Aarhus

Aarhus City is the central district and the most active area of the city with several interesting and special neighbourhoods, including these:

Indre by (Inner City) is the old medieval core of the city which used to be walled and gated up until 1857. A large part of the inner city is pedestrianized. The Latin Quarter is a small special quarter with cobblestone streets, low-rise buildings and old townhouses that has been preserved.

Vesterbro, situated north and west of Indre by, is mostly a residential area. However, you'll find several major attractions including the Botanical Gardens, the Old Town museum and the main university campus.

Øgade-kvarteret is a residential quarter immediately northwest of the Latin Quarter and also presents a unique town environment with low-rise buildings and colourful townhouses, mostly from around the 1850s to 1920s. Most of the streets of the quarter are named after Danish islands.

Aarhus Ø is a new residential neighbourhood on the harbourfront.

Trøjborg is located north of the inner city and is like a small town within the city. The area was developed in the early 1900s with mostly four- or five-storey apartment blocks in brick. It used to be a working class neighbourhood. It is a somewhat quiet residential quarter but also includes a central shopping street with restaurants and a cinema.

Frederiksbjerg is another quarter with its own charm and character. Located immediately south of the broad railway yard in the city centre, this area was developed primarily in the late 1800s and most of the original buildings have been preserved. It is a lovely mix of bustling street life, restaurants, specialty shops, small businesses and residential areas. Mostly low-rise buildings and townhouses, with several small parks in between.

Aarhus Nord (Aarhus North) is a large postal district comprising the northern parts of the city. It is made up mostly of quiet residential neighbourhoods, but boasts natural attractions such as the Risskov urban forest, Egå Engsø lake area, and some beach parks. The district is also home to several educational institutions, a large business park, an industrial park with light industry, and a huge regional hospital. Some of the neighbourhoods in Aarhus N, like Skejby and Vejlby, are former suburban villages that have merged with the city.

Aarhus Vest (Aarhus West) is perhaps the largest postal district and includes all the western neighbourhoods of the city. Most of it is residential areas of more recent development, but some neighbourhoods, like Åby and Hasle, are former suburban villages or outlying farms that have merged with the city. There are several natural attractions in this large area, including the Brabrand Lake area and the nature site of Skjoldhøjkilen, and many opportunities for sports.

Viby (officially Viby J, with J for Jutland) is a former railway town that has merged with the expanding city. It is sometimes unofficially referred to as Aarhus S (Aarhus South) along with Højbjerg, Skåde and Holme, three adjacent districts and neighbourhoods. There is some activity around the central square of Viby Torv, but otherwise these southern parts of town are predominantly residential. Marselisborg Forests and the Moesgaard Museum are the two most important attractions here.

As the seasons change, the character of Aarhus changes accordingly. In winter, outdoor activities are limited and this is primarily a time for the indoors. It is unusual for everything to be covered in metre- thick layers of snow and the temperatures are not excruciating cold normally, but daylight hours are limited, the trees stand bare, and the skies are often depressingly grey. While the city is still full of people, the outdoor street life is uninspiring for most visitors, except for the Christmas period of December. At this time, the city centre is decorated, and as Christmas approaches, more street vendors sell sweet treats and comfort food such as æbleskiver, pancakes, mulled wine, and sugar-glazed almonds.

Starting in Apr-May and ending with Oct-Nov, the city has more to offer. The beech trees burst into leaves around the first of May, and daylight hours and temperatures increase rapidly throughout this month. Having waited for this, citizens are quick to fill the parks and green spaces; street life shows much more intensity and diversity, and several outdoor events take place. However, Aarhus, as the rest of Denmark, is almost closed down with empty streets during Easter.

Major attractions in Aarhus are open throughout the summer, but quite a few restaurants are closed for several weeks, though not all at once; there are still plenty of opportunities. However, if you plan to visit a specific eatery, confirm their hours beforehand. In July and August, many residents leave the city or travel abroad. University students have time off from their studies and many visit family in other cities, work elsewhere, or travel. Working people have five weeks of paid vacation and nearly everybody spends some of it during this season. For these reasons, the city centre can appear deserted in mid-July to early August and chances are that you will encounter more visitors than residents. It would therefore be a good idea to combine a visit to Aarhus with excursions to nearby countryside and attractions in the height of summer. From mid-August, things start to happen again in the city as residents return. It is still summer and soon time for the annual Aarhus Fest.

