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How do you turn left on a bike in Copenhagen and the rest of Denmark?

The two-step left turn.

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Short answer

In Denmark a cyclist may not cut across to the left like a car. You keep to the right before the junction, ride straight through it to the opposite side and only turn left when you can do it without trouble for other traffic. In practice you stop on the right side of the road you have just crossed into, wait for green in the new direction and then ride straight on. Wrong placement before or during a turn has a guideline fine of 700 kr. as of 2025.

Copenhagen

Why

  1. Cars turn left directly, bikes do not.
  2. Cross to the far side first, then turn.
  3. Wrong placement costs 700 kr.

Details

Before you start the turn you must give a signal, and a missing signal also has a 700 kr. guideline fine.

Tip

Raise your hand before you stop at the far corner so the cyclists behind you know you are braking.

What may differ

If there is an accident or a dangerous situation, the guideline fine does not apply and it can be higher.

Common misconception

You can turn left on a bike from the left lane like a car.

What actually happens

A cyclist must ride through the junction to the opposite side and turn from there.

People also ask

  • What hand signals do cyclists use in Denmark?
  • Can you ride two abreast on a bike in Denmark?
  • What is the fine for running a red light on a bike in Denmark?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Cycling rules and services can change, so check the official sources before you ride.

Copenhagen
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