Taking the train over the Øresund Bridge from Copenhagen to Malmö

The Øresund Bridge: The iconic landmark

The Øresund Bridge is much more than just a physical connection between Denmark and Sweden. Completed in 2000, this stunning bridge has become a symbol of cooperation and unity between the two nations. It has also gained international fame, notably through the popular 2011 TV noir series The Bridge.

View from train window on the Øresund Line

DIY day trip to Malmö via the Øresund Line

Malmö, Sweden, is easily accessible from Copenhagen, Denmark, thanks to the Øresund Line (known in Swedish as Öresundsbanan and Øresundbanen in Danish).

How Long is the Train Ride?

Copenhagen Central Station (København H)

Trains depart from Copenhagen Central Station (København H) every 20 minutes, 24/7. The train journey takes just 35 to 40 minutes, providing a quick and scenic route across the Øresund Strait. The carriages have toilets, including accessible restrooms in the middle car, and also offer features like free Wi-Fi and power outlets

How Much Does It Cost?

Ticket prices for the Copenhagen-Malmö train vary depending on factors such as the type of train, class of travel, and whether you book in advance or opt for a last-minute ticket. In 2025, they range from $18-$20 USD (or 130-140 DKK), but can be found for as low as $8 USD (€7) if booked in advance. While it's not necessary to purchase tickets in advance, it's recommended to arrive at the station a little early to buy your ticket before boarding.

Passport Requirements

When traveling from Denmark to Sweden, passengers must have a valid passport or a driver's license issued by a Nordic country. Make sure to have your ID ready for the journey.

Øresund Bridge facts: A marvel of modern engineering

  • Since its opening in 2000, over 150 million vehicles have crossed the Øresund Bridge (excluding trains) through to 2024. This impressive structure spans a total of 15.9 kilometers (9.9 miles) and consists of an 8-kilometer bridge, a 4-kilometer tunnel, and a 4-kilometer artificial island.

  • In 2025, the Øresund Bridge will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a series of exciting events, including a fun run, a light show, talks, and other celebrations throughout the year.

  • In 2023, an average of 47,000 passenger trains crossed the Øresund Bridge every day, with approximately 140 trains per day, or 3 trains per hour in each direction.

Malmö tips

Upon arrival at Malmö Central Station, you're just a short walk away from the city's charm. Most shops and cafes are open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays, with shorter hours on Saturdays. Most stores are closed on Sundays and public holidays.

There are plenty of things to see and do on a day trip to Malmö including exploring the Old Town, visiting Malmö Castle and taking time to see the beautiful Malmö City Library.

Non-Violence aka The Knotted Gun.

Non-Violence Sculpture in Malmö

Near Central Station is the Non-Violence sculpture, also known as The Knotted Gun. This bronze sculpture by Swedish artist Carl Fredrik Reuterswärd features an oversized Colt Python 357 Magnum revolver with its barrel tied in a knot. The original was erected at the UN headquarters in New York in 1984, in honor John Lennon's vision of a peaceful world. There are currently over 30 copies of this sculpture around the world, including one in Malmö. The Malmö version was installed in 1992 at Bagers Plats.

Sources

https://www.oresundsbron.com/about-oresundsbron/statistik-och-rapporter/traffic-statistics

https://www.oresundsbron.com/about-oresundsbron/the-oresund-region/anniversary

https://www.visitcopenhagen.com/copenhagen/planning/copenhagen-central-station-gdk497959

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