Funen Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and stunningly beautiful island of Funen with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out where to go, what to do, and when to visit.


Introduction to Funen

Funen is Denmark’s second-largest island and an absolute jewel of the Nordic countries. Known for its pristine beaches, emerald green landscapes, and charming towns, Funen is a true paradise for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

The island has a rich history that dates back to the Viking Age, and its cultural heritage is on full display in the many museums and historical sites scattered throughout the island.

Whether you’re looking to explore quaint villages, hike scenic trails, or indulge in delicious local cuisine, Funen has something to offer for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the must-see attractions and hidden gems of Funen, as well as provide practical information on how to get around, where to stay, and what to do.

List of Places to Visit in Funen

Here are some of the top destinations and attractions to check out during your visit to Funen:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Egeskov Castle: A magnificent Renaissance-style castle surrounded by gardens, mazes, and water features.
  • Hans Christian Andersen Museum: A museum dedicated to the world-renowned Danish writer, featuring displays of his life, works, and personal belongings.
  • Funen Village: An open-air museum showcasing life in rural Funen in the 18th and 19th centuries.
  • Odense City Museums: A complex of museums dedicated to the history and culture of Odense, Funen’s largest city.

Natural Attractions of Funen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Middelfart: A charming town on the banks of Lillebælt Strait famous for its colorful houses and picturesque harbor.
  • Fyns Hoved: A stunning headland with awe-inspiring ocean views and walking trails.
  • Hindsholm: A peninsula with picturesque fishing villages, nature reserves, and bird-watching opportunities.
  • South Funen Archipelago: A group of islands with beautiful beaches, historic churches, and lighthouses.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Funen

Funen boasts a network of well-marked hiking and biking trails that take visitors through stunning natural landscapes, charming towns, and historical sites. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Fyns Hoved Coastal Trail: A 12-kilometer coastal trail that takes hikers through rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and panoramic views of the sea.
  • Hindsholm Trail: A 20-kilometer trail that offers a glimpse into the unspoiled countryside of Funen, passing through quaint villages, ancient burial mounds, and bird reserves.
  • Odense River Path: A 9-kilometer trail that follows the banks of Odense River, taking visitors through charming neighborhoods, green parks, and historic landmarks.

Best Things to Do in Funen: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the charming town of Faaborg, known for its colorful houses, narrow streets, and art galleries.
  • Take a sailing tour along the South Funen Archipelago, admiring the stunning coastline and spotting seals and seabirds along the way.
  • Explore the stunning gardens and grounds of Egeskov Castle, which include a topiary garden, maze, and a tree-top walk.
  • Relax on one of Funen’s many gorgeous beaches, such as Sandager Næs or Kerteminde Nordstrand.

Week-Long Itinerary for Funen

Day 1: Visit Odense, the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, and explore his museum and childhood home.

Day 2: Take a cycling tour of the charming coastal town of Faaborg, known for its colorful houses and beautiful views.

Day 3: Spend the day at Egeskov Castle, exploring the beautiful gardens, maze, and tree-top walk.

Day 4: Head to Middelfart and take a sailing tour of the South Funen Archipelago, admiring the stunning coastline and spotting seals and seabirds along the way.

Day 5: Hike along the Fyns Hoved Coastal Trail, admiring the rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and panoramic views of the sea.

Day 6: Explore the quaint fishing village of Hesselager and its beautiful surrounding countryside.

Day 7: Relax on one of Funen’s many gorgeous beaches, such as Sandager Næs or Kerteminde Nordstrand.

Food and Drink Scene of Funen

Funen has a rich culinary tradition that includes fresh seafood, hearty stews, and artisanal cheeses. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Flæskesteg: A crisp, juicy pork roast served with gravy, potatoes, and red cabbage.
  • Frikadeller: Danish meatballs made with pork and beef, served with boiled potatoes and lingonberry sauce.
  • Fynsk brunsviger: A sweet, sticky cake made with brown sugar and butter.

Local Beverages

  • Gammel Dansk: A classic Danish bitter liqueur made from herbs and spices, traditionally served as a digestif.
  • Funen beers: The island is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with breweries such as Midtfyns Bryghus and Haandbryggeriet.
  • Cider: Funen is known for its delicious apple and pear ciders, such as those produced by Æblerov and Fejø Cider.

Where to Stay in Funen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Funen offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget hostels and cozy guesthouses. Some popular choices include:

  • Comwell Kongebrogaarden: A luxurious hotel with sea views and a spa, located near Middelfart.
  • Danhostel Svendborg: A budget-friendly hostel in the heart of Svendborg, close to many attractions and restaurants.
  • Rosendal Gasthof: A charming guesthouse with cozy rooms and a garden, located on the outskirts of Odense.

