"Kreisfreie Städte" are cities in Germany that operate independently of any surrounding district. This means they have their own administrative structure and are responsible for local governance, including public services and infrastructure. Examples of such cities include Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich. These cities typically have a larger population and more economic resources than smaller towns. Being "kreisfrei" allows them to manage their affairs without the oversight of a district authority, which can lead to more efficient decision-making and tailored services for residents.