Odense is the birthplace of the master of fairy tales, Hans Christian Andersen. Sail down the broad river running all the way through the city and witness the history of Denmark unfold around you. Excellent shopping is a feature of the city centre, with its specialist outlets and department stores. And when you're done, take a break and check out your purchases in one of the many restaurants and cafés.
Odense is one of the oldest towns in Denmark, first mentioned in records from 998, and the name itself stems from the Viking era. Several of the city’s museums tell the story of Denmark’s history, there for you to explore during a weekend break or a full holiday.
And if you're interested in history, don’t miss the Iron Age Village to see how people lived over 2,000 years ago. The open-air Funen Village uses actors to recreate life in Danish villages in the 19th century. If the kids are with you, they’ll love Odense Zoo where they can see the animals being trained by zoo personnel, hear the lions roar and even experience tropical rain.
Odense is synonymous with Hans Christian Andersen. Download a map and explore the city on foot to see a full range of sculptures inspired by his wonderful stories. Meet the Steadfast Tin Soldier in Overgade and the Shepherdess and the Chimney Sweep in Kongensgade. The Hans Christian Andersen Museum is right by Hans Christian’s birthplace in the old quarter of the city centre – it’s well worth a visit to learn about contemporary life during his childhood. Take the shortcut to Hans Christian Andersen’s Childhood Home, where there are exhibits from the author's childhood.
Odense is right in the middle of the island of Funen which is easy to reach by motorway. The railway runs through the city, making it easy to arrive by rail and take an excursion elsewhere (on the Svendborg line for instance). If arriving by rail, an excellent place to start your visit is at the Jernbanemuseet. The museum itself is housed in a former engine shed and tells the story of the development of rail travel in Denmark.
A fairytale world awaits you in Odense. Whether you want to shop ‘til you drop, dance the night away or immerse yourself in history, this is the place to be.
