Freetown Christiania
Fristaden Christiania
A 'self-governing community' founded in 1971, when hippies occupied an abandoned military barracks. With its graffiti, self-built wooden houses, and lakeside cafés, it is Copenhagen's most alternative corner.
Christiania occupies a former military barracks and fortress ramparts in the Christianshavn district, covering 34 hectares. In 1971 a group of hippies and homeless people took over the site and declared it a 'Free Town.' For half a century since, it has existed in a semi-autonomous state, with about 1,000 residents who build their own homes and manage their own affairs, complete with its own flag and currency. The entrance sign reading 'You are now leaving the EU' is a classic photo spot. Highlights include colorful murals and graffiti; handcrafted wooden houses and eco-architecture along the lakeside by the moat (walk east along the main road to the lake, where the loop path around the water takes about 30 minutes); the Loppen music club; workshops where the Christiania bike was born; and several vegetarian restaurants and outdoor cafés, including Månefiskeren, and Nemoland, which hosts free performances in summer. Entry is free, and resident-led guided tours are available (daily in summer, about DKK 60). Safety notes are very important. Pusher Street, the main street, long sold cannabis openly, but in April 2024 residents and the city government worked together to clear and close it. Deals may still happen nearby, and cannabis remains illegal in Denmark, so tourists should not buy it. Photography is strictly prohibited on Pusher Street. In other areas, get residents' consent before taking photos. Do not run, as this may be mistaken for a police raid. Getting there: walk 15 minutes from Nyhavn across the Inner Harbour Bridge, or 8 minutes from Christianshavn metro station (M1/M2). Nearby, you can climb the external spiral staircase of the Church of Our Saviour (Vor Frelsers Kirke) across the way (about DKK 70, 400 steps) for a view over the whole Free Town and harbor.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Church of Our Saviour
- Copenhagen Opera House
- Nyhavn
- Amalienborg Palace
- Designmuseum Danmark
- Frederik's Church (Marble Church)
- The Black Diamond (Royal Danish Library)
- Kastellet