With just a tiny stretch of water separating Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen, from the Swedish city of Malmö, these two Scandinavian countries are perfect for a long weekend of exploring by train.
We flew over to Denmark on a hot July weekend. Our route took us from Copenhagen to Stockholm and finally to Gothenburg. Here is our suggested itinerary for three days of exploring Denmark and Sweden by train, based on our journey.
This three-day itinerary for Denmark and Sweden includes:
- Copenhagen, Denmark’s stylish capital city
- Stockholm, the canal-rich capital of Sweden
- Gothenburg, on Sweden’s west coast
With two capital cities and one of Scandinavia’s most historic towns, these three stops are packed with great food, unforgettable sights and plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in Swedish and Danish culture. And the best thing? They are all easily accessible via the excellent railway network. Here’s our guide to travelling through Denmark and Sweden in 3 days by train.
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Whilst it is possible to drive between Denmark and Sweden, we decided to take the train. Not only does train travel produce far less carbon than taking a private car, it is also an excellent way to see the country. There is something special about watching the changing landscape from the train window as you speed towards your destination.
Several train companies operate across Denmark and Sweden.
- Denmark: Almost all of the railway routes in Denmark are operated by the state-owned Danske Statsbaner – DSB for short. The rail network is extensive, with most of the country accessible within a few hours of Copenhagen.
- Sweden: Unlike Denmark, Sweden’s railway network has a multitude of operators running services across the country. These include the state-owned SJ, Snälltåget and Inlandsbanan, among others.
The easiest way to check timetables that cover all the operators is via Google Maps or Rome2Rio.
To book tickets, most operators support online or in-app purchases. For example, we used the DSB app to buy our tickets from Copenhagen to Stockholm – a very straightforward process.
You can also buy tickets at the ticket offices, but be warned. Tickets for popular routes can often sell out – we highly recommend buying your tickets in advance.
Day One: Copenhagen
How to get to central Copenhagen from Copenhagen Airport by train
There are regular trains from Copenhagen Airport to Copenhagen Central Station.
To find the station when you arrive at the airport, follow the signs in the terminal. These should be easy to spot – if in doubt, ask a member of staff.
To buy tickets, we recommend downloading the DSB app. A single ticket from Copenhagen Airport to Copenhagen Central Station costs 30 Krone (£3.45).
The journey from Copenhagen Airport to Copenhagen Central Station can take as little as 13 minutes, although some trips take just over 20 minutes.
Exploring Copenhagen
Morning: Take a walking tour through central Copenhagen
If the weather is kind, we recommend exploring Copenhagen on foot. Check out our 2-hour walking route of Copenhagen for a flavour of what you can see. Highlights include:
- The iconic, multicoloured buildings at Nyhaven. Early morning is a perfect time to explore this famous district before the crowds descend in their thousands.
- The impressive Christianborg Palace. This imposing palace complex was historically a royal residence. Today, it is home to Denmark’s Parliament, Prime Minister’s Office and the Supreme Court.
- The National Museum, which charts the history of Denmark – including the infamous Vikings.
Afternoon: Explore more of Copenhagen’s best-loved sights
After lunch, continue discovering everything Copenhagen has to offer. Hop on the metro and head just outside the city centre, where a plethora of attractions await:
- Head to the fascinating Christiana community, a self-declared autonomous commune just across the harbour from Nyhaven. The famous hippie district, founded in 1971, is home to the baroque Church of Our Saviour. Climb its iconic, winding tower staircase for an unforgettable view over the rooftops of central Copenhagen.
- A 15-minute walk from Christiana, Amalienborg is the official home of the Danish royal family. Head to the courtyard for 12pm to watch the historic Changing of the Guard ceremony. If time and budget allow, the on-site museum helps bring the story of the palace and the Danish royal family to life.
- Copenhagen’s most famous statue, the Little Mermaid, stands on the waterfront near the Kastellet fortress. To get there, take the train or metro to Østerport station. From here, it’s a short 15-minute walk to the statue.
Evening: Sunset cruises and magical amusement parks
When evening arrives, there are two activities that will make your short stay in Copenhagen unforgettable:
- To see Copenhagen at its very best, take a sunset cruise along the city’s canals. Cruise companies include Hey Captain and Stromma.
