Denmark has a modern and efficient transportation system that makes it easy to get around – both in the cities and across the country.
Whether you travel by train, bus, metro, or ferry, you can easily plan your trip online, buy tickets digitally, and arrive safely.
Here you get a comprehensive guide to public transportation in Denmark, everything you need to know about tickets, zones, travel cards, discounts, and travel tips.
Public transportation in Denmark – overview
Denmark is a small country with short distances, so you can easily travel between cities, islands, and regions in a few hours.
Most modes of transportation are well connected, and you can often use a ticket or app until the whole journey
The most important types of transportation:
- Tog: Operated by DSB, Arriva, and Local Train
- Busser: Regionally operated through traffic companies such as Movia, Midttrafik, and Sydtrafik
- Subway: In Copenhagen, it runs around the clock
- Light rail: Available in Aarhus and Odense
- Ferries: Connects the islands and sails several times daily
Tog in Denmark
DSB (Danish State Railways) the country's largest train company and connects all major cities – e.g., Copenhagen, Odense, Aarhus, Aalborg, and Esbjerg.
The trains are modern, punctual, and comfortable, and free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and quiet zones are offered.
Train tickets
- Buy tickets in DSB app, on Rejseplanen.dk or at the machines at the station.
- You don't need a paper ticket – one digital ticket on the mobile It's enough.
- There is Orange tickets Discount for early booking.
- You can also use Rejsekortif you travel multiple times during your stay.
Metro in Copenhagen
Copenhagen's subway drives 24/7 - all week, year-round.
There are four lines (M1–M4), and the train typically arrives every 2–4 minutes.
The metro connects among other things Copenhagen Airport, Nørreport, King's New Square og Frederiksberg.
You can use:
- Rejsekort
- DOT Ticket app
- Credit card in ticket machine
All metro stations are undirected, and you shall Even check-in before the journey
Trams in Aarhus and Odense
Denmark has two tram lines:
- Aarhus Light Rail connects the city center with the suburbs and surrounding areas.
- Odense Light Rail driving through the city from Tarup to Rosengårdcentret
Tickets can be purchased in apps, machines, or with a Rejsekort – the same system as buses and trains.
Busser in Denmark
Busser covers almost the entire country – from small villages to big cities.
They are operated by regional traffic companies, so prices and zones may vary, but everything can be found via Rejseplanen.dk or DOT app.
Types of buses
- Busker Inside the cities (e.g., Movia in Copenhagen, Midttrafik in Aarhus).
- Regional buses Drives between towns and rural areas.
- X-busser: Fast bus routes between regions.
The busboys accept both Rejsekort, billet-apps og contactless card payment.
Rejsekort – one card for all of Denmark
Rejsekort the Danish National Electronic Travel Card
You check in when you start the trip, and check out when you arrive – the price is calculated automatically.
You can use Rejsekort in:
- Tog (DSB, Arriva, Local Train)
- Metro and light rail
- Most buses
The card can be purchased and recharged at stations, in 7-Eleven, and online.
There is also Rejsekort Anonymously, which can be used by tourists without a CPR number.
Ferries and island hopping
Denmark has over 400 islands – and many are connected by ferries.
Popular routes include:
- Zealand – Bornholm (via Ystad or Køge)
- Fyn – Ærø
- Lolland – Langeland
- Aalborg – Hals
Ferries can be booked online, and many offer tickets directly in the app or at the kiosk.
Some ferries are free for pedestrians and cyclistsespecially during the summer period.
Ticket apps and travel planning
The easiest way to plan your trip is through The Journey Planner - both as a website and an app.
Here you go:
- Set departure and arrival
- A combination of train, bus, and metro
- Buy ticket directly in the app
- If delays in real time
Other useful apps:
- DOT Tickets (East and South Zealand)
- DSB App (national train)
- Rejsekort app (balance and trips)
Discounts and children
- Children under 12 years old Travel for free with an adult on DSB and Metro.
- Students and pensioners Can get a discount with documentation.
- Bicycles Can be taken for a smaller fee on train and metro.
Practical tips
- Always check that you checking out With Rejsekort – otherwise the maximum price is charged.
- Arrive early – trains and metro run on time.
- During rush hours (7–9 AM and 3–5 PM), it can be difficult to find a seat.
- Ticket control reminder: missing ticket results in a fine of approximately 750 DKK.