The Öresund Bridge: Facts, Prices, and Travel Guide 2025
What is the Öresund Bridge?
The Öresund Bridge (Öresundsbron in Swedish, Øresundsbroen in Danish) is a remarkable engineering achievement connecting Sweden and Denmark across the Öresund Strait. As one of Europe’s most impressive infrastructure projects, this combined railway and motorway connection has transformed travel between Scandinavia and mainland Europe since its opening in 2000.
Key Facts and Technical Specifications
- Total length: 15.9 km (9.9 miles) including the underwater tunnel
- Bridge section: 7.8 km (4.8 miles) above water
- Height: 203.5 meters (668 ft) at its highest point
- Tunnel section: 4 km (2.5 miles)
- Artificial island (Peberholm): 4.1 km (2.5 miles)
- Longest span: 490 meters (1,608 ft)
- Construction cost: Approximately 30 billion SEK (about $3.5 billion)
The bridge connects Malmö in southern Sweden with Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, reducing travel time between these major cities to just 35 minutes by train or 20 minutes by car. Before the bridge opened, the only way to cross was by ferry, which took considerably longer.
History and Construction
The idea of connecting Sweden and Denmark across the Öresund Strait dates back to the 19th century, but serious planning began in the 1980s. After years of negotiations between the two countries, construction started in 1995 and was completed in 2000.
Timeline of the Öresund Bridge
- 1991: Sweden and Denmark signed the agreement to build the bridge
- 1995: Construction began
- 1999: The two sides of the bridge were connected
- July 1, 2000: Official opening by King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden and Queen Margrethe II of Denmark
- 2025: Celebration of 25 years of operation
The bridge design combines a cable-stayed bridge, an artificial island, and an underwater tunnel. This unique solution was chosen to accommodate both shipping traffic and air traffic to and from Copenhagen Airport, while also considering environmental impacts.
Current Prices and Tolls
The Öresund Bridge operates on a toll system, with different rates depending on vehicle type and frequency of use. According to a 2025 comparison by Expressen, it’s currently the world’s most expensive bridge to cross for a single journey.
| Vehicle Type | Standard Price (One-way) | With ØresundGO Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger car | 750 SEK (≈$72) | 262 SEK (≈$25) |
| Motorcycle | 430 SEK (≈$41) | 158 SEK (≈$15) |
| Car with trailer | 1,500 SEK (≈$144) | 525 SEK (≈$50) |
| Bus | 1,880 SEK (≈$180) | Variable |
Prices are updated regularly, so it’s advisable to check the official Öresund Bridge website for the latest rates before planning your journey.
Traffic and Economic Impact
The Öresund Bridge has significantly boosted regional integration between southern Sweden and eastern Denmark, creating what is now known as the Öresund Region. According to News Øresund Sverige, the bridge set new traffic records in 2025, with daily averages reaching unprecedented levels.
2025 Traffic Statistics
- Average daily traffic: 20,404 vehicles (first half of 2025)
- Year-on-year increase: 6.6% compared to 2024
- Daily cross-border commuters: 21,972 (Q1 2025)
- Commuter increase: 9% compared to the previous year
The economic benefits of the bridge have exceeded expectations. The initial construction cost of approximately 30 billion SEK has been recouped through tolls, and the bridge has facilitated trade, tourism, and labor market integration between the two countries.
Traveling Across the Öresund Bridge
By Car
Driving across the Öresund Bridge takes approximately 10-15 minutes. The journey begins in Sweden with an entrance toll plaza near Malmö, then crosses the bridge, passes through the artificial island Peberholm, and continues through the underwater tunnel before emerging in Denmark. The speed limit on the bridge is 90 km/h (56 mph).
By Train
The Öresundståg (Öresund Train) connects Malmö Central Station with Copenhagen Central Station, with trains running every 20 minutes during peak hours. The train journey takes approximately 35-40 minutes. Train tickets are separate from bridge tolls and can be purchased at stations or online.
Special Events
The Öresund Bridge occasionally hosts special events, including the popular Öresund Bridge Run. The next run is scheduled for 2026, following the successful 25th anniversary event in 2025 that allowed participants to experience the bridge on foot—a rare opportunity since pedestrians are not normally permitted on the bridge.
Visit Swedish Nomad’s Öresund Bridge guide for more detailed travel information and tips for your journey.
Interesting Facts About the Öresund Bridge
- The bridge features in the opening sequence of the popular Nordic noir TV series ”The Bridge” (Bron/Broen)
- The artificial island Peberholm was created specifically for the bridge and has become an unintended nature reserve, home to rare plant and insect species
- The bridge-tunnel transition occurs underwater rather than above to avoid interfering with air traffic from nearby Copenhagen Airport
- The Öresund Bridge is the longest combined road and rail bridge in Europe
- The underwater tunnel section is one of the longest immersed tunnels in the world
For those visiting what to do in Malmö, viewing the bridge from the Malmö side is a popular activity. There are several viewpoints where you can appreciate this engineering marvel, including the Western Harbor area near the Turning Torso skyscraper.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to cross the Öresund Bridge by car?
As of 2025, a standard one-way journey for a passenger car costs 750 SEK (approximately $72). However, if you register for the ØresundGO discount program, the price drops to 262 SEK (around $25). Different rates apply for motorcycles, buses, and vehicles with trailers.
How long does it take to cross the Öresund Bridge?
Crossing the entire connection (bridge, artificial island, and tunnel) by car takes approximately 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions. By train, the journey between Malmö Central and Copenhagen Central stations takes about 35-40 minutes.
Can you walk or cycle across the Öresund Bridge?
No, pedestrians and cyclists are not permitted on the Öresund Bridge for safety reasons. The only way to cross as a pedestrian or cyclist is to take the train and bring your bicycle on board (additional fees may apply). Special events like the Öresund Bridge Run offer rare opportunities to cross on foot.
What is the difference between the Öresund Bridge and tunnel?
The Öresund connection consists of three main sections: a 7.8 km cable-stayed bridge, the 4.1 km artificial island Peberholm, and a 4 km underwater tunnel. The transition from bridge to tunnel was designed to accommodate shipping traffic and avoid interference with flights from Copenhagen Airport.
Is the Öresund Bridge worth visiting?
Yes, the Öresund Bridge is considered an engineering marvel and offers stunning views of the Öresund Strait. While you can’t stop on the bridge itself, there are excellent viewpoints in both Malmö and Copenhagen. Many travelers find the experience of crossing between two countries via this iconic structure memorable and worthwhile.
