Guide to Budget Accommodation and Attractions on Funen

Egeskov Castle is one of Europe’s best-preserved Renaissance water castles and one of the top attractions on Funen. Surrounded by a moat, towers, and stunning gardens, the castle looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. Beyond its beauty, Egeskov also hides mysterious secrets and ghostly legends, adding an extra layer of intrigue to your visit.

Inside, you can explore collections of vintage cars, motorcycles, and classic aircraft, while outside, the vast grounds offer fun for all ages. Families will love the adventure playgrounds, treetop walks, and hedge mazes, while garden enthusiasts can enjoy the award-winning historic gardens filled with flowers, sculptures, and fountains.

Location tip: When visiting Funen and Egeskov, you are close to several Danhostels. Stay at Danhostel Svendborg near the charming harbour town or Danhostel Odense City, right in the heart of Hans Christian Andersen’s hometown. Both provide easy access to Egeskov and the rest of Funen’s attractions.

At The Funen Village (Den Fynske Landsby) in Odense, history comes alive in an open-air museum that recreates life in the 19th century. The village is designed to reflect the world that inspired Hans Christian Andersen, complete with authentic timber-framed houses, cobbled streets, and flowering gardens.

Visitors can meet locals dressed in period clothing, see farm animals in their pens, and watch daily life unfold around the village pond and cosy streets. The experience is surrounded by cultivated fields, making it feel as though you have stepped back in time to a genuine rural community on Funen.

This living museum is ideal for families, history lovers, and anyone wanting to explore Funen’s cultural heritage. It also connects perfectly with Odense’s many other Andersen-related attractions.

Located in the heart of Odense, the Danish Railway Museum (Danmarks Jernbanemuseum) is the largest railway museum in Scandinavia and a must-visit attraction for train enthusiasts and families. With 19 tracks filled with historic locomotives, carriages, and vintage trains, the museum brings Denmark’s railway history to life.

Children can climb aboard old steam engines, explore carriages, and even sit in the driver’s seat, while adults will appreciate the unique exhibitions of rolling stock and the chance to see fully restored trains up close. Unlike many museums, visitors are encouraged to touch, explore, and interact with the exhibits – making it a true hands-on experience.

Location tip: The museum is just a short walk from Danhostel Odense City, making it the perfect stop when exploring Hans Christian Andersen’s hometown. Combine a visit to the Railway Museum with Odense’s many other cultural attractions for a fun-filled family day out.

Odense Zoo is one of Denmark’s most popular family attractions, offering a full day of fun, learning, and adventure. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from all over the world – from exotic savannah wildlife to Arctic species. A large indoor tropical area features manatees, giant turtles, and colourful fish, giving visitors a chance to explore life under the surface as well.

For families, Odense Zoo is more than just animals. Children can enjoy several playgrounds, while adults will appreciate the cafés and eateries spread across the park. Daily feedings, educational programs, and interactive exhibits make the zoo an experience that entertains and inspires visitors of all ages.

At Naturama in Svendborg, natural history is brought to life through films, light, sound, and dramatic storytelling. This unique museum spreads across three floors with exhibitions dedicated to mammals, birds, and marine life, making it a fascinating experience for both children and adults.

One of the highlights is the 16-metre-long whale skeleton, which visitors can see as part of an underwater-inspired exhibition that showcases the giants of the sea. The museum also combines traditional displays with multimedia effects, creating an interactive and immersive journey through the world of animals.

Location tip: Naturama is within walking distance of Danhostel Svendborg, making it easy to combine your stay with a cultural and educational experience in one of Funen’s most charming coastal towns.

At Fjord&Bælt in Kerteminde, the secrets of the sea are revealed through interactive exhibitions and unforgettable encounters with marine life. Visitors can meet two trained harbour porpoises, watch daily feedings of seals, and walk through the spectacular 40-metre underwater tunnel, where fish, crabs, and other sea creatures swim right above your head. Located by the scenic Kerteminde Fjord, the centre is a must-see for families and nature enthusiasts.

From Kerteminde, you can continue your Funen adventure by exploring the South Funen Archipelago (Det Sydfynske Øhav), one of Denmark’s most beautiful island areas. Take a ferry from Svendborg to charming islands such as Skarø, Hjortø, or Drejø, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and local culture. You can also walk or cycle across bridges to Tåsinge and Thurø, both popular for their beaches and cosy village life.

For active travellers, Funen is a true cycling paradise. The island is part of Denmark’s 1,000 km cycle route network, making it easy to discover coastal views, castles, and charming towns on two wheels.

Location tip: With four Danhostels on Funen – including Svendborg, Odense City – you are always close to the island’s top attractions, whether you explore on foot, by bike, car, or public transport.

More Activities and Hidden Gems on Funen

In addition to castles, museums, and coastal adventures, Funen (Fyn) offers countless other activities that make the island a perfect holiday destination. Wander through Svendborg’s cosy harbour and enjoy fresh seafood, or explore Faaborg, a picturesque town with narrow streets, art galleries, and access to the South Funen Archipelago.

Nature lovers can hike in Svanninge Bakker (The Funen Alps), a rolling landscape of hills, forests, and open fields, or go kayaking along the island’s coastline. For culture seekers, Funen is dotted with manor houses, local art studios, and traditional markets, where you can experience authentic Danish life.

Cyclists can take advantage of Funen’s reputation as Denmark’s best cycling island, with routes connecting towns, beaches, and countryside. Families will enjoy visiting small animal parks, beaches perfect for swimming, and seasonal events such as food festivals and local fairs.