A self-governing alternative community founded in 1971 in former army barracks, with workshops, cafes, music venues and green spaces. Photography is banned on Pusher Street.
Freetown Christiania is a self-declared autonomous community in the Christianshavn district of Copenhagen, Denmark, with its main entrance at Prinsessegade 70. It was founded in 1971 when residents and squatters occupied abandoned military barracks and the grounds of the old ramparts, and it has since developed its own rules and community life, while the Danish state recognises its special legal status. The area covers about 34 hectares of green space, lakes and ramparts, and visitors walk through a mix of colourful self-built houses, workshops, galleries, organic cafes, music venues and a bakery. Highlights include the creative architecture of the homes, murals, the Grey Hall concert venue, and quiet paths around the lakes and the old fortifications at the edge of the area. Visits usually take one to two hours, and many people walk the central route from the main gate down to the lakeside and back. The most visited section is Pusher Street, where cannabis is sold openly despite being illegal in Denmark, and there are posted rules about behaviour there: photography is banned, running is discouraged and visitors should not buy or sell if they do not wish to. Residents ask visitors to respect these rules, and failing to do so can cause a hostile reaction. Outside Pusher Street, the area is calm and welcoming. Daytime is the best time to visit, when shops and cafes are open, and the evenings can feel more intense, with late-night visits best avoided by those unfamiliar with the area. Crowds are strongest on weekend afternoons in summer. Photography is permitted in most other areas but should be done discreetly and with respect for residents' privacy. The Church of Our Saviour is a short walk away, and the canals of Christianshavn offer more places to stop.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open at all hours; shops and cafes from about 12:00 |
| Typical visit | 1-2 hours |
| Best time | Daytime; avoid late-night visits |
| Getting there | Metro M1/M2 Christianshavn and a 12-minute walk, or bus 2A/9A to Prinsessegade |
| Address | Prinsessegade 70, 1422 København K |
Location
Prinsessegade 70, 1422 København K
55.6742, 12.6086 View on map
Highlights
- Walk through self-built houses and community workshops
- See murals and art around the former military barracks
- Visit the lakeside paths and old ramparts
- Eat at an organic cafe or bakery
- Catch a concert at one of the music venues
Tips for visiting
- Photography is banned on Pusher Street, so keep the camera away
- Visit in the daytime, since evenings can feel more intense
- Do not run, as it can cause alarm among residents
- Respect residents' privacy when taking photographs elsewhere
- Bring cash for small cafes and stalls
When to visit
Daytime, especially a weekday afternoon, is best. Avoid late-night visits.
Accessibility
Many paths are unpaved, uneven and muddy after rain, which makes wheelchair use difficult. The main gate area and some cafes are easier to reach.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
One to two hours is typical for a walk through the main paths and the lakeside.
Is it worth it for kids?
Families visit in the daytime, but children should stay close and be kept away from Pusher Street.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is banned on Pusher Street. Elsewhere it is generally tolerated if done respectfully.
Is it safe for visitors?
Daytime visits are generally calm. Visitors should follow the posted rules and avoid late-night visits.