Ferries between Denmark and Germany
Two short sea crossings connect the Danish islands with mainland Germany: Puttgarden–Rødby across the Fehmarnbelt and Rostock–Gedser across the Baltic Sea. Tell us about your trip here – we reply with the sailings that fit, and you book yourself.
- Both routes
- Cars, campers & freight
- Answer by e-mail
An independent editorial guide to the ferry links between Denmark and Germany. We do not sell tickets and do not quote prices – tell us about your crossing and we answer personally by e-mail.
Ask about your crossing
Pick your date, direction and vehicle – we reply by e-mail with sailing times and the fares that fit.
The two ferry routes at a glance
Both crossings are operated by Scandlines and run around the clock. Which one suits you depends mainly on where you start: travellers from Hamburg, Lübeck or western Germany normally drive via the island of Fehmarn to Puttgarden, while those coming from Berlin, Saxony or Poland take the ferry from Rostock to Gedser.
Puttgarden – Rødby ferry
The shortest link to Denmark: around 45 minutes across the Fehmarnbelt with very frequent departures – the classic route towards Copenhagen.
Puttgarden–Rødby routeFerry Rostock to Gedser
About two hours across the Baltic on large ferries with a restaurant and shop – the natural choice when travelling from Berlin or north-eastern Germany.
Gedser–Rostock routeTimetable & duration
Crossing times, check-in deadlines and how to look up the current schedule for both routes.
See timetable info
How planning works here
- Choose the direction: Germany → Denmark or Denmark → Germany, on either route.
- Pick your dates: one way or return.
- Add your vehicle: on foot, bicycle, motorcycle, car, caravan, motorhome, minibus or truck – larger vehicles also need length, height and gross weight.
- Send the enquiry: your selection is turned into a ready-written e-mail that opens in your own mail programme. We reply with suitable sailings and notes on fares – you then book at your own pace.
Free and without obligation
An enquiry costs nothing and commits you to nothing. We deliberately show no fares, because prices depend on date, time, vehicle size and ticket type – we tell you the current picture in our reply. Booking and payment then happen directly with the ferry operator.
Which route fits your journey?
| Puttgarden – Rødby | Rostock – Gedser | |
|---|---|---|
| Crossing time | approx. 45 minutes | approx. 2 hours |
| Distance | approx. 20 km (Fehmarnbelt) | approx. 52 km (Baltic Sea) |
| German port | Puttgarden on Fehmarn (A1/E47) | Rostock overseas port (A19) |
| Danish port | Rødbyhavn on Lolland | Gedser on Falster |
| Typical for | day trips and the fast route to Copenhagen | arrivals from Berlin and eastern Germany, motorhome tours |
| On board | shop, bistro, viewing decks | restaurant, shop, lounge, a proper break |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book the ferry in advance?
On both routes you can usually turn up and check in at the port. During summer, on public holidays and when travelling with a motorhome or trailer, booking ahead is far more relaxed because capacity per sailing is limited.
Can I take a motorhome or trailer?
Yes, both ferries carry motorhomes, caravans, minibuses and trucks. What matters is the total length and height of your vehicle – enter those in the enquiry and we will tell you which category applies.
How early do I have to be at the port?
Scandlines asks you to check in at least 15 minutes before departure. With a motorhome, a trailer or during peak season, allow 30 to 45 minutes because queues build up in front of the check-in lanes.
Do I need a passport for Denmark?
Denmark and Germany are both in the Schengen area, but spot checks do happen at the border and in the ports, so always carry a valid ID card or passport.
Do the ferries sail at night?
Yes. Puttgarden–Rødby runs around the clock and Rostock–Gedser also has night sailings. Frequency varies by season – the official Scandlines timetable is always the authority.
Ready to cross?
Choose your date, direction and vehicle – we come back with the sailings that fit.
Go to the enquiry form