Famed as the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, Funen is the third-largest island in Denmark. It centres around the lively city of Odense and is ringed by charming maritime towns, with several grand Renaissance castles dotting its rural interior.
Things to do in Fyn
Discover Funen’s literary heritage in the cobblestone streets of Odense where the fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen was born. Learn about his transition from a shoemaker into one of the world’s most famous authors at H.C. Andersen's House, then visit the half-timbered residence near St. Knud's Cathedral where he lived from the age of two until 14. Also in Odense is the H.C. Andersen Museum, which is a modern centre featuring 10 themed rooms focusing on his life and work.
A short drive from the centre of Odense is Funen Village, an open-air museum that’s home to around 25 buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Wander between the historic parsonage and the flour mill, then visit the Bladstrup Brickworks before learning about the island’s heritage fruit trees and Danish livestock breeds.
In the south of Funen is Europe’s best-preserved Renaissance water castle, Egeskov Castle, which was constructed in 1554. Step inside to see the massive iron chest and historic oil paintings on display before exploring the castle’s extensive gardens, three mazes and classic car exhibition.
Getting around Fyn
Hans Christian Andersen Airport is on the northern outskirts of Odense and serves as the main aviation gateway to Funen, with flights to destinations throughout Europe. Trains connect from Copenhagen to the Odense railway station while buses travel to towns and villages across the island. Funen is bicycle-friendly or you can hire a car for getting around, with bridges linking to the Danish mainland and Zealand.