Copenhagen to Dortmund by train

Looking for an easy way to travel from Copenhagen to Dortmund? Here’s what you need to know:

• No Direct Train: The journey requires at least one transfer, typically in Hamburg.
• Travel Time: Approximately 8–9 hours, covering 516 miles (830 km).
• Ticket Prices: Starting at $30.50 for second class and $52.50 for first class. Discounts available for early bookings.
• Key Trains: EuroCity (Copenhagen to Hamburg, ~4h 40m) and ICE (Hamburg to Dortmund, ~2h 45m).
• Comfort Features: Power outlets, WiFi, refreshments, and optional seat reservations.
• Booking Options: Use Deutsche Bahn’s website, DSB, or apps like DB Navigator for convenience.
• Tips to Save: Book early for Super Saver fares, use BahnCards for discounts, or consider rail passes for multiple trips.

Ready to plan your trip? Keep reading for ticket options, schedules, and booking tips.

Copenhagen to Hamburg by Train: How to Book Cheap Tickets

Available Tickets and Travel Classes

If you’re traveling from Copenhagen to Dortmund, you’ll find ticket options in both standard and first class, available through Danish (DSB) and German (Deutsche Bahn) rail services. Here’s a breakdown of the ticket types and what to expect when booking your journey.

Standard Class Options

Standard class, also referred to as second class, offers basic seating arrangements in open-plan carriages on EuroCity trains connecting Copenhagen and Hamburg.

First Class Options

First class, called "DSB1" on Danish trains, provides a more comfortable and premium experience.

"First class has bigger seats and more leg room than second class and there are additional facilities in a number of trains." – NS International ^[1]

Some key features include:

• Spacious 6-seater compartments
• Extra legroom and wider seats
• Access to NS International Lounges at major stations

Ticket Flexibility Levels

Deutsche Bahn offers different fare types to accommodate varying travel needs:

• Sparpreis (Saver) Tickets
  These are advance-purchase tickets that come with the lowest prices but limited flexibility:
  • Non-refundable and cannot be changed
  • Valid only for specific trains
• Flexible Fare Tickets
  These tickets offer more freedom:
  • Can be used on any designated train on the chosen day
  • Free cancellation up to 8 days before travel
  • €10 cancellation fee for cancellations 1–7 days before travel
  • €30 fee for cancellations starting from the first day of validity
  • Digital tickets allow free cancellation within 3 hours of purchase

Rail Pass Options

For those planning multiple journeys, rail passes are worth considering. On Danish routes, seat reservations are optional unless you’re using ‘Orange’ tickets. BahnCard holders can also save on flexible fares, with discounts of 25% for BahnCard 25 and 50% for BahnCard 50.

If your trip exceeds 62 miles (100 km), you can begin your journey on the specified day and continue into the next day, as long as the departure and destination remain unchanged.

With these ticket and fare options covered, let’s take a closer look at the train companies providing these services.

Train Companies and Services

Deutsche Bahn operates long-distance EuroCity services between Copenhagen and Dortmund, with trains passing through Hamburg.

Deutsche Bahn Services

Deutsche Bahn’s EuroCity (EC) trains connect Copenhagen and Hamburg using modern trains equipped with Danish electric locomotives. These trains offer air conditioning, power outlets at every seat, free WiFi, and spacious seating for a comfortable journey.

First-class passengers also enjoy access to the DB Lounge at Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, adding an extra layer of convenience.

While Deutsche Bahn is the main provider for international routes like Copenhagen to Dortmund, there are other options for domestic travel within Germany.

FlixTrain Services

FlixTrain focuses on domestic routes and does not currently provide direct service between Copenhagen and Dortmund. However, their trains can be a useful option for connecting segments within Germany.

For international travel on the Copenhagen–Dortmund route, Deutsche Bahn remains the go-to choice, offering modern amenities and reliable service. It’s a good idea to book seat reservations during the busy summer months (June through early September) to guarantee availability.

Route Options

Direct vs. Transfer Routes

There are no direct trains between Copenhagen and Dortmund. Every trip requires at least one transfer, with the most common route involving a stop in Hamburg. Typically, this route uses an Intercity train from Copenhagen to Hamburg, followed by a connecting service to Dortmund.

Other options may include an additional transfer, such as stopping in Cologne, but these routes usually take longer.

Main Transfer Stations

Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Hamburg Hbf) is the main transfer point on this journey. First-class passengers can access the DB Lounge here. As a major hub, the station offers a variety of services to make connections smoother.

Some journeys might also include a transfer at Cologne Hauptbahnhof (Köln Hbf).

Travel Time and Distance

The total trip spans about 516 miles (830 kilometers) and is split into two main sections:

The entire journey usually takes between 8 and 9 hours, including a transfer in Hamburg that typically lasts 30–45 minutes. Travel times may vary depending on the chosen connection and seasonal timetable changes.

How to Book Tickets

Train Company Websites

You can book tickets for the Copenhagen-Dortmund route directly through Deutsche Bahn’s international website (int.bahn.de) or DSB’s website (dsb.dk). Just create an account, choose your travel dates, check fares, and optionally reserve seats to finalize your booking.

Station and App Booking

For those who like in-person or mobile options, there are additional ways to get your tickets.

You can visit DSB service counters at major Danish stations like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense. Here, you’ll get personal assistance and tickets on the spot. If you’re on the go, the DB Navigator app is another handy option. It offers real-time journey updates, mobile ticketing, and seat reservations.

