Marstal Søfartsmuseum: The Maritime Soul of Ærø
Explore Denmark’s maritime legacy at Marstal Søfartsmuseum, where authentic ship models, sailor stories, and hands-on exhibits bring Ærø’s seafaring history to life.
Marstal Søfartsmuseum is a captivating maritime museum in the harbor town of Marstal, on the island of Ærø. It showcases Denmark's proud seafaring heritage through immersive exhibits, historic vessels, and personal stories of island sailors. Established in 1929, the museum's collections weave together ship models, navigational instruments, and artifacts that reflect generations of life shaped by the sea.
A brief summary to Trebjerg, Dronningeudsigten
- Stenlund 16, Faaborg, 5600, DK
Local tips
- Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid crowds, especially during summer when ferry passengers arrive in groups.
- Check out the museum’s temporary exhibits and family activities, which change seasonally and offer hands-on fun for children.
- The museum is partly housed in historic buildings—wear comfortable shoes, as some floors are uneven and staircases can be steep.
- Ask about the audio guide at reception for deeper insight into exhibited objects and the stories behind them, available in several languages.
- There are several charming café options nearby for a post-visit snack featuring local Ærø specialties.
Getting There
-
Ferry and Walking
Travelers arriving to the South Funen Archipelago typically reach Ærøskøbing or Marstal by ferry from Svendborg or Fynshav. From the Marstal ferry terminal, the museum is set within the town's pedestrian-friendly core, amid colorful old seafarer houses and near the harbor. It’s a relaxed 10–15 minute walk past shops and bakeries, suitable for all ages. Most reach Marstal by foot from the ferry, with no additional cost for this segment.
-
Taxi
Taxis are available from the Marstal ferry terminal if luggage or mobility is a concern. The trip to the museum usually takes less than 5 minutes. Fares typically fall in the 70–110 DKK range for this short journey.
-
Bicycle
Marstal and much of Ærø are extremely bicycle-friendly, with rental options near ferry landings. A leisurely ride from the harbor to the museum takes about 5 minutes along level, safe lanes. Bicycles may be brought on the ferry for a modest fee, commonly around 30–40 DKK.
-
Car
For those arriving by car (including day-trippers who bring their vehicle on the ferry), public parking is available in the vicinity of the museum. Depending on time of year and demand, parking may be limited during high season. Most parking is free in Marstal; however, always check for local signage.
Discover more about Trebjerg, Dronningeudsigten
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Japanese Gardens
8.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese landscape artistry in the heart of Funen with tranquil gardens, koi-filled ponds, and a traditional tea pavilion in scenic Broby.
Holstenshuus
10.2 km
Discover Holstenshuus, a historic estate near Faaborg, Denmark, offering a serene Rococo garden, rich history dating back to 1314, and a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.
Odense Dyrskueplads
24.6 km
Experience the cultural heartbeat of Funen at Odense Dyrskueplads, a premier venue for festivals, fairs, and community events in Odense.
Richard Møller Nielsens Plads
26.0 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.
Munke Mose Park
26.2 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.
Funen Opera
26.4 km
Funen Opera in Odense captivates with cutting-edge performances, Danish premieres, and welcoming vibes—an essential destination for culture and music on Funen.
visit
26.8 km
Experience Odense's premier cocktail bar, Visit, where classic and innovative drinks meet in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
St. Canute's Cathedral
26.8 km
Discover Danish and Nordic art in a refined gallery space at Bredgade Kunsthandel, a landmark for modern and classical works in central Copenhagen.
Papirbåden | H.C. Andersen
26.8 km
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
26.9 km
Experience Denmark's storied seafaring legacy in a striking underground museum beside Kronborg Castle, with immersive exhibitions and architectural innovation.
Oceania
26.9 km
Inside an innovative underground dry dock, the M/S Maritime Museum reveals Denmark’s seafaring past through interactive displays, family activities, and evocative architecture.
TheDoorOdense
27.1 km
Experience innovative architecture and 600 years of seafaring history at the award-winning M/S Maritime Museum, nestled below Helsingør’s iconic waterfront.
VILLE VAU
27.1 km
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.
Saint Hans Church
27.2 km
A buzzing pedestrian street in Nørrebro, Jægersborggade blends Copenhagen’s creative edge with indie shops, urban gastronomy, and an atmosphere beloved by locals.
King's Garden
27.2 km
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Svanninge Bjerge
6.5 km
Discover the maritime heart of Ærø at Marstal Søfartsmuseum, where historic ships, tales, and artifacts bring Denmark’s seafaring heritage to vivid life.