Through September, the temperatures begin to cool and it gets windier, but there are still many daylight hours in the day and the weather is usually fine. From October the leaves on the trees start to turn yellow and red, and any trace of summer ends with the onset of November. September and October are also a good time to visit if you want to include outdoor and nature experiences to your trip, just bring more warm clothing. October and parts of November is a particularly beautiful time of year in the city parks and forests with all the vibrant colours of autumn.

As most other places in Denmark, the official tourist website of Aarhus is managed by VisitDenmark, a public-private partnership with free tourist services. The Aarhus website is called Visit Aarhus.

The main office for tourist information in the city is in the Dokk1 library building at the harbour front. Ask the staff at the information desk and they will help you. In the summer, extra staff servicing tourists specifically are there to help. There is also a touchscreen available with interactive tourist information about the city, and a plethora of free inspirational and informative pamphlets about notable sights and happenings in the region.

1 Aarhus Central Station. Trains run once or twice an hour from Copenhagen (København) to Aarhus and take about four hours. The standard adult fare is kr 469, with an additional kr 30 to reserve a seat. 25% discounts are available for persons 16-25 years old, or older than 65 years. You can get significant discounts by buying Orange Tickets well in advance of departure or outside peak hours. Details on DSB's homepage. (updated Mar 2024)

It is also possible to catch a train to other parts of the Jutland peninsula from Aarhus. There are trains going north to Aalborg twice an hour most days and going west to Skjern or Struer once an hour. Trains from Hamburg arrive several times a day (with a change of trains in Kolding). If you book about two months before travelling, you can buy one of the few tickets for €30 (called "Europa-Sparpreis"). For more information check out the website of the German national railway company DB.

A reservation on trains to and from Germany is mandatory. Even though Denmark is in the Schengen area, passports are being checked by customs at entry points.

Tickets used in trains are also usable in buses, and if you are travelling from Copenhagen, you can use your ticket for the rest of the day to get around Aarhus at no extra expense.

Buses have become an attractive way of travelling between Aarhus and Copenhagen, due to their significantly lower prices. An inter-city bus takes roughly an hour longer than an equivalent express train, but the fares are typically between 40% (standard tickets) and 90% (the cheapest Saver tickets) lower than full-price train tickets.

Flixbus. From Copenhagen, Odense, Aalborg and other towns in Denmark. International connections include Amsterdam, Berlin, and Hamburg. (updated Jun 2021)

Kombardo Expressen. Direct to Copenhagen via the ferry. (updated May 2019)

Fleet. A long-distance bus company owned by Vikingbus. Has a route between Aarhus and Copenhagen with stops in Middelfart and Odense on the way. (updated Mar 2024)

2 Mols Linjen. Ferry from Odden on the northwestern tip of Zealand to Aarhus Habour. Significant discounts by booking your tickets days in advance. Public transport connections to and from Odden are not very good, but you can use Kombardo Expressen or Flixbus; two direct bus lines between Copenhagen and Aarhus, via the ferry (see the "By bus" section above). Also, public transport to and from the Katexpress docking spot in Aarhus harbour isn't good either. It is possible to book a "Plustur Flextrafik" ride in advance through the nationwide public transport website Rejseplanen, though. You can also rent (or park) a GreenMobility car at the company's hotspot right at the dock, if there are any vacant cars. Of course you can both walk or bike to and from the ferry, but be aware that it's a 3-4 kilometre walk, just to reach the perimeter of the city!If you arrive to the Aarhus Harbour dock by car, you can park for an extended time at the large adjacent Q-park spot. (updated Jul 2026)

3 M/F Lilleøre. A small catamaran ferry (no vehicles except bicycles), M/F Lilleøre, connects the center of Aarhus with the island Samsø. The ferry docks at Dokk1 in Aarhus and in Sælvig on Samsø. (updated Nov 2021)

Like the entire Kattegat Sea, the Aarhus region is well-equipped with good marinas, with two large ones right in the city.

