18 Best Things to Do in Odense, Denmark 🇩🇰: From Fairy Tales to Hidden Attractions

Nestled on the island of Funen, Odense is a city where fairy tales come to life. As the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, this charming Danish destination blends rich history with modern attractions, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. From exploring ancient castles to cycling along scenic waterways, Odense offers a perfect mix of cultural treasures and outdoor adventures.

I’ve spent weeks discovering everything this magical city has to offer, and I’m excited to share my favorite experiences with you. Whether you’re planning a day trip from Copenhagen or a longer stay in Denmark’s third-largest city, this guide will help you discover both famous landmarks and hidden gems that most tourists miss. Ready to explore the home of “The Little Mermaid” author? Let’s dive into the best things to do in Odense!

🏠 Best Hotels in Odense

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Comwell H.C. Andersen Odense
• ✨ 5-Star: Hotel Odense
• 🏨 4-Star: City Hotel Nattergalen
• 🛏 3-Star: Lille Grynborg
• 💸 Cheap: Engholm B&B
• 🏢 Apartament: Odense Apartments
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Store Ejlstrup Bed & Breakfast
• 🏩 For Couples: Amalie Bed & Breakfast

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Odense River Cruise on the Odense River from € 22 (⭐ 4.7/5)
• Odense: Viking Walk Self-Guided Audio Walk with Storyhunt from € 6 (⭐ 4.8/5)

Best Things To Do in Odense

1. Hans Christian Andersen Museum

Magic Experience. I stepped into the world-famous Hans Christian Andersen Museum and felt immediately transported into the universe of “The Little Mermaid” and “The Ugly Duckling.” The museum beautifully showcases the life and work of Odense’s famous son through interactive exhibits that bring his stories to life.

Architectural Wonder. The redesigned Andersen Hus fully opened after a seven-year renovation, covering an impressive 18,000 square feet. Designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the museum appears small at first before opening into a sprawling underground complex inspired by Andersen’s.

Immersive Journey. This isn’t your typical glass-case museum! I wandered through maze-like buildings with headphones guiding me through exhibits featuring Andersen’s love letters, paper cuttings, and personal possessions like his pen and razor. The final section brings his stories to life in the most magical way.

Practical Tips:

• Allow at least 2 hours to fully experience the museum
• Located just a 10-minute walk from Odense Train Station
• The museum includes Ville Vau, a playful world designed for children

Local Insight. Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds. The museum has received rave reviews, with many visitors calling it one of the best museums they’ve experienced in Denmark, offering something for everyone, young and old alike.

2. Egeskov Castle

Renaissance Wonder. Egeskov Castle took my breath away as one of Europe’s best-preserved Renaissance water castles. Built in 1554 by Danish nobleman Frands Brockenhuus, this fairy-tale castle sits majestically surrounded by a moat on the island of Funen, just a short drive from Odense.

Garden Glory. The castle gardens were absolutely stunning with their meticulous landscaping. Recognized with the European Garden Award in 2012 and nominated by CNN Travel as one of the 12 most spectacular gardens in the world, these pristine gardens feature over 120 varieties of fuchsias and four hedge-mazes.

Automotive Adventure. Beyond the castle itself, I was surprised to discover an impressive collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and even rare airplanes housed in the castle’s beautiful farm buildings. The Vintage Car Museum is a must-visit for history and automobile enthusiasts.

Family Fun. The PlayForest area is perfect for children and the young at heart, with activities both on the ground and up in the trees with Tree Top Walking. Don’t miss Titania’s Palace, the world’s most amazing dollhouse featuring over 3,000 pieces created for the queen of the fairies.

Local Tip. Bring garlic! According to local legend, the castle is haunted by Count Dracula himself, and garlic is said to be the only thing that keeps him at bay. Whether you believe the legend or not, it adds a fun element to your visit.

⭐ Best Activities

• Odense River Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the scenic Odense River, taking in beautiful views of the city from a unique perspective. This leisurely boat tour allows you to see historic buildings, lush parks, and charming neighborhoods while learning about Odense’s rich history and connection to Hans Christian Andersen.

