Odense Cathedral – The Storied Heart of Denmark’s Past
St. Canute’s Cathedral in Odense is a breathtaking Gothic masterpiece, a royal burial site, and a vibrant hub uniting Danish history, culture, and community.
Odense Cathedral, also known as St. Canute’s Church, is a magnificent Gothic cathedral dominating the city’s skyline. With imposing red-brick arches, elegant vaulted ceilings, and an atmosphere brimming with history, this church tells the tale of Denmark’s royal past, most notably as the resting place of King Canute IV, Denmark’s only canonized king. Open to visitors, it is a central piece of Odense’s cultural and spiritual life, inviting both quiet reflection and awe at its medieval artistry.
A brief summary to Odense Cathedral - St. Canute's Church
- Klingenberg 19, Odense, Odense C, 5000, DK
- +4566120392
- Visit website
- Monday 12 pm-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 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Entry to the cathedral is free, but consider donating to support its maintenance.
- The crypt, holding the remains of King Canute, is a highlight—check open hours as it may be seasonally limited.
- Photography is allowed, but please avoid flash during services or concerts.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through the adjacent King’s Garden for a peaceful break.
- Concerts and special events are regularly held—ask at the entrance for current schedules.
Getting There
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Walking
Odense Cathedral is located at the heart of Odense’s historic district, close to the main shopping streets and a short stroll from the central town square. From most hotels and attractions in the center, visitors can reach the cathedral on foot in approximately 5–10 minutes, often passing iconic landmarks such as the Hans Christian Andersen Museum. The route is mostly flat and accessible, making it enjoyable even for those with limited mobility.
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Public Transport
Local city buses frequently connect Odense Central Station to the area around the cathedral, with stops within a brief walking distance from the main entrance. Single-ride tickets typically cost DKK 24 (about €3). Buses run every few minutes during the day, and digital screens display upcoming departures at the station.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Odense Central Station or hotels in the city center is swift and convenient, generally taking around 5 minutes. Expect fares of DKK 60–90 (about €8–12). Taxis can drop passengers directly in front of the cathedral but note that traffic can be heavier during local festivals or market days.
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Driving/Parking
Paid public parking is available at several lots nearby, particularly along the main shopping streets and at the large multistorey garage a short walk from the cathedral. Parking rates average DKK 15–25 per hour (roughly €2–3.50). Spaces can fill quickly in peak tourist periods, so arriving early is advised.
Discover more about Odense Cathedral - St. Canute's Church
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. Canute's Cathedral
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Oceania
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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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Saint Hans Church
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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.
Funen Opera
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Funen Opera in Odense captivates with cutting-edge performances, Danish premieres, and welcoming vibes—an essential destination for culture and music on Funen.
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.
Munke Mose Park
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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.
Banegårdspladsen
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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.
Fredens Kirke
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Odense Dyrskueplads
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Experience the cultural heartbeat of Funen at Odense Dyrskueplads, a premier venue for festivals, fairs, and community events in Odense.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
The maiden jump
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Walk through history at The Funen Village in Odense, where 19th-century farmsteads, gardens, and local traditions offer a full-senses journey into rural Denmark.
Hans Christian Andersen's Childhood Home
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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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Experience the heart of Danish comedy at Odense Comediehuus, where culture and laughter intertwine in the vibrant city center.
Odense Noble Virgin Convent
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The Darning Needle
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Washing Site at Odense River
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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.
H. C. Andersens House
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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.
Kramboden i Odense
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Gothic grandeur and royal history meet in the heart of Odense at St. Canute's Cathedral, a landmark of spiritual and architectural significance on Funen.
Odense Comediehuus
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A charming 18th-century comedy house in central Odense, offering intimate theatre experiences, improv, and a glimpse into Denmark’s local performing arts scene.
Blackfriars Square
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Explore Funen's WWII history at Besættelsesmuseum Fyn, housed in an authentic German bunker with exhibits on the occupation and resistance.
Museum Odense
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Odense Castle
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Essential places to dine
MASH - Restaurant Odense
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Druen & Bønnen
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Restaurant Bacchus
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Den Lille Smalle
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A Hereford Beefstouw - Odense
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Restaurant Klosterkroen
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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.
Café Kræz
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Bohemian café, vibrant eatery, and late-night music hub—Café Kræz brings Odense’s creative spirit and lively nightlife to the heart of the city.
Restaurant Madklubben Odense
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Café Skt. Gertrud
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Ryan's of Odense
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Amy's Bar & Winehouse
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A cozy, social hub in central Odense renowned for its expertly chosen wines, relaxed atmosphere, and local flavor—perfect for an authentic Danish evening out.
Restaurant Ribelli
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The Burger Odense
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Den Gamle Kro A/S
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Magasin Odense
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Look At This
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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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Skovsted Nyborg
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Pyre Studio
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Tippy
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Gen&Brug Nyborg
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DesignKnap
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Høkildegård
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bootleggers Odense Craft Beer Bar
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Lalou Vinbar
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Christian Firtal
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The Flower and the Bee
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Lørups Vinstue
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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.
Den Røde Bar
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Hjallese Puben
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Central Cafeen
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Øksendrup Cider
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Chr. II's Pub
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Jimbo's Kaffebar
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Bistroen
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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.