When it comes to Denmark, Copenhagen gets the lion’s share of the attention. But if you’re looking for a trip that will take you away from the tourists, but closer to authentic Danish daily life and the country’s rich culture and history, then you’ll want to put the island of Funen (called and pronounced ‘Fyn’ in Danish) where you’ll find it. like “Foon”) on your must-see itinerary.

Funen is an island lying between the larger islands of Zealand (home to Copenhagen) to the east and the Jutland Peninsula to the west. Easily accessible by car, train or plane, the island (and many of its much smaller neighboring islands) is well worth a visit. Home to the birthplace of Hans Christian Anderson, this fascinating region is where you’ll discover exciting Viking history, magnificent castles, incredible cuisine, lush landscapes and fascinating cultural experiences. Are you ready to go? Then read on to discover the perfect 3-day itinerary for an unforgettable adventure in Funen.

Day 1 Odense

Start your journey in Odense, the largest city in Funen and the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen. Stylishly located in the heart of the city, just steps from the HC Anderson House Museum Hotel Odeon It is an excellent choice for a friendly and comfortable stay. Wander around the area to get to know this fascinating and ancient city. It is one of the beautiful destinations where you will truly feel at home after a short walk among the cobblestone streets and lively squares.

Enjoy a relaxed lunch Café Fleuri In the middle of Odense’s atmospheric old Nørregade district, full of well-preserved historic buildings. You’ll find freshly made sandwiches, salad bowls and more, along with vegan and gluten-free options. The cafe’s warm atmosphere and rustic decoration provide the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the local environment. Don’t miss their specialty coffee drinks, a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

After wandering around the city a little more, you may want to take a nap at the hotel, or if you want to do something unique, consider pre-arranging for a delicious and fun beer tour. Midtfyns Bryghus The brewery is just a 10-minute drive outside of town. Then head out for an evening out. Storms PakhusThe largest food market in the city. Once an industrial warehouse, this bustling venue is the perfect place to experience the city’s modern food scene, with dozens of food stalls and bars serving everything from traditional Danish dishes to foods from around the world. Fun, entertaining and incredibly energetic, the market is a great way to end your first day while discovering the Danes’ love of good food and lively company.

Day 2: A Fairytale Adventure in Odense with Hans Christian Andersen!

Set your imagination to “Activate” and start the day H. C. Andersen House and enjoy exploring this unique museum. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, this truly fun (for kids and adults alike) and incredibly immersive space offers a unique way to dive deep into the fascinating world of Hans Christian Andersen. The focus of the museum is not only to bring to life the story of Andersen’s surprisingly interesting life (filled with love, heartbreak, and adventure), but also to take you by the hand and dive headfirst into an immersive journey through Andersen’s fascinating stories. With its combination of indoor and outdoor spaces, including an enchanted garden, the museum creates a captivating narrative that invites visitors to step into Andersen’s fascinating universe. Take an hour or two (especially if you have kids) to play in the museum’s Ville Vau. Designed specifically for kids, this game is filled with fantasy playhouses and exciting props and costumes (intended to be worn!) inspired by Andersen’s fairy tales.

Enjoy your lunch Cafe DeiligIt is conveniently located next to the museum. This charming cafe offers delicious dishes focusing on traditional Danish smørrebrød, whose names are inspired by fairy tales. Try the “Great Sea Serpent” with salmon salad, smoked cheese and dill, or for meat lovers, there’s the “Emperor’s New Clothes” with veal tartare with pickled peppers and puffed rice.

In the afternoon, continue to fly with your imagination into Andersen’s amazing world. On the day you visit HC Andersen’s House, you may also discover: Andersen’s childhood home on the same ticket. Located at Munkemøllestræde 3-5, this charming half-timbered house is where Andersen lived with his parents from the ages of 2 to 14. Opened to the public in 1930, the house offers a glimpse into the famous author’s humble beginnings.

In Odense you also have the opportunity not to be missed to walk in the footsteps of Hans Christian Andersen, following the path of his life (and sometimes his footprints sprinkled like fairy dust in certain points of the city). and is inspired by the city’s historic streets and landmarks. For a detailed guide on how to follow in his footsteps, visit the official site. Visit the Odense websiteProviding a comprehensive route and information about the various stops along the way.

If you’re still in the mood for more whimsy, visit Tidens Sampling To see traditional Danish living rooms decorated with the changing fashions of the 20th century. The city’s central shopping district around Vestergade and Kongensgade offers an attractive mix of boutique shops, art galleries and cozy cafés. Your dinner options won’t be limited, but I have a suggestion for you: Restaurant MadklubbenIt has a large outdoor patio. The restaurant offers a modern approach to traditional Danish cuisine. If you visit in August, you can catch the perfect view. HC Andersen FestivalsIt’s a joyful week-long celebration featuring hundreds of events, including theater performances, music, light shows and street performances.

Day 3: Viking Heritage and an Epic Meal

Get in touch with your inner Viking as you explore Odense’s Viking heritage by visiting historical sites such as nonnebakken UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built around AD 980, this ancient Viking ring fort offers insight into Denmark’s gripping past (although the site is currently buried underground, there is an informative information display). Also worth a stop TİD Museum To see the Viking Age screen.

Continue your historic journey with a short drive (or public bus ride) from the city to fascinating sites Iron Age Village in Odin’s Odense. Here you can immerse yourself in a living history experience that brings 2,000 years of history to life. Pack a picnic or even book accommodation for a hands-on taste of what it was like to live in the Iron Age. Afterwards, head a little further out of town (but worth it!) Viking Museum Ladby It is home to Denmark’s only known Viking ship cemetery, where an unnamed king was interred 1,000 years ago. Now you can even visit the unforgettable glass-enclosed burial mound. You may also occasionally see a reconstructed Viking ship sailing. Consider stopping at: stokkebye Vineyards to pick up a bottle of Denmark’s best organic wines.

After an epic exploration of Viking history, it’s fitting to end the day in Odense with an epic road trip. ARO. Restaurant ARO, Odense’s first and only Michelin-starred restaurant, is modestly housed in a refurbished former auto shop (perhaps as a nod to old-school craftsmanship?) but there’s nothing modest about the flavours. Whether you order a la carte or opt for the perfectly crafted tasting menu complete with carefully crafted wine pairings, you’re in for an epic experience. Unpretentious but with an innovative and playful wit, this modern restaurant takes familiar foods and transforms them into something that will delight your taste buds. Considering that the city once fueled the imagination of Hans Christian Andersen, we suspect some sort of magic is at work here.