3. Odense Zoo

Wildlife Wonder. I spent a fantastic day at Odense Zoo, Danish second-largest zoo and home to over 2,000 animals from 147 different species. The spacious enclosures and natural habitats impressed me, especially the African savannah where giraffes, zebras, and antelopes roam together.

Conservation Champion. What sets this zoo apart is its dedication to conservation efforts. I learned about their successful breeding programs for endangered species like the Amur tiger and Rothschild’s giraffe. The zoo actively participates in international conservation projects across Africa and Asia.

Interactive Experiences. The highlight of my visit was feeding time at the penguin enclosure! The zoo offers several daily feeding sessions where keepers share fascinating information about the animals. I even got to touch a snake during one of the reptile presentations.

Family-Friendly Features. Children will love the petting zoo area where they can get up close with goats and sheep. The playground areas scattered throughout the zoo provide perfect spots for little ones to burn off energy between animal encounters.Seasonal 

4. The Funen Village (Den Fynske Landsby)

Time Travel. Stepping into Den Fynske Landsby felt like traveling back to the time of Hans Christian Andersen. This open-air museum features over 30 authentic half-timbered buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, carefully relocated from across the island of Funen.

Living History. What makes the Funen Village special is how it brings history to life. I watched blacksmiths hammering at the forge, bakers preparing traditional Danish bread, and farmers tending to heritage breed animals. The costumed interpreters were incredibly knowledgeable about life in rural Denmark.

Seasonal Activities. My visit coincided with the harvest festival, where I participated in traditional dancing and tasted local foods. The village hosts different events throughout its season, from spring blooms to autumn foliage walks, making each visit unique.

Authentic Architecture. I was fascinated by the thatched roofs and timber framing techniques used in the buildings. Each structure tells its own story – from humble cottages to the impressive manor house that showcases how wealthy farmers lived during the Middle Ages.

Local Insight. The village bakery sells delicious traditional pastries that you can’t find elsewhere in Odense. I recommend trying the “honningkage” (honey cake) – it’s absolutely worth the calories!

5. Munke Mose Park

Urban Oasis. Munke Mose Park stole my heart as the perfect escape from the bustling city centre of Odense. This lush green space offers a tranquil setting where I spent hours watching boats glide by and locals enjoying picnics on the grassy banks.

Waterway Adventures. I rented a small rowboat (80 DKK/hour) and paddled along the gentle currents, passing under charming bridges and alongside weeping willows. The perspective of Odense from the water reveals a completely different side of Denmark’s third largest city.

Seasonal Beauty. The park transforms with the seasons – I’ve seen it covered in spring blooms, lush summer greenery, and spectacular autumn foliage. During winter in Odense, the park takes on a magical quality when light snow dusts the pathways and frozen patches glisten on the river.

Local Tip. Pack a Danish-style picnic with smørrebrød (open sandwiches) from Storms Pakhus food market nearby. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the particular welcoming vibe of this beloved park.

6. Brandts Art Museum

Creative Quarter. Brandts isn’t just a museum – it’s the beating heart of Odense’s vibrant arts scene. Housed in a former textile factory dating back to the 1800s, this contemporary art museum anchors the city’s cultural district alongside cafés, boutiques, and creative workshops.

Artistic Range. I was blown away by the diversity of exhibitions spanning three floors. One moment I was admiring classical Danish paintings, the next I was immersed in cutting-edge video installations. The museum expertly balances local talent with international contemporary art.

Photography Paradise. As a photography enthusiast, I spent hours exploring National Collection of Photographic Art housed within Brandts. The collection traces the evolution of photography from historical daguerreotypes to modern digital works by world-famous photographers.

Interactive Elements. What sets Brandts apart from other museums is its hands-on approach. During my visit, I participated in a printmaking workshop where I created my own souvenir inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s paper cuttings – a perfect memento from Odense.

Art Lover’s Advice. Thursday evenings offer extended hours until 9 PM, often with special events like artist talks or live music. It’s worth planning your visit around these nights for an enhanced cultural experience in one of the oldest cities.

