Oslo to Copenhagen by ferry: a better way to travel

Travelling from Oslo to Copenhagen or vice versa, is really easy and you have a variety of options available. Generally, when travelling between countries in Europe, the answer is usually one of two options, train or fly. There are a few variables of course that determine which is the better option. Sometimes it comes down to personal choice, but it can also be about sustainability, time, connections and cost. 

For shorter distances, the train is normally my mode of preference. Generally getting you from city centre to city centre and saving you the hassle of waiting around at airports. Otherwise, I prefer to fly, but it really depends on how much time you have and what you’re willing to prioritise. 

On a recent trip to Scandinavia, I was researching how to get from Oslo to Copenhagen, and had to choose between a long train journey with a changeover or a short direct flight that was significantly more expensive. However, my search brought up one other option. Enter the ferry. I was delighted to hear there was an overnight ferry that could take you directly between the two cities and that the cost for two people, including a cabin, was considerably cheaper and included the bonus of accommodation.

Suddenly the ferry became an extremely attractive option to cut down on costs, but also a much better way to travel. Let me explain. 

Oslo to Copenhagen – which way should you travel?

Below is a summary comparing the various options to consider when deciding how to get between the two Scandinavian capitals.

Why I chose the ferry from Oslo to Copenhagen

Normally I prefer to get from A to B as quickly as possible but these days I’m trying to find more ways to enjoy the journey, as well as the destination. Given the proximity between Oslo & Copenhagen, and the great connections across Europe, I found myself looking into other ways to get there. When I factored in everything, choosing the ferry was a no brainer. Firstly, the cost was appealing, but more than that, the idea of witnessing the magnificent Oslo fjords and waking up in beautiful Copenhagen felt like the perfect experience, and it was. 

What’s it like onboard the ferry?

The cabins – there are a variety of cabin options but I booked a 2 bed inside cabin and the price was 90 euro including a 10 euro climate crossing fee. The rooms were recently renovated in 2025 on the Nordic Pearl and the ship accommodates up to 1850 passengers. The rooms are simple, modern and very clean, providing all that you would need, including a private bathroom. Yes, it’s compact, but for 1 night it’s perfectly manageable. Tip: Your boarding pass is your door key.

The food – lots of different restaurant options ranging from grill, pizza, pub, buffet and cafe/bar for drinks & coffee. I had dinner at Kull grill house where both service and food were excellent. For breakfast, I had a simple coffee and croissant before disembarking. 

The amenities – I was not expecting to see a pool & spa when I got to the deck so that was a nice surprise, not that I got to use it as it was quite busy. Entertainment wise, there’s live music and dancing at various venues but I didn’t get a chance to check it out.

Duty free – a pretty decent shop with a large variety of goods are available if you want to do some shopping.

Arriving into Copenhagen from Oslo

The experience of waking up in a new city without the usual transit challenges was a breath of fresh air. Quite literally, breathing in the fresh air aboard the boat as you float into Copenhagen’s beautiful harbour. You arrive at 10am and have until 10:30am to disembark. 

You arrive into the ferry terminal at Nordhavn and from there you can either catch a train or taxi/Uber to your accommodation. I had deliberately chosen to stay in Nordhavn so the location couldn’t have been more convenient. My hotel was about a 20 minute walk or 5 minute ride share from the ferry terminal. Staying here unexpectedly turned into the best decision, as Nordhavn is almost like a summer resort with harbour swimming, restaurants, boutiques and overall great vibes. Planning what do when you arrive in Copenhagen? Read my 3 day Itinerary here. 

The practicalities & how to book the ferry

Booking

Go Nordic Cruiseline runs ferry crossings daily between Oslo & Copenhagen. Simply go onto the website, select the date you wish to travel, pick the cabin type, add on any extras and complete the purchase. It’s that simple and you can book it here.
Note that the ferry departs from Oslo at 4:30pm and arrives into Copenhagen at 10am.

Check-in & boarding

As Norway & Denmark are both in the Schengen area, there are no routine border controls in the same way as entering outside of Schengen. However you should carry valid travel ID (ID card or Passport) – check the latest requirements before travelling.

If you’re unable to check-in the day before, no need to worry. You can simply present your ID/Passport at the terminal check-in counter and you’ll receive your boarding pass. This was one of the smoothest check-in and boarding experiences I’ve had – very calm and very efficient. Once aboard, drop off your luggage in the room and head to the deck for music, drinks and beautiful views of the Oslo fjord. 

Note that the ferry terminal in Oslo is quite central along the Oslo fjord in between the opera house and Aker Brygge.

Onboard practicalities

As someone who is prone to sea sickness, it was not an issue at all. The ship is enormous and was incredibly stable during my crossing, thankfully the weather was very calm at the time. Do factor in the time of year and your level of comfort at sea if considering the ferry crossing. 

Make sure you book restaurants before you go, otherwise you will be waiting for some time to get a spot. Prices are in DKK and the ship is completely cashless. 

Is it worth it & who would I recommend this for? 

Without a doubt, this was one of the highlights of the trip for me. A great way to enjoy the journey, not just the destination. Normally moving between places is stressful. Get there at a certain time, rush through security, wait around, wait around some more and then repeat on the other side. I found this to be relaxing and the perfect antidote to rushing, a slow travellers dream. 

Enjoying the incredible views of the Oslo fjords (especially if you didn’t get a chance to do any cruising whilst in Oslo or greater Norway). It’s an affordable way to combine transportation & accommodation into one if you have sufficient time for the journey and like the idea of slow travel. 

That said, it might not suit everyone. If you prefer to get from A to B as quickly as possible or have time constraints, then opt for flying. If the idea of being on a ship for 17.5 hours isn’t enticing, then skip it. I must say, I’m not usually one to go on cruises, but there is something to be said for how the experience of waking up somewhere new and having everything available to you. 

Final verdict on travelling from Oslo to Copenhagen by ferry

I would highly recommend exploring the ferry option. It wasn’t simply a way to save money, but allowed me to really enjoy the journey as part of the trip itself. Sometimes the fastest way isn’t necessarily the best, and I found this to be true on my Scandinavian trip between these two magnificent cities. 

If you’re planning your own Oslo to Copenhagen route, I’ve written more about it here , including a full 3-day itinerary and budget breakdown.