Transport in North Zealand – getting around by train, bus and bike
Travel easily from Copenhagen to North Zealand by public transport. Take the S-train to Hillerød or the Coast Line to Helsingør, then continue by local train or bus to coastal towns and attractions. You can also combine train and bike or travel by car and ferry.
How to get from Copenhagen to North Zealand
There are good train connections from Copenhagen to North Zealand. Take the S-train directly to Hillerød or the Coast Line along the Øresund coast towards Helsingør.
From Hillerød and Helsingør, you can continue by local train or bus to destinations including Gilleleje, Hornbæk, Tisvildeleje, Frederiksværk and Hundested.
Use Rejseplanen, the Danish journey planner, to find current connections, departure times and fares. Here you can plan your entire journey across trains and buses.
Travel by local train in North Zealand
Local trains connect many of North Zealand’s towns, making it possible to explore the region without a car. From Hillerød, you can continue towards Helsingør, Gilleleje, Tisvildeleje, Frederiksværk and Hundested.
Travelling by train is therefore a convenient option if you want to combine several towns and attractions during your holiday or take a day trip from Copenhagen
Buy tickets for trains and buses
There are several ways to buy tickets for public transport in North Zealand. The best option depends on how far and how often you plan to travel.
You can use the Rejsekort app, buy single tickets and other ticket products digitally, or choose a City Pass if it suits your journey. If you want to combine public transport with visits to attractions, the Copenhagen Card may also be a good option.
Always check current fares, zones and ticket options before travelling.
Rejsekort app
The Rejsekort app allows you to check in and out on your mobile phone when travelling by public transport.
The former physical Rejsekort can no longer be used. If you are unable to use the Rejsekort app, a physical Basiskort is also available.
Single ticket
If you are only making one or a few journeys, a single ticket may be the simplest option. Tickets can be purchased digitally, and the fare depends, among other things, on the zones you travel through.
City Pass
A City Pass gives you unlimited travel on public transport within a specified area for a selected period. It can be a convenient option if you expect to use trains, buses or the Metro several times during your stay.
Make sure to check which geographical area your City Pass covers when planning a trip to North Zealand.
Plan your journey with Rejseplanen
Rejseplanen, the Danish journey planner, makes it easy to plan your journey from A to B by public transport. Search for your destination to see current train and bus connections as well as departure and arrival times.
It is a good idea to check Rejseplanen shortly before departure, so you can also see any changes or disruptions affecting your journey.
Bring your bike to North Zealand
Train and bike are a great combination if you want to explore more of North Zealand. For example, you can take the train from Copenhagen and continue by bike along the coast, through the forests or between the region’s towns and attractions.
Bikes can be taken free of charge on S-trains. Different rules, space restrictions and bike ticket requirements may apply on other trains and buses.
Always check the current rules with the relevant transport operator before bringing your bike.
From Copenhagen Airport to North Zealand
If you are arriving by air, Copenhagen Airport in Kastrup is the nearest international airport. From the airport, you can take public transport towards Copenhagen and continue by train to North Zealand.
Use Rejseplanen to find the best connection from the airport to your destination.
Copenhagen Metro
The Metro does not run to North Zealand, but it can be a convenient part of your journey if you are travelling from Copenhagen Airport or staying in Copenhagen.
The Metro connects the airport and different parts of Copenhagen with stations where you can continue by train towards North Zealand.
Copenhagen Card
With a Copenhagen Card, you can combine public transport with admission to a range of attractions. Several attractions in North Zealand are included, depending on the type of card you choose.
Ferries to and within North Zealand
You can also arrive in North Zealand by sea. Ferries cross the Øresund between Helsingborg in Sweden and Helsingør in Denmark.
The Hundested–Rørvig ferry connects North Zealand with Odsherred, while the small summer ferry Columbus operates between Kulhuse and Sølager during the season.
The ferries make it easy to combine a visit to North Zealand with other parts of Zealand – also if you are travelling with a bike.
Taxis in North Zealand
A taxi can be a useful addition to public transport if your destination is some distance from the nearest station or bus stop.
It is a good idea to book in advance, particularly if you need a larger vehicle, are travelling with a lot of luggage or want to bring a bike.
Ofte stillede spørgsmål om transport i Nordsjælland
Hvordan kommer du nemmest fra København til Nordsjælland? Kan du rejse uden bil, og må cyklen komme med i toget? Find korte svar på de mest stillede spørgsmål om tog, bus, billetter, færger og offentlig transport i Nordsjælland.
How long does it take to travel from Copenhagen to North Zealand?
Journey times depend on where you are going in North Zealand. Hillerød and parts of the Øresund coast can be reached in around an hour or less, while travelling to the north coast usually requires a connecting local train or bus.
Can I take a day trip from Copenhagen to North Zealand by public transport?
Yes. North Zealand is ideal for day trips from Copenhagen by train and bus. You can visit Hillerød, Helsingør and several coastal towns and return to Copenhagen the same day.
Can I reach the beaches of North Zealand by public transport?
Yes, several coastal towns and beaches in North Zealand can be reached by train and bus. Take a local train to Gilleleje, Tisvildeleje or Hundested and continue on foot, by bike or bus.
Can I get around North Zealand without a car?
Yes, you can explore large parts of North Zealand without a car. S-trains, the Coast Line, local trains and buses connect many of the region’s towns, attractions and coastal areas.
Can I take my bike on the train?
Yes, bikes can be taken free of charge on S-trains. Different rules, space restrictions or bike ticket requirements may apply on other trains and buses, so check the rules before travelling.
How do I buy tickets for trains and buses in North Zealand?
You can use the Rejsekort app or buy tickets digitally. Depending on your journey, a single ticket, City Pass or other ticket options may be suitable.
How do I get from Copenhagen Airport to North Zealand?
From Copenhagen Airport, you can travel by public transport via Copenhagen and continue by train towards North Zealand. Use Rejseplanen, the Danish journey planner, to find the fastest connection to your destination.
How do I get from Copenhagen to North Zealand by train?
From Copenhagen, take the S-train to Hillerød or the Coast Line towards Helsingør. From there, continue by local train or bus to towns and attractions across North Zealand.
Which ferries operate to and within North Zealand?
Ferries operate between Helsingør and Helsingborg and between Hundested and Rørvig. During the summer season, the Columbus ferry also runs between Kulhuse and Sølager.