7. Tidens Samling Museum

Time Travel. Tidens Samling isn’t your typical hands-off museum – it’s a playful journey through 20th century Danish home life where touching is not just allowed but encouraged! I sat on vintage furniture, opened drawers, and even tried on hats from the 1950s.

Living Rooms. The museum features meticulously recreated living rooms from each decade between 1900-1980. I was particularly charmed by the 1970s room with its bold orange wallpaper and iconic Danish furniture designs that took me straight back to my childhood.

Interactive Experience. What makes this place special is the “please touch” policy. Unlike most museums, here I could pick up objects, leaf through magazines from the 1960s, and even try clothes from different eras. It’s the perfect place to snap unique photos!

Cultural Context. Each room tells the story of how everyday Danes lived during pivotal moments in history. The wartime 1940s apartment with its makeshift solutions was particularly moving, offering insight into life during occupation that no textbook could convey.

Nostalgic Tip. The museum café serves coffee and cakes using vintage recipes and tableware. I enjoyed a slice of traditional Danish layer cake served on 1950s porcelain – a delicious way to complete the immersive experience of everyday life museum exhibits.

8. Odense Bunkermuseum

Underground History. Descending into the Odense Bunkermuseum was like stepping directly into Cold War Denmark. This actual Cold War bunker, built in 1954, has been preserved exactly as it would have functioned during a nuclear threat – complete with original equipment, emergency supplies, and eerie atmosphere.

Authentic Experience. What struck me most was how the cramped, concrete corridors and rooms felt genuinely untouched by time. The museum is dedicated to the history of Danish civil defense, with gas masks, radiation detectors, and emergency broadcast equipment still in place.

Guided Exploration. My tour guide, a former civil defense volunteer, shared fascinating stories about how city officials and ordinary citizens would have survived in this underground shelter. His personal anecdotes brought the tense Cold War period to life in a way no textbook could.

Sensory Immersion. The bunker maintains its original atmosphere – cool, slightly damp, with the distinctive smell of concrete and old electronics. During one demonstration, they cut the main lights, plunging us into the dim emergency lighting that would have been used during a crisis.

Things to Do in Odense with Kids

1. The Tinderbox

Fairy-Tale Magic. The Tinderbox (Fyrtøjet) quickly became my favorite place in Odense for families. This interactive play center brings Hans Christian Andersen’s tales to life in the most imaginative way. My niece’s eyes lit up as she stepped into life-sized scenes from “The Little Mermaid”.

Dress-Up Delight. The costume section was an instant hit! Children can transform into princesses, soldiers, or even the world-famous ugly duckling. I watched as kids paraded around in their fairytale finery, completely immersed in Andersen’s magical world.

Creative Workshops. During our visit, we joined a puppet-making workshop where my nephew created his own character from “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” The center offers different creative activities throughout the year, all inspired by Andersen’s stories.

Interactive Storytelling. The highlight was the puppet theater where professional performers brought Andersen’s tales to life. Even with my basic Danish, I could follow along as the children around me giggled and gasped at all the right moments.

Parent’s Tip. Visit during the Magic Days Festival in October when The Tinderbox hosts special Harry Potter-themed events alongside their regular fairytale activities – it creates a particular welcoming vibe for both Danish and international families.

2. Danish Railway Museum

Train Enthusiast’s Paradise. The Danmarks Jernbanemuseum (Danish Railway Museum) houses Scandinavia’s largest collection of vintage trains and railway memorabilia. I spent hours exploring massive locomotives, elegant royal carriages, and meticulously detailed model railways.

Hands-On History. What makes this museum special is how interactive it is. I climbed aboard historic trains, pulled signal levers, and even tried my hand at a train simulator. The children around me were thrilled to touch real controls and ring authentic conductor bells.

Mini Train Rides. The highlight for every child (and many adults!) is the miniature train that runs through the museum grounds. I joined families for a ride around the outdoor track, feeling the wind in my hair and hearing the delighted squeals of my fellow passengers.

