Background

Odense Cathedral – The Sacred Heart of Funen

Centuries-old Odense Cathedral offers stunning Gothic architecture, the relics of King Canute, and a tranquil reflection space at the historic heart of Funen’s capital.

4.6

Odense Cathedral, also known as St. Canute’s Church, is a magnificent Gothic structure at the cultural heart of Odense. With origins stretching back over 900 years, the cathedral is renowned for its stunning brickwork, atmospheric vaulted interiors, and the elaborate crypt of King Canute IV, Denmark’s patron saint. Visitors discover both a peaceful sanctuary and a living piece of Danish royal and religious history.

A brief summary to Egeskov Castle

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Plan your visit around midday or early afternoon to enjoy the natural light streaming through the stained-glass windows.
  • Don’t miss the crypt containing the relics of St. Canute—an essential stop for history lovers.
  • Check out the cathedral’s impressive altarpiece, one of Denmark’s finest examples of Gothic woodcarving.
  • The cathedral is located next to Odense Town Hall; combine both for a short heritage walking tour.
  • Wheelchair users should note that some areas have limited accessibility due to historic stairs and uneven floors.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    For most visitors staying in central Odense, the cathedral can be reached on foot within about 5–15 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is a pleasant stroll through the historic old town, passing cozy cafés and boutique shops, with the cathedral’s spire visible as you near the central City Hall square.

  • Bicycle

    Odense is ideal for cycling, and reaching the cathedral by bike from anywhere in the city center takes approximately 5–10 minutes. Bike parking racks are conveniently located near the main entrance, but spaces can fill quickly during events.

  • Public Transport

    Buses from Odense Banegård Center and other transit hubs stop at the central station and continue to the area around the cathedral—rides typically last 4–8 minutes. Single tickets are about 24–30 DKK for adults. The cathedral is just a short walk from any of the stops near City Hall.

  • Taxi

    A taxi ride from most city center hotels or transit hubs to the cathedral takes 5–10 minutes, with fares generally ranging between 60–100 DKK depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    Drivers find several municipal parking lots around the old city center, usually a 5–8-minute walk from the cathedral. Rates average around 14–22 DKK per hour, and parking can be limited during weekends or public events.

Unlock the Best of Egeskov Castle

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Egeskov Castle

Step inside the soaring halls of Odense Cathedral – St. Canute’s Church – and you enter not just a masterpiece of medieval architecture, but the spiritual and historic core of Odense. This cathedral takes its name from King Canute IV, Denmark’s martyred king and patron saint, who was slain in 1086 and subsequently canonized. The present brick building, begun in the 13th century and completed around 1499, replaced earlier wooden churches and stands today as one of Denmark’s purest Gothic cathedrals. The cathedral’s long nave and high, whitewashed vaults create a sense of both grandeur and serenity, illuminated by slender stained-glass windows. The crypt beneath the high altar draws many to pay respects at the relics of St. Canute and his brother Benedict. Above, richly restored medieval frescoes and the imposing late-Gothic altarpiece—carved by Claus Berg in the early 1500s—provide stunning visual highlights. The altarpiece alone is an artistic treasure, brimming with detail and lifelike biblical figures. Odense Cathedral’s setting, next to the Town Hall and in the old city, places it amid bustling life yet inside remains tranquil, a haven for reflection. Regular organ concerts, events, and open hours make visits rewarding year-round. Beyond its faith traditions, the church is a fascinating site for anyone interested in Danish royalty: King Hans and his queen Christina—parents of Christian II—are also interred here, linking the cathedral with stories of power and tragedy. Practicalities are straightforward: entry is free, and the cathedral is usually open most days except during religious ceremonies. Photography is permitted, and visitor information is available on-site, making this a must-see for culture enthusiasts, architecture buffs, and spiritual seekers alike.

Popular Experiences near Egeskov Castle

Popular Hotels near Egeskov Castle

Select Currency