Travelling across the Öresund Bridge with kids is one of the most memorable ways to connect Sweden and Denmark. The journey links Malmö with Copenhagen by road and rail, crossing open water, an artificial island and the dramatic Drogden Tunnel. With a little planning, the Malmö Copenhagen bridge trip can be exciting for children, easy for parents and a useful part of a family holiday in southern Scandinavia.
What is the Öresund Bridge?
The Øresund, also written as Öresund in Swedish, is the strait between Sweden and Denmark. The Öresund Bridge crosses part of this strait and connects Malmö on the Swedish side with Copenhagen on the Danish side. It opened in 2000 and has become one of the most recognisable landmarks in the region.
The crossing is actually a combination of several structures. Travellers first pass over a long bridge, continue across the artificial island of Peberholm and then travel through the Drogden Tunnel towards Denmark. The full connection is approximately 16 kilometres long. Children may enjoy the fact that the route changes from bridge to island to tunnel during one short journey.
Cars, buses and trains all use the connection. The railway runs on the lower level of the bridge, while road traffic uses the upper level. From a train window, families can see the sea and the bridge structure, although the view can be limited by weather, direction and the speed of the journey.
Why cross the Öresund Bridge with kids?
A bridge crossing may not sound like a complete family attraction, but the Öresund Bridge with kids can be a highlight when it is included in a wider day trip. It offers a real sense of travelling between countries rather than simply arriving at another city by plane or on an ordinary train route.
- It is a short adventure: The crossing takes only a few minutes by train once the train leaves Malmö or Copenhagen.
- It is easy to combine with city attractions: Families can spend the morning in Malmö and the afternoon in Copenhagen, or do the journey in the opposite direction.
- It introduces geography in a practical way: Children can watch the landscape change from city to sea, island and tunnel.
- It works in different weather: A train journey provides a comfortable indoor activity when rain or cold makes outdoor sightseeing less appealing.
- It creates a memorable travel story: Children often enjoy saying that they travelled from Sweden to Denmark by crossing a bridge over the sea.
The bridge itself is not a place where visitors can stop and walk around. It is a transport connection, so the best way to experience it is as part of a planned trip between the two cities.
Travelling from Malmö to Copenhagen with children
Taking the train
For most families, the train is the simplest option. Trains from Malmö Central Station travel directly to Copenhagen and continue to Copenhagen Airport on many services. The journey from Malmö to Copenhagen Central Station usually takes around 40 minutes, although schedules and travel times can change.
Trains are generally comfortable for families and avoid the need to find parking in central Copenhagen. They also make it easier to manage a pushchair, snacks and tired children. Depending on the train and its passenger load, families may find open areas, luggage spaces or designated spaces for bicycles and prams. A compact, foldable pushchair is usually easier to handle than a large model.
Try to arrive at the station a little earlier than necessary. This gives children time to use the toilet, allows you to find the correct platform and reduces stress if the station is busy. Keep travel documents, tickets and snacks in an easily accessible bag rather than at the bottom of a suitcase.
Driving across the bridge
Driving offers more flexibility, especially for families carrying camping equipment, sports gear or several large bags. It also makes it easier to visit attractions outside the city centres. However, crossing by car costs more than travelling by train because of the bridge toll, and parking in Copenhagen can be expensive and inconvenient.
Check the current toll price before departure because rates vary according to vehicle type, payment method and available agreements. A registered bridge agreement may provide different prices, but it requires advance preparation. Make sure the driver understands that the route includes both the bridge and the tunnel, and avoid stopping on the crossing. There are no visitor stopping points on the bridge itself.
Children should remain properly secured in age and size appropriate car seats. Bring water, small snacks and something quiet to do, since the most interesting views last only briefly. If anyone in the family is nervous about tunnels, explain the route before setting off.
What children can see on the crossing
The bridge section is the most visually impressive part of the journey. Tall pylons rise above the water, and the road appears to stretch towards the horizon. On a clear day, children may see ships, coastline and the changing outline of Malmö or Copenhagen. The views are more open from a car than from a train, but drivers should concentrate on the road rather than sightseeing.
Peberholm is an artificial island built for the Øresund connection. It is not open for ordinary visitors, but it provides an interesting talking point. The island has been left largely to develop naturally, and researchers have studied how plants, birds and insects colonise the new land. Older children may enjoy learning that the island was created specifically for the bridge and tunnel project.