Educational Fun. Beyond the obvious appeal of giant machines, I was impressed by how the museum teaches about Denmark’s railway history through child-friendly exhibits. Interactive displays explain how steam engines work and how railways transformed Danish society.

Family Hack. Pack a lunch to enjoy in the designated picnic area – there’s a vintage dining car where you can eat surrounded by railway history. My advice is to visit on weekdays during school terms when it’s less crowded and children can have more time with the interactive exhibits.

3. Odense Harbour

Water Fun. Odense Harbour has transformed from an industrial port into one of the best places for families in Odense. I watched children splash in the harbor bath – a designated swimming area with lifeguards, floating platforms, and shallow sections perfect for younger swimmers.

Recreational Paradise. The waterfront paths were filled with families on rented bikes, rollerblades, and scooters. My friend’s children raced ahead on the smooth pathways while we enjoyed views across Odense Fjord and the colorful boats bobbing in the marina.

Food Adventure. Storms Pakhus food market became our lunchtime haven. The converted warehouse houses over 20 food stalls serving everything from Danish classics to international cuisine. The kids loved choosing their own meals while we enjoyed craft beers from the local brewery.

Outdoor Activities. We discovered a fantastic playground with maritime-themed equipment where children climbed on boat-shaped structures and navigated rope courses. During summer, the harbor hosts free outdoor games like giant chess and table tennis.

Family Tip. Visit on Sunday afternoons when local families gather for the weekly “Harbor Day” with street performers, ice cream vendors, and sometimes free kayaking demonstrations for children – it’s one of the best things to do in Odense with kids.

4. H.C. Andersen’s Garden

Fairy-Tale Setting. H.C. Andersen’s Garden transported us into the world-famous author’s imagination. My nephew raced from one sculpture to another, recognizing characters from “The Mermaid” brought to life in bronze and stone.

Green Playground. Beyond the sculptures, the garden offers natural play spaces where children can climb trees, balance on logs, and hide in willow tunnels. I watched as kids created their own fairytale adventures among the flowers and shrubs.

Storytelling Magic. We timed our visit perfectly to catch the daily storytelling session (summer only). A performer dressed in 19th-century clothing captivated children with animated tellings of Andersen’s tales, complete with funny voices and audience participation.

Picnic Paradise. The garden’s open lawns proved perfect for our family picnic. While the adults relaxed on blankets, the children played tag around the central fountain, occasionally stopping to watch ducks paddle in the small pond.

Seasonal Advice. Visit during the Hans Christian Andersen Festival in August when the garden hosts special children’s workshops, puppet shows, and fairy tale parades. My advice is to bring a fairytale costume – many local children dress up as their favorite characters during the festival!

Free Things to Do in Odense

1. Kongens Have (The King’s Garden)

Royal Retreat. I stepped into Kongens Have and felt like I’d discovered a secret oasis in the heart of Odense. This historic park offered a perfect escape from the bustling city centre. The majestic old trees provided welcome shade as I strolled along the winding paths.

Seasonal Spectacle. My visit in spring was a feast for the senses, with thousands of tulips and daffodils creating a colorful carpet across the lawns. In summer, the garden transforms into a vibrant social space with locals enjoying picnics and sunbathing on the immaculate grass.

Cultural Heritage. Walking through the garden, I learned it was originally created for King Frederik IV as part of Odense Palace (now the town hall). This royal connection gives the park a certain dignity that sets it apart from other green spaces in one of the oldest cities.

Artistic Treasures. As I explored, I stumbled upon several impressive sculptures scattered throughout the garden. Gottfred Eickhoff’s “Lover’s Struggle” caught my eye with its dynamic forms, while Aksel Hansen’s equestrian statue of Christian IX stood regally against the backdrop of vibrant flowerbeds.

Event Space. During summer festivals in Odense, the garden becomes a hub of activity. I was lucky enough to catch an outdoor concert in the music pavilion – completely free and with a particular welcoming vibe that made even tourists like me feel like locals.

