Transfers Countries Denmark CopenhagenCopenhagen to Hamburg

Private car transfer from Copenhagen to Hamburg

Door-to-door
in 4 h 50 min

From €187
per seat

Comfortable
car

One way

One wayReturnMulti-city

New

One way

Cancel for free 24 hours before departure

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2024

Excellent

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Copenhagen.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 4 h 50 min.

Optional sight-seeing
Clean, comfortable car
Professional driver
Bottled water
Child seats
Prepared for handicapped
Smoke-free
Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Hamburg.

Door-to-door service
Help with your luggage

In total

336 km4 h 50 min

Overview: car trip from Copenhagen to Hamburg

Still a bit mesmerized by Copenhagen’s iconic sites and cool vibes, your car trip to Hamburg sees you waving goodbye to the capital of Denmark for a journey of passing through the heart of the country towards a bright harbor city. This exhibition of marvelous Scandinavian and northern German towns takes around four hours and 40 minutes, covering a distance of 208.7 miles (336 km).

Riding in a comfortable car with Daytrip, you’ll cross Denmark via its islands, offering you amazing views as well as stops. Stop at Roskilde to admire the first ever “Brick Gothic” cathedral, where you'll find the tomb of Harold Bluetooth, and the Baroque Roskilde Palace next to it, is the perfect send-off to Denmark. On the German side, visiting Kiel serves as a little preview of Hamburg, with its waterfront to the Baltic Sea and chilly winds. Stop by the Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research to observe seals in their outdoor seal aquarium.

As your car trip comes to a close, your driver will deliver you to your final destination in Hamburg and offload your luggage for you. Sound like a perfect adventure through northern Europe? Read on to plan your trip from Copenhagen to Hamburg!

About Hamburg

Hamburg is nicknamed the “Germany's Gateway to the World" for its lively port, which is the largest in the country and the third-largest in Europe. Located on the River Elbe, the Port of Hamburg and has been the center of trade for more than a century. Naturally, some of the city’s favorite attractions are scattered around the port, including the historic Speicherstadt (warehouse district) and the modern HafenCity.

Another outstanding thing about Hamburg is its dedication to the arts, which can be seen in its diverse range of cultural offerings. From the high art at the Kunsthalle, full of masterpieces from medieval to contemporary art (including Caspar David Friedrich’s “Wanderer above the Sea of Fog”), to the Reeperbahn Festival, Germany’s largest club festival. And then there is Elbphilharmonie, which is renowned for both its innovative and striking architecture and for being one of the most acoustically advanced halls in the world.

From Copenhagen to Hamburg: travel tips

Getting from Copenhagen to Hamburg is nothing short of complicated if you’re traveling with Daytrip. Regardlessly, here are a few tips to make sure everything goes smoothly:

Keep travel documents with you

Even though Denmark and Germany are both in the Schengen Area, occasional temporary border checks can occur. Have all necessary identification and travel documents readily available to avoid any issues during these checks. In general, you should keep your passport with you at all times, as random ID checks do happen.

Manage your timing

To avoid heavy traffic, especially during rush hours near major cities, try to plan your departure early in the morning or later in the evening. It’ll definitely save you some energy and time. Plus, if you leave early, you’ll get to explore more on the way.

Prepare for changing weather

The weather in northern Europe can change on a dime, especially when crossing over the open waters of the Baltic Sea. When packing your day bag, include a light jacket for possible rainy or windy conditions, and a few insulating layers as well!

How to get from Copenhagen to Hamburg

There are several different ways you can choose to travel from Copenhagen to Hamburg, take a look and choose the one that suits you the most.

Copenhagen to Hamburg by bus

If you're on a budget, the bus is the cheapest way to get from Copenhagen to Hamburg. Flixbus is the main bus service on this route with a bus departing every three hours daily. Tickets start at around $28 (26 euros). The bus ride takes from five and a half hours to almost seven hours, which makes it not the most convenient option. It’s always better to book your tickets beforehand since each Flixbus gets quite crowded.

