What Is The Copenhagen S Train And How To Use It
The S train, S Tog in Danish, is a rail network operating within the greater Copenhagen area, connecting the city centre with the suburbs and outer areas. It’s easy to use, convenient and cheap, so there’s a good chance you’ll use the S train during your trip to Copenhagen.
On board the S train, there are clear signs and announcements in English providing helpful information on the train’s route and stops. The trains are equipped with air-con and heating and have designated areas for buggies and bicycles.
As a Copenhagen resident, I regularly use the S train, so let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know for a smooth and pleasant journey.
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What You Need To Know About The Copenhagen S Train
The S train serves 86 stations along seven lines of track. All S train stations have electronic overhead boards displaying train schedules, platforms, and relevant information.
On the platform, overhead information boards show the end destination and all stops in between.
Inside the carriages, there is an electronic overview of the stops, which shows the direction of travel and those stations the train has already passed. The red dots show which way the train is heading. The S trains usually stop at every station.
During the week, the fast and frequent trains run from early morning until late at night. On Friday and Saturday, the S trains travel throughout the night, making it a convenient option for exploring Copenhagen’s nightlife.
Generally speaking, the S trains are red, although you may occasionally come across a black or yellow train.
There are no toilets on the S Train. Nor are there first-class carriages or seat reservations.
S train stations connect with regional trains, metro and buses.
Understanding The Copenhagen S Train Lines
The S train is made up of 7 lines, each represented by a letter indicating its route and a unique colour on the map to differentiate it from the other lines.
Each S train has the letter and the colour of the line above the driver’s window.
All lines, except line F, pass through Copenhagen Central Station (København H).
When planning your journey, refer to DOT’s online map, downloadable as a PDF, the S train map on the station platform, or use the map over the S train doors.
Ensure you check the Rejseplanen timetable, as some lines only travel part of the route in the evenings and weekends. And some trains only travel during peak times.
S Train Lines And Routes
| Line | Routes | Map Colour |
|---|---|---|
| A | Hillerød – Køge | Blue |
| B | Farum – Høje Taastrup | Green |
| Bx | Buddinge – Høje Taastrup | Pale Green |
| C | Frederikssund – Klampenborg | Orange |
| E | Holte – Køge | Purple |
| F | Hellerup – København Syd | Yellow |
| H | Østerport – Ballerup | Red |
Copenhagen S Train Tickets
There are no barriers at the stations, and you must have a valid ticket before boarding the S train. Ticket inspections occur regularly on all Danish public transport. Failure to produce a valid ticket will result in a fine of up to 1,000 kr.
All Danish public transport tickets can be purchased at ticket machines, 7-Eleven stores at the station, or through the DSB, DOT or Rejseplanen apps.
Except for a Rejsekort Anonymous, you do not need to validate your ticket for the Copenhagen S Train.
A Rejsekort Anonymous is the only top-up travel card option for visitors without a Danish CPR number. However, it is only worth buying if you plan to stay in Denmark for an extended period and rely heavily on public transport.
Boarding The S Train
The external doors on the S Train do not open automatically. To enter or exit the train, press the button in the middle of the door when you hear the beep.
Internal doors between carriages are activated by a sensor above the doors. The easiest way to open the door is to wave your hand in the air under the sensor; alternatively, press the sign on the door.
Allow passengers to leave the train before boarding. Additionally, avoid blocking or standing in front of the doors, especially during rush hour.
S Train Announcements
Automated announcements on the S train are given in Danish and English. However, if the driver has a reason to pass on information, it will be in Danish. If this happens, ask other passengers who will let you know what’s been said.
The Copenhagen S Train Schedule
The S trains start running between 5 am and 6 am. They travel every 10 minutes throughout the day, up until 7 pm, when they travel every 20 minutes until approximately 1 am.
S trains do not travel through the night from Sunday to Thursday; however, buses run through the night on many routes, and the Copenhagen metro travels through the night at 20-minute intervals.
On Friday and Saturday, the S trains travel every 30 minutes throughout the night.
Take a look at these articles to learn more about getting around Copenhagen.
Plan Your Journey Using Rejseplanen
Rejseplanen is a journey-planning public transport app that makes exploring Copenhagen and the whole of Denmark easy. You can also use Rejseplanen to buy your tickets.
