Odense is a city that surprises many visitors. Known as the birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen, it’s also a place that has reinvented itself into a modern, sustainable city. Its urban development and green spaces stand out, making it an excellent destination for guided tours that go beyond typical sightseeing. We particularly like the Odense: City walk – The new green Odense – City development for its engaging storytelling about the city’s transformation. If you want to explore Odense’s past and present with a knowledgeable local, this small-group walk is a perfect choice.
Equally appealing is the Odense: Craft Beer Walking Tour for those interested in Denmark’s craft brewing scene. It combines city stories with tastings of local brews, offering a relaxed and social way to get to know Odense. For travelers craving a more personalized experience, the Odense Private Guided Walking Tour provides a tailored glimpse into the city’s mythology, medieval roots, and key historical moments. Below is a quick overview of these top choices.
1. Odense: City walk – The new green Odense – City development
At number one on our list, this 2-hour city walk takes you into how Odense transformed from an industrial city facing economic decline into a modern, eco-friendly hub. Led by an engaging local guide, the tour covers notable sites such as Albani Torv, the Port of Odense, Storms Pakhus, and H.C. Andersen Haven. What makes this tour special is its focus on the urban renewal projects, including green spaces, sustainable architecture, and smart city planning.
Reviews highlight how the tour feels authentic and insightful. One traveler noted, “Johan, our guide, provided a lot of interesting information on Odense’s turn from industrial to green oasis,” emphasizing the depth of local knowledge shared. The tour’s small group size ensures personal interaction and a relaxed pace. The route includes stops at Odense Street Food, offering a chance to taste local flavors, and finishes back at the starting point. This tour is perfect for history lovers, urban planners, or anyone curious about city development.
Bottom line: This walk offers a deep dive into Odense’s past, present, and bright future, making it invaluable for those who want more than just surface sightseeing.
2. Odense: Craft Beer Walking Tour
Coming in at number two, this 2.5-hour outdoor experience is ideal for beer enthusiasts who want to explore Odense’s growing craft brewing scene. The tour begins at Anarkist | BEER & FOOD LAB, and then visits multiple stops where you’ll sample some of Denmark’s finest craft beers. Along the way, a local guide shares city stories and insights into Odense’s brewing culture, all at a relaxed pace meant for socializing.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on having a fun, laid-back experience without feeling like a pub crawl. It’s designed to be a bonding experience, perfect for friends or couples who enjoy trying new flavors and hearing stories about local breweries. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the quality of beers, making it a hit with over 13,000 satisfied guests.
While the itinerary involves several 15-minute stops, it keeps the pace comfortable so you can truly savor each tasting. Since it’s outdoors and year-round, you can enjoy this experience regardless of the weather, provided you’re dressed appropriately.
Bottom line: For those who love beer and storytelling, this tour offers a fun, social way to discover Odense’s modern craft scene while enjoying some great drinks.
3. Odense Private Guided Walking Tour
Our third pick is a personalized 1.5-hour tour that offers a flexible, private way to explore Odense. This private guide takes you through key sites linked to Hans Christian Andersen, Odin mythology, and medieval Odense, including spots like Canute IV’s murder site and the city’s trade roots.
The advantage of a private tour is the ability to tailor the experience to your interests — whether you want to focus on literature, history, or local legends. The guide’s deep knowledge helps bring the city’s medieval and Renaissance past alive through stories and insights that might be missed on larger groups.
Rated 4.6 out of 5, this tour is especially suitable for travelers seeking a customized, intimate experience. It’s an excellent value if you’re traveling with family or friends and want to avoid crowded tours. The tour’s highlights include Odense’s role as a center for craftsmanship and its mythological connections, which make for an engaging exploration.
Bottom line: If personalized attention and tailored storytelling appeal to you, this private tour is a smart choice — especially for history buffs or those short on time but eager for depth.
$369 per group up to 15
How to Choose
When deciding which Odense tour best fits your trip, consider your interests and schedule. Want to understand how Odense became a modern city? The city walk (see details here) offers a thorough look at urban renewal. If sampling local beers sounds appealing, the craft beer tour (more info) provides a relaxed, engaging experience. For a more personalized, flexible exploration, the private guided tour (see here) is ideal.
Think about your budget, your interest in history versus food or drink, and whether you prefer a group or private experience. Tours vary from 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours, so fit your choice into your itinerary accordingly. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred times.
Final Thoughts
Odense offers a range of engaging tours that cater to different interests. If you’re drawn to the city’s modern development and green spaces, the city walk is a top pick. Beer lovers will enjoy the relaxed storytelling and tastings on the craft beer tour, while those seeking a tailored experience will appreciate the private guided walk. Each provides a different lens into Odense’s character — from its mythological roots to its urban innovations.
No matter which tour you choose, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out. These experiences bring Odense to life in ways that simple sightseeing can’t match. Take your pick, prepare to learn, and enjoy your time in this charming Danish city.