2. Flakhaven Square & Odense Town Hall

Architectural Marvel. Standing in Flakhaven Square, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of Odense Town Hall. Its Neo-Renaissance facade, adorned with intricate details and soaring towers, transported me back to the 1880s when it was first built as a replacement for the medieval town hall.

Historical Significance. The square itself has been the heart of Odense since the Medieval. I could almost imagine the bustling markets of centuries past as I stood where city officials and merchants once conducted the business that helped shape this important Danish city.

Cultural Hub. The square buzzes with energy, especially during the weekly markets where I sampled local delicacies and browsed handmade crafts. In summer, free concerts fill the air with music, creating a festive atmosphere that’s hard to resist.

Seasonal Celebrations. During winter in Odense, Flakhaven transforms into a magical Christmas market. Though I visited in summer, locals told me about the twinkling lights, mulled wine stalls, and traditional Danish holiday treats that make this a must-visit during December.

People-Watching Paradise. I spent a delightful hour simply sitting on one of the public benches, watching the rhythm of daily life in Odense unfold. From businesspeople hurrying to meetings to families enjoying ice cream, the square offers a perfect window into authentic Danish urban life.

3. St. Knud’s Cathedral (Sct. Knuds Kirke)

Gothic Grandeur. Standing in the nave of St. Knud’s Cathedral, I felt dwarfed by the soaring Gothic arches that have watched over Odense since the Medieval. This magnificent brick cathedral dominates the city centre with its impressive spire and elegant architecture.

Royal Resting Place. The cathedral’s most fascinating feature is the crypt where I discovered the remains of King Canute IV (Canute the Holy) and his brother Benedict. Their elaborate shrine dates from 1100 AD, making this one of the oldest royal burial sites from the Viking Age.

Artistic Treasures. I was mesmerized by the cathedral’s stunning altarpiece – a masterpiece of Gothic art depicting scenes from Christ’s life. The ornate pulpit and baptismal font showcase exquisite craftsmanship that has survived centuries of Danish history.

Musical Heritage. If you’re lucky like I was, you might catch one of the frequent organ concerts on the cathedral’s magnificent pipe organ. The acoustics are absolutely perfect, creating a spine-tingling experience as music fills this ancient space.

Local Insight. Visit during a service to experience the cathedral as it was intended – filled with music and community. Even if you can’t understand Danish, the atmosphere is worth experiencing.

⭐ Best Activities

• Odense: Viking Walk Self-Guided Audio Walk with Storyhunt: Discover Odense’s fascinating Viking heritage at your own pace with this self-guided audio tour. Walk through the city’s historic areas while listening to engaging stories about Viking life, Norse mythology, and archaeological discoveries that shaped our understanding of ancient past.

Seasonal Activities

Christmas in Odense

Festive Markets. Winter in Odense transformed the city into a magical Christmas wonderland. I wandered through the twinkling market stalls in Flakhaven Square, where the scent of gløgg (mulled wine) and freshly baked æbleskiver (Danish pancake balls) filled the crisp air. The market runs from late November until December 23rd.

Andersen’s Christmas. The birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen takes Christmas seriously! I joined a special guided tour of the author Hans Christian Andersen childhood home, decorated as it would have been during a 19th-century Danish Christmas. The storyteller’s tales like “The Fir Tree” came alive in this authentic setting.

Cathedral Services. St. Canute’s Cathedral (Odense Cathedral) hosts beautiful Christmas concerts and services that even non-religious visitors can enjoy. I slipped into the back during an evening choir performance and was moved by the angelic voices echoing through this Gothic masterpiece dating to the Medieval.

Cozy Cafés. When the winter chill became too much, I ducked into one of the charming old town cafés to enjoy hot beverages and traditional Christmas treats. Café Fleuri near the Hans Christian Andersen Museum offered the best julekage (Christmas cake) I’ve ever tasted for just 45 DKK (6 EUR).

Summer Festivals and Events

Tinderbox Festival. I timed my visit to coincide with Tinderbox, Odense’s biggest music festival (late June). For three days, international and Danish artists performed across multiple stages in Tusindårsskoven forest. Day tickets start at 895 DKK (120 EUR), but the atmosphere of thousands dancing under the summer sky was priceless.