4 Aarhus Marina, Fiskerivej 8, 1. tv. 8000 Aarhus C, ☏ +45 41 85 91 41 (M-Fr 9:00-15:00), thkrb@aarhus.dk. Amenities here are electricity, fresh drinking water, bathhouse, toilets, laundry, sewage disposal, diesel, three cranes, and a playground. Many good restaurant and eatery options close by, and a supermarket. The city center is just a 10-minute walk away. This marina has room for 700 boats all-in-all, but it is administered by a total of eight different associations, so it isn't easy to figure out which specific facilities you have access too, once you have payed your rent, but everybody should have access to all basic kinds of amenities somewhere at the marina. It is not possible to book a spot in advance at this marina, but any place marked with a green sign is readily available. Dock, scan the QR code and pay.

5 Marselisborg Marina, Marselisborg Havnevej 54, 8000 Aarhus, ☏ +45 86 19 86 44, mh@marselisborghavn.dk. Amenities here are electricity, fresh drinking water, bathhouse, toilets, laundry, sewage disposal, fossil fuels, and a playground as well as swimming options. Many good restaurant and eatery options right at the marina. This marina is known for its beautiful vistas across the Aarhus Bay and the Marseliborg Forests. The city center is best reached by bicycle or bus, walking will take about 20 minutes.

The Aarhus Bay is packed with marinas, 1 Egå Marina just north of the city is the nearest one.

6 Aarhus Airport (AAR IATA). Aarhus Airport is rather small, but it is served by several major European airlines nonetheless. Flights from London Stansted Airport are offered also by the low-cost airline Ryanair. Located approximately a 45-minute bus-ride away from the city, 925X Airport buses arrive and depart from Banegårdspladsen at the central station. Tickets are sold on the bus and one-way tickets costs kr 115 (children kr 80). Accepted currencies (only bills) are: Danish kroner, U.S. dollars, pounds sterling, Swiss francs, euros, Swedish and Norwegian kroner. Major credit cards are also accepted. By taxi you should expect to pay about kr 650 to reach the city centre. (updated Nov 2021)

7 Billund Airport (BLL IATA). This airport offers many flight connections and is approximately a 90-minute bus-ride away. 912X Airport buses arrive and leave from Aarhus Rutebilstation (the central bus station) and drive via Banegårdspladsen at the central station. Tickets are sold on the bus and one-way tickets costs kr 162. Accepted currencies are Danish kroner and euro. Credit cards are also accepted. (updated Nov 2019)

8 Nordic Seaplanes, Østhavnsvej 37, 8000 Aarhus C, ☏ +45 70 20 00 60, fly@seaplanes.dk. Seaplane connection from Copenhagen (40 - 50 min). Normal ticket kr 1,897 (including hand luggage), however prices vary depending on the time of day. Mid-day departures are often a little cheaper. Mostly used by business travelers. Also offers sightseeing tours over Aarhus, kr 697 (June - August). Major credit cards are accepted. (updated May 2019)

The entire city is clean and well organized, which makes walking an excellent and enjoyable way to get around. The inner city has an extensive pedestrian zone, and almost every town road in Denmark has sidewalks. If you want to venture further out, several routes have been established for exercise and for leisurely strolls. Known as "sunbeams", they avoid heavily trafficked roads and includes nature experiences.

Bicycles are easily available for rent in the central parts of town. In addition to the listings below some hotels have rental bikes available for their guests.

Even though Denmark is very flat generally, Aarhus has some of the steepest roads in the country and they can be quite a challenge if you aren't used to ride a bicycle. However, most roads are a breeze and on longer rides, you can usually plan your route to avoid the hardest ascends if you fear the "Aarhusian Alps".

The inner city of Aarhus has a network of bicycle streets (Danish: Cykelgader) where priority is given to cyclists. Here bicycles can use the entire lane and cars are not supposed to drive faster than normal cycling speed. However not all drivers respect these rules (perhaps because they are unaware of them), so you should still watch out for car traffic.

