A town with Viking roots

Head to Otterup and see the Midgard Serpent winding its way across the town square, where it battles Thor. The Midgard Serpent may be known as a fearsome creature, but in Otterup children can climb all over it – if they dare.

Today, Otterup has around 5,000 residents.

The area has, however, been inhabited for several thousand years. The largest Viking burial ground ever found on Funen was excavated here in Otterup. The site is now a residential area, but follow Den Grønne Sti and you will pass through the area where the Vikings once lived.

A large part of the present-day town grew up around the Nordfynske Jernbaner railway, which once connected Otterup with Odense and Bogense.

Otterup also has several historic buildings worth seeing on a walk around the town. Please note that most of them can only be viewed from the outside.

Sights

The former police station at Jernbanegade 5 was built in 1919. It originally served as a police station and was later also used as a town hall and children’s dental clinic. Today, the building has been renovated and is a private residence.
Otterup Town Hall at Rådhuspladsen 2 was built in 1970 on the site of the old railway station, which had stood there since the 1880s. At that time, the station was located some distance outside the town.
The former Otterup Rifle Factory, officially known as Schultz & Larsen, at Fabriksvej 5, is an important part of the town’s industrial history. The factory was internationally known for producing handmade rifles. It closed in 1994 after 105 years of operation. Today, the buildings are home to a cultural centre.
The tower houses on Jernbanegade and Søndergade: Around 1900, wealthy residents, master craftsmen and shopkeepers built a number of striking brick houses. Round or octagonal corner towers topped with spires were particularly fashionable and became a visible symbol of status.
Frelserens Hospital, the former poorhouse near Otterup Church, is located at Bakkevej 2 and was built in 1722. It served as a poorhouse until around 1925, when the parish took over the building and turned it into a public library. Today, the historic rooms house Otterup Museum. You can visit the museum during its regular opening hours or by appointment.
Otterup Church is a beautiful whitewashed medieval church at Bakkevej 2B. It was built around 1150 and extended several times during the Middle Ages.
Don’t miss a visit to Otterup Andedam, the town’s duck pond at Bryggerivej, where you can watch ducks, swans, pheasants and peacocks.

Shopping in Otterup

You can find everything you need in Otterup. The town has five grocery stores as well as many other shops selling everything from clothing to equestrian equipment. You will also find speciality cheeses, a good bakery and plenty of other treats.

Every Saturday throughout the summer, there is a market on the town square. You can browse the stalls, relax at one of the nearby cafés or restaurants and enjoy some live music.

What's on in Otterup?

Wondering what's happening in Otterup and across North Funen during your stay? Check the VisitNordfyn's activity calendar and find activities and events.