Copenhagen to Hamburg by train

There are direct trains operated by Deutsche Bahn running between Copenhagen and Hamburg. The train tickets can cost nearly twice as much as the bus, with prices starting at $48 (45 euros). There are usually five direct trains a day, which get you to Hamburg in just under 5 hours. There are several more that require you to make two transfers; one in Fredericia and the other in Flensburg. These indirect trains can take up to seven and a half hours.

Copenhagen to Hamburg by plane

It is possible to fly from Copenhagen to Hamburg, but it is definitely not the best option. Scandinavian Airlines operates a handful of direct flights daily, with tickets costing 120 euros and up. While the flight time is just over an hour, after you factor in getting to and from the airport, plus 2 hours for check-in and security, flying doesn't save you any time and will often be the most expensive option.

Copenhagen to Hamburg by private car service

While there are direct trains and buses, if you value comfort, privacy, and most importantly, an unforgettable experience, Daytrip's private car service is the best way to get from Copenhagen to Hamburg.

Your private driver will pick you up at your accommodation in Copenhagen, load your luggage, and set off to your final destination in Hamburg. No worrying about getting to bus or train stations with heavy bags!

You’ll enjoy a stress-free and comfortable drive with your English-speaking Daytrip driver who will be happy to enlighten you about the surroundings. And even better, you can stop for sightseeing at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Roskilde, with the world's largest brick Gothic cathedral, or the medieval port town of Lubeck.

You won’t have to worry about parking, driving, navigating, catching trains, buses, or flights. All you need to do will be to enjoy the trip full-on.

Copenhagen to Hamburg by rental car

If you prefer to drive yourself from Copenhagen to Hamburg, you can rent a car, though the island hopping experience can be a bit frustrating. Drive south through Denmark, crossing over to Germany via the Fehmarn Belt Fixed Link (currently a ferry crossing from Rødby, Denmark to Puttgarden, Germany), and then continue on to Hamburg.

The trip takes around 5 hours in ideal conditions, but it depends on traffic and the ferry crossing. Costs include fuel, vehicle rental, and the ferry ticket. If you're not driving back to Copenhagen, also make sure you get a rental that you can return in a different city. Ferry prices can vary, and booking in advance might save some money.

Things to do when you get to Hamburg

After you finally arrive from Copenhagen to Hamburg, you’ll most probably walk around Speicherstadt and the port, catch a concert at the Elbphilharmonie, and admire the artworks in Kunsthalle. But there are a few other things to do when you get to Hamburg:

Lose yourself in Speicherstadt

Without a doubt, Hamburg's biggest attraction is the Speicherstadt. Built between 1883 and the late 1920s, this warehouse complex is the largest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Step inside and you'll find that they're no longer warehouses but fun attractions and museums. There's the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg with thousands of model ships, and The Deutsches Zollmuseum (lit. “German Customs Museum”) where you can learn about the port's customs and smuggling.

But not everything is sea-related. Check out rare auto prototypes at the Automuseum Prototyp, enjoy a locally roasted cup of coffee at Kaffeerösterei, or learn about Hamburg's history at the spooky Hamburg Dungeon. The city's single most popular attraction is here as well: the enormous model railway system at Miniatur Wunderland.

Start your day with a Franzbrötchen

Dive into the local cuisine by trying Franzbrötchen, a unique pastry native to Hamburg. This cinnamon-flavored treat is similar to a croissant but sweeter! Head to any local bakery in the morning to get them fresh and warm—a perfect start to your day in Hamburg.

Tour the Reeperbahn

Experience Hamburg’s famous Reeperbahn, also known as the "Sinful Mile", the center of the city’s nightlife. This vibrant street in St. Pauli has an array of clubs, bars, and theaters. For an authentic taste of Hamburg's music scene, catch a live band at one of the many venues or enjoy the energetic atmosphere as you walk along the area.

Visit the Hamburg Fish Market

No trip to Hamburg is complete without a visit to its legendary Fish Market. It’s been operating since 1703! The market is not only about fish; you can find fresh fruits, flowers, clothing, and more. It opens early on Sunday mornings and is a great place to join in everyday Hamburger life, enjoy live music, and snack on various local foods.

When is the best time to visit Hamburg

In Hamburg, each season is filled with unique experiences, but spring is the best time to visit. The city awakens as people gather in downtown areas like Jungfernstieg for shopping or drinks by the Alster Lake. The trendy Schanzenviertel fills with hip crowds enjoying craft beers and fruity cocktails, while HafenCity’s terraces and the Dom funfair draw travelers outdoors. The season peaks with the Port Anniversary, Hamburg's largest public festival.

Summer sees locals and travelers at beaches like Oevelgönne and Blankenese, enjoying frequent public festivals, or relaxing in open-air cinemas at night.

Autumn is perfect for scenic bike tours and exploring the foliage in local parks, while cultural events pick up as the weather cools.

Winter offers the charm of Christmas markets, museum visits, and ice-skating on Alster Lake, with indoor skiing available at the Snow Dome in Bispingen, compensating for the region's flat terrain. But be careful, during the winter season the winds can be quite strong.

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Copenhagen to Hamburg

How long is the train from Copenhagen to Hamburg?

The train ride from Copenhagen to Hamburg can be between around five hours to seven and a half. The duration depends on how many transfers you need to make and the waiting time at the transfer stations.

How long should I spend in Hamburg?

Try to spend at least a weekend in Hamburg. You want to give yourself enough time to explore the port and Speicherstadt, catch a show at the Elbphilharmonie, visit some bars or museums depending on your preferences, and shop at the Sunday Fish Market.

Is the train from Copenhagen to Hamburg scenic?

Yes, the train route from Copenhagen to Hamburg is quite scenic. As you cross through Denmark and northern Germany you’re treated to picturesque views of both the coast and countryside.

Is Hamburg good for families?

Without a doubt! Speicherstadt is filled with attractions for all ages, and younger kids especially love the Miniatur Wunderland. If your kids are a bit older, their memories of a concert at the Elbphilharmonie will last a lifetime (even if they sulk about it now).

How do you get from Copenhagen to Hamburg fast?

A private car service is the fastest way to get from Copenhagen to Hamburg, getting you door-to-door in under 5 hours. A direct train is the next best, getting you station-to-station in about 5 hours. Flying takes the same amount of time after you factor in all the extra waiting time, so it isn't recommended.

Is Hamburg worth visiting?

While it doesn’t rank at the top of traveler’s lists, Hamburg is absolutely worth visiting. The historic port, built around the UNESCO-listed Speicherstadt, is one of those alternative destinations that will have your friends asking “Where is that?” when they see your travel photos

Visit these sights on the way

Roskilde

This viking city’s UNESCO-listed cathedral has been the burial place of the Danish monarchy for centuries, but it’s best known for its massive music festival. Rock the Boat

Odense

The birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen is an enchanting mix of history and culture. The Fairytale Capital

Flensburg

Many of this medieval port town’s most beautiful monument are thanks to the fortune it made trading rum. Flensburg

Kiel

Kiel is an integral part of the world’s maritime culture, hosting the largest regatta and 2 separate Olympics. Gateway to the Baltic

Lubeck

The city of Lubeck is a picture book twelfth-century German port boasting over 1000 historical buildings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Queen of the Hanseatic cities

Ahrensburg Castle

Special slippers have visitors sliding through one of Germany’s finest Renaissance estates. Waltz through Time

Why people love Daytrip

5,100+ reviews

104 travelers took this route with us

Oct 2, 2025

Great transfer option.

“I used this service for a transfer from Split in Croatia to Perast Montenegro. My experience was exceptional. My driver Bojan was helpful, informative and ensured my journey was comfortable and enjoyable. I highly recommend the service.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Robyn C

Sep 20, 2025

It was a fantastic trip.

“We were extremely satisfied with the quality of service we received from Day Trip. We had two Day Trip rides on August 31 from Athens to Lefkada and September 7 from Lefkada back to Athens. Both trips included stops at scenic sites in Greece. Both drivers were excellent and accommodating. However, we’d especially like to recognize Panos Peppas, who was our driver from Lefkada to Athens. Panos was incredibly nice & pleasant and delivered outstanding customer service, which included handling all of luggage, providing us with cold waters throughout the trip, providing us protein bars, providing us with printed materials on the Corinth Canal (one of scenic stops), looking up and providing us with terminal & gate info for our flight back home and providing us with a recipe for tzatziki.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Daydream20046758137

