Odense is the third-largest city in Denmark and home to some of the most beautiful and historical buildings in the country. I much prefer it to its older sister, Copenhagen, as it has a peacefulness that soothes my nerves in a way the vibrant streets of Copenhagen never could. I especially love the greenery in Odense and how you’re never far from a serene park to relax in. I’ve always lived near Odense and have been blessed to spend the past six wonderful years living in the city. During times when I couldn’t travel, I made it my top priority to explore everything this beautiful city has to offer. And now, that comes in handy for you, as I will let you in on it all! But before we dive into the top 10 things to do in Odense, I have some important information for you below.

Quick Q&A

How Do I Reach Odense From Copenhagen?

Odense is one of the easiest places to visit from Denmark’s capital! It’s just a 1 hour and 15 minute train ride from the center of Copenhagen. If you want to visit Odense by train, you can buy tickets online on DSB’s website. Alternatively you can enjoy the beautiful Danish countryside on the way by renting a car in Copenhagen! The drive from Copenhagen should take about 2 to 2.5-hour drive – but I highly recommend doing a few detours. This also allows you to visit some amazing day trip destinations from Odense, such as the stunning Egeskov Castle. Keep in mind there is a fee for crossing the bridge to Funen, where Odense is located, which costs at least 37 euros depending on the time you cross.

Is Odense Even Worth Visiting?

In my humble opinion: YES! Definitely. While I may be biased because I live in this wonderful city, Odense is a fantastic destination to visit in Denmark if you want to experience Danish life outside the capital. It’s much less touristy, busy, and crowded than Copenhagen, and it’s closer to nature and beautiful seaside towns. You simply cannot visit Denmark without experiencing the stunning Danish countryside, and what better way to do that than by taking a road trip or a few day trips from one of its biggest cities? Read on to find out more about the best things to do in Odense!

How Long Do You Need In Odense?

This really depends on how much of the city you want to see and at what pace. Odense is the third-largest city in Denmark, making it easy to explore the city center in just one day. However, if you plan to visit a museum or two, or take a day trip to the Funen Village or Egeskov Castle, I highly recommend spending 2 full days in the city!

The 10 Best Things To Do In Odense, Denmark

Explore The Old And Charming Streets In The Center

One of the best things to do in Odense is to walk through the charming streets of the old town quarters, where small, colorful houses line the cobblestone streets. These mostly car-free streets offer the perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll and plenty of chances to capture beautiful photos! To find these picturesque spots, simply type “Overgade,” “Nedergade,” “Bangs Boder,” “Hans Jensens Stræde,” and “Overstræde” into Google Maps.

Stroll Along The Picturesque Paths Of Odense Å

One of my absolute favorite areas of Odense is the network of paths that stretch along the Odense Å (Odense Stream). If you explore the paths around the park called “Munke Mose,” you’ll find a small café offering coffee, ice cream, and light lunches, perfect for a restful break. At the same spot, you can rent a water bike and explore the stream from the water. Walking a few kilometers along the path, you’ll pass Odense Zoo, where you can catch glimpses of camels and lions for free through the viewing holes. Further along the path, you’ll reach the beautiful “Skovsøen” (the Forest Lake), a popular spot where locals spend sunny days relaxing, exercising, and enjoying the natural beauty. There are plenty of opportunities for entertainment and relaxation along these paths, and I highly recommend spending a few hours exploring them!

Learn All About The Famous Author Hans Christian Andersen

In the aforementioned old streets of Odense, you’ll find the childhood home of Hans Christian Andersen, the famous author of fairytales like “The Little Mermaid” and “The Ugly Duckling.” This home offers a glimpse into historical Danish housing and the history of the author himself. Additionally, you can now visit the highly modernized H.C. Andersen’s House, where you can explore his fairytales and their meanings on an audio-guided tour, and stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum. After your visit, be sure to explore the Fairytale Garden (“Eventyrhaven”), where statues representing his fairytales are displayed.