Donkey Republic. Offers bicycles to be picked up around the clock at many central street spots, including a pick-up spot outside the central station. The bicycles are readily identified by their bright orange colour and they are paid for through a smartphone app. Remember to return your bike to a pick-up spot! kr 1 per minute (max kr 250 per day). (updated Jul 2026)

9 Friis Cykler, Jens Baggesens Vej 86, DK-8200 Aarhus N (At the inner Ringroad, not far from the Botanical Gardens and the University Park), ☏ +45 86 16 65 05, brianfriis@godmail.dk. M-F 09:00-17:30; Sa 10:00-13:00. Professional bike shop with a selection of rental bikes. If you want to rent a quality bike for an extended time, and in various sizes, including child-size, visit this shop. kr 60 per day; 1 week kr 300. (updated Jul 2026)

10 Rebike Aarhus, Vesterbrogade 21 (At the Botanical Garden, right across from the entrance to Den Gamle By museum), ☏ +45 61 66 61 28. M-F 09:00-17:30; Sa 10:00-13:00. If you want to rent bicycles or e-bikes for an extended period, and in various sizes, this is a good spot in the city center. The shop also offers professional repairs, and you can buy quality-checked used bikes for reasonable prices. Contact Rebike online or visit their shop in person for an offer. (updated Jul 2026)

Rent & Ride, Krabbesholms Allé 7, DK-8260 Viby J, ☏ +45 22 79 80 98, info@rentandride.dk. Mountain bike rental. Book online and have your bikes delivered. This local company also offers mountain bike guides and events. kr 379 per day. (updated Jul 2026)

11 Rowi Cykler (Cykkelgruppen), Frederiksgade 75, ☏ +45 86 12 28 99 (press 1), rowi@rowi.dk. M-F 10:00-17:30; S 10:00-13:30. Rent a bike, or e-bike, and various bike equipment at this central bikeshop close to the city hall square. This is a good choice, if you want to rent a quality bike for an extended time, in various styles and sizes. kr 100 for one day. (updated Jul 2026)

The electric light rail system "Aarhus Letbane" opened its first line in late 2017, as the first rail system of its kind in Denmark, and is bound for further expansions into the suburbs in coming years.

Tickets can be purchased with credit cards at electronic stands on selected stops, and the tickets are fully compatible with the local yellow bus system (and vice versa). Tickets cannot be purchased aboard the light rail train. Bicycles can be brought along for an extra fee, although not on the inner city stretch "Skolebakken - Universitetshospitalet" during weekday mornings and afternoon rush hour periods (07:00-09:00 and 15:00-17:00). The train schedules, important info, and the zoning system can be checked at the Letbanen website.

There are two bus systems in Aarhus, both operated by Midttrafik. Yellow buses serve local routes within the city limits, and Blue buses serve municipal and regional routes. The blue bus routes pass through the inner city, so if you have to go on longer journeys, you do not have to change between the two systems. X-buses are express blue buses, discernible by a large X sign. X-buses make fewer stops, are equipped with free Wifi, usually have toilets and you are allowed to eat and drink. All blue buses have limited cargo space for heavy luggage, bicycles, etc., that you can use if you inform the chauffeur. You can enter the yellow city buses using all doors. On the blue regional buses entrance is at the front door only (with some exceptions, such as the 200 and 100).

Tickets are preferably purchased in advance in the Midttrafik app or in the Midttrafik webshop. The app is free for download on App Store and Google Play. Here you can buy single tickets, multi trip ticket cards, and special tourist tickets for busses and Letbanen. As a special service, blue buses also offers the opportunity to buy a ticket with cash from the chauffeur. Tickets bought on blue buses (and trains) can also be used to ride the local yellow buses, but not necessarily the other way around. If you ride without a valid ticket, you risk getting fined heavily, so don't take chances.

Bus tickets for travel within the city limits are kr 22, or kr 11 if you are under 16 years of age. Up to two accompanied children (under 12 years) travel for free. Multi-trip ticket cards are also available (10-trips), varying in price depending on how far you want to go. Cheaper cards are also available for people under 16 years old. Finally, there are tickets that allow you to ride all you want for 30 days, with prices depending on how far you wish to travel. For planning trips, it is recommended to use Rejseplanen; the official travel planner website for all Danish public transport. It is also available as an app.

Night buses are extra buses and routes to and from the outlying districts and suburbs throughout the night. The fare is double the normal price.

