning to cross the bridge more than once per year, sign up for a BroPass . Payment (and passport control if any) are always done on the Swedish side only.

Drivers may easily venture further into Sweden to visit the Ikea Museum inside the original Ikea store in Almhült. The Ikea Hotel is a pleasant option for the night too.

Day Trips Tours from Copenhagen to Lund and Malmö

Day-trip tours from Copenhagen to Lund and Malmö are seasonal but some are usually available year-round. Most tours include a visit to Malmö as well. Better value might be a full day-trip tour that includes not only Lund and Malmö but also a visit to Kronborg (Hamlet’s Elsinore) in Helsingør. This trip crosses the Øresund by ferry (Helsingør – Helsingborg) and by bridge (Malmö – Copenhagen).

By Train to Lund in Sweden from Copenhagen in Denmark

Trains are available usually three times per hour from Copenhagen to Lund. Traveling time to Lund is just over 50 minutes from Copenhagen Central Station (København K) and less than 40 minutes from the airport. Tickets are easily bought from any station or try Omio , which may even list a few bus options.

Passport controls on journeys to Sweden are done on the train and in Sweden. It is no longer necessary to get off the train for passports to be checked at Copenhagen Airport. Danish checks are sometimes made at the airport but once again on the train.

Lund train station is three blocks to the west of the old town center. The Lund Tourist Information office in the Stadshallen is a good first stop. Ask for the handy map with a walking route via all the main sights in the old town center area.

Lund is mostly seen on day trips from Copenhagen (or Malmö) but it has a number of pleasant hotels too that may offer cheaper prices on a quiet night. See how TripAdvisor users rate hotels in Lund (Sweden). The Grand Hotel Lund is a traditional late 19th-century historicist hotel near the train station but better value may be available in the less characterful modern hotels or in nearby Malmö .

About the author:

Henk Bekker

Henk Bekker is a freelance travel writer with over 20 years of experience writing online. He is particularly interested in history, art, and culture. He has lived most of his adult life in Germany, Switzerland, and Denmark. In addition to European-Traveler.com , he also owns a travel website on the Lake Geneva region of Switzerland and maintains statistical websites on car sales and classic car auction prices . Henk holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School and an MSc in Development Finance from the University of London.

Home » Denmark » Visit Lund in Sweden on a Day Trip from Copenhagen in Denmark

To provide the best experiences, we and our partners use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us and our partners to process personal data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site and show (non-) personalized ads. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.

Click below to consent to the above or make granular choices. Your choices will be applied to this site only. You can change your settings at any time, including withdrawing your consent, by using the toggles on the Cookie Policy, or by clicking on the manage consent button at the bottom of the screen.

Visiting Helsingør, Lund, and Malmö: A Perfect Day Trip from Copenhagen

When I’m traveling, I love taking day trips from my main base. I can see and learn more about the destination I’m exploring with the limited PTO I have. When I found out that you can visit Malmö and Lund for a day trip from Copenhagen, I knew I had to go and cross off Sweden as another country visited.

Disclaimer:  This post uses affiliate links, which means I make a commission if you book through this post. If you do decide to book using my links, thank you so much for your support!

How to visit Malmö from Copenhagen

Most people taking a day trip from Copenhagen will drive or take public transportation to Malmö through the Øresund Bridge (or vice versa). It is a which takes about 30–40 minutes both ways. I didn’t do that. Instead, I booked a tour to Helsingør, spent time in Kronborg Slot, and then took a 15-minute ferry to Helsingborg. I know, I know, Denmark’s Helsingør and Sweden’s Helsingborg sound almost too similar. Then our guide drove us over to Lund and Malmö, where we spent an hour and a half each. After we finished our excursions, we drove through the Øresund Bridge back to Copenhagen.

For context, I will be basing this post off of my tour with Enjoy the Tours (which is not sponsored. I paid my hard-earned money for this). My tour guide, Mario, was the bomb. He was lively, animated, and attentive. He also was willing to make extra stops to drop off people at specific spots.

The drive from Copenhagen to Helsingør

The tour bus picked all of us up at Hotel Astoria , which is right next to Copenhagen Central Station. The drive to Helsingør was about 50 minutes long, but Mario kept us alert by storytelling all the landmarks, and neighborhoods we drove by. We drove through the scenic Coastal Road 152 (also known as Strandvejen), which shows off the Danish coast on one side, and forests full of wealthy houses on the other. We passed by Bakken , the oldest amusement park in the world (older than Tivoli) and Louisiana Museum of Modern Art .

What to expect at Helsingør

While it’s a small town, visiting Helsingør could be a full day trip from Copenhagen on its own. Its most notable for Kronborg Slot, where Shakespeare’s Hamlet takes place. This is where the majority of the tour group spent their time, myself included.

Outside of Kronborg Slot, there are a decent amount of things to do and see in Helsingør, such as Kulturværftet, St. Olaf’s Church, and various museums and sculptures.

Kronborg Slot

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kronborg Slot is a must-see for your day trip from Copenhagen. It’s most known as the backdrop for Hamlet , in which the fictional name is Elsinore (the English name for Helsingør). It’s the entrance of Øresund, the waters between Denmark and Sweden.

Originally, Kronborg started off as a simple fortress in the 1420s. A century and a half later, King Frederick II transformed it into a magnificent Renaissance castle due to the need for stronger and more modern fortifications after weaponry improvements from the Northern Seven Years’ War .

For centuries, Krongborg has been the destination to throw parties and perform plays. Today, many visitors like myself visit the castle to get lost in its rich history.

Admission to Kronborg is 125 DKK ($17.50 USD) for adults, but with the Copenhagen Card , you can get in for free!

Kulturværftet

Across the street from Kronborg is Kulturværftet (The Culture Yard), a cultural center with sleek glass architecture. It was built in 2010, and inside there are 140,000 square feet full of space for concerts, performances, and other events.

Kulturværftet also holds the Shipyard Museum if you are interested in learning about all of the boats built in Helsingør.

There is also a library filled with playrooms, lectures, IT classes, and is visited by 1,000 people daily.

If you’re hungry from walking all over Kronborg, you can order a smørrebrød or any other meal at Spisehuset in the first floor!

The ferry ride on Øresund to Sweden

In order to get to Sweden, our tour took a 15-minute ferry ride on Øresund to Helsingborg, Sweden.

Øresund is a strait that separates Denmark and Sweden, and connects the Baltic Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. The name means The Sound in English. A sound is an inlet that connects to multiple bodies of water and separates islands. It’s like a fjord, except that it’s much wider and fjords are made from glaciers.

The ferry was super nice inside, that I wished the ride took a little longer! There were gift shops, and upper deck, and a cafe where you can order lunch, coffee, and alcoholic drinks. I ordered an Irish coffee and sat at a stool by the window watching the waves of Øresund and anticipating every minute closer to Sweden. Of course, since it went by so fast, I couldn’t finish my drink.

Landing in Lund—What to Expect

After landing on Helsingborg, you take the highway to go to Lund.

Lund is a small college town, home of Lund University—so there’s going to be a younger crowd. It also traces back to the Medieval times.

Lund Cathedral

This is Lund’s renowned landmark. What used to be a Catholic church is now a part of the Lutheran Church of Sweden. It’s even more gorgeous in person, and the inside is beautiful, but I couldn’t take photos inside. You are free to tour or worship and contemplate.

Centrala Staden

From the downtown area filled with cafés, shops, and restaurants to the open-air musem Kulturen, Centrala Staden is Lund’s jewel. Practice fika like the Swedes, which is taking a nice long coffee break with a pastry and savoring every second (I do this at home too in the morning, but Cecilio and I call this sit and sip and I’m frazzled getting ready for work).

I ordered a latte and a heart-shaped cream-filled pastry at Patisseriet . While. I didn’t sit, sip and savor as long as I wanted since we didn’t have a lot of time to explore, I was able to get my own taste of fika (while panicking wondering why the bus didn’t arrive yet when I was actually waiting too early and realizing I misheard the pickup time, and realizing I wasted time worrying when I could’ve explored more of Lund).

Things aren’t cheap in Scandinavia, but if you’re going to go shopping, it’s better to do so in Sweden instead of Denmark. The taxes are slightly lower in Sweden, not by much but every bit counts.

Be sure to hit up, Åhlens, a Swedish department store with 50 locations across the country! I mostly hung around the makeup aisle. While they did have American brands, there were some Swedish makeup brands that piqued my interest like Isadora and Estelle & Thild. I didn’t get anything though (next time!).

There are also so many cute gift shops and clothing boutiques to check out around Lund, even if you’re just looking!

Mulling around in Malmö

Malmö is a 20-minute drive from Lund and is Sweden’s third-largest city after Stockholm and Gothenburg. Even though there is a university, Malmö University, I wouldn’t call it a college town per-say like I would with Lund. However, Malmö is more sprawling and growing with tech and IT companies, making it a great place for postgrads to live and work.

Honestly, because we didn’t spend a lot of time in Malmö and it was already dark by the time I got there, it didn’t wow me the way Lund did.

The center of Malmö lies Lilla Torg ( Little Square ), a charming medieval square filled with more restaurants, pubs, and cafés. More H&M and similar clothing botiques, for sure.

Maybe I was a little more biased towards Lund, but when I went to dinner, I couldn’t find a traditional Swedish restaurant. I was craving Swedish meatballs but there were none available around me. The fact that there was a TGI Fridays was kind of a red flag.

I had dinner at Mello Yello , a Swedish/American/Mexican/Italian-fusion restaurant (but there were no meatballs), and ordered a pasta with chicken and mushrooms. It was pretty good, but I felt like I could eat that anywhere else. In fact, I wish I could’ve just gotten some snacks and walked around, while saving my appetite for a nice restaurant in Copenhagen.

Turning Torso

Our tour guide drove us to the unique Turning Torso , the first twisted skyscraper in the world near Øresund. At 190 m (620 feet) with 54 stories and 147 apartments (the first two floors are office space), it is also the 2nd tallest building in the Nordic region!

It was also designed by the famous architect Santiago Calatrava, who is also known for blueprinting the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Sundial Bridge in Redding, CA (both of which I got to visit in person).

If you ever get a chance to visit Malmö, you have to check out the Turning Torso as it’s a one-of-a-kind building! Each story twists relative to each other, with the ground floor and the top most story being completely perpendicular to each other.

Should you take your day trip from Copenhagen to Helsingør, Lund, and Malmö?

Theres no doubt in my mind that you should visit all three as a day trip from Copenhagen, especially if this is your first trip to Denmark and Sweden! I really enjoyed my tour and can’t recommend it enough, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area and you just want to relax on the bus while the guide figures has everything set up for you.

That said, if I knew then what I know now, I would’ve done things differently. Helsingør requires a few hours of your time, not just 90 minutes. In addition to Kronborg Slot, you’re going to want to check out what the rest of the town has to offer!

Malmö and Lund should be done together on a separate day from Helsingør, that way you can spend more time in both areas for a longer period of time. I would especially recommend going really early in the morning to maximize your time. If I did this and had more time in Malmö, I would’ve had a more favorable opinion of the town. I am always willing to revisit though!

Other Resources

If you want to sit back and enjoy the scenic drives while your tour guide does all the work, here are the tours I would recommend for your perfect day trip from Copenhagen to Sweden (and Kronborg!):

• Lund & Malmö: Guided Tour of 2 Countries In One Day (this is the tour I did)
• Malmö & Lund Tour, Crossing the Bridge to Sweden
• Malmö Walking Tour, 3 Hours
• Copenhagen: Full-Day Trip to Malmö with Swedish Lunch

Here are some posts you might find helpful:

• Whether it’s your first or 100th time in Denmark’s capital, here are 18 fun things to do and see in Copenhagen!
• Denmark is not a cheap country, but it’s possible to find an affordable hotel that feels luxurious. If you love clean, comfortable, and cute stays, read more about my review on Motel One Copenhagen.
• It may be thousands of miles away, but my hometown, Sacramento, has a thriving coffee scene where you can practice fika! Here are some of the best coffee shops in Sac for your break time and caffeine fix!

Love what you read? Share the love and pin below!

Hannah Padilla

Hannah is a travel writer, graphic designer, and the founder/editor of Hannah on Horizon. She is based in Sacramento, California, living with her husband and two adorable dogs. She shares tips on how to experience luxury travel on any budget, and how to maximize time at each trip or destination, no matter what your budget or amount of vacation time at work. She enjoys making you feel like you have visited each destination with her through her storytelling and informative writing style.

The ideal day trip destination from Copenhagen.

Our Day Trips to Sweden.

Sweden, the ideal day trip from copenhagen.

We at Tour Swedish Copenhagen are your experts on everything Swedish. Run jointly by experienced guides from the Malmö area, we are keen to provide the best possible time in Sweden on our day trips. We let your experience of Sweden be as genuine as possible. With our small group tours we always try our best to adapt if you have any special interest and to answer all possible questions. With us, everything about your day trip to Sweden is well thought through.

Our day trips always takes a Swedish perspective. After pickup in downtown Copenhagen in Denmark, all our tours cross the great Øresund Bridge. The rest takes place within Sweden, whether it is the lush Scanian countryside or the towns of Lund and Malmö. Our colours are Swedish, our guides are Swedish and our passion is Swedish.

At the same time we have a great love for Denmark. We are keen to show the strong ties the two countries enjoy today, despite centuries of wars and conflict in the past. Our tours highlight the integration of a Swedish province into the Danish capital region. You can find plenty of Danish heritage in what is today Sweden, and the presence of Copenhagen far beyond the Danish border.

We like to think that where the Øresund Bridge connects Denmark and Sweden physically, our day trips help your connect the two countries as a complete experience.

• South America
• United States
• TRAVEL GEAR
• Privacy Policy

• PHILIPPINES
• NETHERLANDS
• UNITED STATES
• OFF THE BEATEN PATH
• Responsible travel
• Animal tourism
• Eco friendly products
• Interview series

DENMARK , SWEDEN

How to have a perfect day trip from copenhagen to malmo.

