Copenhagen Kastrup Airport, Denmark’s primary aviation hub, offers a seamless and welcoming experience for travellers exploring Scandinavia and beyond.
The passenger experience at Copenhagen, or CPH, is defined by its modern design and traveller-focused amenities, handling around 30 million passengers annually across 165 destinations in 40 countries. As a major hub for Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and a base for Norwegian and low-cost carriers like Ryanair, the airport ensures smooth navigation with clear signage and a spacious layout. Terminals 2 and 3, integrated into a single complex, feature Nordic-inspired decor with wooden accents and local art, creating a calm atmosphere. The airport’s role as a key transfer point for Star Alliance airlines enhances its global connectivity.
Accessing CPH from Copenhagen’s city centre, 8 kilometres away, is straightforward and quick. The Metro M2 line connects the airport to Kongens Nytorv in 13 minutes, running every 4-6 minutes during the day for £3.20. Regional trains to Copenhagen Central Station take 12 minutes, with fares starting at £3.80, and both services operate 24/7. Buses like line 5C serve local stops, while taxis, available outside Terminal 3, cost around £25 for a 20-minute ride. Car rental agencies, including Avis, Hertz, and Sixt, are located in both terminals, and parking options range from budget lots at £8 per day to premium covered spaces at £20, bookable online for convenience.
The airport’s layout centres on Terminals 2 and 3, connected by a short airside walkway, with Terminal 1 now closed for commercial flights. Terminal 2 handles most low-cost and non-Schengen flights, while Terminal 3 serves SAS, Star Alliance, and long-haul routes. The central Pier A, used for international flights, and Piers B, C, D, and F, dedicated to specific airline groups, streamline operations with 50 gates. A dedicated Schengen area and a separate Go Zone for low-cost carriers ensure efficient passenger flow, though long walking distances to outer piers may require extra time.
Delays are uncommon but can occur during peak summer and winter periods or due to fog and snow affecting Denmark’s coastal climate.
Security queues in Terminal 2 can slow progress during morning rushes, so arriving two hours early for domestic flights and three for international is advisable. Baggage handling is generally efficient, but occasional delays for intercontinental flights have been reported, and travellers should monitor flight information screens for gate changes. Fast Track security, free for eligible premium passengers, helps expedite the process.
Dining options reflect Copenhagen’s culinary scene, with Aamanns in Terminal 3 offering Danish open-faced sandwiches and Lagkagehuset serving fresh pastries. Fast-food outlets like Burger King and 7-Eleven complement upscale choices like Mikkeller’s craft beer bar in the Go Zone. Most eateries close by midnight, but 24/7 convenience stores ensure late-night snacks. Retail includes tax-free shops by Avolta in both terminals, offering Nordic brands like Marimekko, alongside luxury boutiques such as Burberry and Gucci. A Lego store and Danish design shops add local flair for souvenir hunters.
Facilities enhance comfort, with free unlimited Wi-Fi, charging stations at every gate, and a quiet room in Terminal 3 for relaxation. Accessibility features include lifts, ramps, and Sunflower Lanyard assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, bookable 48 hours in advance. Lounges, such as the SAS Gold Lounge and Aspire Lounge in Terminal 3, offer premium relaxation for a fee, while a children’s play area near Pier C keeps families entertained. A pharmacy, medical services, and ATMs are available, and a visitors’ terrace in Terminal 3 provides plane-spotting views.
On-time performance is strong, supported by CPH’s efficient operations and three-runway system, though weather and peak-hour congestion can cause minor delays. Connections are seamless within the integrated terminal complex, with Schengen-to-Schengen transfers often taking under 30 minutes. Non-Schengen transfers may involve customs and security, adding 45-60 minutes, so travellers should plan accordingly.
Copenhagen Kastrup Airport blends Nordic efficiency with local character, offering a smooth and enjoyable experience. With excellent city links and ongoing expansions, including new parking and gate facilities, it remains a top choice for travellers exploring Denmark and connecting globally.
Ryanair
Ryanair operates from Terminal 2, with check-in desks typically in the main check-in area (desks 20–40). Exact desk numbers are displayed on airport screens.
Flights to Ireland (Dublin) typically depart from Non-Schengen gates in Terminal 2 the C-gates (specifically C15-C40) and the F-gates, including the dedicated low-cost terminal F1-F5 and F101-F105 for bus boarding. Gates are assigned dynamically and shown on departure boards. The airport is a primary hub, and Ryanair uses it to attract business passengers.
Norwegian
Norwegian seasonal flights to Ireland (Dublin) operate from Terminal 3 at Copenhagen Airport. Check-in is in the low-cost international area. Counters are in Terminal 3 (rows 300-400 for Norwegian) Check-in opens 2 hours before; closes 45 minutes prior for international. Online 48 hours prior; self-kiosks available. Bag drop after online; for seasonal Dublin, use dedicated low-cost counters.
Departure Gates in Pier C or D (C20-C40 for EU seasonal). Gates announced 30-45 minutes before; commonly C25-C35 for Ireland routes. Boarding 30 minutes prior; gates close 20 minutes before. Confirm via app or airport boards.
SAS
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) operates direct flights from Copenhagen, to Ireland (primarily Dublin). Check-in desks and departure gates are assigned dynamically based on flight schedules, but they follow consistent patterns in dedicated SAS zones within the terminals.
Copenhagen (CPH) Terminal 3, desks 301-350 (SAS international zone; early bag drop from 2-3 hours prior). Departures from terminal 3, gates C10-C30 or D20-D40 (non-Schengen pier for European routes like DUB). For non-Schengen destinations like Ireland, passport control is required post-check-in. Gates are typically announced 60 minutes before departure via apps or screens.
Arrive 2 hours early; self-service kiosks available. Recent SK flights to DUB used desk 320 and gate C20