Sep 15, 2025

Best transport company anywhere

“We absolutely love this company and have used it many times over the years to get from A to B without the hassle of hiring a car ourselves. Excellent drivers every time. Efficient and professional. It’s worth every penny and we can honestly recommend Day Trip to everyone. It’s 5 star rating is well deserved.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Mary L

Aug 20, 2025

Excellent experience in traveling

“We traveled from Nuremberg to Munich in a beautiful Audi. Driver picked us at our hotel at the exact time requested. Got us to Munich in plenty of time for our next tour. Driver made sure we were comfortable”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N

Apr 22, 2025

Reasonably Priced and Safe Transportation

“Gonzalo from daytrip was our driver and he was absolutely amazing. He went over and beyond trying to locate us as our service wasn't so good on our phones. He patiently awaited our arrival to the lobby so he could take us from Tulum Dreams Resort to our other hotel in cancun an hour and a half away near the airport prior to our departure flight home. He was polite, respectful and kind. Made sure we were comfortable during our long ride. Fast and to the point. I recommend this company as finding a one way ride from Tulum to Cancun isn't easy or cheap and this company provides a great service for a great price. I will definitely be using them again whenever I'm in the Cancun/Tulum area. Thank you DayTrip and Gonzola.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler COCO

Apr 2, 2025

Daytrip never disappoints

“We were picked up by Marianna to drive us from Heraklion to Chania. The weather was terrible & due to this Marianna arrived a few minutes late. She contacted me to advise of this. Marianna lives in Chana and she made our trip very interesting by informing us of local things to do and see in Chania. Marianna is a safe driver and we all felt comfortable with the speed she drove at and how good her driving was in heavy rain. She is a lovely person with fluent English. We highly recommend Daytrips and if you are in Heraklion or Chania please make sure you ask for Marianna.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Julie M

Feb 28, 2025

Great driver in Egypt

“Used the service to go from Luxor to Hurghada, Egypt. Ahmed H was our driver and he was perfect. The car was new, clean, he had water and snacks for us, and accommodated our stops. Great service from him and would recommend it.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Maps315861

Feb 20, 2025

Comfortable and Safe Rides in Mexico

“Used Daytrip for two rides in Mexico, which were both great. So comfortable, and we arrived at each of our destinations at a great time. Both were incredible drivers, and we felt so safe. One of our drivers, Miguel, also played the best music! Will definitely use Daytrip on our next trip to Mexico.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Golourdesduarte

Feb 10, 2025

Great way to travel and see some sights on the way

“We did not know what to expect with this trip and booked from Australia. We were initially looking for an easy way to travel from Granada to Malaga. We decided not to waste the opportunity to see something additional on our way. Miguel certainly exceeded our expectations. His English was excellent (unfortunately we speak very little Spanish), and he was very friendly and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed hearing about the regions as we passed through and also discussing some of the local ways. Miguel took us to Antequera as planned and ensured we were able to easily get our tickets to the attractions without any sense of rushing us. We were picked up and dropped off punctually and really enjoyed our trip. Hopefully we will return to Spain and we can use this service again sometime.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Michelle R

Jan 25, 2025

Excellent service

“We used the service twice while in Thailand. Extremely prompt and efficient customer service. Best rate being offered in Chiang Mai for the travels. Polite, punctual, professional and English speaking drivers. Clean, comfortable vehicles. Being a regular visitor to Thailand, this was hands down the best service. Most pleased with the company. I hope it sustains the excellence of service that was rendered to us.”

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Omar

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

Big luggage
29x21x11 inches
74x53x28 cm

Small luggage
22x14x9 inches
56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

Yes! A return trip will take you back to your city of origin in the same size car in which you arrived. Return trips can be booked for the any day. You can also add customized sightseeing stops separately for each trip! Don’t worry if you don’t know your exact address at the time of booking - you’ll have the opportunity to update us closer to your travel date. Make sure to select “Return” when you start the booking process, then choose the dates and times of your departures.

For private trips, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24 hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15 minutes before departure.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on-screen. Select “One Way” or “Return” to change the type of trip you need. It’s a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip. You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us.

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 14,500+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.