Discover Aarhus: Denmark's Historic Harbor City
Aarhus, Denmark's second-largest city, is a historic hub nestled on the east coast of Jutland. Known for its scenic bay and the Aarhus Å river, Aarhus has been a significant center since its first mention in 928 CE as a bishop's seat. It officially became a municipality in 1441.
The city's rich past as a commercial and fishing center is evident in its well-preserved Renaissance buildings. The Latin Quarter is particularly notable, with its medieval roots and vibrant modern-day mix of shops and eateries.
A cultural beacon, Aarhus boasts a fine arts museum and a lively music scene, offering a range of performances from folk to opera.
For a curated experience of Aarhus's top sights, check out the top tourist attractions in Aarhus and find accommodation options at Where to Stay in Aarhus.
1. Den Gamle By (The Old Town)
Den Gamle By is an open-air museum featuring over 75 historical buildings from across Denmark. Visitors can explore a recreated old town complete with functioning shops and workshops. Notable buildings include the Burgomaster's house and the Coin Master's Mansion. The museum also houses a toy museum, a textile museum, and historical exhibitions.
Address: Viborgvej 2, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
Official site: www.dengamleby.dk/en/den-gamle-by/
2. ARoS Aarhus Art Museum
ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is one of Europe's largest art museums, featuring the colorful Your Rainbow panorama by Olafur Eliasson. The museum showcases Danish Golden Age art, Danish Modernism, and contemporary pieces.
Address: Aros Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
Official site: www.aros.dk/en/
Guided tours in Aarhus
3. Moesgård Museum
Moesgård Museum, located just south of Aarhus, offers a journey through Denmark's history from the Stone Age to the Viking era. The Grauballe Man, a well-preserved 2,000-year-old body, is a highlight.
Address: Moesgård Allé 15, 8270 Højbjerg, Denmark
Official site: www.moesgaardmuseum.dk/english/
4. Aarhus Cathedral
Aarhus Cathedral, located in the city's heart, is a historical church with Romanesque and Gothic features. Its interior is adorned with a winged altar, a carved pulpit, and vault paintings.
Address: Kannikegade 12, 2 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
Official site: http://aarhusdomkirke.dk/english/
5. Viking Museum and Festival
The Viking Museum showcases Aarhus's Viking heritage, with artifacts and reconstructions of Viking structures. The Viking Moot at Moesgård Beach is an annual event celebrating Viking culture.
Address: Skt Clemens Torv 6, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
6. Aarhus Botanical Gardens
The Aarhus Botanical Garden features diverse plant collections from various climates, a tropical dome, and an amphitheater for events.
Address: Møllevejen 10, DK-8000 Århus, Denmark
7. Tivoli Friheden
Tivoli Friheden is a family-friendly theme park with rides, games, and entertainment, including a 5D Cinemagic cinema.
Address: Skovbrynet 5, Aarhus, Denmark
8. Marselisborg Palace and Park
Marselisborg Palace, the Danish royal family's summer residence, is surrounded by public gardens featuring sculptures and a Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Address: Kongevejen 100, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
9. Aarhus City Hall
Aarhus City Hall, designed by Arne Jacobsen and Erik Moller, is a marble-faced building with a 60-meter tower offering city views.
Address: Rådhuspladsen 2, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
10. Kvindemuseet: The Women's Museum
The Women's Museum explores the roles and lives of women in Danish society through historical and topical exhibits.
Address: Domkirkepladsen 5, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
Official site: http://kvindemuseet.dk
11. The Church of Our Lady
The Church of Our Lady is a large Gothic church with frescoes and an altarpiece dating from 1520.
Address: Vestergade 21, 8000 Århus C, Denmark
Where to Stay in Aarhus for Sightseeing
For convenient access to Aarhus's attractions, consider these hotels:
- Villa Provence: A luxury boutique hotel with a courtyard and Provencal-style decor.
- Scandic Aarhus City: A modern mid-range hotel with a free buffet breakfast.
- Hotel Oasia Aarhus: A contemporary 3-star hotel near the train station.
- Zleep Hotel Aarhus: An affordable option with free parking on the city outskirts.
Day Trips from Aarhus
Outside Aarhus, Rosenholm Castle is a 16th-century Renaissance building with a rich history. The Round Church in Thorsager is another notable site, dating back to the 13th century.
