Christianshavn Copenhagen
A historic district of Copenhagen defined by its picturesque canals, charming houseboats, and the unique Freetown Christiania.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Christiania is more lively
Christianshavn Copenhagen
Best Time
Christiania is more lively

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic district of Copenhagen defined by its picturesque canals, charming houseboats, and the unique Freetown Christiania.
"Wander along charming canals, explore the unique Freetown Christiania, and climb for breathtaking city views."
🚲 Bike Like a Local
Rent a bike using the Donkey Republic app for easy exploration. Cyclists are king here!
☔ Pack for All Weather
Copenhagen weather can be unpredictable; always carry a jacket and umbrella.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Canal Views & Boat Tours
Christianshavn Canals
Wander along the charming canals, admire colorful houseboats, and consider a boat tour for a unique perspective.

Freetown Christiania
Christiania
Experience the unique, self-governing community with its distinctive architecture and alternative lifestyle.

Church of Our Saviour Tower
Church of Our Saviour
Climb the external spiral staircase for breathtaking panoramic views of Copenhagen.

The Royal Danish Opera House
Holmen
Admire the stunning modern architecture of this world-class opera house, a striking contrast to the historic surroundings.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Canals & Cobblestones
Timing is Key for Christiania
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Bike Like a Local
Rent a bike using the Donkey Republic app for easy exploration. Cyclists are king here!
☔ Pack for All Weather
Copenhagen weather can be unpredictable; always carry a jacket and umbrella.
💰 Save on Drinks
Buy drinks from regular shops and enjoy them by the water instead of expensive tourist spots like Nyhavn.
🍽️ Explore Local Eateries
Try Restaurant Kanalen or Café Wilder for local flavors. Reservations recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Bike Like a Local
Rent a bike using the Donkey Republic app for easy exploration. Cyclists are king here!
☔ Pack for All Weather
Copenhagen weather can be unpredictable; always carry a jacket and umbrella.
💰 Save on Drinks
Buy drinks from regular shops and enjoy them by the water instead of expensive tourist spots like Nyhavn.
🍽️ Explore Local Eateries
Try Restaurant Kanalen or Café Wilder for local flavors. Reservations recommended.
📸 Capture the Canals
Rent a small boat for a unique perspective and capture stunning sunset photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Christianshavn for its picturesque canals, unique atmosphere, and the charm of Freetown Christiania. The Church of Our Saviour tower offers stunning views, and the area is great for walking and cycling. Some find Christiania's current situation a bit somber, and like much of Copenhagen, dining can be pricey.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the Metro from Copenhagen Airport (CPH) directly to Christianshavn Station. The journey is quick and efficient, usually taking around 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-sharing service is available, though more expensive.
Yes, Christianshavn is very walkable and bike-friendly. Many visitors opt to rent bicycles using apps like Donkey Republic to explore the area at their own pace.
The Metro system connects Christianshavn to many key areas in Copenhagen. Cycling is also a popular and efficient method. Taxis are available, but apps like 'Big O' are recommended as Uber is not common.
While not strictly free transport, many attractions offer free entry or activities. For example, CopenPays sometimes offers free activities in the summer.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk across the bridges from Christianshavn to the city center, offering lovely views along the way. It typically takes about 20-30 minutes depending on your starting point and destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Freetown Christiania is generally free. However, some specific venues or events within Christiania might have admission fees.
There is an admission fee to climb the tower of the Church of Our Saviour. It's recommended to check their official website for current pricing and opening hours.
Wandering the canals, exploring Freetown Christiania, and enjoying the architecture are all free. The Old Library at Fiolstræde is also a beautiful, free spot to visit.
For popular restaurants, especially those serving traditional Danish food like Christianshavns Færgekro, making a reservation is highly recommended, particularly on weekends.
Christiania is generally most lively in the afternoons, especially on weekdays and Saturdays. Mornings and Mondays are typically quieter, with some establishments opening around 12-1 PM.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the picturesque canals by foot or boat, visit Freetown Christiania, climb the Church of Our Saviour tower for views, and admire the modern Royal Danish Opera House.
The canals themselves offer endless photo opportunities. The view from the Church of Our Saviour tower is iconic, and the colorful houseboats are very photogenic.
While generally safe, it's advised to avoid 'Pusher Street' and be aware of your surroundings. The mood has been affected by recent events, but exploring areas like Nemoland and Månefiskeren is recommended.
