Svendborg is a bustling market town with more than 750 years of history to discover. Built around a picturesque harbour, it’s filled with centuries-old architecture and brimming with maritime charm. Relax in the town centre, set sail on a historic schooner and enjoy live music throughout the year. The town is a great base to explore Funen, one of the biggest islands in Denmark.
Things to do in Svendborg
Svendborg is one of the most picturesque towns in Denmark, with cobbled streets and half-timbered houses giving it a fairy-tale feel. Many of the historic buildings house cosy cafes and independent boutiques. You’ll find some of the best restaurants clustered around the sunny town square. On Saturdays, the square hosts a lively farmers market.
Anne Hvides Gård is the oldest house in Svendborg and is instantly recognisable by its brown-and-yellow façade. Stroll down to Sejlskibsbroen jetty to admire beautifully restored wooden ships, many offering scenic cruises and sunset sails.
Svendborg hosts more than 700 concerts a year, making it a rewarding destination for music lovers. Enjoy everything from high-energy pop and rock shows to intimate blues and outdoor jazz under the stars. Bars and cafes are great places to discover local singer-songwriters.
You can board a passenger ferry and enjoy a scenic sail to Valdemars Slot. The opulent palace is set in beautiful gardens and features rooms filled with antiques, tapestries and hunting trophies. Enjoy a lunch of smoked salmon on rye bread at the stylish café overlooking the gardens and water.
Getting around Svendborg
Svendborg is compact and easy to get around no foot, while local buses are a fast and affordable way to get around and explore the island. The town is a two-hour drive from Copenhagen and 40 minutes from Odense. Ferries run between Hjorto and Drejoe in one hour. Copenhagen Airport is a two-hour drive away.