Hans Christian Andersen Festival. August brings the city’s most beloved celebration, honoring its famous son. I watched street performers bring “The Ugly Duckling” and “The Little Mermaid” to life in parks and squares across Odense. Most events are free, making it perfect for visitors who want to spend one day in Odense experiencing its cultural heart.

Harbor Days. Odense Harbor transforms during summer weekends with food markets, boat races, and free concerts. I rented a kayak (120 DKK/16 EUR per hour) and paddled along Odense Fjord, getting a unique perspective of the city from the water. The harbor area has been beautifully redeveloped in recent years.

Open-Air Cinema. One of my favorite summer memories was watching a Danish film with English subtitles in Munke Mose Park. Every Thursday in July and August, a giant screen is set up as the sun sets, and locals bring blankets and picnics. Entry is free, though donations are appreciated.

Cycling Events. Odense is one of the premier cycling cities, and summer brings several cycling events. I joined the casual “Tour de Odense” (first Sunday in July), where hundreds of cyclists explore different neighborhoods. Bike rental from Cycling Odense costs 120 DKK (16 EUR) for a full day.

Spring Blooms in Royal Parks

Awakening Gardens. My spring visit to Odense offered a front-row seat to nature’s rebirth. Kongens Have (The King’s Garden) exploded with thousands of daffodils and tulips in April, creating a patchwork of colors against the backdrop of the historic park dating back to 1720.

Cherry Blossoms. I discovered that Odense offers its own cherry blossom experience! The path along river near the Hans Christian Andersen Museum becomes a tunnel of pink blooms in late April. Local photographers gather here to capture the magical morning mists rising from the water through the blossoms.

Picnic Season. Spring marks the beginning of picnic season in Odense. I joined locals in Munke Mose Park for the first outdoor meals of the year. The park café reopens in mid-April, serving coffee and Danish pastries that I enjoyed while watching boats return to the river after winter storage.

Guided Walks. The city offers free botanical walks through Fruens Bøge Forest every Sunday in May (10:00 am, meeting at the forest entrance). My guide pointed out rare Danish wildflowers and explained how the landscape has changed since the time of Hans Christian Andersen, who often mentioned these woods in his diaries.

Bird Watching. Spring brings migratory birds back to Odense Fjord. I borrowed binoculars from the visitor center (free with ID) and spent a peaceful morning spotting herons, ducks, and even a white-tailed eagle. The best viewing platform is located just a 15-minute bus ride from the city centre of Odense.

Autumn Foliage Walks

Golden Landscapes. Autumn painted Odense in spectacular shades of gold, amber, and crimson. My walk through the Funen open-air village was enhanced by the seasonal transformation, with half-timbered houses framed by fiery maple trees. The museum is open until the end of October, offering a perfect glimpse into rural Danish life.

Forest Bathing. Fruens Bøge Forest on the southern edge of the city became my autumn sanctuary. I followed the marked 5km trail through dense woodland, kicking through piles of leaves and breathing in the earthy scent of the forest floor. The tourist office provides free trail maps of this area once frequented by Hans Christian Andersen.

Harvest Festivals. I timed my autumn visit to coincide with the annual harvest festival at Den Fynske Landsby (last weekend of September). Local farmers demonstrated traditional techniques while I sampled freshly pressed apple juice and homemade bread. Entry during festival weekends is 120 DKK (16 EUR) but includes all activities.

Cozy Culture. Autumn is when Odense’s cultural calendar really heats up. I attended a chamber music concert at Brandts (tickets from 150 DKK/20 EUR) and browsed the seasonal art exhibitions that change as summer tourists depart. The city of Odense in Denmark truly comes alive with cultural events as temperatures drop.

Mushroom Foraging. One of my most memorable experiences was joining a guided mushroom foraging tour in the forests south of Odense town hall (first three Saturdays in October, 200 DKK/27 EUR). Our expert guide showed us how to identify edible varieties, and we later cooked our findings at an outdoor kitchen in the woods.