- Finish your time in Copenhagen at Tivoli Gardens, the historic amusement park in the heart of the city. Tivoli comes to life after dark, when thousands of fairy lights illuminate the park and locals – families, couples and groups of friends alike – descend en masse.
- Top Tip: If you’ve come for the thrills, consider getting a ticket that allows you unlimited access to the rides. Otherwise, the standard entrance to Tivoli Gardens (without access to rides) costs 155 DKK (£17.85).
Where to eat in Copenhagen
From energising breakfasts to vegan treats, here are our suggestions for foodie spots in Copenhagen:
- Breakfast: The homebaked treats at Kaf Bar are a Copenhagen institution, with classics from cinnamon rolls to avocado toast. Occasionally, the owner’s adorable dog will join you for your meal. Alternatively, Social Brew offers a hearty menu of breakfast favourites, including pancakes, scrambled eggs and yoghurt.
- Lunch: Vegan favourite Vital Foods serves up a delightful range of meat-free sandwiches, burritos and pasta – all of which are perfect for a quick, healthy lunch in central Copenhagen. If the vegan scene isn’t your thing, the historic Husmanns Vinstue – open since 1888 – is a great choice for traditional Danish dishes.
- Dinner: Copenhagen is packed with fine-dining restaurants, many of which rank among the world’s best. The most famous of these is Noma, where a 20-course menu thrills visitors from across the globe. For an entirely different experience, head to one of One Bowl’s pay-what-you-can community dinners, which support their goal to tackle food insecurity, loneliness and social exclusion.
Where to stay in Copenhagen
From opulent stays in the heart of the action to budget-friendly rooms near the station, here are three options for a night in Copenhagen.
Best for luxury: Offering five-star glamour within the grounds of the iconic Tivoli Gardens, Nimb Hotel is a show-stopping option that is perfect for a special occasion. From the grand Moorish-style architecture to its stylish rooms, complete with four poster beds, every detail is designed to impress. Guests rave about the quality of service from the friendly staff, the indulgent food and the unbeatable views of the park. Oh, and they offer wedding packages – a venue that will live long in the memory. Double rooms from £391 a night.
Best for apartment-style living: The stylish Zoku is one of the best apart-hotels in Copenhagen, catering for everyone from tourists to digital nomads. Choose from one of the 160 ‘Lofts’, each of which has everything you need for a comfortable stay – including a kitchen and living space. For those looking to get involved in the community, Zoku offers ‘Social Spaces’ to meet other residents and relax with friends. From £139 a night.
Best for budget stays: Just a five-minute walk from Copenhagen Central Station, Annex provides no-frills accommodation for those travelling on a budget. We stayed here for one night and found it to be a perfect location for a late-night arrival into the city. The room, whilst simple, was ideal for a one-night stay. The shared bathrooms were generously-sized and spotlessly clean, whilst having a sink in the room was a nice bonus. Simple and unpretentious, Annex did the trick for us. Rooms from £69 a night.
Day Two: Copenhagen to Stockholm
How to get travel from Copenhagen to Stockholm by train
With dozens of services each day, it is easy to get from Copenhagen to Stockholm by train. Here’s how to do it.
Direct trains between Copenhagen and Stockholm
There are up to seven direct trains each day between Copenhagen and Stockholm. These direct trains are operated by SJ and take just over five hours. Prices for direct trains vary wildly depending on what time you travel and how far in advance you book.
The cheapest ticket we can find at the time of writing (July) costs 195 SEK (£14.55).
Routes between Copenhagen and Stockholm that change at Malmö
If you can’t catch the direct train, then don’t worry. There are dozens of indirect services between Copenhagen and Stockholm. These involve catching the DSB service from Copenhagen to Malmo – a 40-minute journey.
Once in Malmö, you can change to the regular service from Malmö to Stockholm. This is what we did and, despite a slight hiccup with a cancelled train, we made it to Stockholm on time. Our tickets were not cheap – we paid £94.50 each. However, all other services were already sold out, and we were booking less than two weeks in advance.
Top tip: Make sure to book your journey in full through DSB or SJ. This will come in very handy if your service to Malmö is late or cancelled, which is exactly what happened to us.
