Getting to Denmark
Regrettably, no direct transportation options are available from the UK to Denmark. The most convenient way to reach Denmark would be to take a ferry from the UK to the Netherlands or France and then proceed to Denmark by driving.
To get started, we recommend reviewing the ferry routes map below.
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UK-Denmark ferry route map
The ferries from Newcastle and Hull are night sailings. You can book Harwich-Hook of Holland as a night cruise and a day cruise.
Puttgarden-Rodby, the crossing at the top right of the map is useful for travelers to Copenhagen.
Timetables, availability, and compare prices
Our online booking module makes it easy to find and book your desired ferry crossing to Holland or France. All you have to do is enter your departure port, destination, and travel dates. The system will show you the best routes and possible alternatives. You can then choose the ferry that best suits your needs and budget. Have a great trip to Denmark!
When you arrive in the Netherlands or Northern France, you need to drive to Denmark. We listed the total travel time you'll need when traveling to the border of Denmark. Driving from the border of Denmark to Kopenhagen is 3 hours and 15 minutes.
- Hull-Rotterdam ⇒ Denmark: 19 hours
- Harwich-Hook of Holland ⇒ Denmark: 14 hours
- Dover-Calais ⇒ Denmark: 12 hours
- Newcastle-Amsterdam ⇒ Denmark: 23 hours
When you travel from France or Netherlands to Kopenhagen, some ferries can bring you from North Germany to Rodby; this is the best route if you want to reach Kopenhagen fast and as cheaply as possible. You'll be avoiding many expensive toll roads/bridges.
Step 1: Get a Ferry to Holland or France first!
To get to Denmark by ferry and car, you should book a ferry to The Netherlands or France first.
There are five ferry options to consider. When you depart from the south or centre of England, you can book a ferry from Dover or Harwich.
Hull and Newcastle are the best choices when departing from the north of England.
Step 2: Get to Denmark
From Amsterdam or Rotterdam, it takes roughly 7 hours to drive to the border between Germany and Denmark.
If you have to be on the island of Zealand (Sjælland), you can book the ferry Puttgarden-Rodby. The alternative to this crossing is Rostock-Gedser, but it is a little further to drive and is therefore much less interesting.
Puttgarden-Rødby
The Puttgarden-Rodby connection, operated by Scandlines, offers the quickest crossing between Denmark and Germany, with a ferry ride lasting just 45 minutes.
Rostock-Gedser
If you’re looking for a swift and scenic way to sail from Germany to Denmark, hop on board the Scandlines ferry from Rostock to Gedser. In just two hours, you’ll glide across the Baltic Sea and arrive at your destination, ready to explore the wonders of Scandinavia.
Recap of all options to Denmark
Frequently Asked Questions
Although no direct ferries are available from the UK to Denmark, it is relatively simple to travel via Holland. Previously, there was a Harwich-Esbjerg ferry and also the freight route Immingham-Gothenburg allowed passengers to travel.
Ferry talk: Share your questions and opinions
Ask, answer, and explore ferry routes with the community's expertise!
Hello – did there used to be a ferry that went from Scotland to Denmark? we have heard rumours but don't know if it ever existed. A real shame if it's no longer around!
Hi Megan,
We really wish there were more UK / Scandinavia connections, now all options are unfortunately ‘indirect'.
How long has the ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam been going? I never knew there was a connection. It is such a shame there is only one a day; this is really good for people in the North West of England.
Hi William,
There are actually two ships on the route (KING SEAWAYS and PRINCESS SEAWAYS), crossing each other, but because of the distance there are indeed not much departures per day. The route started February 2011.