Connected by the amazing Oresund Bridge, it’s really easy to travel between Denmark and Sweden. This means that a day trip from Copenhagen to Malmo is easier than going on many other day trips from Copenhagen .

There is just enough to fill a wonderful day in this charming southern Swedish city. Here is everything you need to know to have the perfect day trip to Malmo from Copenhagen.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

How to get from Copenhagen to Malmo

The Oresund Bridge connects Denmark and Sweden with both railway and road connections. With its nearly 8 kilometers, it’s Europe’s longest combined rail and road bridge which makes it no excuse not to go on a Malmo day trip from Copenhagen.

Copenhagen to Malmo by train

It only takes 35 minutes to get from Copenhagen to Malmo by train. With trains leaving every 20 minutes from Copenhagen Central Station, it’s by far the easiest way to get to Malmo.

You can buy tickets at the ticket office or in the ticket machines at the train station or book online in advance . The tickets don’t need to be validated before entering the train as they already have the date printed on them.

Check availability and prices here

Copenhagen to Malmo by bus

Traveling from Copenhagen to Malmo by bus is a cheap way of travel, but they don’t leave as frequently as the trains. It takes up to one hour to get to Malmo by bus and they leave from Copenhagen Central Station.

Especially in the high season, it can be smart to book in advance to secure tickets for your preferred departure.

Copenhaghen to Malmo by car

Driving across the Oresund Bridge from Copenhagen to Malmo is the most expensive way of transport. It takes up to one hour to get there and you need to pass the toll road each way. Updated prices can be found here .

Once you arrive in Malmo, you need to find parking, which can take time as in any large city. On Sundays, there is free parking along the streets. Otherwise, you can always opt for one of the many parking houses in the city.

Check rental cars here

Copenhagen to Malmo guided tour

If you want the convenience of going on a Malomo day trip from Copenhagen with an organized tour, this tour is a great option.

It includes train tickets from Copenhagen to Malmo and a typical Swedish lunch as well as visiting some of the top attractions in Malmo.

Check availability here

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Weekend trips from Copenhagen

Things to do on a Malmo day trip from Copenhagen

Once you get to Sweden, there are a lot of things to do, and with only a day trip to Malmo, there is only so much you can fit in.

Personally, I’m not a big fan of fitting too much into one day as I like to actually experience the place too.

Here are my top picks of what to do in Malmo on a day trip. Feel free to skip any of these places if you feel you’re in a hurry or if you get there late.

Or even swap things out for other attractions if you prefer. One way or another, I’m convinced you’ll have a fantastic day in one of the best places to visit in Sweden .

Visit Kungsparken

Take a stroll in Malmo’s oldest park, Kungsparken, which dates back to 1969. Originally, the park used to be part of the fortification but was later turned into an elegant English-style garden.

There is certainly a romantic feel to the clean paths next to the canal, passing windmills, fountains, ponds, and a grotto. There are around 130 old tree species originating from 3 continents in the park, which is pretty unique.

Malmo Castle

Right next to Kungsparken, you find Malmo Castle, a Renaissance fortress from the 1500s. It’s one of the oldest preserved in Scandinavia of its kind.

Yet, Malmo Castle has a history dating back to 1434, when it was first built. In the civil war that took place in 1534-1536, the fort was destroyed and later rebuilt.

The fortress even served as a prison for James Hepburn in the period between 1567 and 1573. After the Treaty of Roskilde in 1658, Malmo Castle went from a royal castle to a defense fort.

Today it hosts the Malmo Art Museum and the Natural History Museum of Malmo.

St. Peter’s Church

The St. Peter’s Church is a must-visit on your Copenhagen to Malmo day trip. The Gothic church is not only the oldest structure in Malmo, but it’s also said to be the most important Gothic church in Skåne County.

The construction of St. Peter’s church was started already in the early 14th century, with parts of it added in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Have lunch at Lilla Torg

The charming cobble stoned square, Lilla Torg, is perfect for lunch and a nice coffee afterwards while enjoying the atmosphere and people watching. Lilla Torg is not the oldest square in Malmo, as it was built just after its neighbor, Stortorget.

But this doesn’t take the charm away, packed with restaurants and surrounded by old houses from the late 1500s and early 1600s, there are few nicer places to have lunch.

After lunch, make sure you check out Stortorget, Malmo’s oldest and largest square dating back to the 1540s. The most prominent building surrounding the square is Malmo’s Town Hall, dating back to the mid-1500s, it got a facelift in the 1860’s resulting in the eye-catching Dutch Renaissance-style structure you see today.

On the other side of the square, you find Apoteket Lejonet, one of Sweden’s best preserved functioning pharmacies from the 1900s.

Stortorget is easily recognized by the massive bronze statue of the 17th-century Swedish king, Karl X Gustav, on horseback towering in the center of the square.

Turning Torso

The 190-meter-tall Turning Torso has become one of Malmo’s most recognized landmarks. And this, despite the fact that it’s a residential building and doesn’t have an observation deck open for tourists to see the city views.

Construction of Turning Torso started in 2001 and became Scandinavia’s tallest building and the world’s first twisting skyscraper. In 2021 Gothenburg is expected to finish a 245-meter building.

Riberborgstranden

If you have time, head to Riberborgstranden, Malmo’s stunning long beach for the best views of Turning Torso. It’s a wonderful beach to go for a stroll and breathe in the fresh sea breeze.

On a warm summer evening, you might even go for a swim. Sunsets from Riberborgstranden are mesmerizing and is a perfect end to a perfect day trip from Copenhagen to Malmo.

Reflections on a day trip from Copenhagen to Malmo

It’s so easy to go on a day trip to Sweden from Copenhagen and Malmo is the perfect destination for it. There is so much to see and do and the city is growing in popularity as it’s a real fusion of modern and old charm.

Make sure you travel responsibly when you go on a day trip to Malmo from Copenhagen. Bring your own reusable water bottle, it can be filled up anywhere as tap water in Sweden is safe to drink. You can also bring your own reusable coffee cup and straw if you like takeaway coffee.

If you need a new sustainable backpack for your trip, you find some great choices here .

READ NEXT: One day in Copenhagen itinerary

Like it? Make sure you pin it for later!

Email address:

The Ultimate Southern Sweden Road Trip

In September, we started our moms trip up in Scandinavia with a tour through southern Sweden. We met my mom and her lovely friends, Karen and PO, who showed us all around their home. It was an awesome start to our trip to be hosted by such kind and welcoming hosts who spent so much time touring us around and introducing us to Sweden.

If you’re planning a trip to southern Sweden, check out this itinerary on how to make the most of a road trip through the south of Sweden (and Denmark!).

Table of Contents

Day 1: Copenhagen

Surprise! This southern Sweden road trip itinerary actually starts in Denmark. The south tip of Sweden is connected to Denmark by bridge and it would be a shame not to pop over and visit this neighbouring country. Plus, most international flights will be a lot cheaper and easier flying into Copenhagen.

You can spend your first day in Copenhagen playing at Tivoli Gardens, admiring the views of Nyhavn, checking out the royal palace, climbing the Round Tower, hitting some museums and seeing Copenhagen from the water on a canal tour. For more on our rainy day in Copenhagen , check out that post!

Day 2: Castles & Rocks

A royal morning.

On your second day, you’ll leave Denmark and explore some of southern Sweden. Head out on the castle route where you’ll catch glimpses of some of the cool little castles dotted around Sweden.

These aren’t giant castles like Versailles or Buckingham Palace. But they are still castles! And the coolest part is that because they aren’t big name castles, you’ll likely have them all to yourself.

The best castle we visited was Marsvinsholm Castle , located in Ystad, Sweden. The land was owned in the 14th Century by the Danish royal family and the castle itself was built in the 1640s. Since then, the castle has switched owners quite a few times, bouncing between Swedish and Danish ownership. Today, the castle is privately owned but the public is welcome to walk around the outside and adjacent garden.

We had all of Marsvinsholm to ourselves when we visited. I loved seeing the castle up close, and the moat all around it that was full of ducks. I’d be happy to move in if they’re looking for new tenants!

A cozy lunch

After a morning of castles and countryside, it’s time for a cozy and cute lunch stop. We had lunch at the delicious and adorable Olof Viktors . I definitely recommend a stop at this place! It’s an old house that has been turned into a bakery and cafe, but still has all the charm, separate rooms and tiny doorways of a house. And the food is amazing! I had a great crayfish sandwich and I’m still dreaming about the amazing carrot cake I had.

Following lunch, you can pop into the store next door and pick up some more Olof Viktors to take home. They make fresh bread, pastries, cookies and a bunch of cool spreads and spices. If you’re looking for the perfect southern Sweden souvenir, you’ll find it here!

Afternoon amongst the rocks

Once you’ve gotten your fill of the Swedish bakery, it’s onwards to Ales Stenar . I like to think that Ales Stenar is southern Sweden’s version of Stonehenge. It’s an ancient viking site, likely where chiefs would meet as it has a perfect vantage point over the land and sea. It’s not a burial ground, as no body remains were found. But others have theorized that it was used to build ships or as a life-sized sun dial.

Whatever it was used for, it’s super cool! A short walk finds you at the top of a hill where a giant circle of humongous rocks await. And unlike Stonehenge, you can actually go up and touch these rocks and walk amongst them. When you’re done admiring the rocks, you can walk over to the cliff’s edge and see the Baltic Sea. Just be warned that it’s very windy by the edge!

The coolest part was when we visited in early September, we had this place all to ourselves! It was only as we were leaving that a few more groups started to show up. But even then, there was never more than a dozen or so of us up there.

Stroll through Ystad

Your last stop of the day is a stroll through the super cute town of Ystad , located quite close to Ales Stenar. I loved seeing the little houses, most with rose bushes out front, and beautiful old buildings. We walked around a church and its garden, a lake with tiny little fairy houses on its shores, and through a cobble-stone shopping street. I couldn’t get enough of the adorable doorways!

Traditional crayfish dinner

If you really want to take your southern Sweden trip to the next level, end your night with a traditional crayfish dinner . Our amazing hosts went above and beyond to prepare this for us, buying crayfish in advance and even setting up with crayfish-themed plates, hats and streamers (yes, these exist in Sweden). And it was delicious!

Day 3: Lund & Malmo

Lund in the morning.

On Day 3 of your southern Sweden road trip, it’s time to explore the most well-known towns in the neighbourhood. Start your morning in Lund, the adorable university town that won my heart pretty quickly. I can see why my friends enjoyed studying abroad here!

I really loved walking around this cute town, especially the Lund University buildings . They’re beautiful and definitely a nice place to stroll if the weather is good. For more of the outdoors, you can head to the Botanical Garden or Stadspark, as recommended by our host, Karen. Or if you prefer to head indoors (especially in bad weather), check out the Lunds Konshall art gallery in Martenstorget or Skissernas Museum, a museum of sketches, which I’d love to check out on our next visit.

And you definitely need to make it to the Lund Cathedral . Check their website to see what time their astronomical clock show is happening (times change depending on when during the year you’re visiting). To be honest, the show isn’t anything to get excited about. But the clock is worth seeing! And while you’re there, you should also check out the crypts in the basements. There’s even a legend about the giant who built the church. Go find him!

For lunch, we went to Gattostretto , an authentic Italian restaurant with a very simple menu. There are only a few options, but the food is great. And the restaurant is built overtop of the ruins of the original Lund Cathedral, so be sure to pay a visit to the bathrooms in the basement!

On the way out of Lund, we stopped at a couple of chocolate shops (I never say no to chocolate). I would definitely recommend visiting Chocolaterie Hovby No 9 . This place is a true hidden gem – you have to walk through two courtyards and then a set of stairs down into a tiny basement chocolate shop. And they only use dark chocolate. But the flavours are pretty incredible! In true Ang style, my mother cut up each chocolate into tiny pieces so we could all sit around the table and do a taste test.

Malmo in the afternoon

After lunch, it’s time to visit another well-known town in southern Sweden, Malmo. To be honest, I didn’t find Malmo as charming or cute as Lund. But it’s definitely still worth a visit. And hey, maybe you’ll like Malmo better! It’s like a New York vs LA thing.

We started our time in Malmo with a canal tour , and I think it’s a great way to learn more about the city and get oriented. It was fun to be out on the water, learning about the history of Malmo and seeing some of the sights from our boat. Highly recommend!

Following our boat tour, we wandered through town, checked out City Hall and some of the cute squares with restaurants and shops, like Lilla Torg . We also walked over the water and saw the shoes of famous Swedish people and cat statues on the steps. If you’re into museums, Karen suggests the Moderna Museet Malmö for modern art (there was a Warhol exhibit on while we visited which would have been fun to catch) or the Malmö Museum, located inside the Malmo Castle.

And, of course, you have to make time for fika while you’re in Sweden. We stopped at a great little cafe in Malmo (that I can’t remember the name of) and got our fill of cakes and coffees. It’s one of my favourite Swedish traditions!

Need more time in Lund or Malmo? Feel free to visit just one city per day and extend your trip by a day! 

Day 4: Hamlet’s Castle

Ferry to denmark.

From your base in southern Sweden, you’ll drive out to the Swedish town of Helsingborg . You’ll then take a ferry across the Øresund Strait to the Danish town of Helsingør . The ferry crossing is very short, at just 20 minutes, but the ferry itself seems pretty fun with a restaurant, cafe and bar. Our host PO was telling us that some people just ride the ferry back and forth!

Once you reach Denmark, you’ll have a short walk until you reach Hamlet’s Castle, aka Kronborg . This is the castle that Shakespeare based Hamlet in, despite never having visited the castle himself. But friends of Bill’s visited and described the place in such detail that he decided to set Hamlet there. And thus, it’s become known as the Hamlet Castle! They even put on a performance of Hamlet on the castle grounds, which would be very cool to see.

The castle itself is beautiful. We arrived towards the end of the day and, honestly, I would recommend going late. We had lots of the castle all to ourselves as most of the other visitors had left. We started by touring the royal apartments and the tapestries. The great hall was very impressive, just by its sheer size. There was also a Hamlet room showing off all of the famous actors who have played the titular role.