Day Trips from Odense

1. Ærø Island

Island Paradise. My journey to Ærø began with a scenic train ride from Odense to Svendborg (54 minutes, 95 DKK/13 EUR), followed by a breathtaking 75-minute ferry crossing. The moment I stepped onto this charming island in the South Funen Archipelago, I felt like I’d entered a different world – one where time moves slower and the views are straight from a fairy tale.

Picturesque Villages. Ærøskøbing stole my heart with its cobblestoned streets and colorful half-timbered houses dating back to the Middle Ages. I wandered through narrow lanes, discovering hidden courtyards and charming shops selling local crafts. The town feels like a living museum but with a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

Beach Adventures. At Vesterstrand near Ærøskøbing, I discovered the famous beach huts painted in cheerful colors. The water was surprisingly warm for Denmark, and the blue flag beaches are incredibly clean and safe for swimming. Erik’s Hale beach near Marstal offered a more secluded experience with stunning views across the archipelago.

Local Flavors. The island’s award-winning Rise Brewery was a highlight of my visit. For just 150 DKK (20 EUR), I enjoyed a guided tour with generous tastings of their craft beers. Nearby, I discovered the smallest whisky distillery where I sampled their unique island-made spirits (tasting: 120 DKK/16 EUR).

2. Nyborg Castle

Royal History. Just 30 minutes by train from Odense, I discovered Nyborg Castle, one of the most significant royal fortresses dating back to the 12th century. Standing in the courtyard where King Eric V signed the first constitution in 1282 gave me goosebumps – this was where Danish democracy began!

Architectural Marvel. The castle’s impressive restoration has brought its medieval and Renaissance features back to life. I was particularly struck by the grand banqueting hall where Danish kings once entertained, and the defensive tower with its panoramic views across the town and coastline.

Interactive Museum. Inside, the museum breathed life into royal history through engaging exhibits. I tried on replica medieval clothing and examined artifacts from the castle’s 800-year history. The guided tour (75 DKK/10 EUR) offered fascinating insights into life during the Middle Ages.

Surrounding Gardens. After exploring the castle, I strolled through the beautifully landscaped grounds with their lush greenery and views of the nearby coast. The moat surrounding the castle creates a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with its turbulent history as a royal stronghold.

3. South Funen Archipelago

UNESCO Treasure. My exploration of the South Funen Archipelago (recently designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in March 2024) was a highlight of my Danish adventures. This “drowned” Ice Age landscape created by rising sea levels offers some of Denmark’s most spectacular coastal scenery just a short drive from Odense.

Island Hopping. From Faaborg (45 minutes by bus from Odense), I took a day trip to the small islands of Bjørnø, Lyø, and Avernakø. Each island has its own distinct character – Lyø charmed me with its village pond surrounded by half-timbered houses, while Avernakø’s hiking trails offered stunning sea views.

Cycling Paradise. Renting a bike in Svendborg (120 DKK/16 EUR per day), I followed part of the archipelago cycling route. The flat terrain made for easy riding, and I stopped frequently to admire views across the scattered islands. The maritime atmosphere with traditional wooden ships sailing between the islands created a timeless feeling.

Natural Wonders. At Svanninge Hills, often called “The Alps of Fyn,” I hiked to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the entire archipelago. The rolling landscape, dotted with sheep and wildflowers, offered a perfect contrast to the coastal areas. Nearby, Thurø Reef provided excellent opportunities for spotting seabirds.

FAQ

Where is Odense?

Odense is located in the center of the island of Funen (Fyn), which lies directly west of the Danish mainland. It is third-largest city and is situated about two hours’ drive from Copenhagen.

Is Odense Denmark worth visiting?

Odense is definitely worth visiting. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The city is known for its charming old town, numerous museums, beautiful parks, and its connection to Hans Christian Andersen. Visitors can explore historical sites, enjoy cultural events, and experience Danish cuisine.

What is Odense most known for?

Odense is most known for being the birthplace and childhood home of Hans Christian Andersen, the famous author. The city celebrates this connection with museums, statues, and events dedicated to Andersen’s life and works.