Copenhagen Airport
Copenhagen, DK · 8 km (5 mi) south of central Copenhagen
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bus 35 City bus · Roughly every 20-30 min, less often late evening | 20-30 min to Dragør from CPH depending on stops | $4-6 (standard city ticket) |
| Bus 36 City bus · 1 hour | — | $4-6 (standard city ticket) |
| DSB regional trains Train · Every 10-20 min roughly 24/7 (reduced late night) | 12-15 min to Copenhagen Central | $4-6 (same ticket as Metro for zones 1-4) |
| FlixBus Intercity coach · A few departures per day per route | 4-6+ hours for common routes (e.g., Hamburg, Aarhus) | $10-40 depending on route and booking |
Insider notes
Skip overhead signs and follow the main airside corridor between Terminals 2 and 3 for quick gate-to-gate walking in 10-15 minutes.
Save by using 7-Eleven or supermarket-style landside shops in Terminal 3 for snacks before passing through security.
Overpaying at ticket machines for city transport. Use DOT or DSB offices in Terminal 3 for help with correct zone purchases.
Welcome
Copenhagen Airport feels more like a scaled-down Scandinavian mall than a travel hub, offering a largely stress-free experience for passengers. A long, walkable concourse allows for efficient tight connections without inter-terminal shuttles, making it easy to step off an international flight and onto a metro or train downtown within minutes. Its strategic layout and proximity—8 km south of central Copenhagen—gives it a reputation for quick city access uncommon among airports its size.
At a glance
Handling 32.4 million passengers annually, Copenhagen Airport operates around three runways and two primary terminals: 2 and 3. It serves as a major hub for Scandinavian Airlines and Norwegian Air Shuttle. Situated just 8 km south of central Copenhagen, the airport connects travelers to both local and international destinations with ease.
Terminals & layout
Terminal 2 primarily hosts Scandinavian Airlines, Norwegian Air Shuttle, and easyJet flights, offering a variety of shopping options like Louis Vuitton and Boss. Terminal 3, shared by Scandinavian Airlines along with KLM and Lufthansa, features amenities such as the SAS Lounge and multiple dining options including Joe & The Juice. The notable design of the airport funnels most passenger traffic through a singular main concourse, simplifying navigation.
Getting to and from the city
For convenient and cost-effective travel into Copenhagen, the Metro M2 line and DSB regional trains provide a direct link underneath Terminal 3. Each of these services takes 12-20 minutes to reach central city areas and costs between $4-6. Alternatively, taxis are available for approximately $35-50 depending on traffic, while the Øresundståg provides access to Malmö in 20-25 minutes at a cost of $15-20. The airport is integrated into the city’s public transport system, making connections fast and affordable.
Traveller essentials
With parking options including P4 through P9 and dedicated motorcycle and electric vehicle spaces, travelers are covered. For families, facilities include modest play areas for children, although finding them can require a staff inquiry. For those needing to re-clear security, time your schedule to anticipate potential wait periods during peak waves, particularly for non-Schengen passport controls.
Dining & shopping highlights
The central shopping street offers diverse dining with highlights such as Carlsberg Bar in Terminal 2 for local beer and snacks, and more international choices like Burger King. Shoppers can indulge their taste for luxury at Hermes or peruse Danish brands such as Georg Jensen. Note that prices for meals and goods are notably higher airside than in the city or before security.
Lounges
Frequent travelers might head to the SAS Lounge in Terminal 3 or explore less crowded alternatives like the Aviator Lounge in Terminal 2, noted for its quiet atmosphere. For a fee of €30, access to the Eventyr Lounge can be purchased. The Regus Express Arrivals Lounge offers additional workspaces and shower facilities, completing the range of premium options.
Insider tips
- Insider: Skip overhead signs and follow the main airside corridor between Terminals 2 and 3 for quick gate-to-gate walking in 10-15 minutes.
- Money: Save by using 7-Eleven or supermarket-style landside shops in Terminal 3 for snacks before passing through security.
- Avoid: Overpaying at ticket machines for city transport. Use DOT or DSB offices in Terminal 3 for help with correct zone purchases.
- Time: Use metro or Øresundståg from Terminal 3 for fast and cheaper city transfer compared to taxis.
- Quiet: Head to the seating cluster near Pier A's far end for a calmer waiting area away from concourse crowds.
- Local: Enjoy a Danish beer at the Carlsberg Bar in Terminal 2, known for being less packed than nearby outlets.
- Quiet: Aviator Lounge in Terminal 2 is a hidden gem with reliable Wi-Fi and a peaceful atmosphere for Priority Pass holders.