Øhavsmuseet
9.1 km
A captivating maritime museum in Marstal, Ærø, showcasing Denmark's seafaring legacy with ship models, nautical artifacts, sailor tales, and hands-on exhibits.
Faaborg Clock Tower
9.2 km
Experience Denmark’s only authentic Viking ship burial at the evocative Viking Museum Ladby—where ancient chieftains, seafaring history, and dramatic landscapes meet.
Lundegård
11.1 km
Explore Denmark's only Viking ship burial at the Viking Museum Ladby in Kerteminde, offering a unique glimpse into 10th-century maritime history.
Bjørnø
12.7 km
Discover Denmark’s largest Viking burial ground on a scenic hilltop near Aalborg, with evocative stone ship settings, interactive exhibits, and panoramic fjord views.
Naturkalv - Borreby
16.6 km
Explore Denmark’s only Viking ship burial site at Ladby Museum, where history, archaeology, and stunning fjord landscapes meet for a unique family adventure.
Camping Outdoors Museum
17.3 km
Explore Denmark's only Viking ship burial at the Viking Museum Ladby, where history and nature converge on Funen's picturesque shores.
Egeskov Castle
17.6 km
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.
Gorilla Park Svendborg
19.1 km
Fyns Hoved: Northern Funen’s wild headland, renowned for panoramic sea views, rare plants, migratory birds, hiking trails, and untamed coastal beauty.
Skjoldnaes Lighthouse
23.0 km
Discover Marstal’s iconic row of colorful bathing huts, a living symbol of Ærø’s seaside heritage and Danish summer life along the Baltic shore.
Marie-Kilden
23.5 km
Explore Sneglehøjen, an 18th-century spiral mound with a historic underground cellar in Odense's Hollufgård estate.
Brickworks
23.6 km
Discover Villa Margarinely, an elegant retreat neighboring Marselisborg Palace in Aarhus, where tranquil surroundings and royal charm meet Danish heritage.
Parsonage
23.7 km
Discover Villa Margarinely, a unique royal pavilion nestled in the serene Marselisborg Palace Gardens of Aarhus.
The Funen Village
23.9 km
Experience Denmark’s rural history up close at The Funen Village, an immersive open-air museum where 19th-century farm life unfolds in scenic, authentic surroundings.
Hollufgård slotspark
24.5 km
Historic Danish manor park on Odense’s edge, famed for its open-air sculpture trail, peaceful woodlands, and family-friendly green spaces.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Klinten
10.2 km
Enjoy locally sourced cuisine and stunning archipelago views at Restaurant Klinten, Faaborg’s signature waterfront dining spot on South Funen.
Lyø Havnegrill
14.5 km
Harbourfront burger and comfort food spot with local ingredients and a relaxed maritime vibe, perfect for refuelling on the tranquil island of Lyø.
Avernakø Havnecafé
15.4 km
Experience genuine Danish island hospitality at Avernakø Havnecafé, a cozy harbor restaurant offering authentic local dishes, scenic views, and summertime community vibes.
Sortebro Kro
23.8 km
Experience culinary artistry at Sortebro Kro - where fine dining meets exceptional service in Odense S.
Restaurant Carlslund
24.0 km
Traditional Danish inn in Fruens Bøge Forest serving classic smørrebrød and authentic cuisine, steeped in local history just outside central Odense.
Restaurant Bondestuen
24.5 km
Step into Restaurant Bondestuen in Odense for an authentic Danish dining experience, featuring classic smørrebrød, hearty traditional dishes, and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Restaurant Wienerstuen
24.5 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Restaurant Wienerstuen in Odense—where tradition meets taste.
Restaurant Knudsens Gaard
25.6 km
Historic Odense farmhouse restaurant showcasing classic Danish cuisine and local ingredients in an elegant, rustic setting—an essential culinary experience on Funen.
Vår
26.6 km
Contemporary Nordic restaurant in Odense offering innovative tasting menus rooted in Funen’s local ingredients, sustainability, and the artistry of New Danish cuisine.
Mona Lisa
26.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Mona Lisa in Odense – where every meal is a celebration of taste and tradition.
Pasfall
26.6 km
Discover culinary artistry at Pasfall in Odense – where fine dining meets exceptional service for an unforgettable experience.
The Burger Odense
26.7 km
Discover gourmet burgers in Odense at The Burger Odense - where taste meets quality in every bite!
Mitchell's Odense
26.7 km
British-style carvery excellence meets Danish innovation at Mitchell’s Odense, a standout fine dining spot for roasts, creative sides, and local hospitality.
Salinaz Odense
26.7 km
Discover the ultimate steak dining experience at Salinaz Odense, where flavor meets ambiance in the heart of Denmark.