What to Buy in Funen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Funen has a rich craft and design tradition, with many local artisans producing unique and handmade products. Some popular souvenirs and local products to bring home include:

  • Glassware from Skjold Burne Glassworks: This artisanal glass studio produces beautiful, hand-blown glassware, from wine glasses to vases.
  • Knives from Birkerød Knivfabrik: This historic knife factory produces top-quality knives and scissors, perfect for home cooks and collectors alike.
  • Ceramics from Galleri Møller: This pottery studio produces beautiful, handmade ceramics, from plates and bowls to vases and tea sets.

Local Culture and Customs of Funen

Funen has a rich cultural heritage that manifests in its many museums, festivals, and traditions. Some aspects of local culture and customs to be aware of include:

  • Hygge: This Danish concept of coziness and conviviality is a way of life on Funen, with many restaurants, cafes, and bars offering warm and welcoming atmospheres.
  • Viking heritage: Funen has a rich Viking heritage, with many archaeological sites and museums dedicated to this fascinating period in Danish history.
  • Tivoli Friheden: This amusement park in Odense is a popular destination for families, with rides, shows, and games.

Best Time to Visit Funen

Funen can be visited year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm. Summer is the busiest season, with warmer weather and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are less crowded, with cooler weather and fewer tourists, making it a good time to explore the island’s cultural attractions and hiking trails. Winter can be cold and dark, but also magical, with Christmas markets and festivals adding a cozy touch to the island.

Do’s and Don’ts of Funen

Do:

  • Do try some local cuisine, such as flæskesteg and frikadeller.
  • Do explore the charming villages and towns, such as Faaborg and Middelfart.
  • Do bring comfortable shoes for hiking and cycling adventures.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the importance of warm clothing, even in summer months, as temperatures can change quickly.
  • Don’t forget to bring cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
  • Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with locals, who are known for their friendliness and hospitality.

Safety and Health

Safety in Funen

Funen is a safe destination, with low crime rates and a well-developed infrastructure. However, visitors should always take common-sense precautions, such as locking their valuables, being aware of their surroundings, and staying in well-lit areas at night.

Health in Funen

Denmark has a high standard of healthcare, with hospitals and clinics throughout the country. Visitors from EU or EEA countries are eligible for free emergency healthcare under the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while others may be required to pay upfront for treatment. It is always recommended to have a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Funen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Funen is easily accessible from Copenhagen and other major cities in Denmark. Here are some options for getting to the island:

Airports Near Funen

  • Copenhagen Airport: Denmark’s largest airport, located about 2 hours from Funen by train or car.

Bus Stations Near Funen

  • Odense Station: Funen’s main train and bus station, with connections to Copenhagen, Jutland, and other Danish destinations.

Other Options

  • Car rental: A popular option for exploring the countryside and coastal areas of Funen.
  • Ferry: Funen is connected to nearby islands and peninsulas by ferry, such as the Fynshav-Bøjden ferry and the Svendborg-Tåsinge ferry.

How to Get Around in Funen

Funen offers a variety of transportation options for visitors, ranging from buses and trains to cycling and walking. Here are some ways to get around the island:

  • Cycling: Funen has a well-developed network of cycling trails, with bike rentals available in many towns and cities.
  • Bus: The island has a comprehensive bus network, with connections to major destinations and attractions throughout Funen.
  • Train: The main train line from Copenhagen to Jutland passes through Funen, with stops in Odense, Middelfart, and other towns.
  • Car: Hiring a car is a popular option for exploring the island at your own pace, with many rental options available in larger towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Funen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Funen is an ideal starting point for exploring the rest of Denmark and the Nordic countries. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Copenhagen: Denmark’s capital and largest city, located about 2 hours from Funen by train or car.
  • Legoland Billund: A popular amusement park with rides, shows, and attractions, located about 90 minutes from Funen by car.
  • Århus: Denmark’s second-largest city, with a rich cultural scene and a vibrant waterfront, located about 90 minutes from Funen by train or car.

Conclusion

Funen is a breathtakingly beautiful island that captivates visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re looking to explore charming towns, hike scenic trails, or indulge in delicious local cuisine, Funen has something to offer everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has given you a glimpse into the wonders of Funen and inspires you to plan your visit soon!

Little Belt bridge connecting Funen (to the right) and Jutland Little Belt bridge connecting Funen (to the right) and Jutland


    Bogense
    Middelfart