Copenhagen to Stockholm by train

Traveling from Copenhagen to Stockholm by train is a convenient and comfortable option. Covering 523 km (325 miles), the journey takes about 5-7 hours on direct trains, with ticket prices starting at $106. Here’s what you need to know:

• Train Options: Choose between SJ high-speed trains, Snälltåget night trains, or Öresundståg connections via Malmö.
• Ticket Classes:
  • 2nd Class: Basic seating with free WiFi.
  • 1st Class: Extra comfort, refreshments, and more space.
  • Night Trains: Options include shared couchettes ($49.90) or private sleepers ($87.90+).
• Booking Tips: Buy tickets early to save money, especially during peak travel seasons. Use official websites, apps, or station counters.
• Amenities: Air conditioning, free WiFi, and bistro cars are standard on most trains.

Quick Comparison

Pro Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early for ID checks, and check seat reservation requirements to avoid surprises. For more details, explore ticket options, routes, and booking tips in the full guide.

Train Ticket Classes

2nd Class Tickets

Second class offers comfortable seating and basic amenities for an enjoyable ride. On Snabbtåg services, 2nd class seats come with sturdy wooden armrests and free WiFi ^[2].

1st Class Tickets

First class provides extra space and comfort with a "2+1" seating layout. Passengers can relax with upholstered armrests, complimentary refreshments (like tea, coffee, water, pastries, and fruits), and free WiFi.

Night Train Options

For overnight travel, SJ EuroNight and Snälltåget offer a variety of sleeping arrangements. Here’s a quick breakdown of the options and starting prices (in US dollars):

Booking early is recommended, especially during busy travel seasons ^[4].

Starting June 2024, SJ added a bistro car to its Malmö–Stockholm night service. It features a self-service food area and a social seating space. Alcoholic beverages are available, adhering to Swedish regulations ^[4].

Snälltåget’s night trains focus on eco-friendly travel, powered by renewable energy sources like water, wind, and solar ^[3]. Their "Krogen" restaurant coach operates between Malmö and Stockholm, while "Lönnkrogen" serves the Berlin–Malmö route.

These options provide flexibility and comfort, setting the stage for a closer look at each operator’s unique offerings below.

Swedens excellent X2000 High Speed

Train Companies

Here’s an overview of the train companies operating on this route and what they offer.

SJ Trains

SJ operates high-speed X2000 trains that can reach up to 124 mph. These trains feature spacious seating, air conditioning, free WiFi, and a self-service bistro car for snacks and drinks ^{[1] [2]}. Pets are welcome in specific 2nd class areas, and bicycles can be brought along if they’re disassembled and packed in an approved bike bag ^[5].

Snälltåget Services

Snälltåget specializes in overnight travel between Copenhagen and Stockholm. Their trains include dining options, a variety of sleeping arrangements, and dedicated luggage storage.

Öresundståg Connections

Öresundståg provides regional service across the Öresund Bridge, connecting Copenhagen and Malmö. From Malmö, travelers can easily transfer to SJ or Snälltåget trains for the rest of their journey.

How to Buy Tickets

Here’s a breakdown of your options for purchasing train tickets.

Train Company Websites

You can book tickets directly through the following official websites:

• SJ: High-speed train tickets are available at https://www.sj.se/ ^[6].
• Snälltåget: Night train tickets can be purchased at https://www.snalltaget.se/ ^[7].
• Öresundståg: Regional train tickets are sold at https://www.oresundstag.se/ ^[8].

Phone Apps

For Öresundståg tickets, use regional apps like Blekingetrafiken, Hallandstrafiken, Kalmar Länstrafik, Länstrafiken Kronoberg, Skånetrafiken, and Västtrafik ^[9]. Make sure to activate your ticket before departure.

Train Station Ticket Offices

Ticket availability depends on your location:

• Copenhagen:
  • Find ticket machines and staffed counters at Copenhagen Central Station.
  • Self-service machines are also located at Copenhagen Airport (Kastrup).
• Stockholm:
  • Stockholm Central Station has self-service machines and station hosts for assistance.
  • The SL Center, on the lower level of the station, sells public transport tickets.
  • The Tour & Tickets counter offers MTRX train tickets.

Important: Öresundståg tickets must be purchased before boarding, as onboard sales are not available. These tickets are sold at major stations.

Summary Table

Here’s a quick overview of the purchasing methods, availability, and payment options:

Prices and Discounts

Current Ticket Prices

Ticket prices vary based on booking time and travel class. One-way fares begin at $106, with alternative routes priced at $119 and $135 ^[1]. Seat reservations, which are required, add an extra $5–$20. Keep in mind that non-rebookable tickets are limited in availability.