To get the best fares and secure your preferred seats, it’s smart to book your tickets early. If you need help with international bookings, you can reach DSB’s booking line at +45 70 13 14 18.

Prices and Savings

Getting the best value for your Copenhagen–Dortmund trip starts with understanding ticket prices and smart ways to save.

Standard Ticket Prices

Ticket costs depend on when you book and the travel class you choose. Standard class tickets begin at €37.99, while first-class tickets are priced from €69.99. For budget-conscious travelers, discounted options like Super Saver Fare Europe (starting at €19.99) and Saver Fare Europe (starting at €22.99) are available.

How to Save Money

Here are a few tips to help you cut down on travel costs:

• Book Early: Secure Super Saver Fare Europe tickets for as low as €19.99 by booking up to six months in advance. Keep in mind, these tickets come with limited flexibility.
• BahnCard Discounts: A BahnCard (25, 50, or 100) gives you a 25% discount on the German leg of your trip.
• Family Perks: Kids under 15 travel free when accompanied by an adult.

If you’re planning multiple trips, rail passes can also help you save more.

Using Rail Passes

Rail passes are a great option for those with flexible or extended travel plans. On Danish routes, Orange tickets can save you up to 61% and include seat reservations. However, these tickets are non-refundable and can’t be changed.

For one-time trips, single tickets work best. But if you’re traveling often or on various dates, a rail pass provides better value.

Train Times

Trains run throughout the day between Copenhagen and Dortmund, offering several route options to connect these two cities.

Daily Train Schedule

There are approximately 8 daily connections from Copenhagen Central Station to Dortmund, typically involving 2 transfers ^[3]. The trip spans about 310 miles (500 km) and takes an average of 9 hours.

Here’s an overview of the main departure and arrival times:

These flexible departure times make it easier to plan your trip, whether you prefer traveling during the day or overnight.

Peak Travel Hours

Looking at the schedule, morning departures (6:22 AM to 10:22 AM) follow a consistent pattern, making them ideal for early travel. Afternoon services continue with similar timing, while the evening train at 4:22 PM provides an overnight option, arriving in Dortmund the next morning ^[3].

Extra Costs and Rules

Here’s a breakdown of extra fees and rules to keep in mind for a hassle-free trip between Copenhagen and Dortmund.

Seat Reservation Costs

If you’re traveling on EuroCity trains between Copenhagen and Hamburg, seat reservations cost $5.70 (€5.20) in second class and $7.15 (€6.50) in first class. Reservations are optional outside the peak travel season (June 1–September 1) but become mandatory during that time ^[4].

Ticket Changes and Refunds

Refund and cancellation policies depend on the type of fare you choose:

*This applies only to tickets purchased through int.bahn.de or the DB Navigator app, and cancellations must be made at least one day before travel.

For group bookings, there’s a cancellation fee of $21 (€19) per ticket if canceled at least seven days before departure. Note that individual travelers within a group booking cannot cancel separately.

Baggage Rules

Each passenger is allowed up to three pieces of hand luggage, with each item measuring no more than 39 x 24 x 12 inches (100 x 60 x 30 cm). Luggage must be stored in the designated areas on the train. Special items like skis, strollers, or large musical instruments are permitted only on trains that have suitable storage space ^[5]. The good news? There are no extra fees for luggage that meets these guidelines.

Using Interrail Passes

Pass Coverage

The Interrail Global Pass allows travel on the Copenhagen–Dortmund route and includes access to rail networks in Denmark and 32 other European countries^[6]. If you’re traveling only within Denmark, the Interrail Denmark Pass is an option, but it won’t cover travel into Germany – separate tickets are required for that. Prices for the Global Pass start at around $232 (€212), while the Denmark Pass is priced at approximately $130 (€119)^[6]. DSB provides extensive rail connections from Copenhagen, and most major local services are covered by these passes.

Let’s look at the reservation requirements for these passes.

Reservation Requirements

For most high-speed and night trains, seat reservations are mandatory^[7]. While many regional trains don’t require reservations, booking ahead is still a good idea to secure your seat. Reservations can be made online through the Interrail Reservation Service, at station ticket counters, or directly on train carrier websites. Planning ahead is especially important during the busy summer travel season.

Planning Tips

To make your journey smooth and budget-friendly, here are some practical planning tips:

• Book Early for Discounts: Reserve tickets up to 6 months in advance on int.bahn.de to grab "Super Sparpreis Europa" fares. Prices start at $31.50 (€28.99) for 2nd class and $42.50 (€38.99) for 1st class ^[8].
• Split Your Journey: Dividing your trip into smaller segments can help you find cheaper fares for individual parts of the route. Use the "Stopovers" feature on Deutsche Bahn’s website to plan convenient connections ^[2].
• Danish Discounts: For travel in Denmark, look for "Orange" tickets. These can save you up to 61% on standard fares if booked in advance. Keep in mind, these tickets are non-refundable and tied to specific trains ^[2].
• Cancellation Flexibility: Deutsche Bahn offers "Sofortstornierung", allowing free cancellations within 3 hours of booking ^[8].
• Overnight Stops: If you’re taking an overnight journey, consider stopping in cities like Hamburg or Cologne. It’s a great way to explore while breaking up a long trip ^[2].
• Go Digital: Register on Deutsche Bahn’s website to manage bookings, access e-tickets, and receive journey updates. Make sure to keep confirmation emails and ticket numbers handy for easy reference ^[2].

These tips not only help you save money but also ensure a more enjoyable and stress-free travel experience.