S Train Platforms At Copenhagen Station
Copenhagen Central Station has four S train platforms. Northbound trains run from platforms 9 and 10, and the trains to the south and west travel from platforms 11 and 12.
Trains can run from either track, and the information is shown approximately two minutes before the train’s arrival.
The S Train Does Not Travel From Copenhagen Airport
The S Train does not serve Copenhagen Airport. Use the metro or regional trains to get to the city centre from the airport.
Check out my useful guide to the 7 best ways to reach Copenhagen’s city centre from the airport. It contains everything you need to know, including ticketing information, how to use and where to find the transport options at the airport.
Useful S Train Stations For Visitors
One of the benefits of using the S train is that it connects you to some of the popular attractions outside central Copenhagen, such as Frederiksborg Castle, the old town of Køge, and the Dyrehaven Deer Park.
| Attraction | S Train Station |
|---|---|
| Rosenborg Castle | Nørreport |
| The Little Mermaid | Østerport |
| Arken | Ishøj |
| Frederiksborg Castle | Hillerød |
| The Deer Park | Klampenborg |
| Køge | Køge |
Safety On The S Train
The S Train has 24-hour monitored surveillance in all carriages and on the platforms. It’s a safe way to travel any time of the day or night, but if you feel nervous, choose the quiet zone carriage behind the driver for extra peace of mind.
S Train Accessibility For Wheelchair Users
Passengers requiring wheelchair access should wait at the end of the platform closest to where the train will stop, letting the driver know that they need to fix the access ramp. Additionally, you’ll need to let the driver know your intended destination so they can help you disembark the train.
Taking A Bicycle On The S Train
You can take your bicycle on the S train, but only in designated carriages specifically designed for bikes. To prevent congestion, bicycles have separate entry and exit doors.
Generally speaking, bicycle carriages are at the front, middle and end of the S train. Bike carriages are easily identified by the prominent signs on their doors and windows.
You do not require a ticket for your bicycle on the S train.
Due to the high volume of commuters, Nørreport Station has certain restrictions. During weekday rush hours (7 am – 9 am and 3.30 pm – 5.30 pm), bicycles are not permitted to be taken on or off the train at Nørreport station.
Taking The S Train During Rush Hour
Copenhagen rush hours are between 7 am and 9 am and 3.30 pm and 5.30 pm. During that time, the S Train runs extra long trains to cope with the demand.
Using The S Train On Public Holidays
Generally speaking, on public holidays, the S train runs on a Sunday timetable.
On New Year’s Eve, all outdoor DSB ticket machines are closed to prohibit vandalism. Some people have a problem controlling themselves with fireworks and find it funny to put them in ticket machines!
Use the DSB, DOT or Rejseplanen apps to buy your tickets for New Year’s Eve. The ticket machines reopen on the 1st of January.
Check out my article, Copenhagen Public Holidays: How They Will Affect Your Trip, for more information about what to expect during the public holidays.
Taking The S Train In The Winter
Unlike some countries, Denmark expects snow and is fully prepared when it falls, so it’s very rare for the S train to stop running due to snow. However, in very exceptional circumstances, bad storms have been known to stop the trains from running.
Observe The Rules In The Quiet Zone Carriage On Trains
The quiet zone carriages are generally the first and last carriage of the S train. They are identified by the Stillezone sign on the wall.
Respect the silent carriages in trains. Don’t have whispered conversations; leave the carriage and have your conversation outside. People will be quick to tell you to be quiet; they have chosen that carriage for a reason.
What Happens If There’s A Replacement Bus (Togbusser)
Occasionally, repair work on the S train lines means there’s a need for a replacement bus service. Unless it’s an emergency repair, there will be notices around the station on A-boards and information on Rejseplanen and DSB apps notifying you of the changes in advance.
The replacement buses (togbusser) travel from station to station with no stops in between. You can not buy a ticket on the replacement bus.
All Danish public transport tickets can be purchased at ticket machines, 7-Eleven stores at the station, or through the DSB, DOT or Rejseplanen apps.
Replacement buses stop right outside the station, but usually, A boards or staff should be on hand to point you in the right direction.
How Can I Help?
Having lived in Copenhagen for over a decade, I have all the best insider tips and local know-how to ensure your trip is unforgettable. Got a question? My advice is free, so don’t hesitate to ask for help.
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