Odense Cathedral - Denmark’s Gothic Masterpiece
Discover Odense Cathedral, where soaring Gothic architecture, royal Danish history, and vibrant local culture converge in the heart of Odense.
Odense Cathedral, also known as St. Canute's Church, is a striking example of Gothic architecture at the heart of Odense. Built over the tomb of King Canute IV, Denmark’s only canonized king, this vast red-brick cathedral has stood for centuries as a centerpiece of the city’s spiritual and civic life. Inside, visitors are greeted by soaring vaults, beautiful frescoes, and the intricate Baroque altarpiece by Claus Berg, making it one of Denmark’s most significant religious monuments.
A brief summary to Hans Christian Andersen's Childhood Home
- Munkemøllestræde 3, Odense, Odense C, 5000, DK
- +4565514601
- Visit website
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check for free organ or choir concerts, often held on weekends and during festivals.
- The crypt beneath the church is open to visitors and includes the shrine of King Canute IV.
- Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful during services or private ceremonies.
- Combine your visit with a stroll to Hans Christian Andersen’s childhood home, located nearby.
Getting There
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Walking
From Odense’s central shopping streets or the city’s main square, it’s an easy stroll of around 10 minutes. You’ll pass through the pedestrian district lined with shops, cafés, and historic façades. The cathedral stands prominently near the heart of town—its tower is visible above adjacent rooftops, making it an obvious landmark. Paths through the old quarter are mostly flat and paved, making for comfortable walking.
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Public Transport
Several local buses serve stops within a short walk of the cathedral, arriving from the central station and major city neighborhoods. Journeys from the main transport hub take roughly 6–12 minutes, with single adult tickets priced at around DKK 24. Electronic ticketing is widely used. Once you alight, the cathedral’s tower is visible ahead.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from central Odense takes about 5–8 minutes, and fares average DKK 60–90 depending on traffic and time of day. Taxis can drop passengers close to the cathedral square, though public parking in the immediate area is limited.
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Driving/Parking
Parking garages and municipal lots are located within a 3–8 minute walk from the cathedral. Expect to pay DKK 15–20 per hour for parking in the city center. Spaces immediately next to the cathedral are limited and may be occupied during peak times.
Discover more about Hans Christian Andersen's Childhood Home
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. Canute's Cathedral
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Papirbåden | H.C. Andersen
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Experience Odense's premier cocktail bar, Visit, where classic and innovative drinks meet in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
VILLE VAU
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Funen Opera
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Saint Hans Church
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Munke Mose Park
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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.
King's Garden
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Odense St.
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Banegårdspladsen
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Fredens Kirke
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Odense Dyrskueplads
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Unmissable attractions to see
The maiden jump
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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.
The Darning Needle
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Odense City Hall
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Vægmaleri
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Sneglehøjen in Odense, a serene natural retreat perfect for leisurely walks and family outings.
Klokkedybet
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St. Alban's Church
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Odense Noble Virgin Convent
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Washing Site at Odense River
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Tidens Samling
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The Sea Horse
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Munke Mose
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Experience Denmark's rural heritage at The Funen Village, an open-air museum in Odense featuring authentic 18th and 19th-century buildings and traditional crafts.
Brandts
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Art Museum Brandts
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Essential places to dine
Druen & Bønnen
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Restaurant Madklubben Odense
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Restaurant Klosterkroen
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MASH - Restaurant Odense
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The Burger Odense
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Café Kræz
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A Hereford Beefstouw - Odense
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Café Skt. Gertrud
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UBN
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Restaurant Bacchus
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Den Lille Smalle
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Amy's Bar & Winehouse
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Kok & Vin
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Salinaz Odense
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Ryan's of Odense
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Magasin Odense
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Look At This
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Bohemian Wonders
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Skovsted Nyborg
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Pyre Studio
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Tippy
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Gen&Brug Nyborg
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lalou Vinbar
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Carlsens Kvarter
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Den Røde Bar
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The Flower and the Bee
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Lørups Vinstue
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Hjallese Puben
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