The Great Belt Crossing
The 300-kilometer route from Copenhagen to Aarhus is defined by the Storebæltsbroen, the Great Belt Fixed Link, which opened in 1998 and fundamentally changed Denmark's geography. Before this engineering achievement, the journey required a ferry crossing that added significant time and planning. Today, drivers on the E20 highway cross 6.8 kilometers of bridge and tunnel over the Great Belt, paying a toll of 250 DKK for standard cars. This crossing marks the transition from Zealand to Funen and sets the stage for a drive through Denmark's varied landscapes. The route passes through agricultural regions, coastal areas, and historic towns, offering more than highway monotony. For those wondering is it worth driving Copenhagen to Aarhus, the answer lies in the opportunity to experience Denmark's midsection at your own pace. This guide provides specific details to help you plan effectively, including how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.
Recommended Places to Visit
For those seeking things to do between Copenhagen and Aarhus, numerous worthwhile detours exist. Roskilde, just 30 kilometers west of Copenhagen on Route 156, houses the Viking Ship Museum where five original 11th-century vessels are displayed. Allow 90 minutes for a visit. Continuing west, the medieval town of Korsør offers coastal views before the bridge crossing. On Funen, Odense demands attention as Denmark's third-largest city and birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen. The H.C. Andersen House at Bangs Boder 29 provides insight into the author's life through personal artifacts. North of Odense, Egeskov Castle in Kværndrup represents one of Europe's best-preserved Renaissance water castles, with its moat and extensive gardens open from April to October. Crossing to Jutland, the city of Horsens on Route 451 features the former state prison turned museum, Fængslet, which hosts concerts and exhibitions. For coastal scenery, detour to the Djursland peninsula east of Aarhus, where Mols Bjerge National Park offers hiking trails with views of the Bay of Aarhus. These best stops Copenhagen to Aarhus provide cultural, historical, and natural counterpoints to highway driving.
A Three-Day Exploration Plan
This Copenhagen to Aarhus itinerary 3 days allows thorough exploration without rushing. Day 1: Depart Copenhagen mid-morning via E20, stopping at Roskilde Cathedral (a UNESCO site since 1995) and the adjacent Viking Ship Museum. Continue to Nyborg on Funen, visiting the medieval castle that once housed Denmark's parliament. Overnight in Odense, dining at Sortebro Kro, a traditional inn established in 1888. Day 2: Explore Odense's historic center including H.C. Andersen's childhood home at Munkemøllestræde 3. Drive north to Egeskov Castle (45 minutes via Route 9), touring the interior and gardens. Continue to Middelfart, crossing the Little Belt Bridge to Jutland. Overnight in Vejle, known for its modern architecture including the Wave residential complex. Day 3: Visit the Jelling stones (30 minutes north of Vejle via Route 18), 10th-century rune stones marking Denmark's conversion to Christianity. Continue to Aarhus, arriving by early afternoon to explore the Latin Quarter's cobbled streets and ARoS Aarhus Art Museum's rainbow panorama installation. This schedule balances driving with substantive visits, covering approximately 350 kilometers total.
Route Details and Practical Information
| Segment | Highway/Road | Distance | Driving Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copenhagen to Korsør | E20 | 110 km | 1 hour 15 min | Includes Great Belt crossing (toll 250 DKK) |
| Korsør to Odense | E20 | 65 km | 45 min | Passes through central Funen |
| Odense to Aarhus | E45 | 125 km | 1 hour 30 min | Crosses Little Belt Bridge (no toll) |
| Total Direct Drive | E20/E45 | 300 km | 3 hours 30 min | Without stops |
The most direct route follows E20 from Copenhagen across the Great Belt to Funen, then transitions to E45 north through Jutland to Aarhus. Road conditions are generally excellent, with well-maintained highways and clear signage in both Danish and English. Speed limits are 130 km/h on motorways, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 50 km/h in urban areas. Electronic toll collection is available via BroBizz for the Great Belt crossing. When planning how long to drive Copenhagen to Aarhus, account for potential traffic around Copenhagen and Odense during peak hours. Fuel stations are plentiful along the route, with prices typically lower than in Copenhagen. Consider downloading the Rejseplanen app for real-time traffic updates and alternative routing options.
Continue Your Adventure
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the driving time from Copenhagen to Aarhus without stops?
The direct drive takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes via E20 and E45, covering 300 kilometers. This includes the Great Belt crossing, which adds about 15 minutes including the toll plaza. Traffic conditions can extend this, particularly during Friday afternoon departures from Copenhagen or Sunday returns to Aarhus.
Are there worthwhile detours from the main highway?
Yes, several detours enhance the journey. The coastal route via Odsherred adds 45 minutes but passes through fishing villages like Nykøbing Sjælland. On Funen, the southern route via Faaborg adds 30 minutes but offers agricultural scenery. In Jutland, the eastern coastal road via Grenå adds 60 minutes but provides seaside views. Each alternative reduces highway monotony while increasing total travel time.
What are the toll costs for this route?
Only the Great Belt Fixed Link charges a toll: 250 DKK for standard passenger vehicles (as of 2024). Payment options include cash, credit card at the toll plaza, or electronic BroBizz transponder. The Little Belt Bridge between Funen and Jutland has no toll. No other road charges apply on this route.
Is winter driving challenging on this route?
Danish highways are well-maintained year-round, but December through February can bring snow and ice, particularly in Jutland. The Great Belt Bridge occasionally closes during severe storms with winds exceeding 25 m/s. Winter tires are recommended from November to April. Allow extra time during winter months and check Vejdirektoratet's road conditions website before departure.
Where are the best overnight stops between the two cities?
Odense offers the most accommodation options midway, with hotels like First Hotel Grand and Cabinn Odense. For smaller towns, Korsør has waterfront hotels like Hotel Korsør, while Nyborg provides historic options like Nyborg Strand. In Jutland, Vejle has modern hotels including Munkebjerg Hotel. Booking ahead is advisable during summer months and school holidays.
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