Things To Do
in Aarhus

Aarhus is Denmark's second-largest city, known for its rich cultural life and vibrant atmosphere. It beautifully blends its historical heritage with modern architecture and innovation, making it a dynamic destination. The city is home to renowned museums, picturesque parks, and a lively waterfront.

Aarhus also boasts a thriving culinary scene, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and local produce.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City Center
morning
:

Start your day at the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, where you can admire contemporary art and walk through the iconic rainbow panorama.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the charming Latin Quarter, filled with quaint shops, cafes, and beautiful old buildings, and visit the Aarhus Cathedral.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a walk by the waterfront at the Dokk1 area, where you can relax and take in the city lights.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Den Gamle By (The Old Town), an open-air museum that showcases Danish urban history from the 16th to the 20th century.

afternoon
:

Head to the Botanical Garden for a peaceful afternoon among beautiful plant displays and greenhouses.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant nightlife in the city center, starting with dinner at a trendy eatery followed by drinks at local bars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$25
Coffee$4
🚍Public transport ticket$4
🏨Hotel night (3-star)$120
🍺Domestic beer$7

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical experiences.
  • Vibrant culinary scene with diverse options.
  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Can be expensive compared to other European cities.
  • Limited public transportation options outside the city.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • "Hej" - Hello
  • "Tak" - Thank you
  • "Hvor er toilettet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ja" - Yes
  • "Nej" - No

Places to Visit in Aarhus

Visit one of these nice places.

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

The museum's striking architecture and the rainbow panorama on the roof provide stunning photo opportunities.

Den Gamle By

This open-air museum offers picturesque streets and historical buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of Danish history.

The Old Town

Charming cobblestone streets and traditional Danish houses create a beautiful backdrop for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aarhus

Aarhus offers a diverse culinary scene influenced by both traditional Danish cuisine and modern gastronomy. You will find a mix of Michelin-starred restaurants and cozy cafes serving local delicacies.

Aarhus Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Smørrebrød

Open-faced sandwiches topped with various ingredients like herring, roast beef, or shrimp, often served on rye bread.

Must-Try!

Rugbrød

A dense, dark rye bread that is a staple in Danish diets, often used as a base for smørrebrød.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Aarhus Street Food

A lively food market offering a variety of street food options from local vendors, showcasing international cuisines.

Climate Guide

Weather

Aarhus has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Summer temperatures can range from 18-25°C (64-77°F), while winter temperatures typically fall between -1 and 5°C (30-41°F). Rain can occur throughout the year, so it's wise to carry an umbrella or light jacket. The city experiences about 170 rainy days per year, with the wettest months between August and October.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Danish culture; arriving late can be seen as disrespectful.

Personal Space

Danish people value personal space and privacy; it’s best to maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Casual Dress Code

Dress is generally casual in Aarhus, but it’s advisable to dress neatly, especially in dining establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Aarhus is considered a safe city, with low crime rates. However, as in any urban area, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be contacted by dialing 112, and it’s recommended to keep a copy of important documents in case of loss or theft.

Tipping in Aarhus

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Denmark, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and mobile payment apps like MobilePay are popular among locals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Aarhus brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, with numerous festivals and events taking place, perfect for enjoying the city's outdoor cafes and parks.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning foliage, and the cooler temperatures are great for exploring museums and cozy cafes.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the city is beautifully illuminated with festive lights, and Christmas markets add a magical touch.

Nightlife Guide

Aarhus at Night

Aarhus has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city is known for its friendly atmosphere, and areas like the Latin Quarter and the waterfront are particularly lively at night. You can find everything from cozy pubs to trendy cocktail bars, with options for every taste. Live music, karaoke, and DJ sets are common, making it a fun place to socialize after dark.

Hiking in Aarhus

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Aarhus Ø

A scenic waterfront area that offers walking paths with beautiful views of the harbor and modern architecture.

Marselisborg Forests

A large forest area close to the city featuring hiking trails that wind through lush greenery and offer peaceful retreats.

Airports

How to reach Aarhus by plane.

Aarhus Airport (AAR)

Located about 40 km from the city center, Aarhus Airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Aarhus is a highly walkable city, with pedestrian-friendly streets and ample signage. Most attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. The city also offers bike rentals, and many locals prefer cycling, enhancing the overall accessibility of the area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Aarhus is home to several universities, attracting a large student population, contributing to the city's youthful and vibrant atmosphere.

Families

Many families reside in Aarhus, drawn by its excellent schools, parks, and cultural activities, creating a family-friendly environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in Aarhus, with the local team AGF having a passionate fan base and a rich history.

Handball

Handball is another favored sport in Aarhus, with local clubs competing at various levels, and the sport enjoys significant national interest.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Aarhus is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses that connect various neighborhoods and nearby towns. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the city, making it easy to navigate.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aarhus.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and some are entirely vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are increasingly available, especially in restaurants focusing on health-conscious menus.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Denmark has a high-quality healthcare system accessible to both residents and visitors. Emergency care is available at hospitals, and general practitioners can be found throughout the city. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for medical services, while other travelers are advised to have travel insurance.

Discover Denmark

Read more in our Denmark 2025 Travel Guide.

Denmark Travel Guide