Faaborg

Faaborg is an idyllic old port town on Faaborg Fjord in the south of the island of Funen, with a population of around 6,800. By road it lies roughly 42 kilometres southwest of Odense and 27 kilometres west-northwest of Svendborg, and with its busy port, narrow streets and attractive old houses it is a firm favourite with visitors, particularly in the summer months. In the early 1900s the town became the centre for the Fynbo Painters (the Funen Painters), an artist group that devoted itself to depicting the gentle Funen landscape; their works are displayed at Faaborg Museum, one of the town's cultural highlights. The well-preserved centre is full of beautiful half-timbered houses and is crowned by the iconic Vesterport, Funen's only surviving town gate, a reminder of Faaborg's medieval origins reflected in the coat of arms it still uses. The harbour is the departure point for ferries to the beautiful South Funen islands of Lyø, Avernakø and Bjørnø, making the town an ideal base for exploring the archipelago. Access to the town is free, while the museum costs 80 DKK, and a visit of around four hours lets you enjoy both the streets and the waterfront. Summer is ideal for island hopping, while the town and museum reward a visit year-round. The town centre has cobblestone streets, though the harbour is accessible. An insider tip is to take a day ferry to Lyø for an authentic island experience with few tourists.