The Drogden Tunnel adds another element to the trip. Children can count down as the daylight disappears, or simply notice how the journey changes from open sea to an enclosed route. Younger children may appreciate a simple explanation: the tunnel allows large ships to pass above the route without needing a high bridge across the entire channel.
Family-friendly things to do in Malmö before or after the crossing
Malmö is a good base for an Öresund Bridge with kids trip because its central attractions are easy to reach without a car. The city combines parks, historic streets, seaside areas and family museums.
Malmö Museum and Malmöhus Castle
Malmö Museum is located in and around Malmöhus Castle. Its exhibitions cover local history, natural science, technology and maritime subjects. Families can choose the sections that suit their children rather than trying to see everything. The castle setting adds atmosphere, while the museum provides useful context about the region and its connection to Denmark.
Folkets Park
Folkets Park is a useful place for children to release energy before a train journey. It has play areas, open spaces and seasonal activities. A park stop can make a city sightseeing day more balanced, particularly for younger children who do not want to spend several hours in museums.
Ribersborg beach
Ribersborg, often called Ribban by locals, is a popular seaside area close to central Malmö. In warm weather, families can walk along the shore, play on the beach and look out across the Øresund. The bridge may be visible in the distance depending on conditions and viewpoint. Bring an extra layer because the coast can feel windy even on a sunny day.
Turning Torso and Västra Hamnen
The modern Västra Hamnen district offers waterfront walks and views of Turning Torso, Malmö’s distinctive twisting skyscraper. It is a pleasant place for a short family walk, although there are fewer traditional children’s attractions than in Folkets Park. Combine it with a picnic or a visit to the beach rather than planning a full day around the area.
Family-friendly things to do in Copenhagen after the crossing
Copenhagen has enough attractions for several family trips. If you are visiting for one day from Malmö, choose one or two main activities and leave time for meals, transport and spontaneous stops.
Tivoli Gardens
Tivoli Gardens is one of Copenhagen’s best known attractions and offers rides, gardens, restaurants and entertainment for different ages. Opening dates and ride availability vary by season. Check the official schedule before travelling, especially if your children are excited about specific rides. Tivoli is close to Copenhagen Central Station, which makes it particularly convenient after arriving by train across the bridge.
Experimentarium
Experimentarium is an interactive science centre north of the city centre. It is a strong choice for families who enjoy hands-on exhibits, experiments and physical activities. Allow several hours if your children like to explore each station carefully. The centre is not next to Copenhagen Central Station, so allow time for the onward journey.
The National Museum of Denmark
The National Museum includes exhibitions that can appeal to children, including displays about Vikings, ancient cultures and Danish history. Look for the children’s area and family activities when planning your visit. A museum visit can be a good rainy day option, but younger children may prefer a shorter visit followed by time outdoors.
Nyhavn, the harbour and a canal tour
Nyhavn is a colourful and popular area for photographs, while a canal tour gives the family a seated way to see parts of Copenhagen. Boat tours operate seasonally and may have limited shelter, so check the weather. Keep children close to the edge of the quays because the harbour water is deep and the paving can be uneven.
Amalienborg and the changing of the guard
Families interested in royal history can visit the area around Amalienborg Palace. The changing of the guard is usually most interesting to children when they know what to expect, so explain that it is a formal military ceremony rather than a show. Combine it with a walk towards the harbour or nearby parks.
Planning an Öresund Bridge day trip with kids
Choose one direction as your main destination
A common mistake is trying to cover every attraction in both Malmö and Copenhagen in one day. Instead, decide whether the main destination is Copenhagen or Malmö, then use the other city for a relaxed morning, lunch or short walk. This approach leaves more room for breaks and reduces pressure if children become tired.
For example, you could have breakfast in Malmö, take the train to Copenhagen, visit Tivoli or a museum and return in the evening. Another option is to spend the morning in Copenhagen, cross to Malmö after lunch and finish with a walk at Ribersborg or a meal near Malmö Central Station.
Check travel documents and border rules
Sweden and Denmark are both in the Schengen Area, but travellers may still encounter identity checks. Every family member should carry a valid passport or national identity document accepted for travel. Children need their own documents. Check current requirements before departure, particularly if anyone in the family is not an EU or Nordic citizen.
Keep documents accessible throughout the day. Do not assume that children can travel using a parent’s identification, and check airline or national authority guidance if your family has unusual citizenship or residency circumstances.