But the best part was the casements. The basements of the castle were where the soldiers used to live. The casements were huge! There were tons of hidden little spots and apparently bats live down there as well. I couldn’t believe how big the casement area was. We also saw a statue of Holger the Dane down there, a hero from Danish legend who will defend the country in times of need, and who entices Danes to visit the castle. Our tour guide (I highly recommend going on a tour of the casements) explained that English-speakers come to the castle for Hamlet but Danes come for Holger.

Traditional midsummer dinner

For our last dinner in Sweden, our awesome hosts treated us to a traditional midsummer dinner , even though midsummer had already passed. It was the perfect end to our southern Sweden road trip! On the menu? A classic Swedish dish: herring! And while some people can’t stomach it, I actually enjoyed it. I mean, I won’t be ordering it for dinner or anything but it wasn’t bad!

We also had home made salmon, Swedish meatballs, potatoes, pickled cucumbers, ligonberry jam and gravy. The perfect (and delicious) Swedish meal!

Where should you base yourself for a southern Sweden road trip?

We stayed at Karen and PO’s beautiful home just outside of Lund. Their home was so nice and it was such a treat to be able to stay at someone’s house, play with their dog and have homecooked meals. But just in case you can’t find such great hosts for your southern Swedish trip, I still recommend staying in or near Lund. From their home, we were never more than an hour’s drive from any of the stops on the itinerary. Plus, Lund is such a cute town and would be a great base for this trip!

Tips & tricks for your southern Sweden road trip

• This might not be news to you but Sweden is COLD! We visited in early September and it was really chilly. My weather app told me it would be around 19 degrees but 19 in Sweden is different than 19 in Prague. We were in pants with sweaters, coats and scarves most days. I would certainly recommend layers (and maybe visiting in summer).
• The easiest way to visit southern Sweden is to fly in and out of Copenhagen. We found flights from Prague to Copenhagen for just $25 each!
• Another tip you probably have heard but bears repeating: Sweden is expensive! Scandinavia is pricy and Sweden is no exception. While you can stick to a budget, this isn’t a cheap destination, so come prepared.
• The best way to do this road trip is definitely with a car. While you can certainly get to some of these places by train or public transport, not all of them will be accessible. I would recommend renting a car for your trip!
• It’s really not a trip to Sweden if you’re not stopping for fika. Fika is a Swedish tradition of taking time out of the day to enjoy a cup of coffee and a good pastry. We enjoyed daily fika and it’s definitely a routine I’d like to adopt in my everyday life.
• As I mentioned in my Stockholm tips post , English is widely spoken in Sweden and Denmark and you won’t have any problem only speaking English. In fact, I would bet most people in Scandinavia speak better English than we do!
• Even though both Denmark and Sweden are Schengen countries, and therefore theoretically borderless, Sweden has begun checking passports at their border. Due to recent immigration and migrant influxes, this policy has come into effect (read whatever racial undertones you will into that). Regardless, you should have your passport or ID with you anytime you’re planning to enter Sweden.
• As awesome as this southern Sweden road trip is, it’s even better if you have two kind, knowledgeable, generous and incredible hosts like we did. Karen and PO, thanks again for showing us such a wonderful time in your home!

We had the best time on our southern Sweden road trip! I was lucky enough to visit Sweden twice in a span of a few weeks (you can check out my 3 days in Stockholm ) and I have to say, I’m a fan! I would definitely love to go back to Sweden and see more of the country.

Help a fellow traveller plan their southern Sweden road trip – Pin it! 

Riana Ang-Canning is a travel writer who has been sharing her global adventures as the founder of Teaspoon of Adventure since 2012. In that time, Riana has travelled to almost 50 countries on 6 continents, including interning in Eswatini, working in Tokyo, road tripping New Zealand and living abroad in Prague. Riana helps everyday travellers discover the world on a mid-budget, proving that you don't have to be athletic, wealthy or nomadic to have an adventure!

Similar Posts

Leaving Prague (Almost Three Months Early)

The Iron Throne of Croatia: Dubrovnik Travel Guide

Where to Go on Your First Trip to Europe

Deciding Where to Live in the UK

My 8 Biggest Packing Mistakes – And How to Avoid Them

9 Tips for Oktoberfest on a Budget

11 comments.

This trip looks amazing! Especially the castle! 😊

I’d love to visit some day!

Love Lozza xo

Thanks, Lozza. We had a blast! Hope you make it to Sweden soon!

Looks very beautiful, I would love to explore Sweden…

Thanks! Definitely a beautiful place and I hope you get to visit soon.

Daily fika sounds like the practice for me. It would do wonders for people to just set aside that little bit of time. Your days were certainly packed with wonders; the cheesecake looked amazing, and I love the circle of rocks. Right out of an old fairytale. .

Thanks so much, Jaya! Yes, can never say no to fika!

Out of these places I’ve only been to Copenhagen and Malmö and liked Malmö so much better. But I’ve heard really good things about Lund.

Thanks for reading and commenting! Glad to hear you enjoyed Malmo. I also wasn’t a huge fan of Copenhagen. Hope you get to visit Lund soon!

Love to spend time near Sea !

Thanks, me too!

• Pingback: Looking Back at Our Expat Year in Prague - Teaspoon of Adventure

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The best day trips from Copenhagen to explore more of Denmark (and beyond)

Sep 6, 2022 • 7 min read

The charming streets of Malmö, Sweden, are just a 40-minute train ride away © Apeloga AB / Getty Images

The culturally rich city of  Copenhagen has plenty to keep visitors busy for many days, but it’s also ideally situated for day trips to a variety of other interesting and scenic destinations in Denmark and beyond, bringing to mind knitted wool sweaters, colorful snow-topped houses and warm hygge vibes.

Travelers interested in adventures further afield will find impressive castles, historic cathedrals, top-notch museums, captivating cities and quaint villages, all within easy reach by public transport in 90 minutes or less.

Learn about Denmark's history of kings and Vikings, explore its lovely landscapes, and discover a world apart from its cosmopolitan capital.

Frederiksborg Slot, Hillerød

Why go: Marvel at Denmark’s most lavish castle

In the early 17th century, Denmark's legendary King Christian IV took the original castle in Hillerød and transformed it into a magnificent Renaissance-style royal residence. His creation, the fairytale Frederiksborg Slot – often called "the Nordic Versailles" – became the Danish National History Museum in 1878.

The castle is set on a lake and features lovely Baroque gardens, while its interior is both historically fascinating and lavishly appointed – the ballroom and the chapel are exceptionally breathtaking. During summer weekends, guided tours of the castle take place at 11:30am, and there is  a special children's exhibit for young visitors.

How to get to Hillerød from Copenhagen: 

Take S-train line A to Hillerød. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes. Frederiksborg Castle is a 15-minute walk from Hillerød station. If that's too long a walk, buses 301 or 302 will take you to the castle from outside the station in about five minutes.

13 things to know before going to Copenhagen: get a local's perspective

Kronborg Castle, Helsingør

Why go: Visit the castle that inspired Shakespeare's Hamlet

The charming seaside town of Helsingør sits on Denmark's northeastern coast, 45 minutes by train from Copenhagen. Adjacent to the historic homes and local shops and cafes is the town's centerpiece, Kronborg Castle , the inspiration for Elsinore in William Shakespeare's Hamlet and even more foreboding in the winter gloom. King Frederik II transformed a military stronghold into a stunning Renaissance castle in the 1500s to collect dues from passing ships and demonstrate his wealth and power. It was the opulence of the castle and lavish feasts held here which inspired the Bard.

Today, visitors can tour the royal apartments, admire the king's tapestries, and explore the eerie casemates under the castle. Between June and August, costumed actors roam the castle in character, performing scenes from Hamlet . In December, Kronborg hosts a cozy Christmas market. Helsingør town is a lovely place to dine, and the cathedrals of Sankt Mariæ and Sankt Olai are beautiful and free to enter. There is also a ferry across to Sweden: the town of Helsingborg is only 20 minutes away by boat.

How to get to Helsingør from Copenhagen: 

The regional train frequently runs from Copenhagen Central Station to Helsingør. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, and Kronborg Castle is less than a 15-minute walk along the harbor from Helsingør station.

Why go: See Viking ships and Denmark’s royal burial church

Located on a long, narrow fjord west of Copenhagen, Roskilde is one of Denmark’s oldest cities. A former capital of Denmark and seat of the monarchy, it began as a thriving Viking town and now has a wealth of history to be explored.

At the Viking Ship Museum , five ships pulled from the bottom of the Roskilde Fjord 1000 years after they were deliberately sunk have been painstakingly reassembled and are on display. Using original materials and techniques, they have also been recreated to scale as sea-going vessels. There are outdoor shipbuilding, ropemaking and blacksmithing exhibits, as well as a cafe serving delicious Viking-inspired food.

Roskilde Cathedral was built in 1275 and is the resting place of 38 Danish kings and queens. The stunning Gothic church features a soaring nave and several chapels with ornate sarcophagi of the monarchs.

How to get to Roskilde from Copenhagen: 

The town is 20 to 30 minutes by train west of Copenhagen Central Station. The cathedral is approximately a 10-minute walk from the station, while it takes around 20 minutes to reach the Viking Ship Museum.

Why go: Fill your lungs with Nordic forest air

Just 20 minutes by train from bustling central Copenhagen lies Unesco World Heritage-listed Dyrehaven , a vast nature reserve with verdant forest, sweeping fields and an extensive network of trails. It's open year-round and is an ideal spot for a walk, bike ride or picnic, with horseback riding and carriage rides available in the warmer months.

Once a royal hunting ground, the park is home to hundreds of wild deer, which visitors easily and often spot. In the summer months, it's possible to take a tour of the Hermitage, a former royal hunting lodge. Within Dyrehaven is Bakken , the world's oldest amusement park, which is free to enter and features both family-friendly and thrilling rides, as well as restaurants and shows.

How to get to Dyrehaven from Copenhagen: 

Take a 20-minute S-train line C to Klampenborg. Dyrehaven lies just outside the station, and Bakken is approximately a 10-minute walk inside the park.

Why go: Step back in time in a delightful maritime village

Experience small-town Denmark in the charming medieval fishing village Dragør, founded in the 12th century. Get lost in the maze of the tiny cobblestone streets lined with pale yellow, centuries-old homes, some still thatched in the ancient style. Stroll along the harbor, stop by local shops and galleries, grab a bite to eat at one of the cafes, and simply enjoy the small-town feel. In the summer months, Dragør hosts a variety of markets and festivals. You might try ice skating, or you could cozy up in a sauna in winter. 

How to get to Dragør from Copenhagen: 

Take bus 250S from Copenhagen Central Station (about 45 minutes).

Why go: Immerse yourself in modern art at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

Set in a verdant park overlooking the Øresund strait, Louisiana is more than just an art museum. One of Scandinavia’s most extensive collections of modern art, the museum houses over 4,000 individual pieces in various mediums, particularly painting and sculpture. Due to the size of the collection, exhibits change regularly. Nearly four dozen sculptures are scattered throughout the park’s varied terrain, which includes woodlands, lawns, a terrace and a gorge sloping down to a beach. Even if you’re not a modern art connoisseur, the lovely setting and harmony between art and nature make Louisiana worth a visit. The museum café is a good spot for a coffee break or a full meal.

How to get to Humlebæk from Copenhagen:

It’s just over 30 minutes by train from Copenhagen to Humlebæk Station, about a 10-minute walk (or a six-minute bus ride) to Louisiana.

The best things to do in Copenhagen, from history to hipster hangouts

Why go: Walk in the footsteps of Hans Christian Andersen

A vibrant city with a lively dining scene, many parks and an excellent zoo, Odense is best-known as the childhood home of fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen. The house where he was born and raised in poverty is part of a combination ticket that also includes HC Andersens Hus , which further explores his life and legacy, as well as the Møntergården , a museum about the history of Odense and Funen. Also worth a visit is the open-air museum Den Fynske Landby , an 1850s village of buildings transplanted from around the island. 

How to get to Odense from Copenhagen: 

The train from Copenhagen Central Station takes approximately 70 to 95 minutes, depending on the specific departure.

Malmö, Sweden

Why go: Cross the epic Øresund Bridge for a taste of Sweden

It’s easy to go from Copenhagen to Malmö for a day excursion, although Sweden’s third-largest city is also an excellent choice for a weekend trip. The city combines old-world Dutch Renaissance buildings with modern architectural marvels. Middle Eastern markets, Italian coffee culture and edgy, gritty bars challenge Nordic stereotypes at every corner.

If you have just one day in Malmö, explore the historic heart of Gamla Staden first, a handsome warren of cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses and bold facades. Then head to the buzzing bayside Västra Hamnen to see the city's modern side. It's a popular spot to stroll, sip coffee and browse boutiques, but most people come to marvel at the Øresund Bridge and ogle the Turning Torso – Scandinavia’s tallest building – twisting its way skyward.

How to get to Malmö from Copenhagen: 

It’s a 39-minute train ride from Copenhagen Central Station to Malmö Central on the Øresundståg , which departs every 20 minutes.

This article was first published June 2019 and updated September 2022

Explore related stories

Art and Culture

Mar 13, 2024 • 7 min read

Can't get to Europe this summer? These US alternatives might just do the trick.

Mar 1, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 26, 2024 • 8 min read

Feb 5, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 30, 2024 • 19 min read

Jan 23, 2024 • 5 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Dec 12, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 6, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 1, 2023 • 4 min read

Sweden Day Trips from Copenhagen

Don't miss the opportunity to visit Sweden on a full day tour from Copenhagen and discover its culture and natural beauties.

Nicolas Reffray

Turning Torso, Malmö | ©Luc Mercelis

If you are around Copenhagen and looking for an opportunity to add another experience to your trip, you can't miss Sweden on a day trip due to the proximity between the two places . In this article I will introduce you to some of the best day trips to Sweden that you can take from Copenhagen.

