Private car transfer from Hamburg to Copenhagen

After departing Hamburg's well-organized streets, you immediately find yourself on Germany's famous autobahn. With no speed limit, you can cruise its smooth tarmac until you reach the border of Denmark.

Stunning coastal views then unfold on either side of you, showcasing the exposed cliffs of continental Europe. After crossing the Great Belt Bridge, softly flowing hills appear in the distance, and Denmark's characteristic light shades of greenery sprinkle themselves throughout the countryside. The gusty sea breeze will propel you to Denmark's largest island, home to quaint villages, golden shores, and, of course, the bustling metropolis of Copenhagen.

Before you can embark on this scenic and fun-filled adventure, you must learn to travel between the two cities. So sit back, buckle up, and get ready to uncover tips, tricks, and everything you need to know about traveling from Hamburg to Copenhagen in 2024!

Early Copenhagen

Copenhagen started as a small fishing village along Gammel Strand sometime during the 10th century. Unlike much of Europe, the Roman Empire never settled here, so it developed slower than other towns.

However, the Middle Ages brought much financial and cultural wealth to the region. Its position along exchange routes with the rest of Scandinavia allowed it to thrive, with merchants meeting at this point to trade and take breaks on their way through Europe. As a result, the city gained enough funds to build an encircling stone wall to protect itself from invading armies.

Developing Copenhagen

The Renaissance kicked off the city's upward trajectory as King Christian IV introduced modern urban planning and ordered the creation of beautiful buildings. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the city saw its most significant growth.

Copenhagen was the gatekeeper between Scandinavia and Continental Europe. So, it could once again grow as a trading port when boats became the primary long-distance mode of transport. Since it was neutral during the Napoleonic Wars and World War II, the city received little to no damage to its historical buildings.

Modern Copenhagen

Today, Copenhagen is a modern, sleek, and sophisticated city. World-renowned designer brands such as Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton line Strøget Street, one of Europe's longest shopping lanes. Even Nyhavn’s iconic fairy tale setting is clean and precise, and the well-kept building houses various stylish restaurants.

Although the city warmly welcomes visitors, its main focus is on the locals. Experts constantly rate Copenhagen as one of the best places to live. Its public transportation system is flawless, so don't be surprised to see bikes causing traffic jams when you visit!

• Language: Danish
• Currency: Danish Krone (DKK)
• Climate: Temperate
• Time zone: GMT+1
• Plug types: C, E, F, and K
• Peak tourist season: June–August, December

Explore the rest of Denmark.

Denmark is a spectacular nation with historical monuments and stunning natural beauty. However, Copenhagen often casts a shadow over the rest of the country.

If you plan sightseeing before you set off, you can enjoy wonderful attractions like Lubeck and Ahrensburg Castle. Or you can stretch your legs and rest at a cafe in the pretty city of Odense.

Book your reservation in advance

Due to the robust transportation system from Hamburg to Copenhagen, you can purchase your ticket on the day of travel. However, Denmark is one of the most expensive European nations. So you could break the bank if you wait until 30 days before your departure to book your tickets!

Pack the essentials

Firstly, packing a light bag is essential. The last thing you want is to drag a heavy pack through public transport and a historic city, especially in the summer.

Your separate sack should contain drinks, snacks, and essential documents as you'll be moving outside the European Union. Although you can still travel over the border without a passport, there are random checks, and you'll need identification.

Flights from Hamburg to Copenhagen

A flight is the fastest mode of transportation when traveling from Hamburg. The airline distance between the two cities is only 173 miles, and it doesn't need to weave along Denmark's irregular peninsula, so the flight time is about 1 hour. Add 3 hours for getting to and from the airport, check-in, security, and getting your luggage, and you're still ahead.

However, flights are also the most expensive way to travel. Scandinavian Airlines is the only company operating on this route, where you can expect to pay around €200 one way. You must also factor in the cost of taxis to and from the airport.

