Looking for Öresund Bridge tips for visiting? The spectacular link between Sweden and Denmark is more than a route between two cities. It combines a cable stayed bridge, an artificial island and an underwater tunnel, creating one of the most memorable journeys in Scandinavia. Whether you are travelling by train, driving from Malmö to Copenhagen, or simply hoping to photograph the view, this guide explains how to plan your visit and make the most of the Øresund experience.
What is the Öresund Bridge?
The Öresund Bridge connects Malmö in southern Sweden with Copenhagen in Denmark. It opened in 2000 and forms part of a larger transport link across the Øresund Strait. The full connection is about 15.9 kilometres long and includes a motorway, railway, the bridge itself, the artificial island of Peberholm and the Drogden Tunnel.
Many people use the name Öresund Bridge for the entire crossing, although the visible bridge is only one section. Travellers leaving Sweden first cross the approximately 7.8 kilometre cable stayed bridge. The road and railway then continue across Peberholm before entering the tunnel towards Denmark. This unusual design allows ships to pass through the main shipping channel and keeps Copenhagen Airport flight paths clear.
In English, you may see both Öresund and Øresund. Öresund is the Swedish spelling, while Øresund is the Danish spelling. Both refer to the same strait and regional transport link.
Can you visit the Öresund Bridge?
You can cross the Öresund Bridge by car, coach or train, but you cannot walk or cycle across it. The bridge is part of a high speed motorway and railway, so stopping on the structure is not permitted. There is also no public visitor centre directly on the bridge and no regular sightseeing tour that lets passengers get off halfway across.
For most visitors, the best ways to experience the crossing are to take a train between Malmö and Copenhagen, drive across it as part of a road trip, or view it from the shoreline in Malmö or Copenhagen. Each option offers a different perspective.
Best ways to cross the Malmö Copenhagen bridge
Travelling by train
The train is usually the easiest option for visitors staying in either city. Direct Øresund trains connect Malmö Central Station with Copenhagen Central Station, Copenhagen Airport and several other stations in the region. The journey between Malmö and Copenhagen typically takes around 35 minutes, while Malmö to Copenhagen Airport takes roughly 20 minutes, depending on the service.
Train travel is convenient because you do not need to arrange parking, pay a separate bridge toll or deal with motorway traffic. It also gives you a good view of the bridge while crossing. Sit on the side facing the open water if you want the clearest views, although the direction of travel and weather will affect what you see.
Buy your ticket before boarding through the relevant transport operator. In Sweden, this may include Skånetrafiken, while Danish journeys can involve DSB ticketing. Check the current ticket rules before travelling because tickets, zones and accepted payment methods can change. A valid passport or national identity document is also useful to carry, even when routine border checks are not taking place.
Driving across the bridge
Driving gives you greater flexibility, especially if you want to explore coastal areas, visit smaller towns or continue beyond Copenhagen. The route is well signposted from Malmö and Copenhagen, and the E20 motorway carries traffic across the link.
Bridge tolls apply to motor vehicles, and prices vary according to the type of vehicle, payment method and any discount agreement. Check the official Øresund Bridge website for current rates before setting out. Some frequent travellers use an electronic agreement or automatic payment system, while occasional visitors can normally pay according to the available options at the toll station.
Allow extra time during busy commuting periods, summer weekends and major events in Malmö or Copenhagen. The crossing itself is quick, but traffic can build up near the toll plaza, airport and city approaches. Make sure your rental car is permitted to cross the border and ask the rental company how bridge charges are handled. Some companies add tolls later, while others require you to register a payment method.
Taking a coach or bus
Long distance coaches and regional buses may also cross the Øresund connection. Services and routes vary, so compare journey times with the train before booking. A coach can be useful when travelling on a budget or carrying more luggage, but it may be less predictable during traffic delays.
Where to see the Öresund Bridge from Sweden
The Malmö side offers several good viewpoints, although the bridge begins south of the city and is not visible from every central neighbourhood. You will generally need to travel towards the coast or southwestern suburbs for a clear view.
Lernacken and the Malmö shoreline
Lernacken is one of the closest accessible areas for viewing the bridge from land. From the coastline, you can see the bridge stretching towards Peberholm and Denmark. The open setting is especially attractive at sunrise, sunset and on clear days when the Danish coast may be visible in the distance.
There are walking paths and natural areas nearby, but facilities can be limited. Dress for wind and bring water if you plan to stay for photography. The shoreline can feel much colder than central Malmö, particularly outside summer.
Ribersborg and Västra Hamnen
Ribersborg Beach provides a broad coastal view and is easy to reach from central Malmö by bicycle or local transport. The Öresund Bridge appears farther away from here, but the beach, sea and skyline create a pleasant setting for photographs. On a clear day, the bridge forms a strong horizontal line across the water.
Västra Hamnen, the modern waterfront district, is another worthwhile place to explore. The bridge is not always the dominant feature, but views across the water can include Turning Torso, boats and the distant crossing. This makes the area a good choice if you want to combine bridge photography with architecture, cafés and a walk by the sea.