Starting from breathtaking landscapes and beautiful coastal towns to unique cultural and gastronomic experiences, visiting Sweden is definitely one of the best things to do on your time in Copenhagen . Below, I will also tell you all the details you need to know about your trip to Sweden from Copenhagen.

1. Take a day tour from Copenhagen to Malmö

If you are in Copenhagen, I recommend you to book a tour to Malmö in Sweden or go on your own. It is the third largest city in the country , being very easy to reach from Copenhagen thanks to the Öresund Bridge, which connects the two cities .

In Malmö, there are many interesting things to see and do. You can visit the Turning Torso, a skyscraper 190 meters high and one of the tallest buildings in the Scandinavian region . You can also take a stroll through the picturesque old town, known as Gamla Väster , and admire the city's historic architecture.

If you are interested in history, you can also visit Malmö Castle, which was built in the 16th century by order of the Danish King Christian III In addition, Malmö has a number of interesting museums, such as the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and the Natural History Museum.

Details of interest:

• Price : from €121 per person.
• Duration : about 6.5 hours in total, approximately. Between 8 and 9 hours if other stops are included in the tour.
• Means of transport : in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus and by ferry.

Book a tour to Elsinore and Sweden

2. Visit Lund and Malmö in one day from Copenhagen.

This is a unique opportunity to visit the cities of Lund and Malmö in one day. These are two very different destinations . Lund is old, small and cozy. Malmö, on the other hand, is larger and always on the move, with touches of modern architecture and an international, avant-garde culture.

Together they form the ideal trip, representing both the province of Skåne and Sweden. This tour will take you from central Copenhagen to Sweden in small, exclusive groups of no more than 8 people. Then, you will cross the magnificent Øresund Bridge , which connects both countries.

Arriving in Lund, you will learn about the Viking people, who founded the city over a thousand years ago, and see their runic monuments . Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to visit the University and its cathedral. Then you will learn about the history of Malmö, a city that works tirelessly to be prosperous and continue to grow.

• Price : from €110 per person.
• Duration : about 8 hours in total, approximately.
• Means of transport : comfortable air-conditioned minibus.
• Advantage of this option : entrance fees to the cathedral and the university are included.

3. Excursion to Malmö, Lund and Jakriborg from Copenhagen

The tour starts early in the morning at a meeting point in the city center. From there, you will cross the Øresund Bridge , which connects Denmark with Sweden over the sea, and enjoy a comfortable ride while taking in the beautiful scenery of southern Sweden .

Upon arrival in Malmö, you will have an hour and a half to explore this vibrant city. You can visit Malmö Castle, St. Peter's Gothic Church, stroll through Stortorget Square or visit the most modern part of the city, where you will find the famous Turning Torso skyscraper, the tallest in the Scandinavian region .

Then you will travel to Jakriborg , a small town that looks like something out of a fairy tale. Here you can admire the colorful houses and traditional architecture that actually dates back to the 1990s. Finally, you will visit the city of Lund , one of the oldest cities in Sweden where you can stroll through its streets and enjoy its impressive Romanesque cathedral.

• Price : from 100 euros per person.
• Duration : about 6 hours in total, approximately.

4. Visit Hamlet Castle and Sweden from Copenhagen

On this exciting full-day excursion, you will visit the mythical castle of Helsingør, where William Shakespeare set the action of his most famous play Hamlet . Hence it is known as Hamlet's Castle . It is undoubtedly one of the best palaces in Copenhagen .

To begin with, you will enjoy a beautiful drive along the coastal road, Strandvejen, and arrive at the charming old town of Helsingør . Then you will sail across the Øresund into Sweden and travel along the charming Swedish country roads to the ancient city of Lund , where you can explore the impressive Lund Cathedral .

Behind the cathedral you can wander through small streets and see houses dating back to the 170s.... Almost like stepping back in time. Finally, you will have the opportunity to get to know Malmö , where in addition to enjoying the city you can do some shopping and take advantage of the lowest prices in Sweden.

• Price : from 120 euros per person.
• Duration : approximately 8 to 9 hours in total.
• Means of transport : aboard a comfortable air-conditioned minibus and a ferry.

Why is it advisable to take a tour to Sweden from Copenhagen?

Booking a trip to Sweden from Copenhagen or going on your own is always a great idea if you are passing through Denmark. Being so close to each other , visiting for example the Swedish city of Malmö will take you less than an hour by train.

In addition, you can enjoy the cultural diversity, as Sweden is a country with a rich culture and history, impressive architecture, world-class museums and a good variety of gastronomic experiences.

In addition to Malmö, from Copenhagen you can take excursions to other picturesque cities, such as Gothenburg or Stockholm , and explore all that Sweden has to offer. But beyond its cities, you will have the opportunity to appreciate its many national parks, forests and lakes.

Other tours from Copenhagen

If in addition to the best day trips to Sweden from Copenhagen you are interested in excursions from Copenhagen to other places in Denmark or outside the country, here are the most interesting ones.

Take a trip to Møns klint and Forest Tower, from Copenhagen

If you are looking for a unique experience in the middle of Denmark's most beautiful nature, then you can't miss this day trip that will take you to discover the hidden gems of Møns Klint and Forest Tower .

The chalk cliffs of Møns Klint are a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and date back 70 million years. You can marvel at the majesty of these cliffs as you explore their wooden walkways. You will also have the opportunity to climb to one of the highest points in Denmark to enjoy panoramic views of Forest Tower .

The tour takes place aboard a comfortable minibus so you can travel carefree from Copenhagen to Møns Klint and enjoy nature at its best. Don't miss this opportunity to discover this charming corner of Denmark and live an unforgettable experience.

• Price : from 210 euros per person.
• Duration : approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes in total.
• Disadvantage of this option : it does not include the entrance to the Forest Tower viewpoint.

Take a private tour to Odense with a stop in Roskilde from Copenhagen

To connect with the history of the city of Odense, you can't miss this unique experience from Copenhagen. On the way, you will have the opportunity to see an interesting attraction on a two-hour stop in Roskilde: the impressive Ragnar Rock Museum .

It is a must-see destination for any rock and pop music lover . This 1,200 square meter building features 11 main themes with different themed exhibits.

In addition, you will have free time to explore the surroundings of Roskilde and learn more about the local culture and history of Denmark . You will enjoy a pleasant and peaceful atmosphere on the way from Copenhagen to Odense, while immersing yourself in the history and culture of the area.

• Price : from €350 per person.
• Duration : approximately 6 to 7 hours.
• Disadvantage of this option : does not include entrance to the Ragnar Rock Museum.

Book a tour to Roskilde, Frederiksborg and Kronborg

Get to know Hamburg from Copenhagen with a visit to Egeskov Castle

This tour will allow you to discover the vibrant city of Hamburg from Copenhagen, bringing together the best of Denmark and Germany . While enjoying a comfortable bus ride, you will have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the region, as well as enjoy the beauty of the Danish and German countryside.

Once in Hamburg, you will have free time to explore the city at your own pace, either visiting its historical sites, its vibrant neighborhoods or enjoying its famous gastronomy. I recommend visiting St. Michael's Church , Hamburg's harbor and the famous Reeperbahn street, known for its nightlife.

After an exciting afternoon in Hamburg, you will stop on the way back at Egeskov Castle , a castle built in 1554 that is one of the most beautiful in Europe. Its construction is unique and features a collection of classic vehicles and bicycles inside .

• Price : from 750 euros per person.
• Duration : between 6 and 7 hours in total, approximately.

Tour of Kronborg and Frederiksborg Castle

This tour gives you the opportunity to get to know the most emblematic castles in Denmark . First, you will be taken to explore Kronborg Castle, home of the ancient Danish kings and the setting of William Shakespeare's famous play Hamlet .

You will marvel at the panoramic view of the sea from the cannon tower and admire the majestic ballrooms of the royal chambers and their tapestries. You will also get to know the quiet town of Helsingør at this point as you explore the surrounding area.

Then, you will be taken to the impressive Frederiksborg Castle , located by a beautiful lake, and you will be able to contemplate its incredible design and artwork. This 16th century hunting mansion became the most important art collection of the Danish monarchy. With your guide you will learn in detail all about the rich history of the Danish Renaissance .

• Price : from €300 per person.
• Duration : approximately 6 hours in total.
• Advantage of this option : includes all costs associated with transportation and entrance fees to the castles.

Advantages of doing a guided tour to Sweden from Copenhagen vs. doing it on my own

Taking a guided tour offers many advantages over doing it on your own, and Sweden from Copenhagen is no exception.

• Expert knowledge : tour guides can provide you with valuable information that you may not be able to find on your own.
• Time saving : you won't have to worry about how to get to places or how long it will take, as the guide will take care of everything.
• Convenience : you won't have to worry about moving from one place to another, allowing you to enjoy the experience without having to worry about logistical details.
• Interaction with other travelers : it is an excellent way to meet other travelers and share experiences, especially if you are traveling alone.
• Safety : a tour guide knows how to act in case of an emergency.

The Best Travel Guide to Copenhagen

• 10 Things to Do in Copenhagen in March
• 10 Things to Do in Copenhagen in May
• 10 Things to Do in Copenhagen in July
• Best Castles Tours of Copenhagen
• Best Things To Do in Copenhagen
• 10 Things to Do in Copenhagen at Night
• Copenhagen in 7 Days: a guidebook for getting the most out of your visit
• 10 Things to Do in Copenhagen in January
• Best Canal Tours in Copenhagen
• Hop on Hop off Bus Tours in Copenhagen
• Copenhagen City Tours
• Copenhagen Tourist Card

Things to do in other destinations

• Gran Canaria

Select your language

Argentina (USD)

Brasil (USD)

Colombia (USD)

Denmark (DKK)

Deutschland (EUR)

España (EUR)

Finland (EUR)

France (EUR)

Italia (EUR)

México (USD)

Nederland (EUR)

Norway (NOK)

Sweden (SEK)

United States (USD)

United Kingdom (GBP)

Canada (CAD)

Portugal (EUR)

Japan (JPY)

Malaysia (MYR)

United Arab Emirates (AED)

India (INR)

Copenhagen Travel Guide Tips: Best Things to Do and See

Maritime flair , hip cafés and Scandinavian cosiness – welcome to Copenhagen! Copenhagen really is a great city for a getaway. The city has a simple charm and is not repeatedly named as being one of the most liveable cities in the world for nothing.

We have been guests in the Danish capital city several times now – and each time we fall a little more in love with Copenhagen. It’s about time we put together our personal Copenhagen tips for you on our travel blog. So it follows: Our big Copenhagen travel guide with all the highlights, our favourite spots and personal travel tips.

1. City trip to Copenhagen: Overview of initial travel tips & info

2. copenhagen travel guide: best things to do and see, 3. day trip tips for copenhagen, 4. eating and drinking: tips for restaurants & cafés in copenhagen, 5. our hotel tip for copenhagen.

Copenhagen seems to be the perfect combination of everything we love in a city: Lots of water, plenty of greenery, imposing buildings and a cosy atmosphere. There is even a name for it in Denmark: Hygge . Copenhagen is beautifully hygge.

What else do you need to know about Copenhagen? We have gathered the most important points for you:

• Copenhagen is located by the sea . This gives the Scandinavian city a maritime flair, that is also reflected in the cuisine, for example.
• Unfortunately, Copenhagen is quite expensive . This starts with the accommodation prices and carries on to the restaurants. So it’s best to allow a little more budget for your city trip.
• People love cycling in Copenhagen. The city is one of the most cycle-friendly cities in Europe. If you like, you can hire a bike when you’re there to explore the city.
• The weather in Copenhagen can be quite variable. Generally, we recommend summer as the best travel time (June to August). Although the temperatures are pleasantly mild during that time, it is hardly ever gets properly hot.

How many days should I spend in Copenhagen?

We recommend all those who are new to Copenhagen to plan to stay at least three nights . The city is not gigantic, so you can easily explore the main attractions and corners in Copenhagen during this time.

Of course, more time is always good. So, if you would prefer to have a relaxing stay then feel free to stay longer. Copenhagen will also definitely not get boring if you stay 4 or 5 nights – that way it also allows time for some day trips. (Of course, we reveal our tips further down in this travel guide.)

Nyhavn: THE postcard motif in Copenhagen

What is the best way to start a trip to the city of Copenhagen? Our suggestion: With a stroll through Nyhavn (in English: “New Port”). With its colourful, crooked houses , Nyhavn is quite rightfully Copenhagen’s most popular photo motif.

Nyhavn is anything but a secret. Or (to put it in other words): The area is the most touristy spot in Copenhagen. They try to entice you into boat tours, or a restaurant visit on every corner. But if you move slightly out of the hustle and bustle, then you can enjoy Nyhavn in a more relaxed manner. Our tip for anyone who wants to experience Nyhavn in peace: Come in the morning!

The Little Mermaid: Copenhagen’s landmark

Surprisingly small & a little unspectacular – this is the initial impression of many people who stand before the little mermaid for the first time. The little mermaid really lives up to her name. At around 125cm high, she is one of the smallest landmarks in the world.

The bronze statue at Copenhagen’s port exudes a calm presence despite all the crowds, which fascinated us in a strange way. She sits just a few metres from the shore on a rock. The little mermaid was built based on the fairytale of the same name by the most famous Danish author, Hans Christian Anderson .

Tip #1 : You can quite easily walk from Nyhavn to the little mermaid. The stroll along the shore is really nice and highly recommended. (You also pass by the Amalienborg palace – more about this soon.)

Tip #2 : Very close by the little mermaid are St. Alban’s Church and Copenhagen Castle. Definitely take a walk through – this fortress with its pretty windmill is an oasis of calm. Entrance is free.

Castles in Copenhagen

As hip and modern as Copenhagen can be – the royal flair is difficult to miss. There are some castles and palaces in Copenhagen that are well worth a visit. The following three castle are the most well-known in Copenhagen:

• Amalienborg Palace: This is where Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II lives. You can tell if she’s home by the Danish flag waving on the roof. Then at midday they also have the changing of the guard – one spectacle that you shouldn’t miss if you’re there.
• Rosenborg Castle: This castle is one of the most beautiful sights in Copenhagen. You can find it on the edge of a lovely, landscaped garden. There are several state rooms to admire inside the castle. The Rosenborg Castle is also well worth viewing just from the outside.
• Christiansborg Palace: All good things come in threes. You can find Christiansborg Palace right in the middle of the city centre. Today it is the seat of the Danish Parliament. Just like the other two, you can also view the castle interior.

