Cisternerne Copenhagen
An underground art space in a former water reservoir and dripstone cave, offering immersive, site-specific exhibitions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Cisternerne Copenhagen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An underground art space in a former water reservoir and dripstone cave, offering immersive, site-specific exhibitions.
"Such a cool experience! Loved seeing the historic location get reused in such a unique way."
Wear Dark Shoes
The floors are damp and humid; avoid white shoes to keep them clean. :athletic_shoe:
Check Exhibition Details
Exhibitions change annually, so confirm what's on before you go. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dripstone Cave
Underground reservoir
Explore a natural dripstone cave within the former water reservoir, a truly unique geological and artistic setting.
Immersive Art Installations
Main exhibition halls
Experience large-scale, site-specific art that transforms the vast underground space into a sensory journey.
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Historic Water Reservoir
Throughout the Cisternerne
Discover the fascinating history of this 19th-century water supply, now a captivating contemporary art venue.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Underground Atmosphere
Check Exhibition Schedules
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Dark Shoes
The floors are damp and humid; avoid white shoes to keep them clean. :athletic_shoe:
Check Exhibition Details
Exhibitions change annually, so confirm what's on before you go.
Embrace the Atmosphere
Enjoy the cool, dark, and humid environment; it's part of the unique experience. :sparkles:
Free for Under 27s
Check for potential discounts, like free entry for those under 27. :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Dark Shoes
The floors are damp and humid; avoid white shoes to keep them clean. :athletic_shoe:
Check Exhibition Details
Exhibitions change annually, so confirm what's on before you go.
Embrace the Atmosphere
Enjoy the cool, dark, and humid environment; it's part of the unique experience. :sparkles:
Free for Under 27s
Check for potential discounts, like free entry for those under 27. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cisternerne's unique underground atmosphere and immersive art installations, calling it a 'cool experience' and 'otherworldly.' The historical aspect of the former reservoir and dripstone cave is also highly praised, though some note the damp conditions and dim lighting require preparation.
"Such a cool experience! Loved seeing the historic location get reused in such a unique way. The audio and visual effects made it feel very other worldly."
Megan W
"Its my second time in here for the exhibition. I also visited the previous one with Korean artist but this was different. All the artworks are handmade and you see how the artist is good at materials, its connection with the concept and also use of lighting design. You should see this exhibition but also, the cistern itself is another atmosphere. Definitely not wear white when you go there because the ground is wet due to humidity inside 🙃"
Deniz Su Tepe
"The underground Cisterns are really a unique place and art gallery. When we visited, the exhibit was water and ocean related and was definitely a great fit for the ambiance. I believe that is what they are after in general in the exhibitions they select - to connect the art with the unique space."
Daniel Oertelt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cisternerne is located beneath Søndermarken park, a short distance from Copenhagen city center and the airport. You can reach it via public transport, with the nearest stations being Frederiksberg or Fasanvej. It's also a pleasant walk or bike ride from nearby attractions.
The entrance can be a bit hidden, as it's underground. Look for signs within Søndermarken park. Some visitors have found it tricky to locate the exact entrance.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to get around Copenhagen, and there are usually bike racks available near Søndermarken park. It's a scenic route.
Cisternerne is conveniently located about a 10-minute drive from Copenhagen Airport, making it a feasible stop for travelers arriving or departing.
Many visitors find public transport or cycling to be the most convenient options. The park setting makes it a pleasant journey.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary depending on the exhibition. It's recommended to check the official Cisternerne website for the most up-to-date pricing and to book in advance, especially for popular exhibitions.
Historically, there have been offers such as free entry for visitors under 27. Always check the official website or inquire about current promotions.
Opening hours can vary based on the exhibition schedule. It's essential to check the official Cisternerne website for the most current operating times before planning your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is often recommended, especially during peak times or for special exhibitions, to guarantee entry and avoid queues.
Cisternerne primarily functions as a space for temporary, site-specific art exhibitions. Visits are typically tied to the current exhibition.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is unique: cool, humid, and dimly lit, with damp floors. It's an immersive, almost otherworldly experience that complements the art. +1
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as the ground is wet. It's advisable to avoid white clothing due to the humidity and potential for dampness.
Children can find the underground setting and immersive art fascinating. However, the damp environment and dim lighting might require supervision.
Photography is generally allowed, but check for any specific restrictions related to current exhibitions. The unique lighting can make for stunning photos.
No, mobile signals are typically absent inside the underground Cisternerne, contributing to the escape from daily life.
📸 📸 Photography
The interplay of light and shadow, the unique architecture of the reservoir, and the immersive art installations offer fantastic photographic potential.
Yes, it is quite dark and dimly lit, which can be challenging for photography but also creates a dramatic and atmospheric effect. A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial.
Flash photography is often discouraged in art spaces to protect the artworks and maintain the intended atmosphere. Always check for specific signage or ask staff.
A camera with good low-light performance or a smartphone with a capable night mode will help capture the ambiance. Tripods might be restricted, so check rules.
The main exhibition spaces, the dripping stalactites, and the reflections in the damp floors often create visually striking images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids often enjoy the immersive nature of the art installations, which can spark their imagination. However, it's important to note the environment is humid and cool, so dress children accordingly. Also, ensure they wear appropriate footwear as the ground can be wet. While the art itself might be abstract, the experience of being underground and surrounded by unique installations is often a hit. It's a departure from typical museums and offers a memorable outing. Always check the current exhibition to see if it aligns with your children's interests.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
+1 The opportunity to see art transform such a raw, historical space is unparalleled. The annual exhibitions are highly anticipated, showcasing a diverse range of international artists. Beyond the art, the historical significance of the reservoir and the natural dripstone cave formations add another layer of appreciation. It's a place that challenges conventional gallery experiences, offering a deeply immersive and thought-provoking encounter with art.
+1🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Copenhagen
Combine your visit with a stroll through the beautiful Søndermarken park, where Cisternerne is located. This makes for a perfect half-day excursion, offering a blend of art, history, and nature. Remember to check the exhibition schedule and book tickets in advance to make the most of your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Immersion
+2Artists are invited to respond to the space's inherent qualities: its vastness, its dampness, its darkness, and its history. This approach ensures that each exhibition at Cisternerne is a singular event, offering visitors a chance to engage with art in a deeply personal and memorable way. The goal is to create an otherworldly atmosphere that disconnects you from the everyday.
+1Past exhibitions have explored themes ranging from deep-sea volcanic landscapes to the interconnectedness of life on Earth, demonstrating the versatility of the space. The primordial underworld feel is often emphasized, making it a truly unique art destination in Copenhagen.
+1A Subterranean Marvel
Rediscovered and transformed, it now stands as a testament to adaptive reuse. The space is not just a gallery; it's a dripstone cave, a rare natural phenomenon within an urban setting. The constant humidity has allowed stalactites and stalagmites to form, adding a geological wonder to the artistic presentations.
+1Visiting Cisternerne offers a dual experience: appreciating contemporary art while also marveling at the historical infrastructure and natural formations. It’s a place where history, nature, and art converge in a truly unique underground setting.
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