Scaniaparken
Scaniaparken in Västra Hamnen has open views across the Øresund and is popular with locals in warm weather. It is not the closest viewpoint, but its waterfront promenade and relaxed atmosphere make it suitable for a short visit after exploring central Malmö. Bring a telephoto lens if you want the bridge to appear larger in your images.
Where to see the bridge from Copenhagen
The bridge is farther from central Copenhagen than many first time visitors expect. It is not prominently visible from the main tourist streets, but several parts of Amager and the southern coast provide views towards Sweden.
Amager Strandpark
Amager Strandpark is one of the best places near Copenhagen for a wide view across the water. The long beach and lagoon create a scenic setting, particularly in the evening. The bridge can look relatively small from here, so use a zoom lens or enjoy it as part of the wider coastal landscape.
The beach is easy to reach by Copenhagen Metro, making it a practical addition to a city itinerary. Check the sunset time before travelling if photography is your main reason for visiting. The shoreline can be breezy, and clear visibility is never guaranteed.
Dragør
The historic town of Dragør lies south of Copenhagen and offers a different coastal perspective. Its old streets, harbour and low buildings make it an attractive day trip, although the bridge may be distant or partly obscured depending on your position. Combine a visit with a walk along the coast rather than expecting a close up view.
Copenhagen Airport area
Passengers arriving at or departing from Copenhagen Airport may catch brief views of the bridge or the surrounding Øresund landscape. The airport is connected directly to Malmö by train, so the journey itself can serve as your bridge experience. Do not plan to stop for photography in restricted airport areas, and allow time for airport procedures.
Best time to visit the Öresund Bridge
The best time depends on whether you want comfortable sightseeing, dramatic weather or fewer crowds. Late spring and summer usually offer longer daylight, easier coastal walks and better conditions for outdoor photography. The downside is that popular beaches and viewpoints can be busier, especially on sunny weekends.
Autumn and winter can produce striking skies and a more atmospheric view of the bridge. Wind, rain and short daylight hours are common, so check the forecast and dress in layers. Winter visitors should also remember that the bridge may disappear into fog or low cloud, making the crossing feel very different from the bright summer journey.
Early morning is often the quietest time for photography. Sunset can provide warm light over the water, but popular viewpoints may fill up and public transport services may be less frequent later in the evening. Always check the return journey before heading to a remote shoreline.
Photography tips for visiting the bridge
- Use a wide angle lens for a complete landscape and a telephoto lens to compress the bridge against the horizon.
- Look for reflections, boats and shoreline paths to add depth to your composition.
- Visit during blue hour or shortly after sunrise for softer light and fewer people.
- Keep your camera protected from sea spray and sudden rain, especially at exposed viewpoints.
- Never stop on the motorway, bridge or road shoulder to take photographs.
- Use public viewpoints and marked paths, and respect barriers and private property.
Important travel tips for crossing the Øresund
- Carry a valid passport or national identity document. Border controls can be introduced, and requirements depend on your nationality and current regulations.
- Check train times and ticket conditions on the day of travel, particularly on weekends and public holidays.
- Allow additional time if you are catching a flight from Copenhagen Airport or connecting with another train.
- Confirm current road toll prices before driving across the bridge.
- Keep Danish kroner and Swedish kronor separate in your budget. Card payments are widely accepted, but exchange rates and bank fees vary.
- Remember that Sweden and Denmark use different transport systems, so a local ticket in one country may not cover your entire journey.
- Check weather and wind conditions before planning a long coastal walk.
- Do not attempt to walk or cycle across the bridge. Choose a permitted cycle route or take the train instead.
How to include the bridge in a Malmö and Copenhagen itinerary
The crossing works well as part of a two city trip. You can stay in Malmö and spend a day in Copenhagen, or base yourself in Copenhagen and visit Malmö by train. Since the direct journey is short, there is no need to treat the bridge as a separate full day attraction unless you want to explore several viewpoints.
In Malmö, combine bridge viewing with Ribersborg Beach, Västra Hamnen, Malmöhus Castle and the historic centre. A coastal walk can be followed by lunch in the city, then you can take an evening train across the bridge to Copenhagen. In Copenhagen, pair the journey with Amager Strandpark, the city centre, Nyhavn or a visit to the airport area if your schedule allows.
Drivers can make a broader regional itinerary by visiting Lund, Malmö, Copenhagen and coastal communities on either side of the strait. Remember that the bridge is a transport link rather than a conventional attraction with parking, exhibits or an entrance gate. The most enjoyable experience comes from combining the crossing with the cities and coastlines around it.
Is the Öresund Bridge worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you enjoy architecture, engineering, coastal landscapes or unusual travel experiences. The combination of bridge, island and tunnel makes the crossing distinctive, while the views connect two countries in a matter of minutes. Even a normal train ride between Malmö and Copenhagen becomes memorable as the railway rises over the water and continues towards Denmark.
The most useful Öresund Bridge tips for visiting are simple: choose the right transport, check current travel requirements, allow time for weather and use safe coastal viewpoints rather than trying to stop on the bridge. With those details planned, the Malmö Copenhagen bridge can be an easy and rewarding part of a Scandinavian itinerary.