Best things to do in Aarhus
Find out more about those top places in Aarhus
If you’ve been planning a trip to Denmark and the only city on your radar is Copenhagen, it’s time to reconsider! Aarhus, though not the capital, is a delightful place to visit and offers everything you could want in a European getaway—minus the crowds. Nestled on the east coast of the Jutland Peninsula, Aarhus is Denmark’s second-largest city and one of its best-kept secrets. With a blend of modern charm, rich culture, and picturesque beauty, Aarhus is brimming with top attractions and things to do that will make your visit unforgettable.
Aarhus – A City of Culture and Heritage
While Copenhagen often steals the limelight, Aarhus is quietly making a name for itself as a cultural hub in Denmark. The city is home to a mix of cutting-edge architecture, historical landmarks, and a fascinating arts scene that will make you rethink what you know about Danish culture. Whether you’re into history, art, or food (and let's be honest, who isn’t?), Aarhus has something for everyone. So, buckle up and get ready for a whirlwind tour of this charming city.
Explore the Old Town – Den Gamle By
One of the must-visit places in Aarhus is Den Gamle By, or The Old Town. This open-air museum is like stepping back in time to experience life in Denmark during the 19th and early 20th centuries. You can wander through cobblestone streets, explore traditional Danish houses, and even chat with costumed characters who will give you the scoop on life back in the day. It’s an immersive experience where history comes alive—plus, it’s perfect for those Instagram photos!
Visit the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum
If you’re an art lover (or even if you’re just pretending to be), ARoS Aarhus Art Museum should be high on your list of things to do. Known for its striking modern architecture, the museum is not only a haven for contemporary art but also boasts the iconic Your Rainbow Panorama—a circular walkway on the roof that lets you take in a kaleidoscope of colors while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Trust us, it’s one of those experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re into paintings or panoramic views, ARoS is definitely one of Aarhus’ top attractions.
The Viking Museum – A Nod to Aarhus’ Past
You didn’t think we’d forget about the Vikings, did you? Aarhus has a fascinating history, and part of it involves the legendary Viking Age. The Viking Museum in Aarhus offers a peek into the city's past with impressive exhibits showcasing Viking artifacts, ship models, and insights into the life of these fierce warriors. It’s a great way to add a dash of historical adventure to your trip. After all, what’s a trip to Denmark without a little Viking lore?
Stroll Through Botanisk Have
For a relaxing afternoon away from the hustle and bustle, head to Botanisk Have, Aarhus’ beautiful botanical garden. With its serene atmosphere, lush greenery, and diverse plant species, it’s the perfect spot to take a stroll, have a picnic, or simply enjoy some quiet time surrounded by nature. The garden also features a stunning tropical house, so you can feel like you’ve stepped into the rainforest without leaving Denmark. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and recharge before your next adventure.
Enjoy Aarhus’ Food Scene
No visit to Aarhus would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. From smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) to gourmet street food, Aarhus has a food scene that’ll make your taste buds sing. The city’s vibrant culinary scene has something for everyone—whether you're looking for a cozy café, a trendy restaurant, or a bustling market to grab a bite. Don’t miss Aarhus Street Food, a former bus station turned food hall, where you can sample a variety of global dishes all under one roof. It’s a perfect place to refuel after a long day of sightseeing.
Take a Boat Ride on the Aarhus Harbor
If you want to see the city from a different perspective, hop on a boat and take a scenic cruise around the Aarhus Harbor. You’ll get a chance to admire the stunning coastline, the city’s modern skyline, and the historic architecture that lines the shore. Plus, it's a nice way to relax and enjoy the sights without breaking a sweat. So sit back, relax, and let the waves do the work while you enjoy the view.
The Latin Quarter – Where History Meets Hip
Looking for a place to soak up the local vibe? The Latin Quarter in Aarhus is a blend of history and hipster charm. With cobblestone streets, quirky boutiques, and cozy cafes, it’s the perfect area to spend a lazy afternoon wandering around. It’s also home to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars, so if you’re looking for a place to enjoy a drink or dinner, this is where you want to be. The Latin Quarter is a great place to mix a little sightseeing with a lot of style.
Aarhus’ Festivals – When the City Comes Alive
If you're visiting Aarhus during festival season, you're in for a treat. The city hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, from music and arts festivals to food and cultural celebrations. The Aarhus Festival in late summer is a particularly exciting time to visit, with performances, street art, and cultural events taking over the city. It’s a great opportunity to experience the city’s dynamic energy and join in the local festivities.
Why Aarhus is a Must-Visit City
So, why should you visit Aarhus? Simple: it’s got culture, history, food, and fun all rolled into one. From its charming old town and cutting-edge art museums to its lush gardens and vibrant food scene, Aarhus is a city that will surprise and delight you at every turn. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or someone who just loves to explore new places, Aarhus has something for you. So forget about the usual tourist traps and give this underrated Danish city a try—it might just become your new favorite destination!
Plan your trip to Aarhus today, and let the city’s charm work its magic on you!
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Aarhus Amusement Park
Not to be compared with the Tivoli Garden but the Aarhus Amusement park is still one of the top amusement parks in Denmark. Called the Tivoli Friheden by the locals, it is a wondrous place for the free spirited to seek fun. It is located in Maeselisborg Forests and features four roller coasters ride as well as other rides and games. It also has some bistros and cafes if you are in need of a drink or a snack.
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Den Gamle
First opened in 1914, The Old Town is an open-air museum located inside Aarhus Botanical Gardens. The museum consists of 75 historical buildings from 20 townships from every part of the country. The rooms in these buildings are decorated in ways that give that historical and nostalgic feeling to visitors. There are different collections of ancient artifacts as you tour through the museum. The Den Gamle is one of the first stops for tourists.
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Aarhus Domkirke
This mind-blowing Cathedral is the tallest and longest church in Denmark, at 96 meters high and 93 meters tall. It was first built in the 12th century but later renovated in 14th century. It has a Romanesque style mixed with some gothic overlays. If you love to see great architecture, then you should visit the Cathedral.
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Musikhuset Aarhus
This should be top on the list of every music lover, built in 1982 in respect to the architectural designs of Kjaer & Richeter architects, the Musikhuset is regarded as a classical building.
Consisting of 6 halls and nine stages, it is where performers of classical, pop, and rock music come to throw their concerts yearly. The Musikhuset Aarhus is a site to behold at night because it is beautifully lit up. A strong contender for the best part of the city.
The building was completed and inaugurated in 1914 and features a clock tower which was not part of the original plan but was added due to pressure from the indigenes of Aarhus. It is a top tourist location and should definitely be on the bucket list of any architecture and music lover.
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Museum Ovartaci
This is a museum like no other because unlike other museums this is fully focused on Psychiatric treatment. Located within the Psychiatric Hospital it has been around for as far back as the 19th Century. In the Museum there are various artworks of the patient from hospital and other side attractions. If you are looking from something different and you don’t mind getting frightened, then a trip to the Museum Ovartaci will be perfect.