Our tip : Entry into all three castles is free when you have the Copenhagen Card. So if you are interested in these attractions, purchasing the Copenhagen Card could be worth it.

Frederik’s Church

When standing in front of Amalienborg Palace, Frederik’s Church is hard to miss. Frederik’s Church, with its imposing dome, is one of the most important sacred buildings in Copenhagen. It is also known by the name, the Marbel Church .

You should definitely take a peek inside the church. The architecture is very impressive. Entrance into the church is free. There is only a small admission fee to climb the dome.

Torvehallerne

We present: One of our absolute favourite places in all of Copenhagen and our tip number one for all the foodies. Here in this covered, architecturally beautiful market hall you can purchase fresh food and Danish delicacies. It is very relaxed and stylish here – so don’t expect to find a hectic market.

The best part: There are also a lot of stalls in Torvehallerne where you can either directly enjoy dishes or take them to go. Our tip: Laura’s Bakery has incredible cinnamon rolls. GRØD is popular for breakfast and the Coffee Collective has great coffee.

Christiania

Strange but true: In Copenhagen there is a self-proclaimed free state called Christiania. In the 70s hippies settled on this former military land. Today it is supposedly the largest commune in the world.

But what can you expect in Christiania? To be honest: A very unusual flair with a slightly depressing mood . Yes, Christiania is colourful and quirky where you will find great street art and creative houses. But somehow, we haven’t been able to shake this rather strange feeling on all our visits (there have been several).

The centre of Christiania is Pusher Street. This is where drug dealing takes place on the street. Taking photos along Pusher Street is strictly forbidden. (You should absolutely adhere to this!) But otherwise, you don’t need to worry about safety and you can visit Christiania without any problems.

The Round Tower (Rundetårn)

You shouldn’t leave Copenhagen without seeing the city from above. One of the most famous viewing points in Copenhagen is the Rundetårn (Round Tower in English), which is located right in the city centre.

The architecture is what makes the tower so special: Not a small staircase but a wide, spiral ramp (also said to have been used by horse-drawn carriages once upon a time) takes you up to the top. (Important to know: At the end there is still a small ladder to climb. So, the tower is not without its barriers.)

After the unusual ascent (which is especially a highlight for architecture fans), a really beautiful view over Copenhagen awaits you in all directions. The wrought iron railing makes it easy to take photos through.

Entrance: 40 DKK (free with the Copenhagen Card ) Opening times & more info: Rundetårn (official website)

Assistens Cemetery

A rather unusual attraction in Copenhagen is located north of the city, more precisely in the Nørrebro district. Assistens Cemetery (called “Assistens Kirkegård” in Danish) is the most well-known cemetery in Copenhagen. There are countless famous people buried here, including for example the author Hans Christian Andersen or the philosopher Søren Kierkegaard.

Here you can find not only a cemetery, but also quite an extensive park . The locals use the cemetery park for long walks or jogging. So, if you would like to spend some time out in the greenery, then we can highly recommend a visit to Assistens Cemetery.  

Day trip to Sweden: One day in Malmö

Sit down in the train – and bam, a good 30 minutes later you’re in a different country . The thought that Sweden is only a hop and a skip away from Copenhagen couldn’t escape us, so we decided on taking a wee trip to Malmö.

Getting there from Copenhagen

Just the trip from Copenhagen to Malmö is something special in itself: Here you cross the legendary Øresund Bridge , which connects Denmark and Sweden with each other.

We ourselves took the train , but it is also possible to take a bus. The train ride from Copenhagen Train Station takes around 40 minutes and costs about 13 euros (one-way). The train station in Malmö is centrally located, so you can simply start exploring the city on foot.

Attractions in Malmö

It is best to start your day trip in Malmö’s pretty old town, called Gamla Staden . The old town is a picturesque mix of colourful houses, brick buildings and paved alleyways. Places worth seeing include Lilla Tor or the Stortorget.

In the west of the old town lies the second main attraction in Malmö: the castle (Malmöhus) with its two surrounding parks ( Slottsträdgården and Kungsparken ). An oasis of peace, perfect for taking a leisurely stroll.

It is not very far from the castle to the most well-known market in Malmö, Malmö Saluhall . Here you can buy fresh food in this very stylish and calm market hall as well as sit down in one of the small restaurants and cafés they have there.

In case you still have time you could, for example, make a stopover at the futuristic city library , or take a detour to Västra Hamnen . Here a modern and innovative district was developed at a former shipping yard site. Västra Hamnen is said to be climate neutral and one of the most exclusive residential areas in Malmö. You can take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or taste your way around the great cafés.

Day trip to the beach

Lonely dunes & the sound of waves – how does that sound? If you are drawn to nature, then we can highly recommend this trip to the beach. There are many beaches close to Copenhagen which you can visit. Important to know: It is very rarely properly hot in Denmark – so if you want to jump in, it may take some convincing.

Beach tips close to Copenhagen

• Amager Strandpark: The largest and most well-known beach around Copenhagen is located in this protected local recreation area. You can reach the beach from the city centre on the subway. In summer it can be quite crowded.
• Ishøy Beach: This beach is more peaceful and natural. Perfect for a bit of that Baltic Sea feeling.

The good news first: Copenhagen is a paradise for foodies ! Here they have an incredible amount of hip eateries, and you can – if you like – spend the whole day feasting your way from one café to the next.

The bad news: The prices are not very cheap. For an ordinary restaurant, you will need to allow for around 15 to 20 euro for a main meal. That’s not ideal and you could easily spend around 60 to 80 euros for a dinner for two people.

The following two specialties are typical Danish food and found all over Copenhagen:

• Smørrebrød: Which sounds fancy, is really ‘just’ rye bread. But there are no limits to creativity when it comes to the choice of ingredients.
• Hot Dog: Of course, how could it be any other way? Danish hot dogs are sold at small stalls around the streets of Copenhagen. Luckily, there are now more and more vegetarian hot dogs, e.g. as found at DØP.

Favourite culinary spots in Copenhagen

Reffen: This great street food market takes place at a former shipping yard area. Here in the colourful containers, you can try delicious food from all over the world. From tacos to Smørrebrød, from Hawaii to Nepal, whether meat or vegan – there is really something for everyone. Highly recommended!

Paludan Bog & Café: Eating breakfast between the books! In café Paludan you are seated in the middle of a bookstore. We can recommend a visit just for the unusual location alone. They have breakfast, lunch dishes and a whole range of cakes and slices. The prices are moderate by Danish standards. 

Mother: This very (!) hyped up restaurant serves what is said to be the best pizza in Copenhagen. Whether that is true, we cannot say, but we definitely enjoyed it. Important: The wait times are especially long during the weekend. It is best to reserve a table!

GRØD: Grød translated means porridge and this café specializes in exactly that. Here you can put together your favourite porridge yourself with a wide variety of toppings. There are now many locations in Copenhagen – including the Torvehallerne. A really great tip for a healthy and not to expensive breakfast or lunch meal.  

Vaekst: Young Scandinavian cooking of the highest quality in a really cool location – if that is what you are searching for, then get yourself to Vaekst. They serve a three-course meal here every evening. The restaurant is highly praised for its vegetarian version of the menu. Here you are seated in a kind of greenhouse – pretty cool.

Flottenheimer: Do you want to enjoy a simple lunch in the city centre? Then we recommend this cosy café. They have international dishes on the menu, such as burgers and sandwiches.

Are you looking for a great boutique hotel for your city trip to Copenhagen? Then we can only warmly recommend Hotel Skt Petri .

The rooms are elegant and very comfortably arranged with a very comfortable bed. Small tip: Make sure that you don’t choose a room with a window on the inside. This can be clearly seen in the description.

The hotel location could hardly be any better for a city trip to Copenhagen. You are situated right in the centre and many sights are within walking distance (such as Nyhavn, the Rundetårn or the Torvehallerne).

Our conclusion: The range of affordable, yet stylish boutique hotels in Copenhagen is unfortunately limited. However, Hotel Skt Petri is really an exception and highly recommendable.

You can book the hotel here: Hotel Skt Petri

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through the links, we receive a small commission. This does not change the price for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

We are curious: Have you already been to Copenhagen? How did you like the city? Do you have some additional tips for Copenhagen? We really look forward to hearing about your experiences in the comments.

You might also be interested in this

Salento Travel Guide: Puglia’s Spectacular Peninsula

Best of Lecce (Italy): Travel Guide and Travel Tips

Best of Matera (Italy): The Ultimate Travel Guide

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Privacy Policy

How to Plan a Copenhagen to Malmo Day Trip

• February 23, 2020

While you can spend days exploring everything the Copenhagen has to offer, we recommend looking into day trips out of the city to experience other parts of the region. With a trip to Malmö you not only get to experience a different city, but you also get a different country!

Malmö is on the opposite site of the Øresund Bridge, which separates Sweden and Denmark. Malmö may not be internationally famous, but it is the third largest city in Sweden, and is known as a multicultural melting pot with lots to offer.

How do you get from Copenhagen to Malmo?

Trains run from Copenhagen to Malmö every 20 minutes via the Øresund line, which passes through Copenhagen Central Station, Nørreport Station, Østerport Station, and other stops along the Danish coast to Helsingør.  Tickets are 91 DKK each way (about 13 USD), and the train takes about 45 minutes from Central Station. Be sure to pack your passport, as Swedish and Danish border patrol will check them (but not stamp or scan them).

Is Malmo worth visiting?

Malmö is a great compliment to Copenhagen, similar to visiting Oakland or Brooklyn while visiting San Francisco or New York. Malmö’s economy historically was tied to heavy industry that has declined significantly since the 1970’s. But recent years have seen an economic uptick, as a strong start-up and innovation scene has filled the industrial void, an influx of immigrants and younger Swedes seeking a lower cost of living has rebounded the population, and strong ties to nearby Copenhagen have expanded economic development and tourism.

For a Copenhagen to Malmo day trip, you will experience the contrasts that Malmö offers. There are modern views in a medieval city centre, Danish castles on Swedish land, and global tastes along side traditional cuisine.

Things to do in Malmo over a Copenhagen to Malmo Day Trip

Here’s a full day itinerary for your Copenhagen to Malmo day trip. It doesn’t have to be followed to the letter, some things may be cut out for time or because of weather and seasonal factors. Just like any itinerary on our site, you may want to substitute activities or linger at some longer and bump others out. However you plan your day trip, this is a good start to show you the highlights of Malmo.

Take a Canal Tour

A Stromma Canal Tour is the best way to start your visit and become oriented with Malmö. The tours depart just a couple blocks from Malmö Centralstation, and signs make it easy to find the dock. Tours run April-September, last 50 minutes and typically run hourly in spring/fall or every 30 minutes in summer.

Central Malmö is surrounded by a canal, so the tour will allow you to see the entire historic core while comfortably sitting and listening to a live narrator. The tour starts by traveling out into Malmö harbor, offering views of Turning Torso, the tallest building in Scandinavia). Then the tour continues around the canal, passing by Malmöhus Castle, Kungsparken park, and other Malmö landmarks.

Have a Picnic Lunch

After the canal tour, walk over to nearby Malmö Saluhall, a covered market offering a number of food vendors and restaurant stands. You can find delicious ice cream, meat and cheese for an afternoon picnic, or have a full lunch of falafel, pasta, noodles, and any of the other influences from Malmö’s vibrant immigrant communities. We recommend stopping by the amazing bakery St. Jakobs Stenugnsbageri, where you can sample their tasty pastries and fresh bread.

From Saluhall, it is about a 300 meter walk to one of Malmo’s outdoor gems, Kungsparken. This park surrounds Malmöhus Castle (your next stop), and offers great walking trails among the trees, canal or castle moat. There is no better place to picnic in Malmö!

Visit the Museums and Malmö Castle

The indoor highlight in Malmö is the wonderful museum complex housed in Malmöhus Castle. This is the oldest Renaissance castle in Scandinavia, and was actually built by the Danes starting in the mid-fifteenth century. The southern Swedish region known as Skåne was Danish territory until 1658, and castles like this defended the northern border and solidified Danish control over Malmö.

After the Danes left, the Swedish army modernized the castle, but over time it lost military significance, falling into disrepair and being used primarily as a prison. In the 1930’s the castle was restored to its Renaissance glory and began to be used as a museum.

Today, several excellent museums fill its halls, including ones for art, natural history, and an aquarium. On a rainy day you may choose to spend more time in here, but even on a sunny day we recommend a few hours to explore its offerings.

Discover Fika

After stimulating your brain at one of the museums, you are going to need a cup of coffee. Swedes take this experience seriously – you can’t just walk into a Starbucks and order take-away! You need to experience fika, which is a Swedish term for a proper coffee break. And a proper coffee break means finding a nice coffee shop, ordering a well-prepared coffee and a pastry or cake to nibble on, sitting down, and enjoying a moment away from the world (either alone or with friends).

We recommend stopping by Lilla Kafferosteriet, a quirky shop in a 17th century home in the middle of central Malmö. They offer delectable sweets or nice lunch options if you want something bigger to eat.

Fulfill Your Instagram Feed at Stortorget

Did you really visit Malmö if it didn’t appear on Instagram? Earn the envy of your followers by taking some pictures with Stortorget as your backdrop. This is the historic central market square for Malmö, dating back to the 17th century. The center offers Swedish flags and a equestrian statue of King Karl X Gustav, who defeated the Danes and united Skåne and Malmö with Sweden. Surrounding the square are a number of Renaissance-era buildings, including the historic town hall.

Relax with a Beer

Around the corner from Stortoget you can find Lilla Torg, a small but well preserved old town square offering half-timber buildings and great people watching. Moosehead is one of the restaurants surrounding the square, offering outdoor seating and a decent beer list. You can also eat here, but given the location and ambiance prices are somewhat high for the average quality of food. This is definitely worth a stop for a drink to relax, but doesn’t need to be your dinner spot.