Enjoy Delicious Street Food And Vibrant Atmosphere at Storms Pakhus

If you get hungry during your visit to Odense, I highly recommend checking out the street food market at Storms Pakhus! This vibrant market is set in an old packing house near the harbor and offers a wide variety of cuisines and drinks to choose from. With plenty of seating both inside and outside, you can easily spend hours tasting different foods, lounging on the sofas, and enjoying the music and company around you. If you’re lucky, you might catch one of their many free events, including bingo nights, quizzes, concerts, and activities for children. Storms Pakhus is truly a must-visit spot!

Join A Cruise – Or Go Sailing Yourself!

Since Odense is one of the largest harbor cities in Denmark, there are plenty of opportunities for water activities in the area! Exploring the city from the water is one of the best things to do in Odense. At the aforementioned Munke Mose Park, you can take a one-hour cruise along the Odense Stream, passing beautiful parks, charming houses, and even Odense Zoo before turning around. Another option is to rent a GoBoat at Odense Harborand embark on a small sailing adventure yourself. Just pack some snacks, drinks, and entertainment, and head out on the water—no license needed!

Stroll Along Odense Harbor – And Take A Dip In The Pool!

Another great activity in Odense is taking a stroll along Odense Harbor. This area truly stands out with its blend of tall, modern buildings and historic harbor structures, making it a perfect example of where old meets new. Along the harbor, you’ll find basketball courts, ice cream shops, a café, and even a pool where you can take a dip. I encourage you to dive into the pool regardless of the time of year—embrace your inner Viking! There’s no better way to do that than by jumping into the freezing water and then warming up in the hot sauna afterward. Plus, the pool and sauna are free!

Visit The Historical Funen Village

If you’re up for venturing beyond the city center, I highly recommend taking a bike or bus ride to the Funen Village. Located just about 5 kilometers from the city center, this historical village offers a fantastic glimpse into Denmark’s past before modernization. It’s a serene place where you can explore historical Danish farms and houses, interact with goats, pigs, and chickens, and learn about rural life in Denmark during the 1800s. With a restaurant and a shop on-site, it’s the perfect spot for a sunny afternoon!

Enjoy Some Local Beers At The Anarkist Brewery

If you are looking for a unique and delightful experience, another great thing to do in Odense is visiting the Anarkist Brewery. This local gem is more than just a brewery—it’s a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed and fun atmosphere. With its cozy, industrial-chic interior and welcoming vibe, it’s perfect for an afternoon or evening with friends. You can take a tour of the brewery to learn about the brewing process and the story behind their innovative beers. Plus, there’s always something happening at Anarkist, from live music and events to beer tastings and food pairings.

Explore Odense City Hall And Odense Cathedral

Another great thing to see in Odense center is the stunning Odense City Halls and Odense Cathedral. The Odense City Hall is an impressive piece of architecture located right by the main shopping streets in Odense. You can explore its grand halls and learn about the city’s governance while admiring the beautiful artwork and historical artifacts on display. Adjacent to the City Hall is the magnificent Odense Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Step inside to marvel at the impressive interior! The cathedral is also the final resting place of the famous Danish author Hans Christian Andersen, adding a literary touch to its historical significance.

Take A Picnic To Some Of The Beautiful Parks In Odense City Center

Finally, one of my favorite things to do in Odense is to spend a relaxing day with friends or family in one of the beautiful parks in the city center. Many locals gather in these parks to enjoy food, sunbathe, and play garden games during the day, and have barbecues and drinks at night. Some of the most popular parks are Munke Mose Park and Eventyrhaven (The Fairytale Garden), both located in the city center. If you prefer a place with fewer people and more peace and quiet, you can head to Skt. Jørgens Have or Skovsøen (the Forest Lake), which are both slightly farther from the city center in opposite directions. Just rent a bike or grab an e-scooter and be on your way!

That wraps up this post on the 10 best things to do and see in Odense, Denmark. From serene parks and water bikes to museums, historical buildings, and delicious street food, Odense promises a perfect weekend trip. I hope I’ve persuaded you to include it in your next visit to Copenhagen!