I Pupi Siciliani
26.8 km
Experience authentic Sicilian cuisine in the heart of Odense at I Pupi Siciliani.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Høkildegård
21.1 km
Experience South Funen’s flavors at Høkildegård, a beloved farm shop offering seasonal produce, homemade jams, and an authentic taste of Danish rural life.
Bohemian Wonders
25.5 km
Discover unique, ethically sourced vintage fashion at Bohemian Wonders in Odense.
Magasin Odense
26.8 km
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
27.5 km
Discover unique Danish fashion at Look At This, Odense's premier boutique for sustainable and locally designed apparel.
Hipstory | SHOWROOM ODENSE
28.2 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired furniture and décor at Hipstory Showroom Odense, where past meets present in design excellence.
Handweaving & more
31.7 km
Handweaving & More in Ærøskøbing: discover authentic Danish textile craft and unique handmade garments inspired by the colors and culture of Ærø island.
Ærø Soap Company
31.7 km
Discover handmade Danish soaps and skincare crafted from Ærø’s botanicals at this charming boutique, blending local tradition, sustainability, and artisan quality.
Storms Hjørne
31.8 km
Charming local shop blending artisan gifts, bakery delights, and authentic South Funen flavors in Svendborg’s historic heart.
Ærø Gårdbutik Uldgården
32.2 km
Atmospheric farm boutique in Ærøskøbing offering locally made woolen garments, artisan crafts, and island specialties in an authentic Danish rural setting.
Butik Stokrosen
34.1 km
Discover unique Danish footwear blending tradition and modern style at Butik Stokrosen in Ærøskøbing.
Det Gamle Værft
34.1 km
Experience the vibrant heritage of Ærø’s working shipyard, where maritime history, craftsmanship, and island culture meet on the harbor of enchanting Ærøskøbing.
Ærø Glaskunst
34.3 km
Experience the artistry of Ærø Glaskunst, where handcrafted glass art meets cozy café culture in the heart of Ærøskøbing.
Shop
34.3 km
Discover Den Gamle Isenkram: Ærøskøbing's Premier Lifestyle Boutique
Den Gamle Isenkram
34.4 km
A historic Ærøskøbing boutique blending Danish tradition with contemporary style, offering curated goods and island charm in the heart of the South Funen Archipelago.
Reloved with Other Stories
34.4 km
Discover timeless treasures and sustainable fashion at Ærøskøbing's charming vintage boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lyø
15.6 km
Discover Lyø: A Historic Danish Island with Charming Villages and Scenic Landscapes
Kompasset
21.7 km
Experience Danish hospitality at Kompasset, Vester Skerninge's cozy bar offering craft beers, fine wines, and live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
Hjallese Puben
23.2 km
Experience authentic Danish pub culture at Hjallese Puben in Odense S.
Carlsens Kvarter
26.4 km
Carlsens Kvarter—Odense’s legendary tavern fusing classic Danish ‘brown bar’ atmosphere with one of Funen’s best craft beer selections.
Den Røde Bar
26.4 km
Den Røde Bar is Odense’s creative watering hole, celebrated for its intimate theatre connections, local artistry, eclectic events, and inviting bohemian ambiance.
The Old Irish Pub
26.7 km
Classic Irish hospitality in Odense: live music, big screens for sports, and a buzzing crowd in a cozy pub full of spirited atmosphere.
Lalou Vinbar
26.7 km
Chic, candle-lit wine bar in central Odense, serving natural and organic wines with expert guidance in a welcoming Scandinavian setting.
Christian Firtal
26.7 km
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.
Bootleggers Odense Craft Beer Bar
26.9 km
Discover Bootleggers Odense, a vibrant craft beer bar on Gråbrødre Plads offering curated Danish and international brews in a welcoming city-center setting.
The Flower and the Bee
27.2 km
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.
Lørups Vinstue
27.2 km
Historic bar in the heart of Odense offering classic Danish atmosphere, eclectic memorabilia, live music, and affordable drinks for an authentic local experience.
Stella Maris
27.5 km
Elegant waterfront hotel and gourmet retreat with panoramic Svendborg Sound views, Nordic design, renowned cuisine, and tranquil gardens in the South Funen Archipelago.
HANSTED
28.2 km
A convivial gathering spot blending Svendborg’s love for live music, craft drinks, and Danish hygge—HANSTED is the heart of nightlife on South Funen.
Vinsted
28.5 km
Experience the charm of Svendborg at Vinsted, where fine wines, crafted cocktails, and delectable tapas await in a cozy setting.
Ørkild
28.5 km
Ørkild is Svendborg’s classic beer hall, offering visitors authentic Danish pub culture, local brews, and a warm, convivial atmosphere in the heart of South Funen.
