Church of Our Saviour

The spiral tower of Christianshavn

Vor Frelsers Kirke, the Church of Our Saviour, in the harbourside district of Christianshavn is best known for its unmistakable tower. A black-and-gold spiral staircase winds around the outside of the spire, crowned by a figure of Christ holding a banner. The tower reaches 90 metres to this figure. The spire was designed by architect Lauritz de Thurah (1706–1759); the king approved construction in 1749, and the tower was consecrated in 1752.

400 steps into the open air

In total, 400 steps lead to the top. The first stretches run inside the tower, while the final 150 or so steps are outdoors, on the external staircase that narrows as it spirals upward. The climb isn't for anyone uneasy with heights, but it rewards you with one of the best all-round views in Copenhagen – over the canals and rooftops of Christianshavn, the old town and the harbour.

Worth knowing: the tower closes for safety in rain and strong wind, since the outer copper staircase needs to dry out first. A visit depends on the weather, so in unsettled conditions it's worth checking the official website before you set off.

Baroque interior, organ and carillon

Even without climbing the tower, the interior is worth a look, and it's free. The organ dates back to the Botzen brothers (late 17th century) and carries the gilded monogram of Christian V. One special feature hangs overhead: the church has the largest carillon in Northern Europe. The chime was installed from 1928 with 33 bells and later expanded to 48; it rings out hourly from 8:00 until midnight – so if you're nearby, you'll hear it without even trying.

Visiting & tickets

Allow 45 to 75 minutes for the church and tower climb. Entry to the church is free, the tower is paid.

• Tower tickets: adults 70 DKK, students and seniors (65+) 53 DKK each, children 20 DKK. Groups of 12 or more pay 53 DKK per person, and a season ticket costs 100 DKK. Free with the Copenhagen Card.
• Booking: online via the official website or on the day at the church. At busy times online booking may be required once capacity is reached, so advance booking is worthwhile in high season.
• Opening hours: church daily 11:00–15:30 (closed during services), tower daily 09:00–20:00, last entry 19:30. The tower is closed throughout January.
• Crowds: busiest Friday to Monday, roughly 10:00–17:00; it's quieter outside those hours.

Getting there & combining your visit

The church is at Sankt Annæ Gade 29 in Christianshavn. The nearest metro station is Christianshavn (M1/M2), a short walk away, with several bus lines also stopping nearby. The neighbourhood is easy to explore on foot, so a visit fits naturally into a wander through Christianshavn.

The free town of Christiania is right next door and pairs well with the tower climb. For another central viewpoint, try the free tower at Christiansborg on Slotsholmen, or the spiralling ramp of the Round Tower in the old town. For more ideas, see the overview of Copenhagen's attractions; if you want to bundle admissions, the guide to the Copenhagen Card has the details – the tower climb is included.