Dine in a Local Hot Spot

The name may not sound desirable, but a table at Bastard definitely is! Located around the corner from Stortorget, Bastard is a trendy restaurant that has been around for a decade but remains fresh and full of locals. The cuisine is broadly modern European, with a focus on fun meat dishes and small plates, and an atmosphere that can best be described as “hipster open kitchen”. Bastard routinely show up in various “best-of” guides, and it is well earned. This is a good way to end your visit to Malmö, with a delicious meal before an evening stroll to the train station.

Spending one day in Malmö will give you an opportunity to experience not only another city, but also another country and culture. There are other opportunities in Malmö to explore. For one, you can go to Ribersborgs Kallbadhus, a spa along the Øresund Strait that is open year-round and offers an opportunity to relax in a spa or sauna. If you want to expore deeper into “local” Malmö, check out Folkets Park, which is about a 25 minute walk from central Malmö, and offers markets, playgrounds, markets and people watching. And if want a great view of both the Turning Torso and Denmark from across the Strait, wander up to Västra Hamnen, which is a park on the northern edge of Malmö that includes walking paths and a skate park.

You Might Also Like

Discover Møns Klint: Denmark’s Most Unique Landscape

Camp Adventure: Copenhagen Day Trip

Kronborg Castle: Day trips from Copenhagen

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Perfect Malmo Day Trip from Copenhagen

Last Updated on February 5, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a Malmo day trip is one of the best things to do if you’re spending a few days exploring the Danish capital. Copenhagen itself is a great destination in itself to visit for many reasons. From its incredible food scene to some of the friendliest people and world-renowned architecture, another benefit to visiting is its proximity to Sweden .

If you’re spending time in Copenhagen and would like to experience Sweden and Swedish culture as well, just a quick hop over the Oresund Strait will take you to the Swedish city of Malmo (Malmö in Swedish).

Table of Contents

Getting from Copenhagen to Malmo

By organised tour.

Although it’s quite a quick and easy journey to Malmo from Copenhagen, you may prefer to spend one day in Malmo with a group and on an organised tour.

This way you don’t have to worry about much of the logistical planning and guesswork and can visit Malmo with an experienced tour guide.

This full-day tour or this guided day tour are great options if you’re searching for an organised tour for your Malmo visit. It begins in Copenhagen before heading across the Oresund Strait to visit the town of Lund before getting to Malmo and finally heading back to Copenhagen.

Of all the ways to reach Malmo from Copenhagen, train transport is undoubtedly the most efficient and fastest mode of transport as well as one of the cheapest ways.

Trains leave from Copenhagen’s main train stations, including Copenhagen Central Station and Copenhagen’s Kastrup Airport just about every 10-15 minutes.

The Copenhagen airport is one of the last stops in Denmark , making it quick and cost-efficient to reach the city center of Malmo in under 35 minutes if you decide to go directly from the airport to Sweden.

From the rest of Copenhagen, expect a journey of around 45 minutes to reach Malmo Central Station. If you decide to take the train to Malmo from Copenhagen, make sure you have your passport on you as there are random passport checks once entering Sweden from Denmark.

Although these checks aren’t as frequent and strict as they used to be, they do still happen from time to time and you don’t want to be without documentation in case you run into one. You can book trains in advance here.

Although not the most time-efficient mode of transport between the two Scandinavian cities, you’ll save a few euros by taking the bus in comparison to the train.

The bus trip from Copenhagen to Malmo (both bus stops are conveniently located outside the train stations) takes around an hour and 15 minutes depending on the company and service you take.

If you’re travelling on a budget and would like to save a few euros to go towards other expenses (i.e food) on your trip, I’d recommend taking the bus. You can book buses in advance here.

Otherwise, if you’re not stretched for money and would like to maximise time on your day trip from Copenhagen to Malmo, I think taking the train is your ideal mode of transport. 

Due to high toll costs, I would recommend against driving from Copenhagen to Malmo unless you’re not travelling on a tight budget.

To reach southern Sweden from Denmark, you’ll need to cross the famous Oresund Strait on the Oresund Bridge, which happens to be the longest combined road and rail bridge in Europe. Unfortunately, the architectural gem of the Oresund Bridge comes at a toll cost of 455 DKK (roughly €60) in each direction.

If you’re travelling throughout Denmark and Sweden, it’s definitely worth it, especially since you’re strapped for options if you’re with a car.

The bridge is extraordinary and unique, and although you do see much of it while on a train or bus, travelling by car is a different experience and if you can afford it, is worth the toll costs. 

If you need to rent a car for your trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com which compares prices across many companies.

One Day in Malmo Itinerary

The city of Malmo is the third largest city in Sweden (after Stockholm and Gothenburg respectively), the largest in Skane county, and conveniently just 28 km (18 miles) away from Copenhagen, Denmark.

Unlike other parts of Sweden and Scandinavia, Malmo isn’t dense with tourists giving a prime opportunity to discover Sweden.

The city itself is a unique blend of gothic, medieval, and modern sustainable architecture and an exciting Copenhagen to Malmo day trip filled with warming foods and interesting views. 

Old Town (Gamla Staden)

An ideal point to start is in the city’s old town, otherwise known as “Gamla Staden”. In Malmo’s old town, you’ll find classic Scandinavian architecture with buildings painted in colourful yet neutral Scandinavian hues all surrounded on three sides by the city’s canal.

Walking down the cobblestoned streets lined with florals through Malmo’s old town is a great way to first witness the city and get an idea of how far back the history of the city goes. When wandering through the old town you’ll likely pass through Lilla Torg or “little square” as well as Stortorget or “big square”.

Lilla Torg is definitely its namesake, as it’s a much smaller square than Stortorget, but not without its fair share of cafes, independent shops, and the perfect spot to watch people.

Stortorget is the city’s main market square and is the oldest square in Malmo, dating back to 1540 with a statue of King Karl X Gustav right in the middle of the action.

When spending time in Stortorget, you’ll undoubtedly understand why it’s known as the center of the city, with the complex architecture of the Malmo town hall dating back to 1544 and Kockska Huset Palace, one of the finest preserved 16th-century buildings in Malmo.  

Not far from the square, you can also take in Apoteket Lejonet – a historic (still functioning) 19th-century pharmacy.

If you want to learn more about the history of the city, you can book a walking tour here.

St. Peter’s Church

Just a few minutes walk away from Stortorget you’ll come across the 14th-century Gothic and main church of the city, St. Peter’s Church.

Late medieval frescoes and one of the largest altarpieces in the Nordic countries are both found inside of the church and are absolutely lovely as well as worth the visit if this is something that you find interesting.

The surrounding areas of St. Peter’s are also lush and vibrant especially in the warm months, giving a nice little break from the hustle and bustle of the city in nature.

After spending time in Malmo’s old town, I suggest having a walk along the Sodergatan, Malmo’s pedestrian-only shopping street.

The street of Sodergatan is lined with buildings dating back to the 16th century to modern Swedish architecture from today and a stroll along it is one of the best things to do in Malmo.

Although in most of Europe, the main shopping streets will have most of the same options and high street stores, in Malmo you’ll find a lot of independent Swedish shops and cafes, giving a great opportunity to stop for a Swedish fika.

Fika is the Swedish ritual of enjoying a hot coffee or drink with an accompanying sweet treat and just about any cafe on the Sodergatan will give you a joyful break. My recommendation is to go with either a cardamom bun or a chocolate ball!

Spoonery for Lunch

At this point of your day in Malmo, you’ll likely have built up an appetite. With such a short time in Sweden, I highly suggest making a point to try traditional Swedish food if you have an interest.

Ironically, Swedish meatballs are quite difficult to find in restaurants in Sweden but there are a few exceptions well worth the visit. My recommendation is to visit Spoonery, a cosy Swedish cafe/restaurant offering delicious plates including traditional Swedish meatballs and many others.

If you decide to make the stop, be prepared for a wait during peak hours as it’s a small location with high popularity.  

Malmo Castle

Your final stop that can’t be missed on a Malmo day trip from Copenhagen, is the Malmo Castle, or “Malmöhus Slott”.

The Malmo castle was built in 1537 and is magnificently the oldest preserved renaissance castle in all of Scandinavia. The inspiration for the castle desired by King Christian III came from Dutch-Italian fortress architecture and just looking at the building you will be able to see how that was manifested.

You’ll notice the moat surrounding the castle which was built to keep Danish invaders out and in today’s world it’s interesting to think about how much has changed over the years. Take the time also to stroll in the Slottsträdgården – a lush park below the castle – and take in the Slottsmöllan, a historic wooden windmill.

The Malmo Castle and its museum are a short and pleasant walk from Malmo Central Station.

Have More Time?

If you have more time to spend in the city, there are plenty more things to do in Malmo.

The coastal Skane region, of which Malmo is the capital, is an abundant region rich in history, culture, nature and more. The city of Malmo itself also has many other things to do; from museums to outdoor parks like Kungsparken. 

The city of Lund is an affordable and quick 15-minute train ride away from Malmo and has a completely different atmosphere in contrast to the industrial city of Malmo. Lund is one of the oldest towns in Sweden and walking through the quaint university town makes you feel like you’re in the living history of 14th-century Sweden.

If visiting Lund, I recommend heading to the “Kulturen” museum. The museum is located in the center of the city and here you’ll experience an outdoor museum featuring replica buildings and environments from medieval to 20th century Sweden. 

I also opted out of adding multiple museums to this Malmo itinerary as it’s just for one day and museums tend to take up a big chunk of time. Nonetheless, Malmo is full of all different kinds of museums and if you’re particularly interested in visiting a museum during one day in Malmo or if you’re staying longer than a day, there are many museums that are worth your time.

For example, the Modern Museum of Malmo is one of the most well-known and respected modern art museums in Europe. Located in the center of Malmo, the Modern Museum is a great option for both lovers of modern art as well as those visiting the city and hoping to get a quiet moment of inspiration in one of Sweden’s largest cities.

And if you’re visiting Malmo and searching for a truly unique museum to visit, you’re in the right place. Malmo is home to the top-rated Disgusting Food Museum located in the center of the city. You can book tickets here.

Likely one of the strangest museums you’ll ever visit, the Disgusting Food Museum is a collection and exhibit of “80 of the world’s most disgusting foods”. Your ideas of what is considered gross will be tested as you learn that foods in one culture may be a delicacy in another.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

Ascot Hotel – Located in the center of Copenhagen, this hotel makes for an excellent base for exploring the city and also as a base for day trips from the Danish capital. Situated in a 19th-century building, this is a great place to stay if you’re looking for something a bit more high-end in the city.

The Square   – This trendy hotel is a great option for both exploring Copenhagen and as a base for your excursion to Malmo. Located a stone’s throw from Tivoli Gardens, they have a number of cool, clean, and comfortable rooms available and a friendly staff that will help you with great recommendations throughout the city.

Copenhagen Downtown Hostel – Those trying to save some cash in this notoriously expensive city will love this hostel. They have a number of both dorm and private rooms available, excellent common spaces, 24-hour reception, and an affordable (for Denmark, at least) bar on site!

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Copenhagen hotels!

While just having the time to see Malmo in one day may seem limited, it’s the perfect day away from nearby Copenhagen. From exploring medieval Sweden to exploring the modern design of the city, charming and industrious Malmo deserves a spot on your Scandinavian travel radar.

Are you planning a day trip to Malmo from Copenhagen? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Helsinki vs Stockholm: Which Nordic Capital to Visit?

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Gothenburg Itinerary

The Perfect 2 Days in Copenhagen Itinerary

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

Thank you for this great guide! We are traveling to Sweden/Denmark at the end of March for about a week and was wondering how to set up our itinerary. We are taking the SJ from Stockholm to Copenhagen but wondered if it made more sense to take an early train to Malmo, stay the night and leave early next morning to Copenhagen since it’s such a short train ride over. Alternately, considered going straight to Copenhagen then taking the train to Malmo just for the day and coming back that evening/night. What would you suggest?

Hi Miriam – happy you found this helpful! I think both of your options are feasible so one isn’t necessarily better than the other. I think just choose the one that suits you most 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

18 Top-Rated Day Trips from Copenhagen

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

With all the tourist attractions in Copenhagen , you won't have trouble finding things to do in this exciting Nordic city. But plenty of interesting places to visit are also within easy day-trip distance. You'll find tours offered to many of these, or you can use Denmark's excellent public transportation network to visit them. Some, like the lovely fishing town of Dragør , are an easy bicycle ride away.

Denmark has some outstanding castles that you can reach from Copenhagen, the most famous of which is Kronborg Castle , the setting for Shakespeare's Hamlet . A new maritime museum and a world-class collection of modern art are nearby. Often included in a day tour to Kronborg Castle is Frederiksborg Castle , set in stunning gardens. Or you can cross the remarkable Oresund Bridge to Sweden to visit the exciting city of Malmö.

Use this handy list to plan your day trips from Copenhagen.

1. Kronborg Castle (Kronborg Slot)

2. frederiksborg castle, 3. viking ship museum and roskilde cathedral, 6. fredensborg palace, 7. egeskov castle, 8. following hans christian anderson in funen, 9. the cliffs of møn (møns klint), 10. stevns klint, 11. den blå planet (national aquarium), 12. louisiana museum of modern art, 13. lund, sweden, 14. forest tower, 15. lolland, 16. lyngby open-air museum (frilandsmuseet), 17. nykøbing, falster, 18. church of our lady, kalundborg, map of day trips from copenhagen.

The castle that Shakespeare called Elsinore and used as the home of his fictional character Hamlet, has stood above the water at the head of the Øresund Sound in Helsingør since 1420. This was once one of the most important towns in Europe, controlling access to the Baltic and collecting tolls from passing ships. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Kronborg Castle you see today was rebuilt in 1640 after a fire in 1629.