In all of Denmark, train tickets can also be used to ride local bus lines, if you get on the bus within the time limit on your ticket.

Aarhus Taxa, ☏ +45 89 48 48 48. (updated Nov 2019)

Dantaxi Aarhus, ☏ +45 86 16 47 00. (updated May 2019)

Aarhus has very good public transit and in the inner city most sights are within walking distance of each other. A car is therefore really only needed if you want to explore the countryside, and should you need one, there are several rental companies.

If you arrive in Aarhus by your own car, there are large car parks near every major access road, and also at most larger hotels, so you should be able to park safely for extended periods. Street parking is restricted and rather expensive in Aarhus C. Free parking is scarce, except at a few places like Tangkrogen, in front of Ceres Park & Arena, and at some shopping centres, so don't count on it.

If you choose to drive around in Aarhus, it is helpful to know that the inner parts of the city is surrounded by two ring roads, so you can avoid the narrow streets and bewildering traffic rules of the central city. Many streets in the inner city are one-way, and getting from A to B can be a challenge for strangers. During rush hour, the inner city streets, and even the ring roads are quite congested, although traffic rarely comes to a complete standstill.

Remember to yield to cyclists. Aarhus is a hilly city and cyclists going downhill will often be approaching intersections at high speed. Also, some inner city streets are prioritized for cyclists; you are allowed to drive your car down these streets, but cyclists can, and will, use the entire lane.

There is a low emission zone in Aarhus; see Driving in Denmark.

With a history dating back to at least the 700s in the Viking Age, Aarhus holds many historic buildings, some of which are of national importance.

1 Aarhus Viking Museum, Skt. Clemens Torv 6, ☏ +45 89 42 11 00. M-W F 10:00-16:00, Th 10:00-17:00. Small Viking museum located across from the cathedral in the basement of the Nordea Bank. The museum focuses on local history during the Viking Age and most of the displayed items were excavated on site. If you are interested in Viking Age history in general, visit the large Moesgaard Museum (MoMu) south of the city. 30 kr for adults.

2 Museum Aarhus. A permanent exhibition within the Old Town Museum opened in spring 2017. The museum displays Aarhus' history with a focus on the last 150 years, the period when it expanded from a small provincial port town to its current status of second-largest city.

3 Aarhus Domkirke (Aarhus Cathedral), Domkirkepladsen 2, ☏ +45 86 20 54 00. Daily May-Sep 09:30-16:00; Oct-Apr 10:00-15:00. The beautiful cathedral is more than 800 years old, and the longest and the tallest in Denmark. It took 100 years to build and it is the oldest building in the city, still standing. Concerts are sometimes arranged and the tower offers a good view. Behind the church is Aarhus Cathedral School, also with an 800-year history. Free (a fee for the tower).

4 Vor Frue Kirke (Church of Our Lady), Vestergade 21, ☏ +45 86 12 12 43. Medieval church with an interesting crypt church in the basement. The crypt church, built around 1060, is one of the oldest stone churches in Scandinavia. Through a door on the left inside the main church you can enter a former priory with an atrium garden. Free.

Apart from the old churches, the Latin Quarter in the city center has many historic houses in a preserved environment, just walk around the cobblestoned streets and have a look. There are many niche boutiques, cafés and restaurants.

Several professional guides arrange historic walks around town.

There are a lot of museums around Aarhus, and Denmark in general, but many of them are not museums in the ordinary sense, more like themed and interactive cultural centres. The three main museums in Aarhus are The Old Town museum, ARoS Art Museum and Moesgaard Museum.

