When you set foot in Scandinavia, whether from Copenhagen to Sweden or vice versa, you will likely hear of the friendly neighborly banter between Sweden and Denmark. If it’s not the Danes arguing about their smørrebrød being superior, you will see the Swedes stand proudly by their meatballs and cinnamon buns.
This rivalry dates back centuries when the two countries fought over 11 major wars, primarily due to territorial ambitions and control of important trade routes in the Baltic Sea. These events have shaped the history of these countries and their present-day culture.
So, it wouldn’t be surprising if you feel the itch to explore the beautiful sights of Sweden’s charming destinations. If you are in Copenhagen, you are in luck! Sweden is just a scenic bridge (the Øresund Bridge) away.
Whether you’re a tourist eager for Nordic culture or a local craving a Swedish adventure, here’s a travel guide that will take you from Copenhagen to Sweden, through tasty stops to historic locations.
Why Visit Sweden from Copenhagen?
Apart from the obvious answer of Copenhagen being the Denmark city closest to Southern Sweden, there’s something magical about hopping into another country so easily.
While Copenhagen offers culture, beer, and delicious smørrebrød, Sweden offers landscapes, quaint towns, and historical sites that make a day trip or even a few nights’ stay unforgettable.
Plus, the journey is half the fun. With options from scenic train rides to road trips over the iconic Øresund Bridge, you will be experiencing some of the most unique scenery these two places have to offer.
How Do You Travel from Copenhagen to Sweden?
Now that you’re convinced the trip will be worthwhile, how do you travel from Copenhagen to Sweden? Well, one of the best parts about traveling from Copenhagen to Sweden is that there are multiple ways to do it.
Each one offers a different experience. Depending on what you prioritize between speed, the sights, and convenience, you have options that include by train, by road, by bus, or by air.
1. Taking the Train from Copenhagen to Sweden
The fastest and easiest way to travel from Copenhagen to Sweden is by train. The train leaves the Copenhagen Central Station every 20 minutes and only takes about 35 minutes to reach Malmö in Sweden.
The train ride between Copenhagen and Malmö, Sweden’s third-largest city, is by the Öresundståg train which connects the two cities directly. You can also catch a train ride to Malmö from the Copenhagen Airport.
With views of the Øresund Strait and the famous Øresund Bridge, this train ride is scenic and convenient, especially for quick day trips.
Just head to Copenhagen Central Station. Buying tickets online might save you a bit of money, especially during peak times. You will arrive at Malmö Central Station and get ready to explore Sweden.
Alternatively, you can choose to stop at Triangelns Station, an underground railway station that’s one stop away from Malmö Central Station. This will lead you to the sights of the magnificent Triangeln shopping mall.
2. Hitting Sweden From Copenhagen By Road
Do you prefer road-tripping from Copenhagen? Want the freedom to explore the Swedish countryside at your own pace? You are not alone as many travelers prefer taking the Öresund Bridge from Copenhagen to Sweden.
In this way, they can enjoy the panoramic views of the Baltic Sea. The Øresund Bridge connects Copenhagen to Malmö. This 8 km (5-mile) bridge over the sea is an experience in itself.
Heads-up: The bridge has a toll with a one-way toll fee of around DKK 455. The toll fee varies though depending on the kind of vehicle you have. However, many car rental companies let you pay it in advance. Once you are over it, Sweden is yours to roam.
3. From Copenhagen to Sweden By Bus, Ferry, or Flight
By Bus: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly way to cross the border, buses are plentiful. They often offer direct routes from Copenhagen to Malmö or Stockholm.
Plus, the journey gives you a chance to unwind while watching Scandinavian scenery pass by. Just find a Flixbus right off Copenhagen Central Station and you are good to go. This trip will set you back around 360 DKK though.
By Ferry: But if you are after a more leisurely journey, ferries also run between Helsingør (north of Copenhagen) and Helsingborg in Sweden. The ferry ride takes just 20 minutes, and you can explore Helsingør Castle in Copenhagen before hopping on.
This route is more about the journey itself, so if you love the idea of cruising across the water, this one is for you. There is no ferry ride available for moving between Copenhagen and Stockholm, Sweden’s capital city.
By Flight: For those eyeing a trip to Stockholm (and not too concerned about budget), flying is the fastest way to get from Copenhagen to Sweden’s capital. Many flights operate daily, offering a one-hour aerial journey across the sea.
Swedish Stops Worth the Trip
After you have decided on how to get from Copenhagen to Sweden, next on your agenda should be the parts of Sweden to explore. There are lots of fascinating options that promise thrills and adventures that will give you stories for days.
Here are a few places to add to your must-visit list:
Malmö – Where Culture Meets the Coast
Your first stop should definitely be Malmö, just over the bridge from Copenhagen. The charming city of Malmö is the closest Swedish city to Copenhagen.
Malmö is perfect for day-trippers who want to experience a taste of Sweden without a major time commitment. The city may be small, but it’s packed with things to see and do.
You get to see a lot of modern design in the architecture of the city, visit historical sites like Ebba’s House preserved from the 1910s, and enjoy waterfront views.
If you’re short on time, Malmö has enough to satisfy your wanderlust in a day or even an afternoon. Some unmissable highlights of what to see in Malmo from Copenhagen include:
- Malmö Castle (Malmöhus) introduces you to the 16th century and provides you the opportunity to explore Sweden’s oldest Renaissance castle. This castle comes complete with a moat and historical exhibits.
- Turning Torso is one of the major Swedish attractions that brings flocks of visitors here. It is Sweden’s tallest building and a marvel of modern architecture, the twisting shape of this skyscraper makes it unforgettable.
