Climb the Church of Our Saviour Corkscrew Spire in Copenhagen

TLDR: The Church of Our Saviour offers an exhilarating climb up its unique corkscrew spire, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Copenhagen. It’s a historical Baroque church with a distinctive exterior staircase and important Danish artifacts. Be mindful of the physical challenge and potential weather closures.

The Christianshavn district in Copenhagen is a charming area with canals and distinct character - and The Church of Our Saviour is a magnificent Baroque landmark that truly stands out against the city skyline. It's an experience, especially if you're up for an adventure. 

In this article, I'll share what I learned and felt, from its fascinating history to practical tips for your own visit, including whether that iconic spire climb is truly worth it.

What is the story behind Church of Our Saviour?

Walking up to the Church of Our Saviour, you can feel the weight of history. Back in the late 1600s, King Christian V wanted a grand statement for his new merchant town, Christianshavn. The church, consecrated in 1696, started as an impressive Baroque structure by Lambert van Haven. 

But what really grabs your attention, and what makes it famous today, is that twisting spire. Added much later, in 1752, by architect Lauritz de Thurah, it instantly became an icon. You might hear the local legend about de Thurah jumping from it because the spiral staircase turns "the wrong way" (counter-clockwise). Good story, but thankfully, just a myth; he lived a long life afterward. 

That distinctive spire, I learned, was inspired by a church in Rome, and the grand golden figure of Christ at its very top was deliberately made oversized so it could be seen clearly from the water.

It’s still a living church, hosting services and concerts for its 8,000 parishioners. For more captivating local stories like these, I highly recommend using StoryHunt; it offers engaging audio guides for attractions across the city, acting like your own personal historian. You can try out StoryHunt here.

Where is the Church of Our Saviour?

You'll find the Church of Our Saviour (or Vor Frelsers Kirke, as it's known locally) nestled in the vibrant Christianshavn district of Copenhagen. Its address is Sankt Annæ Gade 29. 

Getting there is straightforward; I found both the Christianshavn and Kongens Nytorv Metro stops are within a ten-minute walk. It’s impossible to miss once you’re in the area, thanks to that distinctive golden, spiral spire jutting into the sky.

What denomination is Church of Our Saviour?

The Church of Our Saviour in Copenhagen is part of the Church of Denmark, which is an Evangelical Lutheran denomination. So, while it's a grand historical landmark, it continues to serve as an active Lutheran parish.

Inside, I was struck by the grand organ, dated 1698, which is supported by two intricately carved elephant sculptures. Keep an eye out for these elephant motifs; I discovered there are about 40 of them scattered throughout the church, a nod to Denmark's historic absolute monarchy and the esteemed Order of the Elephant. This recurring symbol adds another layer of intrigue to your visit.

How long does it take to climb Church of Our Saviour?

Climbing the Church of Our Saviour’s spire is quite an experience, and it's definitely a workout. You’ll be ascending around 400 steps in total. The first 250 steps are internal, winding through the old tower structure. These parts can be narrow, with wooden steps, and you might spot some old relics on your way up.

The real adventure, however, begins with the final 150 steps. These are external and spiral around the outside of the spire, moving counter-clockwise. With each turn, the views open up wider, and you really feel the wind and height. It’s not for the faint of heart or those with a strong fear of heights, as the steps do get noticeably narrower near the summit. 

The top sits around 86 to 90 meters high! While there’s no strict time limit, I’d suggest planning at least 15-20 minutes for the climb itself, plus plenty of time to soak in those amazing 360-degree vistas of Copenhagen. 

Just remember to book your visit in advance, especially during busier periods, and be aware that strong winds or bad weather will close the tower for safety reasons.

Is the Church of Our Saviour in Copenhagen free?

Entry into the main Church of Our Saviour building is completely free, which is great if you want to experience the atmosphere, admire the Baroque interior, and see the famous organ up close without a charge. However, if you want to take on the iconic spire climb – and trust me, it’s a highlight – there is a separate fee.

Inside, the church tells its own tales. I noticed King Christian V’s monogram in places and numerous elephant decorations. These symbolize the prestigious Order of the Elephant, a really cool detail to look for. The magnificent organ from 1698, with its original pipes, sounds incredible when played. 

An adult ticket for the tower cost me 70 DKK. Students and seniors get a discount, paying 53 DKK, and children pay 20 DKK — check the official website for the exact age bracket.

If you have a Copenhagen Card, your tower entry is included, but remember, you still need to pre-book a specific time slot to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. 

Is it worth visiting Church of Our Saviour?

Absolutely, but it depends on what you're looking for! If you seek exhilarating views and a distinctive architectural experience, the Church of Our Saviour is a must-do. That external spiral staircase, a feature you won’t find just anywhere, offers some of Copenhagen’s best panoramic views. From the top, you can clearly see landmarks like Christiansborg Palace and the Opera House, a truly stunning cityscape. The Baroque architecture and the magnificent 1698 organ also add to its charm.

However, I'll be honest, it's not for everyone. The climb is physically demanding, about 400 steps, with those last 150 exposed steps winding around the spire. If you have a fear of heights, claustrophobia, or mobility issues, this might be a challenge. I felt the wind up there, and the narrowing steps can be a bit daunting. Also, the tower can close without warning due to bad weather like strong winds or heavy rain, which is a practical consideration. 

My tip: go on a clear day, ideally in late afternoon for that "golden hour" light. Booking your timed ticket online well in advance is essential, especially from June to September, to avoid queues and disappointment. Compared to other viewpoints, its exterior climb provides a uniquely thrilling perspective.

What else can I do in Copenhagen?

After catching your breath from that incredible spire climb, you’re perfectly positioned to explore more of Christianshavn's distinct character. You can read our full guide to the top attractions in Christianshavn here.

• First, you can't miss a walk into Freetown Christiania. It’s just a stone's throw from the church and offers a complete change of pace. I always find its alternative vibe, street art, and unique buildings fascinating – a truly off-the-beaten-path experience. 
• Then, simply take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful canals of Christianshavn. This area is often compared to Amsterdam, with its colorful houses and calm maritime feel. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk, or you could even rent a bike. 
• For a different perspective, consider a Copenhagen Canal Tour. Boats leave from nearby Nyhavn, giving you a unique view of the city’s landmarks and those charming Christianshavn canals. Or, for a more active approach, rent a GoBoat or kayak and explore at your own pace. 
• When hunger strikes, head to Broens Gadekøkken (Bridge Street Kitchen). This open-air food market is lively and located conveniently between Christianshavn and Nyhavn. It’s a fantastic spot for delicious Danish specialties and international street food, all with lovely harbor views. 
• Finally, for some peace and quiet, I recommend relaxing in Christianshavns Vold. These old military ramparts are now a beautiful green space, ideal for a quiet walk or a picnic away from the city's buzz. 

You'll find plenty to keep you busy right in this unique part of Copenhagen. And if you need a helping hand, you can download the StoryHunt app for its interactive map.