Copenhagen to Aarhus by train

Direct InterCityLyn trains take about 2 hours 45 minutes from København H to Aarhus H, and DSB runs more than 30 departures a day.

InterCityLyn or InterCity

For most trips, take the InterCityLyn. In the 2026 timetable it leaves København H once an hour through the day and runs direct to Aarhus H, calling at Odense, Fredericia, Vejle, Horsens and Skanderborg.

An InterCity also runs about once an hour, and in the same timetable it leaves København H a couple of minutes before the InterCityLyn. It stops at more places, including Roskilde, Slagelse and Nyborg, and takes a little over 3 hours. On many InterCity departures you also change trains at Fredericia, which is worth avoiding with heavy bags.

Both train types have Standard seating and DSB 1', the first-class section.

Boarding at Copenhagen Airport

InterCityLyn trains start at CPH Lufthavn, the station at Copenhagen Airport, before calling at København H. If you land and head straight for Aarhus, board at the airport. There is no need to go into the city first.

Fares and seat reservations

DSB runs every train on this route, and its DSB Orange fares start from DKK 119. They go on sale about two months before the travel date, are valid only on the departure you pick, and cannot be changed or refunded. Numbers are limited, and quieter trains outside rush hour have the most.

A Standard ticket costs more, but you can take any train on your travel day. Orange Fri sits in between: cheaper than Standard, and refundable up to 30 minutes before departure. On a Standard ticket, an adult can bring up to two children under 12 free.

Seat reservations are optional and cost DKK 30, however far you travel. DSB recommends one on InterCity and InterCityLyn trains because seats can run short, and it is how a group makes sure of sitting together. A reservation bought with an Orange ticket cannot be refunded either.

Track works in autumn 2026

Banedanmark is rebuilding Aarhus H, and trains to and from the station run with timetable changes until December 2026. Track renewal on Zealand also moves some InterCity times. From 10 to 16 October 2026, InterCity trains run at altered times between København H and Ringsted, and some do not stop at Sorø. From 19 October to 6 November 2026, some InterCity trains towards Jutland leave København H up to 5 minutes earlier than usual. Look up your exact train in the DSB app the day before you travel.