Copenhagen Airport is one of those airports where public transport is so good that taxis and transfers have to justify their existence. Here is when each option actually makes sense.
Three-way comparison
| Factor | Metro M2 | Taxi | Private transfer | |--------|----------|------|------------------| | Price to centre | 39 DKK (5.20 EUR) | 250–350 DKK (34–47 EUR) | 400–600 DKK (54–80 EUR) | | Journey time | 15 min | 15–25 min | 15–25 min | | Frequency | Every 4–6 min | Always available | Scheduled | | Door-to-door | No (station to station) | Yes | Yes | | Luggage handling | Self-service | Driver helps | Driver helps | | Payment | Card, app, cash | Card, cash | Pre-paid | | Late night (weekday) | Stops ~00:30 | Available | Available | | Late night (weekend) | 24 hours | Available | Available |
When the metro wins (most of the time)
For solo travellers, couples, and even families arriving during metro operating hours, the M2 is the obvious choice. It runs every 4–6 minutes, takes 15 minutes to Norreport, and costs 39 DKK. The trains are clean, modern, and fully accessible with lifts at every station.
The metro wins on speed too. During rush hour, a taxi to the city centre can take 25–35 minutes stuck in traffic. The metro takes 15 minutes regardless.
When a taxi makes sense
Groups of 3–4 people splitting the fare pay roughly 70–90 DKK per person — still more than the metro but not unreasonable for door-to-door service.
Travellers with heavy or bulky luggage — multiple oversized suitcases, sports equipment, or fragile items — find taxis more practical than navigating metro platforms.
Late weeknight arrivals after 00:30 when the metro has stopped are the strongest case for a taxi. Night buses exist but are slow and infrequent.
Copenhagen taxis are metered, professional, and honest. There is no negotiation, no scam risk, and all cars accept cards. The driver will take the most direct route.
When a private transfer makes sense
The honest answer is: rarely at CPH. The taxi service is already excellent, so the added benefits of a private transfer — known driver, name sign, guaranteed vehicle — overlap heavily with what a Copenhagen taxi already provides.
The cases where a transfer is worth it:
- Very early morning departures (before 05:00) where you want a guaranteed pickup at your hotel
- Large families or groups needing a specific vehicle like a minivan
- Trips to suburban or rural destinations outside the metro and taxi comfort zone
- Business travellers whose companies cover the cost and value the certainty
The honest verdict
Take the metro. It is not a compromise — it is genuinely the best option for most people. If you need a car, take a taxi. If you need a specific vehicle booked in advance, get a transfer. But start with the metro and only look elsewhere if your situation requires it.