Ever since the Viking Age, Odense's location by Odense Fjord and Odense River has been of great importance to the city's development. In recent years, a major urban renewal has taken place around Odense Inner Harbour, where new, modern apartment complexes, businesses, recreational areas and not least the Odense Harbour Bath (public outdoor swimming pool) have sprung up and provide life around the clock. The latter harbour bath is also on VOGUE America's list of one of the world's most beautiful places to winter bathe.
Activities near the water
Odense Harbour Bath - go for a free swimOdense Harbour Bath - go for a free swim
The Odense Harbour Swimming pool is located and built into the harbour closest to the city. The swimming pool will be open all year except on special holidays.
Activities on the WaterActivities on the Water
The fact that Odense is located right by Odense Fjord and that the Odense River runs through the cit
At all times of the year, there are many opportunities for great experiences at the harbour and especially in the summer months, the quays and harbour basin are bustling with life with everything from canoes to paddle boards, private ships and cosy restaurants and cafés.
In addition to the inner harbour, Odense River and the surrounding parks also offer many activities throughout the year for both young and old, including pedal boats and Odense Åfart, Stige Ø has blossomed and the city's many public swimming pools offer plenty of opportunities for a refreshing dip when the summer heat calls for it.
Scenic spots by the water
Stige Island - peninsula of OdenseStige Island - peninsula of Odense
Years ago Stige Island was in use as a landfill, but now it has been cleaned up and turned into a nature/activity area.
Botanical GardenBotanical Garden
The garden has several functions, as it is used both as a park, inspiration garden for garden lovers and as a training location for kindergartens and schools.
Næsbyhoved Skov (Forest)Næsbyhoved Skov (Forest)
The approximately 15 ha Næsbyhoved Forest is a beech-clad hill, sandwiched between Kanalvej and Næsbyvej and hides the remnants of a medieval royal castle.
Næsbyhoved Castle RuinNæsbyhoved Castle Ruin
Visit the remnants of the castle, where Queen Christine held court in the 16th century, and enjoy the beautiful nature in Næsbyhoved Forest.
Munke Mose ParkPhoto: Kasper Emil© VisitOdense
Munke Mose Park
Local park Munke Mose is where you can catch the river cruise, rent a pedalo, get an ice cream and see several fairy tale inspired sculptures.
The Forest Lake, Fruens BøgeThe Forest Lake, Fruens Bøge
Odense is full of beautiful green areas that invite you to go for a walk, a bike ride, or sit and relax in green surroundings. Skovsøen is one of them.
Odense RiverOdense River
The River Odense is about 54 kilometres long and runs through Odense. The river is Funen's longest watercourse, usually 30-50 metres wide.