As someone with a deep love for Denmark, I often find myself returning to Copenhagen—a city that never loses its charm, no matter how many times I visit. This past September, I ventured beyond the capital to explore a region I’d heard whispers about: Funen, also known as Denmark’s “Garden Island” and the birthplace of the legendary Hans Christian Andersen. What I discovered was nothing short of magical.

I had the privilege of joining a curated tour hosted by VisitDenmark, where, over several days, we uncovered a side of Denmark that felt worlds away from the urban buzz of Copenhagen—lush, historic, and steeped in stories. Having experienced it first-hand, I can confidently say that our team is now ready to craft tailor-made journeys through Funen and Odense—perfect for those drawn to culture, castle stays, and off-the-beaten-path adventures in Scandinavia.

Funen: A Hidden Gem in Denmark

Funen, Denmark’s third-largest island, is often referred to as the “Garden of Denmark.” With its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural history, Funen offers an idyllic escape for any traveller. The island’s vibrant capital, Odense, is famously the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen. From impressive bridges to a mild climate, Funen provides plenty to explore for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Whether cycling through lush farmlands or soaking in its coastal beauty, Funen invites you to discover its unique charm.

Funen is also home to some modern celebrities, including pop singer MØ, known for her international hits, and footballer Christian Eriksen, celebrated for his career in top European leagues.

Walking in Hans Christian Andersen’s Footsteps

The trip began in Odense, Denmark’s third-largest city, where every cobblestone seems to whisper a story. As a lifelong fan of storytelling, being here felt incredibly special. We toured the modest house where Hans Christian Andersen was born, followed by a visit to the groundbreaking ‘H.C. Andersen House’—a museum that not only tells his story but brings his fairy tales vividly to life through immersive design, soundscapes, and visuals. It’s imaginative, deeply moving, and unlike any museum I’ve experienced.

This experience is perfect for both adults and families to connect with the world of Hans Christian Andersen—author of The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, and many more—in an engaging and educational setting.

A Taste of Modern Denmark

While much of Funen embraces its heritage, I was equally impressed by its modern touches. In Odense, we explored stylish hotels like Hotel ODEON and Comwell H.C. Andersen, and enjoyed a truly special dinner at Sortebro Kro, a historic inn that has been moved brick-by-brick into a living museum village.

Then there was Storms Pakhus—Odense’s vibrant take on the modern street food hall. Lively and creative, it’s packed with passionate local food entrepreneurs. Food halls like this are becoming increasingly popular, not just with locals but also with visitors looking for a relaxed bite after a day of exploring. This one, in particular, is spacious and offers a huge range of options to suit every craving.

Storybook Scenery and Unforgettable Stays

From Odense, we ventured into the heart of Funen, where the landscapes became more romantic with every mile. Our itinerary took us to castles and manor houses that felt like they had stepped out of a period drama. At Broholm Castle, I wandered through rooms filled with centuries-old antiques and enjoyed a gourmet lunch with a fairy tale twist. Egeskov Castle was another standout—home to stunning gardens, a vintage car collection, and even treetop walkways. The castle is still privately inhabited, but visitors can explore parts of the interior and get a real sense of its fascinating history.

Egeskov Castle is a truly remarkable place to experience, and I’d highly recommend adding it to any Denmark itinerary. Even a day trip from Copenhagen is easy to arrange.

But it wasn’t all castles and fairy tales—there were also standout hotels to discover. One retreat, in particular, felt like the perfect place to unwind: Stella Maris. Set on the water near Svendborg, this sophisticated hideaway is tucked into the Danish countryside on Funen’s southern coast. An evening cocktail on the terrace, watching the boats drift by as the sun sets, is something I’d recommend to anyone. Follow that with an incredible dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, and you’ve got a stay that’s as relaxing as it is memorable.

What Did I Discover?

Exploring Funen, particularly Odense, was a real revelation. Far from the hustle of Copenhagen, Odense offers a charming, fairy tale atmosphere thanks to its deep connection to Hans Christian Andersen. The city’s blend of whimsical elements—like clock chimes and uniquely designed lamp posts—only enhances its appeal. For design lovers, there’s also a variety of stylish shops to explore. With easy train access from Copenhagen, it’s perfect for a short getaway. For the adventurous, cycling along the coastline near Svendborg and Ærø Island offers an exciting escape.