Our train from Copenhagen to Malmö was cancelled when were standing at the platform. We caught the next train and SJ held the service at Malmö to allow the passengers to catch their connecting service – very helpful.
Exploring Stockholm after you arrive by train
Once you arrive in Sweden’s historic capital city, there is an almost overwhelming choice of things to see and do. Here is our recommended itinerary for a day in Stockholm.
Morning: Wanders in Gamla Stan
Spend your morning exploring the cobbled streets of Gamla stan, the city’s historic Old Town. This is exactly what we did when we explored Stockholm on a sunny July weekend. There is a wealth of attractions to explore in Gamla stan, including:
- The sprawling Royal Palace, which stands on the edge of the Old Town and is the official residence of the King of Sweden. The palace, which has over 600 rooms, is open to the public throughout the year. Tickets cost 220 SEK (£16.50) for adults.
- Top Tip: You don’t need to pay to wander around the outside of the palace. Be sure to arrive by 12:15pm for the Changing of the Guard ceremony on weekdays, or 1:15pm on Sundays.
- The Nobel Prize Museum, which showcases the achievements of hundreds of Nobel Prize winners over the years. The museum is located in the Börshuset – the old Stockholm Stock Exchange Building – which stands on the picturesque Stortorget Square. Tickets for the Nobel Prize Museum in Stockholm cost 140 SEK (£10.50) for adults.
- The impossibly-tiny Mårten Trotzigs gränd, a narrow alley that connects Västerlånggatan with Prästgatan. With traditional lamps adorning the murky yellow walls and wooden shutters guarding the chest-height windows, a stroll down the alley is like taking a walk back in time. At its narrowest point, Mårten Trotzigs gränd is just 90 centimetres wide.
- Top Tip: To avoid the crowds, try to head to the alley early in the morning. Later in the day, you will likely find queues forming as people try to get the perfect picture.
Afternoon: Explore the islands and hop on a ferry
After lunch, it’s time to spread your wings and explore more of central Stockholm before hopping on one of the city’s many public ferries, which whisk locals and tourists to rugged beaches and quiet, forested islands.
- Check out some more of Stockholm’s museums on the island of Djurgården. These include the Vasa Museum, home to a remarkably well-preserved ship which sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. Alternatively, music lovers can make a beeline for the ABBA Museum, which is packed full of interactive features and exhibits telling the story of Sweden’s best-known pop export.
- Catch one of Stockholm’s ferries and experience public transport like the locals. With dozens of islands to discover across the Stockholm archipelago, a ferry trip can be a great way to spend a sunny afternoon. Head to Strömkajen, in front of the National Museum, where crowds of locals will wait patiently for their chosen ferry. Make sure you leave enough time to catch your return ferry. For the latest timetables, click here.
Evening: Sample Stockholm’s nightlife
Stockholm comes to life in the evening, with endless bars, restaurants and clubs to explore. Here are our recommendations to make the most of your night:
- Catch a show at one of Stockholm’s many music venues. The Arena Quarter is particularly great, with the purpose-built Avicii Arena just a stone’s throw from the Tele2 Arena, which hosts performers from Elton John to Madonna. Meanwhile, the 60,000-capacity Friends Arena boasts visits from the likes of Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran.
- For the best sunset views in Stockholm, head to Skinnarviksberget. This rocky outcrop on Södermalm island offers an unbeatable vista, with the Stockholm skyline stretched out beneath you. On a pleasant summer evening, locals flock here, creating a pleasant, laidback atmosphere.
- Sample Stockholm’s nightlife and one of the many excellent bars. For the city’s best cocktails, head to A Bar Called Gemma, which reserves 70% of their tables for walk-ins. Wine lovers will enjoy the laid-back atmosphere at Chewie’s Bar, whilst Ardeg Embassy is famous for its enormous selection of whiskeys.
Where to eat in Stockholm
- Breakfast: A short walk from Stockholm Central Station, Grain Café is a popular spot for healthy porridge bowls heaped with mouthwatering extras. For a vegan treat, head to Fern & Fika, where plant-based pancakes and fresh fruit smoothies will set you up for the day.
- Lunch: For a budget-friendly, traditional taste of Sweden in the heart of Gamla Stan, head to Strömmingsvagnen. This unassuming food truck serves a simple menu of fried fish with sides, including mashed potato and crispy bread. For a very different vibe, check out Gamla Stans Lykta, where you can sample Eastern European favourites like borscht, pelmeni and blini.
- Dinner: If you’re looking to splash out on a special dinner in Stockholm, Michelin-starred Adam/Albin is one of the city’s premier foodie experiences. With a fixed menu showcasing the best of Nordic cuisine, and a classic wine menu to complement the dishes, a reservation here is one of the hottest tickets in town. For those on a tighter budget, Middle Eastern specialists Falloumi offers casual dining and a menu packed with flavour.
Where to stay in Stockholm
From waterfront grandeur to a budget-friendly boat, here are three brilliant places to stay in Stockholm:
Best for five-star luxury: With a splendid location next to the National Museum, the Lydmar Hotel is one of Stockholm’s finest boutique hotels. Each room is individually designed, with comfort and relaxation placed at the heart of the guest experience. Perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, the Lydmar gets rave reviews from guests, who praise everything from the attentive staff to the top-quality food served at the on-site restaurant. A stay here is an indulgent treat – doubles start from £341 a night.
Best for railway journeys: An ideal place for anyone arriving late or departing early by train, Downtown Camper by Scandic is a four-star hotel located just a stone’s throw from Stockholm Central Station. As well as sleek, modern rooms, the hotel also boasts an on-site grill restaurant and rooftop bar. To help weary travellers unwind after a long journey, the hotel offers a number of wellness activities, including a rooftop pool and sauna. Rooms from £98 a night.
Best for a budget stay with a difference: Tried and tested! We stayed at the Rygerfjord Hotel & Hostel during our railway tour through Denmark and Sweden. Sure, this budget-friendly boat hotel may not offer a luxury experience – small cabins and shared bathrooms are the standard offering. However, what it lacks in finesse, Rygerfjord more than makes for with a stunning location across the harbour from Gamla Stan. Set an early alarm and head down to the private jetty, where – on a sunny morning – the skyline of Stockholm’s storied Old Town is perfectly reflected in the calm water. Doubles from £53 a night.
Day Three: Stockholm to Gothenburg
How to get from Stockholm to Gothenburg by train
There are regular trains from Stockholm to Gothenburg, with three different companies running services.
We caught the FlixTrain service from Stockholm to Gothenburg, which is the low-cost option. If you are on a budget, this may be a good choice. However, we recommend reading our review of the FlixTrain first – it wasn’t perfect. Tickets start from €19.90.
Other options for travelling by train between Stockholm and Gothenburg include:
- SJ Trains: Sweden’s main train company runs, on average, one train every hour between Stockholm and Gothenburg. Trains feature an onboard bistro and the opportunity to upgrade to first class.
- MTRX Trains: These trains run less frequently than the SJ Trains service – there are departures every 2-3 hours. However, they offer a similar standard of travel, and tickets are good value if you book far enough in advance. One-way tickets cost from 99 KR (£7.30)
Exploring Gothenburg
Morning: Explore the streets of central Gothenburg
When you arrive in Gothenburg, spend your first couple of hours exploring the streets of the city centre. Head towards the Inom Vallgraven district, and check out a few highlights along the way:
- Gustaf Adolfs Torg is a pleasant, cobbled square on the edge of the Stora HamnKanalen (Grand Harbour Canal). Flanked by picturesque, low-rise buildings, the square’s main feature is the bronze statue of King Gustavus Adolphus, the founding father of Gothenburg.
- The Gothenburg City Museum also stands on the edge of the Grand Harbour Canal, and charts the history of the region through the centuries. The museum also offers guided tours of Gothenburg’s historic sights, bringing the story of the city to life.
- Continue walking through Inom Vallgraven until you reach Trädgårdsföreningen (The Garden Society). On a sunny day, this historic park is a standout place to enjoy a stroll, boasting a well-stocked greenhouse packed with tropical plants, as well as sculptures and carefully tended rose gardens.
Afternoon: Museums and Amusements Parks in Gothenburg
If you still have time in Gothenburg before wrapping up your weekend, we suggest either checking out some more of the city’s excellent museums or seeking an adrenaline rush at the excellent amusement park.