Christiania has a unique, alternative vibe with distinctive architecture and a sense of community. It's a place to observe and experience a different way of life.
While not explicitly mentioned, many visitors enjoy self-guided walks along the canals. Guided tours focusing on Copenhagen's history or architecture might include Christianshavn.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Recommended spots include Restaurant Kanalen, Café Wilder, Barr, and Kanalhuset. For Italian, Rufino Osteria is highly rated. Christianshavns Færgekro offers traditional Danish food.
Food can be expensive in the city center. Nørrebro is known for more affordable options. In Christianshavn, consider the Broens food trucks or the more casual eateries.
Restaurant Kanalen and Café Sandø are located along the canals and offer dining experiences with water views.
'Langbordsmiddag' translates to 'long table dinner,' often a communal dining experience. Café Sandø hosts these events.
Taarnet, located in the tower of Christiansborg Palace, offers a unique dining experience with views over the city. It's considered a cool experience by some.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for the canals and architecture. Evenings can be magical with the city lights reflecting on the water.
The canals themselves, with their colorful houseboats and bridges, are prime subjects. The view from the Church of Our Saviour tower and the modern Opera House are also highly photographic.
Photography is generally allowed in Christiania, but it's respectful to ask permission before taking close-up photos of residents. Be mindful of signs or requests regarding photography in certain areas.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide canal scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the architecture. A tripod can be helpful for low-light shots.
While specific photography tours for Christianshavn aren't widely advertised, general Copenhagen photography tours may include this area. Alternatively, explore independently with your camera.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as food prices can add up. Renting bikes with a child seat or a cargo bike can make getting around more enjoyable and efficient for families. Many of Copenhagen's museums and parks are easily accessible from Christianshavn via public transport or a short bike ride, offering further family-friendly options.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize public transport (Metro) or rent a bicycle using apps like Donkey Republic for affordable city navigation. Look for more budget-friendly food options at the Broens food trucks or explore eateries in nearby Nørrebro. Many of the most memorable experiences in Christianshavn are about soaking in the atmosphere, which costs nothing.
💑 Couples
For a unique evening, consider booking a 'langbordsmiddag' (long table dinner) at Café Sandø for a shared culinary experience. Climbing the Church of Our Saviour tower together offers a sense of adventure and a shared memorable view of the city. The area provides a charming and slightly bohemian atmosphere perfect for couples looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Freetown Christiania
Despite recent challenges, Christiania remains a fascinating place to explore. Recommended areas to visit include Nemoland for its open-air stage and Månefiskeren for its waterfront setting. Walking along the 'voldene' (ramparts) offers views of the unique houses. The best times to visit are generally afternoons on weekdays or Saturdays, as Mondays can be quieter and some establishments may be closed.
When visiting Christiania, it's important to be respectful of the residents and their way of life. While photography is generally permitted, it's courteous to ask permission before taking close-up shots of individuals. Embrace the unconventional atmosphere and enjoy experiencing this distinctive part of Copenhagen.
Exploring Christianshavn's Canals
For a different perspective, consider a boat tour or even renting a small boat yourself. This allows you to see the colorful facades and houseboats up close and appreciate the engineering of the canal system. Cafes and restaurants like Café Sandø and Restaurant Kanalen offer dining experiences with lovely canal views, making them perfect spots to relax and people-watch.
Cycling is also a fantastic way to explore the canal-lined streets. The Donkey Republic app is a popular choice for renting bikes, allowing you to easily navigate the area and discover hidden corners. Remember to be mindful of the bike lanes, as cyclists are very active in Copenhagen.
Culinary Delights in Christianshavn
For those seeking more casual dining or international options, the Broens food trucks offer a variety of choices. Café Sandø hosts 'langbordsmiddag' (long table dinners), providing a communal and social dining experience. While the city center can be expensive, exploring areas like Christianshavn and nearby Nørrebro can lead to more budget-friendly food options.
When dining out, especially in popular spots, making a reservation is generally a good idea to avoid disappointment. This is particularly true for weekend evenings or if you're aiming for a specific restaurant known for its quality or unique offerings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit