Odense Cathedral (St. Canute's Church): Denmark’s Medieval Heart in the City Center
Odense Cathedral, or St. Canute’s Church, is a majestic Gothic landmark that tells Denmark’s royal and spiritual story from the city’s historic heart.
Odense Cathedral, or St. Canute’s Church, stands as one of Denmark’s most impressive Gothic cathedrals. Its soaring brick spire and serene interior bear witness to over 900 years of turbulent Danish history. Visitors can marvel at the ornate tomb of King Canute, the country’s patron saint, and admire the beautiful vaulted nave and historic crypts. The cathedral remains an active place of worship, drawing travelers for its mix of architectural grandeur, royal history, and soulful calm in the heart of Odense.
A brief summary to H. C. Andersens House
- H.C. Andersen Haven 1, Odense C, Odense C, 5000, DK
- +4565514601
- Visit website
- 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 to arrive just before the midday bells for an atmospheric experience as the chimes echo through the nave.
- The crypt beneath the altar, where King Canute lies, is a must-see for history lovers and is often quieter than the main church.
- Bring a light sweater, even in summer—the thick stone walls keep the interior cool.
- Photography is permitted, but be respectful and avoid flash during services or when locals pray.
- Check for evening concerts or events—they offer a unique way to experience the cathedral’s acoustics.
Getting There
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Walking
Odense Cathedral is an easy stroll from the city’s main square and surrounding pedestrian areas. The cathedral’s spire is a familiar sight above rooftops, drawing visitors across bustling shopping streets, past inviting cafés and the historic city hall. It’s typically a 5–10 minute walk through Odense’s vibrant core, making it accessible for most travelers. The approach is flat and well-signed. Entry is free for all.
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Public Transport
From Odense Station or the central bus terminal, multiple city bus lines stop within a brief walk of the cathedral. Look for stops near the old city square or Town Hall—either puts you within a few minutes’ walk of the entrance. A single adult ticket for city buses usually costs DKK 24. All buses are wheelchair accessible and run frequently throughout the day.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available from central hotels and transport hubs in Odense. The journey through the compact city center is short, typically less than 10 minutes. Fares for such a trip are generally in the DKK 80–110 range depending on traffic and pickup point. There is limited, metered parking near the cathedral.
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Driving/Parking
If driving, use public parking garages or street parking in the city center—it’s a short walk to the cathedral from there. Hourly rates average DKK 24 in central lots. Expect higher demand for spaces during weekends and events. Parking by the cathedral itself is very limited.
Discover more about H. C. Andersens House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
VILLE VAU
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A world-class architectural landmark offering immersive exhibitions on Denmark’s maritime past and present, set in a dramatic underground dry dock by Kronborg Castle.
Andersen on the bench
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Strike a pose with Hans Christian Andersen himself—this lifelike bronze statue in Odense invites you to sit, reflect, and celebrate Denmark’s storytelling legacy.
Saint Hans Church
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A buzzing pedestrian street in Nørrebro, Jægersborggade blends Copenhagen’s creative edge with indie shops, urban gastronomy, and an atmosphere beloved by locals.
Oceania
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Inside an innovative underground dry dock, the M/S Maritime Museum reveals Denmark’s seafaring past through interactive displays, family activities, and evocative architecture.
St. Canute's Cathedral
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Discover Danish and Nordic art in a refined gallery space at Bredgade Kunsthandel, a landmark for modern and classical works in central Copenhagen.
King's Garden
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Lush, centuries-old park near Odense Castle offering tranquil landscaping, rich royal history, summer flower beds, and a vibrant local gathering spot in central Funen.
Odense St.
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Discover Jægersborggade: Copenhagen's vibrant street blending art, fashion, and gastronomy in the heart of Nørrebro.
Papirbåden | H.C. Andersen
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Slottsträdgården in Malmö is a sprawling organic garden beside Malmöhus Castle, blending nature, history, and local culture into one of Sweden’s most inviting city parks.
Den Flyvende Kuffert Eventyrskulptur
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Experience Denmark's storied seafaring legacy in a striking underground museum beside Kronborg Castle, with immersive exhibitions and architectural innovation.
Banegårdspladsen
0.4 km
Denmark’s celebrated M/S Maritime Museum in Helsingør fuses iconic modern architecture with engaging exhibits on seafaring, trade, and the maritime heart of the nation.
visit
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Experience Odense's premier cocktail bar, Visit, where classic and innovative drinks meet in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Funen Opera
0.8 km
Funen Opera in Odense captivates with cutting-edge performances, Danish premieres, and welcoming vibes—an essential destination for culture and music on Funen.
Munke Mose Park
1.0 km
Award-winning maritime museum ingeniously sunk into a former dry dock at Helsingør, offering interactive exhibitions on Denmark’s seafaring history next to Kronborg Castle.
Fredens Kirke
1.7 km
Explore Denmark's rich maritime heritage in an award-winning museum set within a historic dry dock in Helsingør.