Buy tickets carefully
Train fares and ticket rules depend on the departure station, destination, passenger ages and ticket type. Check whether children travel free or at a reduced price with an accompanying adult, and confirm the conditions before boarding. A ticket to Copenhagen Central Station may not cover every local transport connection you need after arrival.
If you are driving, compare the cost of the bridge toll, fuel and parking with the price of train tickets. For a family of four with substantial luggage, driving may be practical. For a city day trip, the train is often simpler.
Pack for changing conditions
The weather around the Øresund can shift quickly. Bring layers, rain protection and comfortable shoes even in summer. A small day bag should include water, snacks, wipes, medication and a change of clothes for younger children. If you plan to visit a beach or park, pack a lightweight towel and a bag for wet clothes.
Safety tips for families
- Keep children close in busy stations, particularly around escalators, platforms and train doors.
- Stand behind the platform safety line and hold hands when trains are arriving.
- Use approved car seats and seat belts throughout the road crossing.
- Do not stop on the bridge or attempt to take photographs from unsafe areas.
- Watch children carefully beside the sea, canals and harbour edges in both cities.
- Save accommodation details and important phone numbers offline in case mobile coverage is limited.
- Agree on a meeting point before entering busy attractions or large stations.
The crossing itself is highly controlled and safe, but family safety still depends on ordinary travel habits. The main risks usually come from traffic, crowded public spaces, water and tired children rather than from the bridge structure.
Best time to experience the Malmö Copenhagen bridge
Late spring and summer offer the longest daylight hours and the best chance of seeing the bridge and coastline clearly. These seasons are convenient for combining the crossing with parks, beaches and outdoor attractions, although popular sites can be busy.
Autumn can be attractive because of quieter museums and colourful city parks. Strong wind and rain are more likely, so plan indoor alternatives. Winter days are short, but the bridge is still easy to cross by train. Seasonal attractions such as Tivoli may have special opening periods, including Christmas events, so check dates before travelling.
For the clearest views, travel during daylight and keep an eye on the forecast. Even when the weather is grey, the journey remains interesting because the bridge, tunnel and changing landscape are visible in different ways.
How to make the journey educational
Children often engage more with the crossing when they have a small mission. Ask them to spot the bridge pylons, count ships, identify the moment the train enters the tunnel or compare signs in Swedish and Danish. Older children can look at a map and trace the route from Malmö across the Øresund to Copenhagen.
You can also discuss why the connection uses both a bridge and a tunnel, how an artificial island was created and how two countries cooperate on transport. These topics turn a short journey into a practical geography and engineering lesson without making the trip feel like schoolwork.
Bring a notebook or let children take a few photographs from safe places such as the train window or a city waterfront. Avoid promising a long sightseeing stop on the bridge, since there is no public walkway or visitor centre on the crossing itself.
Frequently asked questions about the Öresund Bridge with kids
Can you walk or cycle across the Öresund Bridge?
Ordinary visitors cannot walk across the bridge, and cycling is not a standard way to cross it. Cyclists need to check the current rules and use approved transport options. Families wanting a cycling experience should look for local routes on either side of the Øresund rather than planning to cycle over the bridge itself.
Is the bridge suitable for a baby or toddler?
Yes. Travelling by train is usually manageable with a baby or toddler, especially if you use a compact pushchair and pack supplies within easy reach. The most challenging parts are busy stations, boarding the train and managing naps around your schedule, not the bridge crossing.
Can children see the bridge from Malmö or Copenhagen?
Yes, viewpoints vary with weather, distance and direction. In Malmö, parts of the bridge can often be seen from coastal areas and high waterfront locations. From Copenhagen, views are less direct in the city centre, but the crossing becomes visible as you travel towards the airport or the southern part of the region.
Is a day trip enough?
A day is enough to enjoy the crossing and one or two main attractions, but an overnight stay gives families a more relaxed experience. If your children dislike long days, staying in either Malmö or Copenhagen can make it easier to explore parks, museums and restaurants without rushing back for the final train.
Whether you travel by train or car, the Öresund Bridge with kids works best when the crossing is treated as part of the adventure rather than the only destination. Pair the Malmö Copenhagen bridge with a family-friendly museum, a seaside walk or an amusement park, and the journey between Sweden and Denmark becomes a simple, memorable highlight of your trip.