The Castle Chapel survived the fire, and its Renaissance interior and German woodcarvings remain intact. Tapestries in the West Wing and the Knights' Hall are the other main highlights. Various guided tours explore the castle's history, including the crypts deep beneath it.

Each summer, you can see performances of Hamlet at the annual Shakespeare Festival at Kronborg Castle . Helsingør is a 45-minute train ride from Copenhagen Central Station.

Not far from Kronborg Castle, the unique underground Maritime Museum of Denmark makes dramatic use of the former dry dock to tell the story of Danish shipbuilding and illustrate the country's rich maritime history. Along with static exhibits are large video projections that take full advantage of the museum's unique architecture.

Set in beautiful Baroque gardens and reflected in the lake that surrounds it, the Dutch Renaissance-style Frederiksborg Palace was built in the early 1600s by King Christian IV. A fire in 1859 destroyed much of the original, but it was rebuilt in its former style.

The palace chapel survived the fire intact, and much of the rest of the palace is devoted to the Museum of National History , with exhibits on the history of the castle and of Denmark, along with a sizeable art collection that includes historical paintings, portraits, and modern art.

The palace occupies three small islands, and all around the castle is the Palace Garden , a romantic landscaped garden that has been re-created from the original 1725 plans and drawings. In it is the Badstueslot, the small Bath House Palace built in the time of King Frederik II, and a summer café.

You can easily see both Kronborg and Frederiksborg castles in one day by taking the Grand Day Trip around Copenhagen , and on the same tour see the two major tourist attractions in Roskilde, described below.

Address: Møntportvejen 10, Hillerød

Five Viking ships that were recovered from underwater are the focus of the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde , spectacularly displayed in a hall that was built to showcase them against a full view across Roskilde Harbor and the fjord. Exhibits tell the fascinating history of these ships and their recovery and preservation, and throughout the several buildings that make up the museum, you'll learn more about these ships and the Nordic maritime experience in the prehistoric and medieval eras.

As fascinating as the ships themselves is the shipyard, where you can watch the building of reproduction Viking ships and other traditional Nordic wooden ships. You can take a cruise of Roskilde Fjord on one of these from May through September.

Other boats in the museum's collection include Nordic wooden boats from throughout Scandinavia. The museum includes a studio where adults and children can learn handcrafts of the Viking age. The boats, cruises, demonstrations, hands-on experiences, and things to do here make this one of the region's most popular places to visit for families.

While in Roskilde, visit the beautiful Roskilde Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The present brick church, begun in the 1170s and completed a century later, is one of the earliest examples of Gothic architecture in Northern Europe. Inside the medieval cathedral are buried Viking kings Harald Bluetooth and his son Sweyn Forkbeard and more than 35 kings and queens of Denmark.

Roskilde cathedral holds the world record for the number of royal burials in a church, but it is the artistry, rather than the numbers that will appeal to visitors. Each is in the artistic style of its era, and they range from medieval stone carving to Baroque to Neo-classical to modern. Panels in Danish and English give more information about the history and architecture.

Roskilde is a 30-minute train ride from Copenhagen Central Train Station, and both the cathedral and Viking Ship Museum are often included in full-day tours of attractions around Copenhagen.

Address: Vindeboder 12, Roskilde

Official site: http://www.vikingeskibsmuseet.dk/en/

One of the prettiest villages in Denmark, the fishing town of Dragør is the perfect place to visit for a 12-kilometer bike ride across the Amager Fælled moorland and along the coast. Once here, explore streets lined with small thatched cottages and visit the museum at the picturesque harbor.

You can also tour a local farmhouse to learn about local life and traditions of this town settled by Dutch farmers, who were invited here to grow vegetables for the king's household. Dragør also has a strong fishing history. In the summer, art and music festivals are held here, and you'll often find open-air markets as well.

Bring a picnic to enjoy overlooking the water or stop at one of the several cafés and restaurants at the harbor. You can also reach Dragør by bus from the city center.

It's an easy day trip from Copenhagen to the Swedish city of Malmö, across the spectacular Øresund Bridge that connects Denmark to Sweden. You can learn about Malmö's history on a scenic canal cruise; enjoy the lively atmosphere of Stora Torget ; and browse in the boutiques on Lilla Torget , which is filled with outdoor cafés in the summer.

In Malmöhus Castle , Scandinavia's oldest preserved Renaissance castle, you can find exhibits on history and technology at the Malmö Museums or tour a submarine. Stop for a snack or lunch at the café in the adjacent Slottsparken , where there are brilliant gardens.

For something more contemporary, visit the Moderna Museet Malmö and be sure not to miss architect Santiago Calatrava's spectacular Turning Torso building , 190 meters high with a 90-degree twist from base to top.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Malmo

The most used of the Danish Royal Family's residences, Fredensborg Palace is also often used for state visits and family occasions. Completed in 1722, the palace remains in its original form, and although new extensions have been added since, the complex remains harmonious.

The surrounding park is designed in long, straight avenues radiating from the palace, with pathways winding through the woodlands between them. An area known as the Valley of the Norsemen displays dozens of sculptures depicting fishermen and farmers, and more sculptures are scattered throughout the grounds.

The Fredensborg Palace Garden is Denmark's finest example of Baroque gardens and after its restoration in 2021 was awarded the European Union Prize for Cultural Heritage.

Fredensborg Palace is north of Copenhagen, about 90 minutes by train or a 30-minute drive. It can be combined with a visit to nearby Frederiksborg Castle and Kronborg Castle on the North Zealand Castle Tour , with pickup at your hotel in Copenhagen.

Address: Slottet 1B, Fredensborg, Denmark

Among Europe's finest Renaissance palaces, Egeskov is also one of the best preserved moated castles, with the moat formed by a lake that surrounds the castle and gardens. The present house was completed in 1554, and in its furnished rooms and exhibit areas, you can see fine period furnishings and art; a collection of historic toys ; and the remarkable Titania's Palace , a sumptuous doll house filled with 3,000 miniature pieces of hand-crafted furniture and small art works from around the world.

The gardens in the surrounding park are no less impressive, with formal gardens that include two mazes and hedges nearly 300 years old. More exhibits are in the castle's farm buildings and in a museum of vintage cars. For children there is a Play Forest, with a 100-meter Tree Top Walk suspended 15 meters above the ground.

Address: Egeskovgade 18, Kværndrup

Official site: http://www.egeskov.dk/en

Writer Hans Christian Andersen was born in Odense, on Funen, Denmark's "Garden Island." The most popular places to visit on the island are his childhood home and the excellent Hans Christian Andersen Museum , which explores the world of his imagination and reveals the writer's artistic talents as well.

Follow the Hans Christian Andersen Trail to discover the island's 15 manor houses and castles that are connected to his life or writing. The charming Funen Open-Air Village (Den Fynske Landsby) includes cottages, farmhouses, and shops that have been brought here to create a "living village" from the Anderson's era.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Odense

Off the coast of Zealand, south of Copenhagen, are a set of islands that the Danish call their South Sea Islands. One of these, Møn, ends at Denmark's highest cliffs , a 300-foot drop above the Baltic Sea. Møns Klint are all the more spectacular for being formed of white chalk, and the surrounding protected area is habitat for unique flora and fauna, including 18 species of wild orchid.

The GeoCenter Møns Klint , an exhibition space and activity center carved from part of the cliff, is designed as a trip back 70 million years to the Cretaceous Period and those that followed. Activities with a naturalist, such as fossil hunting and creating crafts from natural materials, are included in the admission price.

Address: Stengårdsvej 8, Borre, Denmark

Official site: https://moensklint.dk/uk?lang=en

Also on the island of Zealand, southeast of Store Heddinge, the cliffs of Stevns Klint are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their geological significance. The 15-kilometer-long coastal cliff shows exceptional evidence of the impact of a meteorite that crashed to Earth about 65 million years ago near Mexico.

This cataclysmic event caused the extinction of about half of life on Earth, and Stevns Klint preserves a record of the ash cloud created by the impact, as well as a complete fossil record showing the succession of fauna throughout the recovery from the mass extinction.

Nearby are the quicklime kilns at Boesdal Limestone Quarry.

Northern Europe's largest aquarium, Den Blå Planet – The Blue Planet – is surrounded by water, increasing the feeling visitors have of being in the sea. The 50 aquariums and exhibit areas , which are divided into several wings patterned after a vortex, can be viewed from above or from water level. The most colorful is the Coral Reef , where brilliant tropical fish swim in a garden of coral shapes and colors.

Amazonas creates an entire ecosystem, not just the underwater life, with tropical forest inhabited by bright butterflies and birds. The largest is the Ocean Tank , four million liters of seawater alive with hammerhead sharks, moray eels, and other ocean creatures.

Den Blå Planet is near the Danish end of the Øresund Bridge, within walking distance of the Kastrup Metro station, a 12-minute ride from Copenhagen's Kongens Nytorv station.

Address: Jacob Fortlingsvej 1, Kastrup

Official site: www.denblaaplanet.dk

Not far from Helsingør, in Humlebæk, the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art holds a collection of major works by some of the greatest names in modern art: Jean Dubuffet, Max Ernst, Francis Bacon, Alexander Calder, Henry Moore, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and more. Several major exhibitions each year feature their works and those of new and emerging modern artists.

In addition to the works in the galleries, about 60 sculptures are scattered (some almost hidden) throughout the Sculpture Park on the museum grounds. The daily workshops in the Children's Wing , where children from four to 16 can explore art techniques through painting, drawing, and sculpture, makes this one of the most popular places to visit for families.

Address: Gammel Strandvej 13, Humlebæk

Official site: www.louisiana.dk

The university city of Lund, Sweden, is worth visiting for its magnificent 12 th -century Romanesque Cathedral – among the finest examples from this age in Scandinavia – and the Kulturen, a living history museum that preserves many of the buildings in its historic center and others saved from destruction elsewhere.

Highlights of the cathedral are the carved stone pillars in the crypt; the 14 th -century carved choir stalls; and the golden altarpiece, also from the 1300s. An astronomical clock dates to the same period.

In addition to the historic artifacts from medieval through modern eras displayed in the 30 houses of the Kulturen, you'll find even older relics in the Lund University Historical Museum. Here are the local archaeological finds dating from the Stone Age and later prehistoric eras. Beyond the Kulturen is the university's botanical garden, with more than 1,500 species of plants.

Lund is not far from Malmo and can be reached by the Øresund Bridge or by ferry from Helsingor, then south by bus along the Swedish coast. You can combine Lund with several other day trip experiences on the nine-hour Hamlet and Sweden Tour -- Two Countries in One Day . After touring Helsingor, you will travel by ferry to Sweden to visit both Lund and Malmo.

Rising above the protected forests of the Gisselfeld Kloster, the 45-meter-high Forest Tower is built of local oak wood and weathered steel to merge with the woodland setting. Its hour-glass shape supports spiraling walkways that allow visitors to ascend and descend without stairs, and to have unobstructed views into and over the forest at various levels.

To reach the tower, 900 meters of long suspended boardwalks wind through the forest of beech and oak, curving to avoid disturbing tree roots. The views of the forest change with the seasons and are especially beautiful when the leaves have turned to bright colors in the fall.

The Forest Tower is 75 kilometers from Copenhagen, and can be reached by regional train to Næstved Station, then by bus. Easier is to join a Copenhagen to Forest Tower Tour that includes round-trip transportation.

Address: Skovtårnsvej 1, Rønnede, Denmark

Official site: https://www.campadventure.dk/en/

The largest of Denmark's "South Sea Islands" is the pancake-flat island of Lolland, in the busy waters between southern Denmark and Germany and about a 90-minute drive from Copenhagen. A number of top attractions make a tour around Lolland worthwhile. Along with its historic churches are the beautiful dune-backed beaches from Maglehøj Strand to Drummeholm.

The popular Knuthenborg Safari Park , Scandinavia's largest manor-house park, has more than 900 resident animals, including antelope, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, elephants, and tigers. The town of Maribo is popular for its beautiful setting by Sønder Lake, and in nearby Hunseby is a 12th-century church with a Romanesque interior and a Gothic tower. Alholm features a 12th-century castle that now houses a vintage car museum.

A little more than 15 kilometers from Copenhagen is the Open-Air Museum, part of the Danish National Museum , and one of the most popular things to do for families. Spread across the large property (which you can explore in a horse-drawn carriage) are farmhouses, homes, and windmills from all parts of Denmark and the Faroe islands. Other examples of traditional homes are from Schleswig-Holstein and parts of Sweden that once belonged to Denmark.

Each building has been carefully reconstructed and is furnished with authentic utensils, furniture, and decorative arts of their region and era. You can see the traditional building styles, such as roofs thatched with straw, seaweed, or heather. The museum includes beautiful historic gardens, and ancient breeds of domestic animals forage in the fields and farmyards.

Address: Lyngby, Kongevejen 100, Copenhagen

Official site: http://en.natmus.dk/museums/the-open-air-museum/

From Lolland, a ninety-minute drive from Copenhagen, the Frederik IX Bridge traverses Guldborg Sound to Nykøbing, the largest town on the island of Falster. Towards the end of the 12th century, a fortress was built on a peninsula in Guldborg Sound to defend against an attack by the Wends. Later, it became Nykøbing Castle.

The town evolved around the castle, although the ruins of a tower are all that remain of the castle today. Nykøbing is now home to a marina and several tourist attractions. Highlights include the Czar's House , dating from the 1690s; the Middle Ages Center (Middelaldercentret), a living history museum; a small zoo; the City Museum (Bymuseet); and Ejegod Windmill , which displays antique toys.

A little more than an hour's drive from Copenhagen lies the town of Kalundborg with its famous five-towered Church of Our Lady (Vor Frue Kirke).

Built around 1170, the church echoes the form of a Greek cross with four arms stretching out from its center. Its walls stand on a granite base, and five towers rise high above - an octagonal one on each arm of the cross and a 41-meter-high square tower in the center. Pointed spires cap the towers, four of which are named: St. Gertrude, St. Catherine, St. Anne, and St. Magdalene.

Highlights are the sunken semi-circular columns, the Baroque-style altar-piece (1650), and the granite font adorned with palm motifs, which dates from the 12th century.

