Svendborg is a charming harbour town on the south coast of the island of Funen and, with a population of around 27,600, the second-largest city on Funen. As a gateway to the South Funen Archipelago, it is a lively maritime hub with a busy harbour, a rich seafaring history and ferries that connect it to the surrounding islands, making it a favourite base for exploring this beautiful corner of Denmark.
The town has deep historical roots, having celebrated its 750th anniversary as a market town in 2003, and in 2000 it was named 'Town of the Year' in Denmark. Its winding streets, old merchant houses and vibrant waterfront give it a distinctive atmosphere that draws visitors and sailors alike. Svendborg also holds an important place in Danish maritime history: the shipping and energy giant A.P. Møller-Mærsk, today the world's largest container shipping company, traces its origins to the town, at the house known as Villa Anna.
Culture lovers are well served here. Svendborg is home to Naturama, a modern natural history museum famous for its dramatic displays of taxidermy ranging from whales and bears to birds and foxes, as well as Danmarks Forsorgsmuseum, a social history museum that tells the story of Denmark's welfare and poor-relief past.
Svendborg lies about 44 kilometres south of Odense and is easy to reach by road and rail. The harbour area is the natural heart of a visit, with ferry departures, waterfront dining and access to the many islands of the archipelago just beyond the quays.
A local's tip
Take the ferry to Ærø for a perfect day trip.
Getting there
Train to Svendborg Station, short walk to the harbor.
Best time to visit
Summer for harbor life and ferry trips
Accessibility
The harbor area is accessible.
