Visit Freetown Christiania in Copenhagen this summer

A Self governed community and hippie haven in Denmark that struggles to survive modern times.

Copenhagen may be the capitol of Denmark but for the young and liberal Christiana is where you will find the true heart of Denmark.

Christiania is a town where liberal and creative travelers can find workshops, concerts, theater performances, art exhibitions, eco-shops, veggie restaurants, bars, a gay house, and marijuana trade on the controversial Pusher street. Not to mention beautiful green areas to just rest in...

It all started when the military abandoned a large area in Copenhagen. The people who lived in the neighboring area broke down the fences and used it as a playground for their children. Soon after, in 1971 a well known liberal journalist Jacob Ludvigsen claimed Christianaia a freetown in an historic article in Hovedbladet, titled “Civilians conquered the “forbidden city” of the military”.

The settlers decided to start a new society from scratch. A self governing and economically self-sustaining society that even to this day have their own currency “Lon”. To quote Jorgensen´s own words:

“where all the seekers of peace could have their grand meditation - and yoga center. Halls where theater groups can feel at home. Buildings for the stoners who are too paranoid and weak to participate in the race...Yes for those who feel the beating of the pioneer heart there can be no doubt as to the purpose of Christiania.”

And the struggle to keep this Collective dream alive continues. Everyone is welcome to Christiania -Hence it has also been called “Loser´s Paradise”.

The Danish Government has for the past years tried to evict the habitants of Christiania or at least make them pay rent and stop the open cannabis trade -with failed attempts. And the truth is that Christiania has become so much a part of Denmark that it´s considered one of Copenhagen´s most popular tourist sites, and prominent companies bring their foreign guests here to show this other side of Denmark.

In Christiania it´s still legal to sell Cannabis, and the habitants of Christiania always fought the use of hard drugs like heroin, ecstasy etc, more or less successfully. The hard drug abusers have been driven out of Christiania, as well as a Gang of Bikers how settled there in the 80´s and took over the dealing of drugs. Due to the presence of drugs, there has been criminal interests in Christiania, and sad reports of homicides and violence over the years. But with some normal cautiousness there is no need to be afraid in Christiania. This is still a town where families try to bring up their children in the spirit of Love, Peace and Understanding.

The Freetown Christiana has about 900 permanent members/ habitants. It is not possible to spend the night here. It´s easy to go from downtown Copenhagen to Christiania, just take the subway 8 stops to Christianshavn. Book you accommodation in Copenhagen at Hostelsclub selection of budget accommodation right here.

Welcome to Christiania!

Copenhagen Travel Guide