Here’s a breakdown of total costs, including seat reservation fees:

Now, let’s look at how you can save on these fares.

Ways to Save Money

Here are some tips to help cut your travel costs:

• Book Early: Purchase tickets up to three months in advance to snag the lowest non-rebookable fares.
• Family Perks: Kids aged 14 and under travel for free when accompanied by an adult (15 or older).
• Rail Pass Benefits: Rail passes can significantly lower costs for frequent travelers. For example:
  • Get 20–50% off Tallink-Silja Line ferry tickets (cabins A, B, or C) with a rail pass.
  • Rail passes covering Sweden also include direct train routes to Oslo.
• Seasonal Deals: Look out for Sparpreis Europa fares, which offer discounts on international routes. While these are primarily for German routes, they can also reduce costs for trips through Denmark and Sweden.

Using these strategies can help you reduce the total costs listed above.

Train Routes and Times

Non-Stop Trains

Direct trains operate only twice a day. Be sure to check schedules, especially during busy travel periods.

Routes with Changes

Connecting trains can shorten your travel time, with trips taking anywhere from 5 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours 12 minutes.

The table highlights the available options. The quickest journey is the 12:07 PM Öresundståg, which takes 5 hours and 30 minutes with one transfer. For early risers, the 04:07 AM SJ Train is another fast choice. If you prefer a late-night departure, the 10:47 PM Öresundståg offers more flexibility, though it takes longer.

Extra Costs and Rules

When traveling on the Copenhagen–Stockholm route, there are additional fees and policies to keep in mind that could impact your overall cost.

Seat Booking Fees

Some train services on this route require seat reservations. Here’s a breakdown of the reservation fees by operator:

Make sure to account for these fees when planning your trip.

Ticket Changes and Refunds

If you book your ticket through Snälltåget’s website, rebooking is possible for an extra fee. However, tickets are personal and cannot be transferred to someone else, and name changes are not allowed. For refundable tickets, you’ll need to pay an additional fee at the time of purchase. If your Snälltåget train is delayed by more than 60 minutes upon arrival, you can cancel before departure and request a refund – even for tickets initially marked as non-refundable. To do so, contact Snälltåget with your booking number ^[10].

Other Charges

Here are some additional fees to consider:

• Customer Service Booking Fee: $8.70 (100 SEK) for bookings made through Snälltåget’s customer service when online booking is an option ^[10].
• Bicycle Transport: $17.30 (199 SEK) per direction on mountain trains during summer and autumn ^[10].
• Interrail Pass Holders: A supplementary fee applies for using Snälltåget services ^[10].

These extra costs can add up, so plan accordingly to avoid surprises.

Using Interrail Passes

Interrail passes cover the full fare for the Copenhagen–Stockholm route on both SJ and Snälltåget trains. However, seat reservations are mandatory for most high-speed and all night trains.

Pass Coverage and Reservations

Your Interrail pass includes the base fare, but you’ll need to pay extra for seat reservations. Here’s a breakdown of the reservation fees:

Make sure to book your seat as soon as possible to avoid missing out, especially during busy travel periods.

Booking Your Reservations

You can book reservations through the Interrail Reservation Service. Fees vary depending on the method:

• Self-service: $2.20 per person, per train
• Paper processing: $9.80 per order

Cost Overview

Interrail passes provide flexibility for your travels. Here are the current prices:

• Interrail Denmark Pass: $129.50 (≈ €119)
• Global Pass: $231 (≈ €212)

These options are ideal if you plan to explore Europe beyond this route.

Important Travel Tips

When traveling from Copenhagen Central Station, head to platform 26 for trains bound for Sweden. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for ID checks.

Extra Perks for Pass Holders

Interrail pass holders can also enjoy up to 20% off ferry crossings in Norway, adding even more value to your travel plans.

This information should help you navigate reservations, costs, and logistics for your journey.

Quick Guide Summary

Here’s a streamlined overview of what you need to know for your train trip from Copenhagen to Stockholm:

Journey Details

• Distance: 523 km (325 miles)
• Average Travel Time: Around 7 hours
• Daily Departures: Up to 2 trains
• Prices Starting At: $106

Main Train Services

Key Travel Tips

• Book tickets early for the best prices.
• Trains come equipped with WiFi and comfortable seating.
• The main operators are SJ Trains and Öresundståg.
• Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure and have your ID ready.

For more details on ticket options, routes, and booking, check the sections above.

Related Blog Posts

• Trains to Stockholm
• Trains to Copenhagen
• Copenhagen to Gothenburg by train
• Oslo to Stockholm by train