- Lilla Torg is perfect for people-watching. This charming square has colorful, half-timbered buildings and open-air cafes dotting the area.
Lund – History on Land
Hop on a train from Malmö for a quick ride to Lund. This quaint university town feels like a page out of a fairytale. It has cobbled streets, an interesting history, and a lively student atmosphere.
Some places to visit in Lund include:
- Lund Cathedral: The Cathedral has a grand Romanesque style, distinguishing it as a landmark. Don’t forget to check out the astronomical clock that dates back to the 1400s.
- Lund University: One of the oldest universities in Scandinavia, Lund University’s lush botanical garden is a perfect spot for a stroll or picnic.
- Kulturen Open-Air Museum: If you want to step into Sweden’s past, this outdoor museum, which features traditional Swedish houses and historical exhibits is your go-to destination.
Exploring More of Sweden from Copenhagen
If you are up for more than just a quick trip to Malmö and Lund, here’s how to reach other Swedish gems:
Stockholm – Capital City with Flair
Want to see more of Sweden? Stockholm, the capital city of Sweden is right there for the taking. It is a longer haul (especially when you want to get to this part of Sweden from Copenhagen) but is absolutely doable with the right plan.
You can go from Copenhagen to Stockholm by train. The train takes around 5 hours and offers a scenic view of the Swedish countryside. A longer trip from Malmö or Gothenburg to Stockholm will take around 7-8 hours.
Long-haul buses which take around 10 hours, are also available. It’s a slower but cheaper option. Stockholm is about an hour away by plane from Copenhagen.
Flights are frequent, and prices vary, so watch for deals. Plus, flying lets you maximize your time in Stockholm without spending too much time traveling from Copenhagen to Sweden.
Helsingborg – A Historic Coastal Beauty
If you can ferry over, Helsingborg is your gateway to coastal Sweden. Some of the places you can check out here include Kärnan Tower for panoramic city views.
You can also stroll through Sofiero Castle and Gardens for a floral treat. Additionally, Helsingborg has excellent shopping and dining options, especially if you are a seafood lover.
Ystad – An Introduction to Wallander’s World
If you are a fan of the detective series, Wallander, you might want to venture to Ystad. It is known for its cozy atmosphere, winding streets, and medieval buildings. Ystad will have you falling in love with Swedish small-town life.
Foodie Moments as You Experience Sweden From Copenhagen (Must-Try Swedish Snacks)
If you plan on returning to Copenhagen from Sweden by evening, be sure to snack your way through Sweden. Here are a few popular bites to look out for:
- Kanelbullar (Cinnamon Buns): You haven’t lived until you have tried a Swedish cinnamon bun. They are less sweet than the American kind and have a delicious hint of cardamom.
- Prinsesstårta (Princess Cake): This classic Swedish cake consists of layers of sponge, jam, and custard. They are all covered with green marzipan and is a true royal treat.
- Pickled Herring: Okay, pickled herring is not everyone’s favorite. But it’s a Swedish classic worth a taste. Eat it with crispbread, potatoes, and maybe a little aquavit.
Some Considerations for Your Trip From Copenhagen to Sweden
Either as a foreign tourist or a local visitor, there are some things you need to consider when traveling from Copenhagen to Sweden. Some of the top considerations include:
1. Do You Need a Passport to Go from Copenhagen to Sweden?
One of the most common questions people ask before making this trip is, ‘Do I need ID for Copenhagen to Sweden trip?’ Well, it depends.
Even though Denmark and Sweden are part of the Schengen Zone, it’s still a good idea to bring your passport or national ID.
Random checks can happen, especially on the train across the Öresund Bridge, and it’s better to prepare for this. An ID card is usually enough for EU/EEA nationals. But non-EU nationals will need a passport.
2. What Does It Cost to Go to Sweden from Copenhagen?
The cost of travel from Copenhagen to Sweden varies depending on your choice of transport. For instance, a one-way train ticket from Copenhagen to Malmö typically costs between 80-100 DKK.
You can find bus tickets for around 50 DKK, making it the most budget-friendly option. A car trip, including bridge toll, comes around 360 DKK for a one-way crossing.
Flights can vary widely. But if you book in advance, you can snag a one-way ticket for around 500 DKK.
3. Currency to Use
When moving from Copenhagen to Sweden, you must remember that it is a cross-border trip and there will be differences in the currency used.
In Denmark (Copenhagen), you will need to use the Danish Krone (DKK) whereas in Sweden, the Swedish Kronor (SEK) is the currency in use. Many places do accept credit cards. But it’s helpful to have a little cash on hand, especially in smaller towns.
4. Weather
Sweden can be a little cooler than Denmark, especially during the fall and winter months. So, when you are heading to Sweden from Copenhagen in the winter, expect chillier temperatures and more snow as you move inland.
Sweden’s coastal cities, like Malmö, experience similar weather to Copenhagen, but it can feel noticeably colder due to wind and humidity. Bring layers to adapt to the temperature changes.
Endnote – Is a Trip from Copenhagen to Sweden Worth It?
In conclusion, is a day trip to Sweden from Denmark worth it? In a word – yes. Crossing the Öresund Bridge from Copenhagen to Sweden (Malmö) is an experience that gives you a taste of two cultures in one day.
Malmö offers enough charm, sights, and Scandinavian vibes to make the trip from Copenhagen worthwhile. If you have a bit more time, venturing to Stockholm rewards you with a beautiful slice of Swedish life.
You can visit historic districts, waterways, and world-class museums. What’s more? You can access these cities by train, bus, or a flight.
So, what are you waiting for? Sweden is right there for the taking. Just pack your layers, grab your ID or passport, have some money exchanged and you are ready for all the cinnamon buns your stomach can carry!
