Odense: A Charming City in the Heart of Denmark
If you’re planning a trip to Denmark, make sure to add Odense to your itinerary. Known for its charming narrow streets, picturesque houses, and cultural landmarks, Odense is a great destination for anyone looking to explore a Danish city off the beaten path. Here are 10 places you shouldn’t miss when visiting Odense and 5 places you might want to avoid.
1. The Danish Railway Museum
Train enthusiasts will be in heaven at the Danish Railway Museum. This museum, located in the heart of Odense, showcases the history of the Danish railways and has a huge collection of trains and locomotives. You can even take a ride on a vintage train through the countryside.
2. Hans Christian Andersen Museum
One of Odense’s most famous residents is Hans Christian Andersen, the author of beloved fairytales like “The Little Mermaid” and “The Ugly Duckling.” The Hans Christian Andersen Museum is located in his childhood home and has exhibits on his life and works, as well as a charming garden.
3. Brandts Museum of Art and Visual Culture
If you’re interested in contemporary art and design, the Brandts Museum of Art and Visual Culture is worth a visit. The museum has a rotating collection of exhibits that often focus on Danish and Scandinavian artists.
4. Odense Zoo
Animal lovers won’t want to miss Odense Zoo. This sprawling zoo has over 1,500 animals from all over the world, including elephants, tigers, and gorillas. There’s also a petting zoo and a playground for kids.
5. The Funen Village
The Funen Village is a living-history museum that showcases life in Denmark in the 18th and 19th century. The village has over 25 preserved houses and workshops, as well as costumed staff who demonstrate old-timey crafts and activities.
6. Saint Knud’s Cathedral
Saint Knud’s Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in Odense, dating back to the 11th century. The cathedral has a majestic interior with ornate stained glass windows and a beautiful altar. It’s a must-visit for history and architecture buffs.
7. Brandt’s Textile Factory
Another museum for design lovers, Brandt’s Textile Factory is housed in a former factory that produced textiles for over 100 years. The museum has exhibits on Denmark’s textile industry and contemporary fashion, as well as a lovely cafe and shop.
8. Carl Nielsen Museum
Carl Nielsen is one of Denmark’s most famous composers and his former home in Odense is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. The museum has exhibits on Nielsen’s music and influence, as well as a collection of his personal belongings.
9. The River Odense and H.C. Andersen Park
Take a leisurely stroll along the River Odense and through H.C. Andersen Park, which features statues of characters from Andersen’s stories, a duck pond, and plenty of green space. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon.
10. Odense City Museums
If you want to learn more about the history of Odense itself, the Odense City Museums are a great place to start. The museums consist of four locations around the city, each with exhibits on a different aspect of Odense’s history, from the Viking era to the present day.
Places to Avoid:
While Odense is a lovely city, there are a few places you might want to avoid. Here are five spots that might not be worth your time:
- The Carlsberg Brewery, which is a bit of a trek from Odense and not particularly interesting unless you’re a die-hard beer fan.
- The Funen Art Museum, which is currently undergoing renovations and is closed to the public until 2021.
- The Albani Brewery, which offers tours that some visitors find lackluster and overpriced.
- The King’s Garden, which is a bit of a disappointment compared to other parks and gardens in Odense.
- The Odense Castle, which is currently closed to the public due to renovations.
Overall, Odense is a charming and fascinating city with plenty to offer visitors. From its famous residents to its cultural landmarks, Odense is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Denmark.