Copenhagen train station (Copenhagen Central)

Copenhagen train station or rather Copenhagen Central Station, is the main railway station in Copenhagen and the largest railway station in Denmark. It serves commuter, regional, long-distance and international trains. More than 100 000 passengers travel through the railway station every day. It is a through station. Copenhagen is well-connected with the rest of the country. Long-distance trains run from Copenhagen to Aarhus, Aalborg, Esbjerg and Stockholm (Sweden) or Hamburg (Germany).

The first station building was officially opened on 26 June 1847 along with the railway line Copenhagen – Roskilde. The first station was located approximately at the site of the current station – station building was wooden and was built outside the city’s fortifications in no-build zone. The station building was demolished in 1865 due to plans to expand the railway network in Denmark – it was too small for ambitious plans.

The construction of the new station started in 1863 and the station was opened on 14 October 1864. By the end of the 19st century the station became too cramped.

The third and current railway station designed by Danish architect Heinrich Wenck was opened on 30 November 1911 by Crown Prince Christian. The station was renovated in 2008 and between 2004-2008.

Copenhagen train station is located in the city centre, within walking distance to most of the tourist attractions. Tivoli Gardens lies front of the station.

Metro stop is situated at the station. Metro lines no 3 and 4 stop here. There are many bus stops next to the station. Public transport in Copenhagen is divided into close to 100 ticket fare zones. The Central station is located in fare zone 1. The cheapest single ticket always is valid in two zones, a single ticket bought at the station is valid within the entire city centre and its inner boroughs. A ticket to Copenhagen Airport Kastrup, however, demands the payment for three zones since it is located in zone 4.

There are many shops and hotels close to the station.

Copenhagen Central station has seven platforms and 13 tracks. The station has an imposing concourse. Access to the platforms via steep stairs, but the station is equipped with lifts and escalators.

Copenhagen train station
Copenhagen Central station – main hall (Photo: Dariusz Sieczkowski/Trenopedia)

Copenhagen train station – facilities

– waiting room
– ticket offices
– ticket vending machines
– toilet (very neglected)
– DSB 1′ Lounge
– luggage lockers
– many shops and bistros
– currency exchange (high commision)
– post office
– bicycle parking
– Lost & Found

Waiting room is not available between 02.15 and 04.30 (cleaning), except nights after Friday and Saturday.

Address: Banegårdspladsen 7, 1570 København V

Copenhagen train station – useful websites

DSB – journey planner and online shop
Train travel in Denmark – a comprehensive guide
Narrow-gauge railways in Denmark
Heritage railways in Denmark
Trains between Denmark and Germany – a comprehensive guide

Railway station in Copenhagen
Platform at Copenhagen train station (Photo: Dariusz Sieczkowski/Trenopedia)