Denmark has no tolls on highways or national roads. However, bridge tolls apply on specific structures. The main cost is for the Lillebælt Bridge (between Funen and Jutland) and the Øresund Bridge (to Sweden). Costs are fixed, not per-km:
Lillebælt Bridge: 149 DKK (≈ €20) for cars (paid via AutoPass or cash at toll plazas; cash not accepted on Øresund).
Øresund Bridge: 200 DKK (≈ €27) for cars (only electronic payment via Øresundsgård app or credit card; no cash).
Payment: AutoPass (e-tag) for Lillebælt (purchase at autopass.dk for €15 + deposit), or pay via mobile app for Øresund. Never pay cash on bridges—it’s illegal and will be charged double. Don’t bother buying a vignette—Denmark doesn’t use them.
2. FUEL PRICES: Diesel Cheaper, Highway Stops Cost More
Current average prices (June 2024, per liter, from Danmarks Energi):
Petrol (95): 2.05 EUR (≈ $2.24) most expensive in city centers (Copenhagen: +15% vs highway)
Where to save: Stop at Motorway Service Stations (e.g., Studiehavn on E20, Haslev on E45). Avoid city centers—Copenhagen prices average 2.20 EUR for petrol. Payment: All stations accept cards (no cash needed). Always fill up at highway stops—saving 15-20% is real.
3. SPEED LIMITS: Strict, Cameras Everywhere
Motorways (E45, E20): 130 km/h (max), but cameras enforce 110 km/h in work zones. Fine: €150 for 11-20 km/h over limit (up to €400 for 30+ km/h).
National Roads (E45): 80 km/h (urban), 90 km/h (rural). Roundabouts: Yield to traffic on the right—no priority. Speed cameras: 142 fixed sites nationwide (per Danish Road Directorate), 92% of fines issued on E20 and E45. Don’t speed—fines are automatic and mailed to your home address.
Why it’s worth it: Stunning Baltic Sea views, sandy beaches, and the Skagen Odde lighthouse (only 200m from road). Skip the ferry to Rømø—take the bridge from Skagen for €10 (not a toll, just a bridge fee). Fuel cost: €35 (diesel, 300km at 7.5L/100km).
Route 2: Jutland’s Green Heart (320 km, 5 hours)
Route: Aarhus → Mols Bjerge National Park → Ribe → Esbjerg
Why it’s worth it: Rolling hills, medieval towns, and the Skovsbo Church (hidden gem). Don’t detour to Sønderborg—too touristy, no scenic payoff. Save fuel by taking E20 instead of winding rural roads. Fuel cost: €38 (diesel, 320km).
Top tip: Avoid E45 between Aarhus and Esbjerg on Sundays—massive traffic jams from 10am-4pm (per Danish Traffic Authority data).
7. CAR RENTAL TIPS: Avoid These Traps
One-Way Fees: €250 minimum for cross-border rentals (e.g., Copenhagen to Hamburg). Always choose a rental with free one-way drop-off—avoid Hertz/Enterprise.
Insurance: Full coverage mandatory (e.g., Europcar’s All-inclusive). Don’t buy basic insurance—Denmark’s medical costs are sky-high.
Minimum Age: 23 (21 for premium cars). Never rent a car under 25—extra fees of €50/day apply.
Restrictions: No driving on gravel roads (e.g., Ringkøbing Fjord) without all-terrain tires