- In central Gothenburg, the Museum of Art and Museum of Natural History are packed with plenty to fill an afternoon.
- A short journey from the city centre, Gothenburg’s Volvo Museum is the perfect stop for petrolheads, shining a light on one of the world’s most iconic car brands.
- If you’ve had your fill of museums during your weekend in Denmark and Sweden, we suggest finishing on an adrenaline high. Liseberg is Gothenburg’s city centre theme park, with an array of rollercoasters and rides that can be seen poking up above the city. Liseberg also plays host to seasonal events, such as Halloween experiences and Christmas Markets. Tickets from 95 Krona (£7) for basic entry to the park.
Evening: Enjoy a Gothenburg sunset
If you choose to extend your stay in Gothenburg, congratulations! You’ve made an excellent choice. We suggest celebrating toasting the rest of your trip whilst enjoying the sunset from Skansen Kronan, a historic fortress perched atop a hill.
The fortress enjoys unbeatable views over the city and is a favourite evening haunt among locals. Grab some snacks, and a drink and make the short hike up. Top tip: Don’t forget warm clothes – it can get chilly when the sun disappears.
Read next: Seven unmissable day trips from Rotterdam by train.
Where to eat in Gothenburg
- Breakfast: One of the most-loved breakfast spots in Gothenburg is Jimmy & Joans New York. As the name suggests, this is a US-inspired store, and it serves bagels worthy of a place in the heart of Manhattan.
- Lunch: Valentinas at Lilla Bommen is a stylish restaurant serving modern European cuisine to business diners and tourists alike. With a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere and a great selection of wines, this would make for an excellent final meal of your trip. It’s not cheap, but the food is worth splashing out for.
- Dinner: For those who are staying in Gothenburg for the evening, Restaurant 2112 is of the city’s most-loved eateries. Owned by members of the Swedish band In Flames, the restaurant leans into the rock and metal scene, with an electric atmosphere on a busy evening. Burgers and chips are the menu’s staple offering, washed down with an enticing selection of beers.
Finishing the train trip through Denmark and Sweden: your options
1: Stay a little longer in Gothenburg
If you choose to stay longer in Gothenburg, then there are plenty of hotels to choose from. Upper House offers top-tier stays and a luxurious spa, whilst Clarion Hotel The Pier’s economy rooms are excellent value. Budget travellers can check out Le Mat B&B, which offers twin rooms with shared bathrooms from £41 a night.
2: Fly out of Gothenburg airport
Gothenburg was the final stop on our 3-day trip through Denmark and Sweden by train.
We flew back to Manchester with Ryanair. Gothenburg airport is well-served, with dozens of daily flights to destinations across Europe – from Frankfurt to Rhodes.
How to get to Gothenburg Airport from the city centre
The best way to get to Gothenburg Airport from Gothenburg city centre is by bus. Here’s everything you need to know about catching the bus to the Airport:
- The bus leaves from the Nils Ericson Terminal: The bus to Gothenburg Landvetter Airport leaves from Gate 29 of the Nils Ericson Terminalen – the city’s main bus station. Gothenburg bus station is next door to the railway station, which is perfect for those who need to head to catch a flight straight away.
- 40-minute journey: The bus from Nils Ericson Terminal to Gothenburg Landvetter Airport takes about 40 minutes.
- 3 departures an hour: There are up to 3 departures every hour from Nils Ericson Terminal. For the latest timetable, check the flygbussarna website.
- Buy online or via the app: The best way to buy your tickets for the Gothenburg Airport bus is online or via the flygbussarna app. Buying your ticket online or via the app secures you a small discount compared to buying at the bus station.
- 119 Krona: A one-way adult ticket bought via the app or online costs 119 Krona (£8.78).
- Great buses: The buses are comfortable and clean, with USB charging points and adequate air conditioning.
If you want to continue your Scandiavia railway adventure, Gothenburg Central Station is well-connected. Local trains head to the locals of Jakobsberg and Kristinehamn, whilst long-distance trains can take you to Duved, Umeå or back to Stockholm. There are also direct trains to Oslo if you would like to add Norway to your itinerary.
Our last top tip: Finally, for those on a budget, we highly recommend frequent visits to the 7Eleven shops. They are everywhere, and their sandwiches, drinks and coffees are great value.