Just 75 minutes from Copenhagen lies the charming and historic town of Odense, birthplace of beloved Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen. Odense is an ideal destination to complement the bustling capital, either as a day trip or as part of your travel itinerary. Here are just some ways you can explore this idyllic town.
Walk in the footsteps of Hans Christian Andersen
Hans Christian Andersen was born in Odense in 1805 and lived in the town until age 14, when he sought his fortune in Copenhagen. Over 200 years later, Andersen’s legacy is alive and well in Odense, where visitors can explore significant locations from the writer’s past and immerse themselves in his works.
Tour the humbly furnished rooms of the writer’s childhood home, pass by his former school, and visit the riverside spot where Andersen’s washerwoman mother did her laundry. The city is also adorned with statues of Andersen and colorful characters from his tales such as The Emperor’s New Clothes, The Steadfast Tin Soldier, and Thumbelina.
Every year in late August, the week-long HC Andersen Festival takes place in Odense. This vibrant festival features 500 events celebrating the beloved author, including theater performances, storytelling, concerts, street performances, light shows, and art exhibitions, with over 90% of the activities offered for free.
Discover the life of Hans Christian Andersen
At the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, delve into the world of this beloved author through a unique collection of his belongings and stories about his captivating life. The museum showcases Andersen’s top hat and luggage, some of his famous paper cuttings, and a recreation of his study in Copenhagen.
In the near future, a new HC Andersen Museum is set to open in the heart of Odense’s old town. Designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, this modern museum will cover 5,600 square meters, with two-thirds of the exhibition space located underground. Surrounding the museum will be a large garden space, providing a magical ambiance.
Explore the fairy-tale streets
The cobblestone streets, historic timber-framed buildings, and hidden passageways contribute to Odense’s charm. Walk along Nedergade and visit Kramboden i Odense, an old-fashioned general store housed in a 16th-century building filled with intriguing finds. Then, stroll through Paaskestræde, lined with small, colorful homes resembling scenes from a storybook. Discover hidden passages like Vintæpperstræde and explore Brandts Klædefabrik, an old clothing factory complex now home to pubs, restaurants, and shops.
Experience the history
Odense’s towering cathedral dates back to the 11th century and is named after King Knud, who was murdered in Odense in 1086 and later canonized. The cathedral’s crypt houses the remains of St Knud and his brother, along with Kings Hans and Christian II. Marvel at its spectacular altarpiece and magnificent organ, as well as a stone commemorating Hans Christian Andersen’s confirmation in 1819.
To gain insight into the history of Odense and the island of Fyn, visit the small yet interesting Møntergården city museum. This museum features historic houses furnished in the style of various eras, showcasing the lives of some of the city’s poorest residents.
Enjoy natural surroundings
Next to the cathedral lies an ancient cloister garden and the expansive green space of Munke Mose. Stroll along the riverbanks on well-maintained walking paths, and seek out fairy-tale statues that adorn the landscape. Relish the fragrant flower garden on the small island of Eventyrhaven (Fairy Tale Garden), which also features a fantastic playground for children. During the warmer months, enjoy performances of Andersen’s fairy tales in a small castle. From May to September and selected dates in April and October, you can hop on an Odense Aafart boat from Munke Mose for an hour-long river cruise.
Take the kids
The Fyrtøjet Children’s Culture House offers a fantastic world of imagination, allowing children to explore creativity in countless ways. Kids can don costumes and partake in a variety of play areas over three levels, putting on puppet shows or planning imaginary feasts.
Two other attractions accessible by the Odense Aafart boat include Odense Zoo, established in 1930, which is home to diverse animals and birds, and the open-air museum Den Fynske Landsby, where costumed re-enactors provide visitors with an engaging experience of historical agriculture.
Enjoy the local flavors
Odense boasts a variety of dining options, from street food to fine dining and everything in between. Odense Street Food at Storms Pakhus, housed in an old warehouse, offers a diverse range of cuisines from its numerous stalls. Whether you’re craving oven-fired pizza, flavorful pad thai, or crispy fish & chips, there is something for everyone, complemented by cocktails or local beers.
For a more traditional dining experience, consider visiting Oluf Bagers Gård, located in a 16th-century timbered building. It specializes in smørrebrød (Danish open-faced sandwiches) for lunch and features a seasonal nine-course Nordic tasting menu in the evening. Don’t forget to stop by Odense Chokoladehus for delectable handmade treats, such as flavorful macarons or traditional flødeboller – soft meringue atop a marzipan base, all enrobed in chocolate.
