Odense is a small town with a truly surprising mix of unique historical attractions. Discover the history of the Middle Ages and explore museums dedicated to the life and times of renowned fairytale writer, Hans Christian Andersen.
See the sights at the Town Hall and Flakhaven Square. During the summer, attend outdoor markets and free concerts. Buy antiques at the Kramboden, a 16th-century merchant’s house. View exhibitions in BRANDTS Art Center, a former textile factory that now houses art galleries, small museums, shops, cafés and restaurants. A short walk from Flakhaven Square is the Møntergården, a museum where you’ll find local history from the 16th and 17th centuries.
Walk south of the Town Hall to the grand 14th-century St. Knud's Cathedral. Inside the cathedral, beneath the choir, is a glass case with the remains of Denmark's patron saint, King Canute IV and his brother Benedikt.
Odense is perhaps best known as the birthplace of the famed children’s writer, Hans Christian Andersen. See sculptures of characters from his fairytales throughout the town. View Andersen’s artworks and handwritten journals at the Hans Christian Andersen Museum and experience the interactive fairytale room. Learn about his childhood at the Hans Christian Andersen’s Childhood Home, visit his birthplace on Hans Jenson Street and see the Charity School he attended.
Take the kids to the Railway Museum or see the animals in Odense Zoo, considered one of the best in Europe. Experience historic times at the Funen Village, a model village and museum with buildings and artifacts that date to the 18th and 19th centuries.
Take a break in the city center at the Kongens Have garden, sit under a tree in the Klosterhaven (convent garden) or rent a paddleboat and relax on the water in Munke Mose Park.
Odense is a 1.5-hour train ride from Copenhagen Airport and 2 hours from Billund Airport. Get around the town easily by foot, bicycle, rental car, taxi or public bus.
