Odense is the main city of Funen, Denmark, with about 213,000 people in the municipality and a history that reaches back more than 1,000 years; it was first mentioned in 988, making it one of the oldest cities in the Nordic region. The city is best known as the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, but it also has deep Viking and medieval roots, including the Nonnebakken ring fortress and the Gothic St Canute’s Cathedral. The compact centre mixes old streets, museums, cafés and newer cultural areas, with key sights including H.C. Andersen’s House, the historic quarter, Brandts, Odense River, the harbour area and green spaces throughout the city. Odense has a strong student and cultural life, helped by its museums, theatres, venues and a growing food and bar scene. Getting in and around is straightforward via Odense railway station, local buses, light rail and direct links across Denmark by train and road.

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