Richard Møller Nielsens Plads
2.5 km
Copenhagen’s Jægersborggade is a vibrant hub for coffee lovers, foodies, and creatives, blending artisan shops, eco-eats, and street art in Nørrebro’s heart.
Unmissable attractions to see
Blackfriars Square
0.1 km
Explore Funen's WWII history at Besættelsesmuseum Fyn, housed in an authentic German bunker with exhibits on the occupation and resistance.
Odense Comediehuus
0.1 km
A charming 18th-century comedy house in central Odense, offering intimate theatre experiences, improv, and a glimpse into Denmark’s local performing arts scene.
Carl Nielsen Museum
0.2 km
Denmark’s only Viking ship burial, Ladby blends atmospheric history, hands-on exhibits, fjord views, and immersive storytelling for a truly unique Funen adventure.
TIME - Museum for Odense
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Discover The Maiden Jump in Odense: A harmonious blend of history and art, offering a unique glimpse into Denmark's cultural heritage.
Museum Odense
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Discover Hans Hulehånd, Thomas Dambo’s iconic recycled-wood troll sculpture, blending Danish folklore, environmental art, and hidden adventure in the heart of Odense.
Kramboden i Odense
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Step into Danish history at Odense Castle, a vibrant Baroque palace with royal roots, lush gardens, and a graceful presence at the heart of Odense’s old city.
St. Alban's Church
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Experience the heart of Danish comedy at Odense Comediehuus, where culture and laughter intertwine in the vibrant city center.
Vægmaleri
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Sneglehøjen in Odense, a serene natural retreat perfect for leisurely walks and family outings.
Odense Noble Virgin Convent
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Discover Thomas Dambo’s eco-friendly giant troll, Hans Hulehånd, hidden along Odense’s scenic canal—blending public art, folklore, and a touch of adventure for all ages.
Odense Castle
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Discover Odense Castle, a captivating baroque palace in Funen’s capital, offering royal history, scenic gardens, and a glimpse into Denmark’s cultural heritage.
Odense City Hall
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Enjoy serene lawns, mature trees, and recreational paths in Nyborg’s central green park—a scenic spot for relaxation and community just steps from historical landmarks.
Washing Site at Odense River
0.3 km
Discover Hans Hulehånd, a monumental wooden troll by Thomas Dambo, hidden among Odense’s greenery—where street art, folklore, and Danish nature come together for all ages.
Odense Cathedral - St. Canute's Church
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Historic baroque castle and civic landmark in Odense, offering beautiful gardens and royal history in a dynamic city center setting.
Klokkedybet
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Experience the serene beauty of Sneglehøjen, Odense's natural retreat for relaxation and outdoor activities.
The maiden jump
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Experience the fusion of history and art at Odense's iconic Maiden Jump.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Under Lindetræet
0.1 km
Restaurant Under Lindetræet in Odense offers acclaimed Danish gourmet dining amidst historic settings and fairy tale charm, blending tradition with modern Nordic cuisine.
Restaurant Oluf Bagers Gaard
0.1 km
Savor contemporary Nordic cuisine in a historic 16th-century courtyard at Odense’s acclaimed Restaurant Oluf Bagers Gaard, blending local flavor with heritage ambiance.
Grønttorvet
0.1 km
Classic Danish cuisine and warm hospitality await at Grønttorvet, a beloved restaurant on Odense's historic main square in the heart of Funen.
Den Gamle Kro A/S
0.1 km
Centuries-old Danish restaurant in Odense, delighting guests with authentic cuisine, timber-framed ambiance, and stories from Funen’s past in the city’s heart.
Brasserie Bordeaux
0.2 km
Discover Brasserie Bordeaux in Odense - where French culinary elegance meets Danish hospitality in an unforgettable dining experience.
Ryan's of Odense
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Atmospheric Irish pub in Odense’s lively city center, famed for its live music, warm hospitality, and classic selection of beers and comfort food.
Restaurant Ribelli
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Odense at Restaurant Ribelli - where tradition meets local flavors.
Den Lille Smalle
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Experience Odense’s contemporary Nordic café culture with creative brunch, expertly brewed coffee, and a welcoming vibe at Den Lille Smalle in the city’s heart.
Restaurant Bacchus
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Discover the exquisite taste of France at Restaurant Bacchus in Odense C – where culinary artistry meets delightful ambiance.
A Hereford Beefstouw - Odense
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Discover gourmet steak dining at A Hereford Beefstouw in Odense - where quality meets exceptional service.
MASH - Restaurant Odense
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Experience American-style steakhouse sophistication with Danish charm at MASH Odense, where prime cuts and cosmopolitan ambiance meet in Odense city center.
UBN
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UBN blends brasserie classics, top-notch pizzas, and creative cocktails in central Odense, making it a favorite urban hangout for food lovers and night owls.
Druen & Bønnen
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Experience exquisite Danish-French cuisine at Druen & Bønnen in Odense, where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Restaurant Mam
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Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant Mam in Odense - where every meal is a celebration of taste and tradition.
