Compare car hire prices at Copenhagen Airport and book the best deal for your trip today.
Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is Denmark’s busiest gateway and a logical start point for exploring Zealand, southern Sweden or the Danish countryside. Hiring at the airport saves door-to-door time, but there are practical points to manage. This guide covers pickup, return, vehicle choice, local rules and typical costs.
Where to collect and return cars at CPH
Most rental desks sit in Terminal 3 arrivals. Vehicles are parked in the Car Rental Centre close to the terminals. The airport website confirms rental desk locations and opening hours. Copenhagen Airport information
Local pickup logistics
The Car Rental Centre is a short shuttle ride or a 10–20 minute walk from Terminal 3. Allow 15–30 minutes extra at peak times for desk queues and paperwork. Shuttle buses run frequently. Expect a 10–20 minute shuttle transfer when lots of flights arrive.
Local insights for driving from Copenhagen Airport
Roads and traffic near CPH have clear patterns that affect hire choices and timing.
- Rush hours are weekday mornings 07:00–09:00 and afternoons 15:00–18:00. Main routes include the E20 and the Køge Bugt Motorway. Expect slow sections near the motorway interchange.
- Many central Copenhagen streets have narrow lanes and strict parking rules. Choose a compact car for city driving and narrow parking spots.
- Drivers crossing to Sweden must pay an Øresund bridge toll. Check bridge prices before booking a car for cross-border travel. Øresund Bridge tolls
- Summer months, especially July and the start of August, show the highest car hire demand. Book early for holiday weeks to secure the best rates.
Choosing the right vehicle at Copenhagen Airport
Pick a car that fits your plans. A small hatch is ideal for city trips. An estate works for families and longer tours. A diesel or hybrid gives better economy for long drives outside the city.
Table: Typical car types and daily price ranges
The table shows common hire categories, their main uses and rough daily price ranges.
| Car type | Best for | Daily price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy / Small | City driving, tight parking | €30–€70 |
| Compact / Family | Day trips, small groups | €45–€90 |
| Estate / Large | Family luggage, long tours | €60–€120 |
| SUV | Rural roads, winter travel | €70–€140 |
Parking, zones and city constraints
Copenhagen uses paid parking zones and time limits in the centre. Rates vary by area and time of day. Free airport long-term parking is limited. Short-term parking near the terminals is costly.
Table: Pickup and return logistics at CPH
This table helps plan actual time and transfer method between terminals and the Car Rental Centre.
| Task | Where | Typical time |
|---|---|---|
| Collect at desk | Terminal 3 arrivals | 10–30 minutes |
| Shuttle to car park | Car Rental Centre | 10–20 minutes |
| Return vehicle | Car Rental Centre | 10–25 minutes |
| Walk to terminal | Covered walkway or shuttle | 10–20 minutes |
Fuel, tolls and cross-border rules
Most hires follow a full-to-full fuel policy. Expect an immediate fuel charge if you return with less. Toll charges apply on the Øresund Bridge and some tunnels. Inform the rental firm before crossing into Sweden to confirm allowed travel and insurance cover.
Table: Typical travel costs and fees
Use this table to budget for fuel, tolls and city parking during your hire.
| Item | Typical cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel (daily driving) | €8–€25 | Depends on distance and car type |
| Øresund Bridge toll | €40–€60 one way | Pay online or at toll booth |
| City parking | €2–€5 per hour | Higher in central zones |
| Airport short-stay | €3–€10 per hour | Close to terminals |
Booking tips and extras
- Reserve well ahead for summer and holiday periods.
- Compare total price including insurance, one-way fees and extras.
- Check if child seats and GPS are included or cost extra.
- Confirm cross-border travel rules if you plan to visit Sweden or Norway.
Common hire policies to check
- Age limits and young driver fees.
- Fuel policy and return condition requirements.
- Insurance excess and optional reduction costs.
- Opening hours for out-of-hours returns.
Frequently asked questions — Car Hire Copenhagen Airport
Can I pick up a hire car directly in Terminal 3?
Yes. Most rental desks are in Terminal 3 arrivals. The desk handles contracts and keys.
How long is the shuttle from the terminal to the Car Rental Centre?
The shuttle ride usually takes 10–20 minutes. Walking can take 10–20 minutes depending on luggage.
Are there restrictions for taking an airport hire car into Sweden?
Some rental firms allow cross-border travel. You must notify the company. You also pay the Øresund Bridge toll.
When is car hire demand highest at CPH?
Demand peaks in July and early August. Demand also rises during December holidays and city events.
What is the best car size for Copenhagen city driving?
Choose a small or compact car for ease of parking and narrow streets. It saves parking costs.
Do I need winter tyres for driving from the airport?
Winter tyres are standard on many hires between November and March. Confirm with the rental firm for exact dates.
Can I drop the car at a different location from where I collected it?
Many firms allow one-way returns for a fee. Check prices and opening hours for the return branch.
What is the usual fuel policy at Copenhagen Airport hires?
Most contracts use full-to-full fuel policy. You pay fuel only if you return less than full.
Are there congestion charges around Copenhagen?
No central congestion charge applies. Parking fees and zone rules are the main urban costs.
How much time should I allow when picking up a hire after arrival?
Allow 30–60 minutes. This covers deplaning, passport control, luggage and the rental desk queue.
Is it cheaper to collect a car from the airport or city centre?
Airport rates can include extra fees. Compare total prices and extra charges before booking.
