Hotels in Odense

Odense: Funen's Medieval Core and Andersen Country

Odense, Denmark's third-largest city, sits at the heart of Funen island, roughly 165 km west of Copenhagen by rail. Founded over 1,000 years ago, the city held its first royal charter in 988 AD. It is best known as the 1805 birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen — the H.C. Andersen Hus museum on Bangs Boder Street draws around 200,000 visitors annually and reopened after a major expansion in 2021.

Where to Stay

Most hotels cluster near Odense Banegård (the central station) and along Kongensgade, the main pedestrian spine. The Brandts cultural quarter, a converted textile mill, anchors the eastern neighbourhood and suits visitors prioritising galleries and independent dining. Cortex Park, 2 km south, hosts newer business hotels close to the University of Southern Denmark campus.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Direct trains from Copenhagen take 1 hour 30 minutes via the Great Belt Bridge.
• Getting around: Odense City Bikes are free to borrow May–October from docking stations across the centre.
• Timing: The Hans Christian Andersen Festival runs each August, drawing street theatre across the old town.
• Currency: Danish krone (DKK); most venues accept card payments without minimum spend.