Odense

Odense is Denmark's third largest city and the cultural centre of the island of Funen. It is best known as the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, and his fairy tales still shape its museums, streets and character.

H.C. Andersen's House, a museum designed as a garden of stories, and his small childhood home bring the writer's world to life. The old town keeps cobbled lanes of low, colourful half timbered houses, and St. Canute's Cathedral, a Gothic brick church, holds the remains of the medieval king it is named after. The composer Carl Nielsen grew up nearby, and Brandts, the Møntergården city museum and a lively concert and theatre scene add more culture. The Odense river, the Munke Mose park and the King's Garden bring green space into the centre. Show more

The Funen Village, an open air museum of farms, workshops and gardens, shows rural life on the island. Odense Zoo is one of the most visited in the country, and the Storms Pakhus food market and many cafés reflect Funen's reputation as Denmark's garden island, rich in fruit, vegetables and local produce. The Ladby Viking ship grave near Kerteminde and Egeskov Castle are easy excursions.

Odense lies on the main railway between Copenhagen and Jutland, and a light rail line and cycle paths make the city easy to explore. Two or three days suit the city and its surroundings. Museums open year round, and the Funen Village is at its best in summer.