The Red Square: Nørrebro’s Urban Mosaic
A striking, modern city square in Nørrebro, where bold Danish design meets global cultures, street art, and vibrant local life in Copenhagen’s most diverse borough.
The Red Square (Den Røde Plads) stands out as the iconic heart of Nørrebro, capturing the borough’s dynamic multiculturalism and creative edge. Conceived as part of the Superkilen urban renewal project, this striking plaza is instantly recognizable by its vivid red paving and a bold collage of international artifacts—benches from Brazil, swings from Iraq, neon signs from Moscow—all gathered to celebrate the origins of the district’s diverse communities. Formerly a nondescript junction, The Red Square today pulses with energy. Wide open and lined with trees, it is divided into playful zones: spaces for skateboarding, chess, picnics, and impromptu music. The sculptural bike racks, luminous typography, and public art installations provide endless visual intrigue and photo opportunities. Through every detail, The Red Square honors both its Danish roots and the wave of cultures that make Nørrebro so distinctive. Visitors find themselves at the crossroads of community and city life. As the hub for events—from open-air concerts to food festivals—it is a favorite meeting spot for young families, students, and local artists. The square is at once a place to pause with a coffee, join in street basketball, or simply observe the city’s vibrant social fabric. Surrounded by independent cafés, bakeries, and street art, it is the perfect vantage point from which to appreciate Nørrebro’s evolution—a living, breathing testament to urban renewal done right.
Local tips
- Bring a camera—the quirky street furniture and red surfaces make for fantastic urban photography.
- Sample coffee or street food from the surrounding independent cafés and bakeries—many champion local and international flavors.
- The square is busiest on sunny weekends and during local festivals; visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience.
- Superkilen Park continues from the square, leading north to explore more global design features unique to the neighborhood.
- There’s plenty of bike parking, but car parking nearby is limited and pay-by-the-hour.
A brief summary to The Red Square
- Nørrebrogade 210, Copenhagen, København N, 2200, DK
Getting There
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Walking
From the bustling lakes bordering central Nørrebro, a relaxed 10–15-minute walk leads through the area’s vibrant shopping arcades and lively cafés. The recognizable stretch of intense red paving emerges as you approach the cluster of modern playgrounds and public art, marking the Red Square’s presence in the cityscape.
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Public Transport
Buses running through Nørrebro’s main transport corridors frequently stop near the Red Square, with a typical ride from central stations taking about 8–12 minutes. A standard adult single fare is DKK 24. From the public plaza, the square’s red expanse and modern installations are immediately visible.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from the center of Nørrebro is quick, typically 5–10 minutes and costs around DKK 90–120 depending on traffic. Passengers are dropped near the main entrance, which is adjacent to prominent local bakeries and bike stands.
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Bicycle
Nørrebro’s extensive cycle routes make reaching the Red Square by bike both quick and convenient—usually about 5–10 minutes from central spots. Bike racks are plentiful right on the edge of the plaza.
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Car
Parking near the square is limited to pay-by-the-hour spaces in the surrounding streets, with rates averaging DKK 22–35/hour. Be mindful that spots can be scarce during peak hours and local events.