Other tourist attractions in Kalundborg include the medieval Old Town and the Kalundborg Museum with period costumes and Viking artifacts.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Places to Visit from Copenhagen: After visiting on day trips from Copenhagen, you may want to spend more time exploring Odense and the island of Funen or to see more of the attractions in Helsingor . To the north is the lovely Renaissance city of Aarhus , and with the help of our page on the port city of Esbjerg , you can explore its nearby beaches and nature reserves.

Where to Go from Denmark: Heading south to the Jutland, you can cross the border into Germany to visit the lively city of Hamburg . The Oresund Bridge links Denmark to Malmo, and from there to the rest of Sweden and the attractions of Stockholm .

More on Denmark

Food to Try

Best Restaurants

Best Breweries

Nightlife Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Copenhagen Airport Guide

Getting Around Copenhagen

What to Pack

Top Things to Do

Best Museums

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Copenhagen

The 14 Best Day Trips from Copenhagen

While the city of  Copenhagen has plenty of tours of its own and enough entertainment, restaurants, and bars to keep you busy day and night for weeks, there are also a number of great destinations nearby that are perfect for day trips. Explore Copenhagen's (and Denmark's) interesting history with castle and museum visits, relax in the sun away from the big city at an island or beach destination , or tour the sights at some neighboring cities. No matter what you choose to do, you're sure to find a nearby adventure.

North Zealand: Frederiksborg Castle

TripSavvy / Maria Ligaya

Take a royal-themed day trip to North Zealand including a tour of Frederiksborg Castle, which is also home to Denmark's Museum of National History . You can learn about the flamboyant King Christian IV who once lived here, walk through rooms like the Coronation Chapel, and then stroll through the castle’s French Baroque gardens with a guide. Be sure to stop and take some photos of Fredensborg Castle, the annual summer residence of the Danish royal family. If you want to learn more about what you're seeing, the museum offers guided tours for visitors. 

Getting There: You can reach the castle by car (a 40-minute drive) by taking highway 16 toward Hillerød. Or by public transportation, take the S-train line E to Hillerød, and walk 15 to 20 minutes from the station to the castle, either through town or along the lake. 

Travel Tip:  If you'd like to take a  guided day trip  to see all this, you can book a reservation online. It departs from City Hall Square in Copenhagen at 10:30 a.m. from May to September and takes about 6.5 hours. The tour is informative and interesting. 

The City of Aarhus: Experience History and Culture

One of the most beloved day trips from Copenhagen goes to the city of Aarhus, a historic city on the east coast of​  Jutland  (Denmark's western peninsula). It offers a great selection of nightlife entertainment  and also annual events, such as The Viking Festival in July, in which people gather to recreate the early days of the city with markets, sword-fighting, and more. The city is also home to the contemporary art museum, ARoS Aarhus Kunstmuseum, botanical gardens , and a palace . 

Getting There:  The quickest option is to fly to Aarhus from Copenhagen, which takes about 45 minutes. Or if you prefer to take a train, the journey is about three hours and trains leave the city every 30 to 45 minutes. Driving takes about three hours. Take the E20 west until you hit the E45, and go north on the E45 to Aarhus. 

Travel Tip:  If you're not in town during the festival, you should visit the  Viking Museum  for a glimpse into this significant aspect of the city's past. 

The Island of Fyn: A Romantic Getaway

Also known as Denmark's Garden Island, the wildly romantic island of Fyn (Funen) is the home to many fairy tales, and it's also the birthplace of writer Hans Christian Andersen. Fyn is also home to a number of beautiful castles ( known as slots in ​Danish ), like Nyborg Slot, Egeskov Slot, Broholm Gods, Holckenhavn Slot, and Harridslevgaard Slot.

You can spend all day wandering through the rolling hills checking out acres of orchards and a variety of old farmhouses or head over to the open-air museum Den Fynske Landsby (Fyn Village) and Odense Zoo.

Getting There:  Accessing the island is relatively easy. If you drive, it's about an hour and a half, and there is a toll bridge. There's also a direct train between Copenhagen and Funen that is typically a little quicker than driving. 

Travel Tip: The island of Fyn has a strong culinary scene—it hosts several food events and festivals, and it's home to several great restaurants. Don't skip the chance to indulge while you're here! 

The Islands of Lolland and Falster: A Train Museum and Safari Park

One of the best day trips from Copenhagen has to be a visit to the islands of Lolland and Falster. These islands offer things to do no matter which town you are visiting, but Maribo has several attractions to see. 

If you're in Maribo, consider visiting the Museumsbanen (Museum Train), Nakskov's Green World Zoo, and the submarine U-359, but you can also visit a 12th-century royal residence, Ålholm Castle , in the town of Nysted, and don't forget Knuthenborg Manor with its Safari Park (open April-October).

Getting There:  Lolland is connected to Denmark's Zealand by a bridge. A day trip from Copenhagen to Lolland is an 80-mile drive along the E47 road south.

Travel Tip: This destination is home to beautiful nature and plenty of adventure activities. While here, try a few, such as biking, kayaking, fishing, golfing, and more.   

Hven Island: Beaches and Great Local Cuisine

olli0815/Getty Images 

Local whiskey, pristine beaches, and the remains of Tycho Brahe's 16th-century observatory are the top attractions on the island, but the 360 inhabitants of the island also offer a number of local cuisines, crafts, and shops to browse.

If you're looking to escape all the noise of the cities to a peaceful, secluded location, this tiny island is like a little piece of heaven on earth.

Getting There:  Located between Denmark and Sweden, the ferry from Copenhagen takes about 90 minutes to get to Hven Island. If you prefer to drive, it takes about two hours along the E20. 

Travel Tip: If you're a whiskey drinker, head to the Spirit of Hven Distillery for a tasting.

Bornholm: Relax by the Beach

If you're in the mood for sandy beaches and a day of relaxation, plan your day trip from Copenhagen to the sunny island of Bornholm. This is the place to lean back, stroll through the sand, or maybe rent a bicycle for an afternoon.

A popular summer travel destination, Bornholm's nickname is the Pearl of the Baltic. 

Getting There:  The biggest town on the island is Rønne, which is also the point of arrival for travelers to Bornholm, and there are direct 35-minute flights from Copenhagen that fly into Rønne-Bornholm Airport. That's by far the quickest and easiest way to get there. If you go by car, bus, or train, the trip can take up to three or four hours as you'll have to go into Sweden to take a bridge.

Travel Tip: Check out Baltic Sea Glass , a glass studio and shop on the island that has beautiful and unique works of glass art. 

Dragør: A Historic Village

Raimund Linke/Getty Images 

For an even more intimate day trip, perhaps for a honeymoon or a romantic weekend getaway, the small village of Dragør offers a bit of Danish history with all the amenities of the modern day.

Located just southeast of Copenhagen, this preserved village was founded in the 12th century as a fishing port for Denmark. For a closer look at early life in Dragør, spend the day at the Amager Museum , an open-air recreation of life in the old days, or the Dragør Museum in the harbor.

Getting There:  Dragør is about a 15- to 20-minute drive southeast of Copenhagen. You can also take a train or bus, both taking about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: The Amager Museum is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly. 

Møn: Gorgeous Cliffs

Josef F. Stuefer/Getty Images 

Located near city of Borre on the island of Møn, the Møns Klint is a three-mile stretch of chalk cliffs considered to be one of Denmark's natural wonders.

You can spend the night at a campsite just above the cliffs or down by the beach, or if you're interested in geology and science, visit the GeoCenter Møns Klint , Northern Europe's most modern science center. 

Getting There: The island of Møn is about an hour drive to the south along the E20 to the E47. That's typically the quickest and cheapest way, but there's also a direct train between the two places that takes about 1.5 to two hours. 

Travel Tip: Besides just taking in the beauty of the cliffs, there are also a few hiking trails around them you can take. And it's also possible to find fossils in the area, so be on the lookout! 

Humlebæk: Louisiana Museum of Modern Art

Not far from Helsingør in Humlebæk, the Lousiana Museum of Modern Art houses one of the region's largest collections of Danish art. When opened in 1952, the museum was originally intended for exclusively Danish art pieces but expanded soon after to include famous works from all around the world.

This museum served an important role in developing Denmark's cultural history and has been credited with teaching the Danish citizenry to look at and appreciate art. 

Getting There: Driving or taking the direct train are your best bets, as Humlebæk is only a 30-minute journey with either option. 

Travel Tip:  The city of Humlebæk is also a great destination for some traditional Danish restaurants, but you'll have to travel up to Helsingør if you hope to stay the night nearby.

Kastrup: Northeastern Europe's Largest Aquarium

Located just southeast of Copenhagen in Kastrup, Denmark—near the Danish end of the Øresund Bridge and the Københavns Lufthavn airport—Den Blå Planet is easily accessible by train from the city.

Den Blå Planet is Northeastern Europe's largest aquarium and allows guests to get up close with sharks, sea otters, and all manner of ocean life. 

Getting There: Kastrup is only a 20-minute drive south from Copenhagen, and there's also a direct train that takes only about 15 minutes, so choose whichever option best fits your plans for your trip. 

Travel Tip: While there, you can also take a behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium or even get a chance to dive with sharks! 

The Capital Region: A Tour of the Most Noteworthy Sites

One of the most popular ways to really experience the history, culture, and architecture of Denmark's capital region is to take the Grand Day Trip, a small group guided tour of three major castles including the UNESCO heritage site Kronberg Castle.

On the tour, you'll get to visit Roskilde Cathedral, the burial place to more Kings and Queens than anywhere on earth, before heading to Frederiksborg Castle, the biggest Scandinavian Renaissance-era castle still standing. 

Getting There: The tour leaves from the area across from City Hall in Copenhagen. 

Travel Tip:  Bring your camera to photograph the beautiful nature of the Danish Riviera.

Helsingør: The Maritime Museum of Denmark

klug-photo/Getty Images 

You could spend an entire day at the Maritime Museum of Denmark, which tells the story of Denmark's seafaring history through permanent and rotating exhibitions like "In the Shadow of War" and "Ships of all Times."

Almost invisible from the street, this underground museum is worth the trip to see the architecture alone, but you can also learn more about how Denmark became known as one of the world's leading maritime nations.

Getting There: You can get to Helsingør by a 30- to 40-minute drive, or you can also take a train from Copenhagen Central Station that takes about an hour. 

Travel Tip: When you're done exploring the museum, head to Kronborg , a 16th century castle that was also the setting of Shakespeare's "Hamlet."

Kalundborg: A Historic Church

A little off the beaten path but worth the trip if you're a fan of elegant architecture and Denmark's rich cultural heritage. The town of Kalunborg is home to the Church of Our Lady , a five-towered church built in the late 1100s.

This historic church has experienced many renovations, updates, and additions over the centuries, but spending the day in Medieval Old Town Kalundborg combined with a tour of this stunning chapel make for a great day trip back in time.

Getting There: The cheapest and quickest way to get there is to drive, which will take you about an hour and a half along routes 21 or 23. The train ride there is about two hours and includes some transfers.

Travel Tip: If you're in the area during summer, you can also see the gorgeous gardens at  Birkegårdens Haver  from May to mid-September.

Sweden: Helsingborg, Lund, and Malmö

If you'd rather take a break from Copenhagen entirely or just have a few extra days to add to your itinerary, you should consider taking a  day trip to Sweden.

Visiting the Swedish cities of Helsingborg, Lund, and Malmö is a great way to catch a glimpse of the nearby but entirely different Swedish culture.

Getting There: You have several options to get to these destinations depending on what you plan to do and how flexible you want to be. All options will take you over the Oresund Bridge, and it takes about 40 minutes to an hour to get from Copenhagen to Malmö. 

Travel Tip: There are several guided tours that you can take from Copenhagen to one of these cities in just one day, so you don't have to worry about transportation. Look here for tour options.

A Guide to Airports in Scandinavia

How to Travel from Copenhagen to Aarhus by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Your Trip to Copenhagen: The Complete Guide

The 13 Best Day Trips from Boston

The Top 10 Day Trips from Naples, Italy

Danish Countryside and Castles Outside Copenhagen

Scandinavia and the Nordic Region: Planning Your Trip

10 Best Sights & Attractions in Denmark

Top 12 Day Trips From Malaga, Spain

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

How to Travel From Copenhagen to Malmö by Train, Bus, and Car

The 11 Best Day Trips from New Orleans

The 11 Best Day Trips From Buffalo

The 14 Best Day Trips from Rome

The Best Cities in Denmark

10 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen in Autumn

• The official guide to Copenhagen
• Copenhagen Beyond
• Copenhagen Card
• See & do
• Eat & drink

Get to know Copenhagen

Your guide to the perfect copenhagen experience.

The buzzing capital of Denmark mixes modern architecture and culture with sustainable living , royal history , and a mouthwatering restaurant scene . Get to know Copenhagen, do your planning, and find all your questions answered right here.

To get a daily dose of inspiration, please follow @VisitCopenhagen on Instagram.

Tell us what you're looking for

Are you already in Copenhagen? Are you planning your trip or looking to get inspired to what to do today? We got you covered.

I'm curious about Copenhagen

I'm planning my trip

I'm looking for experiences

I want to check out events

Start exploring copenhagen.

Any season is a good season to explore Copenhagen, whether on foot, on bike or sailing your own electric boat through the canals. 

Spring is in the air

Editor's Choice - Get your local recommendations

Copenhagen on wheels

It's in everything we do.

Copenhagen strives to be a city that is not only a cool place to visit but also a great place to live. This is why we take sustainability, livability, and safety very seriously.

Safety in Copenhagen

Copenhagen sustainability guide

World Capital of Architecture

Insights from your local copenhageners.

Get local tips for great experiences with Copenhagen Unfolded. Culture, food, design, history, and events - straight to your inbox once a month.

Get Social :

Useful links.

• Web Accessibility
• Editorial policy

Other sites

• Wonderful Copenhagen
• Cruise Copenhagen
• Copenhagen Convention Bureau
• Travel Trade
• Intl. press room