• Cheapest/average price: €101-€200
• Average duration: 1 hour and 5 minutes
• First/last departure: 8:00 AM–5:40 PM

Bus from Hamburg to Copenhagen

The bus is a cheap way to travel from Hamburg to Copenhagen. Budget-friendly bus provider Flixbus operates up to 10 daily services on this route. But you still should book a reservation more than a month before you depart for the best deals.

One thing to be aware of is that buses leave from Bus Port Hamburg. If you're traveling late at night or early in the morning, you might need to order a taxi, as it's not in the city center.

• Cheapest/average price: €25-€36
• Fastest/average duration: 5 hours, 35 minutes; 6 hours, 35 minutes
• First/last departure: 12:30 AM-6:30 PM

Train from Hamburg to Copenhagen

The train is the most popular way for local and international visitors to travel from Hamburg to Copenhagen. It's also one of the most scenic routes, with Deutsche Bahn cutting through the remote wilderness of Denmark's heartland.

A direct train is the quickest method and doesn't cost much more than the bus. You can also opt for indirect services to explore en route. And if you're traveling in the evening, you can catch a night service with Snälltåget to Ørestad Station.

• Cheapest/average price: €29-€45
• Fastest average duration: 4 hours, 36 minutes; 5 hours, 32 minutes
• First/last departure: 12:57 AM–11:24 PM

Daytrip private car service from Hamburg to Copenhagen

If you're searching for the easiest and most comfortable way to travel from Hamburg to Copenhagen, look no further than Daytrip's door-to-door private car service. For 4 hours and 40 minutes, you'll cruise in a comfortable vehicle with front-row views of the gorgeous Danish countryside. But not before your professional driver collects you directly at your hotel and loads any luggage you have with you.

We believe it's about the journey and not the destination. That's why we allow you to explore uncharted territories for many tourists. Get off the tourist map and explore the Viking city of Roskilde or Flensburg, the most charming town you'll come across on your northern European venture!

• Seats from: €187
• English-speaking driver
• Flexible schedule
• Equipped for children and those with limited mobility
• 24/7 customer service
• Free cancellation 24 hours before departure!

Walk along Nyhavn

Nyhavn, a picturesque waterfront district, is synonymous with Copenhagen's postcard imagery. Colorful 17th-century townhouses line the canal, creating a scenic backdrop for cafes, bars, and restaurants.

You can stroll along the quay or soak in the lively atmosphere while enjoying Danish delicacies. But one thing you can't afford to miss is joining a canal tour and visiting the famous Little Mermaid statue!

Get lost in Tivoli Gardens

Tivoli Gardens is like a mini Disneyland in the heart of Copenhagen. From thrilling roller coasters to the festive spirit, the setting will bring out your inner child. If you're traveling as a family, this should be your first stop in town!

The amusement park dates back to the 19th century. But today, you'll discover lively concerts in the summer and a magical Christmas market from late November to early January.

Visit Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle is an attraction for history buffs. But if you're not one, you will be after touring this fascinating landmark.

You'll first notice that the fortification has a unique design, differing from the rest of Europe. Christian IV originally built the structure as a summer retreat. He adored the setting so much that he requested to be laid to rest here in his bedroom.

You'll uncover all this and more with guided tours and historical artifacts depicting life under royalty during this period.

Wander Christiania

Christiania is a complete contrast to Copenhagen's crisp streets. Although it's a neighborhood within the city, it feels like a micronation.

It began as a social experience in the 1970s when hippies squatted in the abandoned military barracks and created their own liberal, self-sustaining, tax-free society paradise. It worked until 1994, but today, you can still appreciate the quirky architecture and carefree spirit while browsing bohemian stores.

Note that this is their way of life and not a show for tourists, so please respect the locals. Also, there are countless stories of tourists purchasing marijuana here. But it's still illegal here and in the rest of Denmark.

Spring is considered the best time to travel. From the end of March to June, the average daily high temperature is 71° Fahrenheit, allowing you to spend time outdoors and sample the local cuisine outside on the cobbled streets.

But the best reason to visit is the lower prices. Copenhagen consistently ranks among the top five most expensive European cities for tourists. From March to June and September through November, hotels, restaurants, transportation companies, and even tours offer significantly lower prices. The more you save, the more you can put towards your next adventure!