Wondering how to get to Malmö? Sweden’s third largest city is easy to reach from Copenhagen, other Swedish cities and several international destinations. The quickest route for many visitors is the train from Copenhagen Airport across the Öresund Bridge, but buses, cars and flights to Malmö Airport can also be useful depending on where your journey begins.
How to get to Malmö from Copenhagen Airport
For most international visitors, Copenhagen Airport is the most convenient arrival point for Malmö. The airport is in Denmark, but it is only around 30 kilometres from central Malmö and has frequent direct trains to Malmö throughout the day.
Taking the train from Copenhagen Airport
Follow the signs for the railway station in Terminal 3. Trains depart from the airport station and cross the Öresund Bridge before arriving at Malmö Centralstation. The journey usually takes about 20 minutes, although the exact travel time can vary slightly according to the service and any border or operational checks.
- Buy your ticket before boarding from the ticket machines or official transport operators.
- Choose Malmö Centralstation if you are staying in the city centre.
- Keep your passport or national identity card available, as checks can occasionally take place at the border.
- Allow extra time if you are travelling with large luggage, children or a connecting flight.
Depending on the ticket and operator, you may be able to use Danish kroner or a card at the airport, while Swedish public transport tickets are generally purchased in Swedish kronor. Check the current fare, ticket conditions and departure platform before travelling. Direct trains are usually the simplest form of transport to Malmö from the airport.
From Copenhagen city centre to Malmö
If you are already in Copenhagen, trains to Malmö leave regularly from Copenhagen Central Station. The trip normally takes around 35 to 45 minutes. Some services also stop at Copenhagen Airport before continuing into Sweden.
You can usually buy a ticket at Copenhagen Central Station, through the relevant transport app or from an official ticket machine. Do not rely on a standard Copenhagen city transport ticket for the entire journey, because Malmö is in Sweden and requires an international ticket. Malmö Centralstation is within walking distance of Gamla Väster, the Old Town, Malmöhus Castle and many hotels.
How to get to Malmö from other Swedish cities
Malmö has excellent rail connections with southern Sweden and good long distance services from Stockholm and Gothenburg. Train travel is often the most comfortable option because you arrive close to the centre rather than at an out of town airport.
Stockholm to Malmö
High speed trains operated by SJ connect Stockholm Centralstation with Malmö Centralstation. The journey commonly takes between four and a half and five hours, depending on the service. This is a practical option if you are visiting several Swedish cities and want to avoid the time spent travelling to and from airports.
Book early when possible, especially for summer weekends, public holidays and Christmas travel. The cheapest fares are often limited and may have stricter change or refund rules. A reserved seat is normally included with long distance train tickets. Bring a charger, water and something to eat for the journey, although some services have a café or trolley service.
Gothenburg to Malmö
Trains from Gothenburg to Malmö generally take about two and a half to three hours. Some journeys require a change, while other services may run directly depending on the timetable. Check the route carefully when booking, especially if you have a short connection or heavy luggage.
Travelling by train is usually easier than flying between Gothenburg and Malmö. Both stations are centrally located, and the train avoids airport transfers and security queues.
Helsingborg, Lund and other destinations in Skåne
Malmö is part of the Skånetrafiken regional transport network. Local and regional Pågatåg trains connect the city with Lund, Helsingborg, Ystad, Trelleborg, Kristianstad and other destinations in Skåne.
- Lund to Malmö usually takes around 15 minutes by regional train.
- Helsingborg to Malmö generally takes about 40 to 60 minutes.
- Ystad to Malmö commonly takes around one hour.
- Trelleborg to Malmö usually takes less than one hour.
These journey times are approximate and depend on the route and number of stops. Use the Skånetrafiken app or website to check departures, fares, service updates and the best ticket for your trip.
Flying to Malmö Airport
Malmö Airport, also called Malmö Airport or MMX, is located near the town of Svedala, approximately 30 kilometres southeast of Malmö. It handles selected domestic and international flights, but it has fewer connections than Copenhagen Airport. Before booking, compare both airports because Copenhagen often offers more frequent flights and better onward connections.
Airport buses from Malmö Airport
Airport coaches operated by Flygbussarna usually connect Malmö Airport with Malmö city centre. The journey to Malmö Centralstation often takes around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic. The bus may also serve other stops in Malmö, so check the route before choosing where to get off.
Tickets can normally be purchased online, through the operator’s app or at the airport. Buying in advance can make your arrival easier, although you should check the ticket’s validity if your flight is delayed. At Malmö Airport, follow the signs from the arrivals area to the coach stop outside the terminal.
Taxi and car hire from Malmö Airport
A taxi from Malmö Airport is faster than the bus when traffic is light, but it costs considerably more. Use a licensed taxi company and confirm the price or pricing structure before departure. Sweden has no single nationwide taxi fare, so companies can set different prices.
Car hire is useful if you plan to explore Skåne, visit coastal towns or travel through rural areas. It is usually unnecessary if you are staying in central Malmö, where public transport, walking and cycling are convenient. Check the rental company’s rules before taking a car across the border into Denmark.
Driving to Malmö
Driving can be a good choice for families, groups and travellers carrying sports equipment. Malmö is connected to Denmark by the Öresund Bridge and to the rest of Sweden by major roads including the E6, E20 and E22.
