Discover the Magic of Hans Christian Andersen in Odense✨ Odense, Denmark, feels like a living fairytale, with pastel cottages, cobblestone lanes, and gardens that whisper Hans Christian Andersen’s stories. From charming cafés to story-filled museums, every corner holds a little piece of his magical inspiration.Authorsgoanniewhere
DestinationsDenmarkItinerary

Monday

Hotel Odeon
Right in the heart of downtown Odense, the Hotel Odeon is a modern, minimalist-style stay with walking access to the most popular H.C.A. attractions. Complete with delicious Danish breakfasts in the morning, this would definitely be my pick for staying in Odense.
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Cafe Fleuri
Right out of a fairy tale! Café Fleuri has a beautiful garden and vintage vibe, serving delicious, fresh plates and smørrebrød. Get a coffee with caramel syrup, and you're a true Dane! ✨
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Storms Pakhus | Odense Street Food
For dinner, we explored Storms Pakhus, a sort of food court/street food option with bars, stands, and bites of all kinds. With everything from fried chicken and burgers to Korean BBQ and ramen, there's a taste for everyone here!
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Tuesday

Hans Christian Andersen's Childhood Home
Kicking off day two, we started our fairy tale journey at Hans Christian Andersen's Childhood Home. Not only a museum, his home sheds light on the humble beginnings he came from before going on to be a famed, poetic author. Truly moving!
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Paaskestræde
Away from all the crowds, stepping into Odense feels both magical and peaceful. Paaskestræde Street truly encapsulates this feeling in one place.
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H. C. Andersens House
Travel through the fantastical and creative mind of Andersen with a visit to his real-life home in Odense. Plus, there is a bookstore on-site for you to take home a piece of Odense, H.C.A., and fairy tales with you!
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Café deilig
After a morning of magic, we stopped at the light and whimsical Café Deillig. Sit amongst towering, natural light–filled windows while indulging in Danish pastries and other brunch faves. Make a reservation ahead of time!
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Munke Mose
For a breath of fresh air and to walk off some of brunch, we explored Munke Mose. It was lovely to relax by the river, listen to the rushing water, and watch families around us.
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Fruens Bøge Skov
Enter a fairy tale with a trip to this woodland, waterfront park! Once exclusively for powerful and rich locals, this park is now where most boat tours and floats leave from. We caught our river sailing cruise from here!
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Odense River Sailing
This was SUCH a unique way to move through the city and surroundings of Odense. Odense River Sailing is both a relaxing and scenic activity wrapped into one. No more charming way to spend the afternoon!
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The Funen Village
Take in the rural history of Denmark with a visit to the Funen Village, with its green spaces, thatched-roof cottages, and walking paths to explore. The buildings are filled with antiques and replicas that transport you back in time!
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Sortebro Kro
After a busy day exploring, Sortebro Kro absolutely filled us up with Danish flavors. Known for their delicious flavors and stunning presentations, this restaurant is no exception. The seafood dishes are top tier, and paired with a sweet treat at the end of dinner...perfection!
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Wednesday

Odense Havnebad
Dive into Odense harbor! Our third day exploring Odense started out with a cold plunge in the harbor... Odense Harbour Bath is a free, open-air facility with changing rooms, showers, and a sauna!
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Art Museum Brandts
Post freshening up, a visit to the Art Museum Brandts was a MUST. With a complete focus on 250 years of Danish art, it had pieces around every corner to enjoy. A perfect fit for our creative, fairy-tale trip to Odense! (Such a hidden gem.)
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Café Sølle
Pair a fragrant, Danish cardamom bun with a blend of espresso or latte at this colorful and cozy spot: Café Sølle all the way!
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Svendborg Havn
Next, we caught the ferry from the Svendborg harbor to Ærøskøbing Havn on the island of Ærø! Take in the views on the way!
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På Torvet
Heading south to the charming town of Ærøskøbing, the På Torvet is an absolutely stunning hotel. Blending Danish charm and style with cozy rooms and easy access to local sights, it's the perfect stay! We loved walking around the property, admiring the architectural style and pops of color here.
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Arnfeldt Hotel & Restaurant
Just around the block, the Arnfeldt Hotel & Restaurant serves delicious pork three ways and Æg Mayo dishes! The staff really puts this place over the top!
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Thursday

Egeskov Castle
The next morning, on our way back to Odense, we explored the expansive Egeskov Castle. With manicured gardens, vintage car exhibits, and photo spots everywhere, you'll want to save a few hours for your stop here.
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Café Jomfru Rigborg
Sip on coffees and pastries with a view at Café Jomfru Rigborg! Right on the property of Egeskov Castle, you'll feel like royalty.
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Fairytale H.C.A. Experiences

Self-Guided Tour of Hans Christian Andersen's Copenhagen
Explore Copenhagen at your own pace and follow in the footsteps of Hans Christian Andersen. From quiet streets to charming squares, this audio tour reveals the stories, inspirations, and little-known corners that shaped the life behind the fairy tales.
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Life of H.C. Andersen - Half Day Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour
This self-guided audio tour invites you to step into the life of Hans Christian Andersen, wandering through the streets of Copenhagen that inspired his very own fairy tales. From his modest beginnings to his rise as a beloved author, discover the contrasts between his real-life experiences and the magical worlds he created. The tour includes 13 stops, engaging quizzes, and more!
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Hans Christian Andersen - walking-tour
Wander Copenhagen’s storybook streets, tracing Hans Christian Andersen’s footsteps. From Nyhavn’s colorful facades to his preserved attic room in Magasin, discover hidden plaques, statues, and little corners that feel straight out of one of his fairytales.
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