Restaurant Klosterkroen
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Indulge in authentic Danish comfort food and timeless tavern ambiance at Restaurant Klosterkroen, a culinary landmark in the heart of Odense’s old town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Magasin Odense
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A landmark Danish department store blending Scandinavian design, local charm, and gourmet food in central Odense—ideal for browsing, shopping, or soaking up urban style.
Look At This
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Discover unique Danish fashion at Look At This, Odense's premier boutique for sustainable and locally designed apparel.
Hipstory | SHOWROOM ODENSE
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Discover unique vintage-inspired furniture and décor at Hipstory Showroom Odense, where past meets present in design excellence.
Bohemian Wonders
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Discover unique, ethically sourced vintage fashion at Bohemian Wonders in Odense.
Skovsted Nyborg
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Discover Skovsted Nyborg: Nyborg's premier toy store offering a curated selection of classic and modern toys for all ages.
Pyre Studio
27.0 km
Discover Danish fashion at Pyre Studio, Nyborg's premier boutique for unique and stylish apparel.
Tippy
27.1 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion at Tippy, a boutique nestled in Nyborg's historic center.
Gen&Brug Nyborg
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Gen&Brug Nyborg is a vibrant second-hand shop offering preloved treasures, Danish design finds, and a warm, sustainable shopping experience in central Nyborg.
DesignKnap
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Discover contemporary Scandinavian fashion at DesignKnap, Nyborg's premier clothing boutique.
Sprogø
37.5 km
Sprogø is a windswept, storied Danish island in the Great Belt, offering rare guided visits to its lighthouse, wild landscapes, and hauntingly historic past.
Høkildegård
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Experience South Funen’s flavors at Høkildegård, a beloved farm shop offering seasonal produce, homemade jams, and an authentic taste of Danish rural life.
Storms Hjørne
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Charming local shop blending artisan gifts, bakery delights, and authentic South Funen flavors in Svendborg’s historic heart.
Samsø Gårdbutik Svanegården
47.0 km
Experience the heart of Samsø at Svanegården, where local produce, handmade crafts, and the timeless charm of Danish island farm life come together in one idyllic countryside setting.
Eskehus Samsø
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Eclectic art gallery and creative hub in Brundby, Samsø, where local artists and visitors mingle among unique paintings, crafty creations, and high-quality art supplies.
Langemarksgård
52.5 km
Langemarksgård farm shop on Samsø provides a welcoming showcase of the island’s best produce, homemade treats, and authentic countryside atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lørups Vinstue
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Historic bar in the heart of Odense offering classic Danish atmosphere, eclectic memorabilia, live music, and affordable drinks for an authentic local experience.
The Flower and the Bee
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Experience Odense's vibrant nightlife at The Flower and the Bee, a premier weekend dance bar offering quality cocktails and dynamic music in a lively atmosphere.
Bootleggers Odense Craft Beer Bar
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Discover Bootleggers Odense, a vibrant craft beer bar on Gråbrødre Plads offering curated Danish and international brews in a welcoming city-center setting.
Lalou Vinbar
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Chic, candle-lit wine bar in central Odense, serving natural and organic wines with expert guidance in a welcoming Scandinavian setting.
Christian Firtal
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Beloved craft beer bar in Odense’s historic quarter, famed for its cozy atmosphere, rotating taps of Danish and international brews, and authentic local 'hygge' spirit.
The Old Irish Pub
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Classic Irish hospitality in Odense: live music, big screens for sports, and a buzzing crowd in a cozy pub full of spirited atmosphere.
Den Røde Bar
0.9 km
Den Røde Bar is Odense’s creative watering hole, celebrated for its intimate theatre connections, local artistry, eclectic events, and inviting bohemian ambiance.
Carlsens Kvarter
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Carlsens Kvarter—Odense’s legendary tavern fusing classic Danish ‘brown bar’ atmosphere with one of Funen’s best craft beer selections.
Hjallese Puben
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Experience authentic Danish pub culture at Hjallese Puben in Odense S.
Central Cafeen
27.1 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Central Caféen, a historic gem in Nyborg since 1854.
Øksendrup Cider
27.1 km
Experience the authentic flavors of South Funen's organic ciders at Øksendrup Cider.
Chr. II's Pub
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Experience authentic Danish hospitality at Chr. II's Pub in Nyborg's historic center.
Jimbo's Kaffebar
27.1 km
Buzzing local coffee bar in Nyborg’s city center, mixing top-quality coffee, craft drinks, and Danish pastries with authentic small-town charm.
Bistroen
28.1 km
Modern Danish bistro nestled by Nyborg’s scenic waterfront, offering local flavors, seasonal cuisine, and relaxed ambiance just steps from the historic coastline.
Kompasset
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Experience Danish hospitality at Kompasset, Vester Skerninge's cozy bar offering craft beers, fine wines, and live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