Driving from Copenhagen
The drive from central Copenhagen to Malmö usually takes around 45 minutes to one hour, depending on traffic, your starting point and the time needed at the bridge toll station. The route crosses the Öresund Bridge, which has a toll. Prices vary according to vehicle type, payment method and any discount agreement, so check the current price on the official bridge website before you travel.
The bridge accepts several payment methods, but drivers should confirm the current arrangements before setting off. A rental car may have a different toll process, and the rental company may add an administration fee. Keep your passport or identity document with you because border checks can be introduced or carried out at short notice.
Driving from Stockholm or Gothenburg
From Gothenburg, the drive south to Malmö takes roughly three hours in normal conditions. From Stockholm, the journey is much longer and can take approximately six to seven hours, depending on traffic and stops. If you are travelling from Stockholm only to visit Malmö, the train is usually more relaxing and may be quicker overall.
Plan fuel stops and rest breaks in advance on longer journeys. Swedish motorways are generally straightforward, but winter weather can affect road conditions and daylight hours. In colder months, rental cars must meet Swedish requirements for winter tyres when conditions require them.
Parking in Malmö
Central Malmö has paid street parking and several parking garages. Rates, time limits and payment methods differ between locations. Many hotels do not have free parking, so ask about availability and fees when booking. If you are staying in the centre, consider leaving your car at the hotel or a peripheral car park and using public transport for sightseeing.
Do not park in spaces reserved for residents, disabled drivers, deliveries or electric vehicle charging unless you meet the stated conditions. Parking signs in Sweden can include several supplementary panels, so read the entire sign before leaving your vehicle.
Travelling to Malmö by bus
Long distance buses can be a low cost alternative to trains to Malmö. Operators such as FlixBus serve Malmö from destinations in Sweden, Denmark and other parts of Europe, although routes and departure times change frequently.
Long distance coaches may stop at Malmö Centralstation, a nearby coach terminal or another location on the edge of the city. Check the exact stop before booking accommodation or planning a connection. Bus journeys are often slower than trains, but advance fares can be attractive and luggage allowances may be useful for budget travellers.
- Compare the total journey time, not only the ticket price.
- Check whether luggage, seat selection and changes cost extra.
- Arrive early if the coach leaves from an unfamiliar terminal.
- Leave extra time for traffic when travelling across the Öresund Bridge.
There is no need to take a local Malmö city bus to reach the city from Copenhagen. An international train or long distance coach is normally more direct.
Which transport to Malmö is best for your trip?
The best option depends on your arrival point, budget and plans in southern Sweden.
- From Copenhagen Airport: take the direct train for the fastest and simplest connection.
- From Copenhagen city centre: use a train from Copenhagen Central Station.
- From Stockholm: choose a high speed train for a city centre to city centre journey, or compare flights if you are short on time.
- From Gothenburg: trains are usually convenient and avoid airport transfers.
- From Malmö Airport: take an airport coach, taxi or rental car.
- For a wider Skåne itinerary: rent a car if you plan to visit rural areas and several small towns.
- For the lowest advance fare: compare trains and long distance buses before booking.
For many visitors, the train is the best all round answer to how to get to Malmö. It is frequent from Copenhagen, comfortable from other Swedish cities and arrives close to the main attractions.
Getting around Malmö after you arrive
Malmö Centralstation is close to the city centre. From there, many popular sights are reachable on foot, including Stortorget, Lilla Torg, Malmöhus Castle and the waterfront. Walking is often the easiest way to explore the central districts.
Local buses and regional trains
Skånetrafiken operates city buses and regional public transport in Malmö. Buses are useful for destinations such as Västra Hamnen, Ribersborg, Rosengård and locations outside the central walking area. Tickets are generally bought through the Skånetrafiken app or at approved sales points. Buying before boarding is recommended because onboard purchase options may be limited.
Regional trains are useful for day trips to Lund, Helsingborg, Ystad and other parts of Skåne. Check whether your ticket covers the complete journey and whether it is valid on both trains and buses.
Bicycles
Malmö is a bike friendly city with extensive cycle paths and relatively short distances between central neighbourhoods. You can rent a bicycle from a private rental company or use a local bike share service when available. Follow cycle lane signs, use lights after dark and lock the bicycle securely when you stop.
Taxis and ride services
Taxis are available at Malmö Centralstation, the airports and major hotels. Always use a licensed vehicle and check the fare information displayed on the taxi. App based services may also operate in Malmö, but availability can vary by time and location.
Travel tips for reaching Malmö
Transport schedules and border procedures can change, so check official operator information shortly before departure. This is particularly important when travelling late at night, during public holidays, in severe weather or when connecting with a flight.
- Book long distance trains early if you want the widest choice of fares and seats.
- Check whether your ticket is for a specific departure or valid on several services.
- Carry a valid passport or national identity card when crossing between Denmark and Sweden.
- Keep your accommodation address available for the final walk or local bus journey.
- Use a card or approved travel app for tickets, since cash sales are limited on some services.
- Allow extra time for airport security, railway connections and possible traffic on the Öresund Bridge.
With direct rail links, nearby airports and straightforward road connections, Malmö is one of the easiest Swedish cities to add to a Copenhagen or southern Sweden itinerary. Choose the route that matches your arrival airport and plans, then check the latest timetable before travelling.