5 ARoS (Aarhus Art Museum), Aros Allé 2, ☏ +45 8 730 66 00. M-F 09:00-20:00; Sa Su 10:00-17:00 in the summertime (check the website). One of Denmark’s largest museums. Apart from the art galleries and changing exhibitions, "Your Rainbow Panorama", offers a splendid roof-top view of the city inside a circular walkway with rainbow-coloured windows. It was created by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson in 2011. "As Seen Below" is a newly opened huge underground permanent art installation from 2026 by James Turell. The museum has a café and restaurant with dining options in the lounge area at entrance level. kr 200, kr 150 (under 31 and students), free for those under 18. (updated Jul 2026)

6 Den Gamle By (The Old Town), Viborgvej 2 (at the Botanical Gardens), ☏ +45 86 12 31 8. Open-air museum village comprising a collection of 75 original Danish buildings from 1597 to 1909, gathered from all corners of the country. There are historical shops and eateries, most true to the period. A few staff members and volunteers dressed up in historic clothes adds to the ambience, and sometimes events are arranged. You can buy a round-trip horse and carriage ride through the museum's cobblestone streets or through the outside park. A new addition to the complex showcase Danish town culture and buildings from the 20th century, including a bakery, several stores, a poster museum, and a jazz club. As well, for the European Capital of Culture celebration in 2017, the museum inaugurated new permanent exhibitions focusing on local history and classic Danish jewellery from the 20th century. You can easily spend a whole day, exploring the town, its life, and the underground exhibitions. After regular opening hours, you can still stroll the streets (free of charge), but there is no access to exhibitions and buildings. Be sure to also spend some time in the large surrounding Botanical Garden and the Greenhouses. kr 205 (discount for students), free for children. Botanical Garden and Greenhouses are both free. (updated Aug 2026)

7 Kunsthal Aarhus, J.M. Mørks Gade 13 (go to Mølleparken, Kunsthal Aarhus is just across the river), info@kunsthal.dk. Tu-Su 11:00-18:00; W 11:00-20:00 (closed Mondays). An arts centre promoting contemporary art. Built in 1917, it is one of the oldest arts centres in Europe. Nice café. Free. (updated Jul 2026)

Anyone who appreciates European architecture will find many points of interest in Aarhus, from medieval buildings to modern icons. Even though Aarhus is one of the oldest towns in Denmark, most of the inner city was erected in the 1800s and 1900s during and after the industrial revolution, and you will not find many larger structures from the 1600s and 1700s, as compared to Copenhagen for example.

Modern architecture is abundant with many notable buildings such as the university campus in yellow brick, the futuristic Dokk1, the residential Isbjerget (The Iceberg) at the harbourfront, Musikhuset (the Concert Halls) and the Moesgård Museum from 2014. Notable architecture in the city also includes a bit of post-modernism, plenty Nordic functionalism, and in particular historicism which is abundant. The Aarhus Cathedral begun in the 1100s is the oldest building in the city, but there are several preserved Medieval timber-framed buildings, mostly in the inner city, with the oldest dating to the 1500s.

15 Rådhuset (The Town Hall), Rådhuspladsen 2, ☏ +45 89 40 20 00. This building is considered one of the highlights of Danish architecture, designed by the famous architects Arne Jacobsen and Erik Møller in cooperation with equally celebrated furniture designer Hans Wegner. Clad in grey Norwegian marble, it might appear bland to the untrained eye from the outside, but the indoor design is much more intriguing. Every Saturday guided tours are arranged around the interior of the building by AarhusGuides. First in Danish at 10:00-11:30 and then in English at 12:00-13:30. Price 100 kr (children 50 kr). The tour includes a visit to the top of the clock tower for a chance to enjoy the view. There are several interesting statues around the town hall. Enjoy the dramatic bronze statue and fountain of "Agnethe og Havmanden" near the city entrance towards the Central Station. It depicts a scene from a Danish fairy tale about Agnethe who falls in love with a merman. From here you can walk through the city entrance and the Town Hall Park and observe more bronze statues and memorial stones. The park is quite lively in the summer, as people tend to flock here as soon as it gets warm enough. Don't miss the "Grisebrønden" statue (the well of the pigs) with the drooling and peeing pigs, at the Town Hall Square. You can buy good hotdogs at the Town Hall Square too. (updated Nov 2021)

16 Aarhus University (Aarhus University Campus). Designed by famous Danish architects C. F. Møller, Kaj Fisker, and C. Th. Sørensen (the latter of which designed the landscaped garden), this is another noteworthy piece of architecture. The first buildings were finished in 1933, but construction is still going on today, all adhering to a common characteristic design-code in yellow brick. Here you find the Det Kgl. Bibliotek, the library which includes the iconic book tower, a landmark high-rise for the city. In the University Park you also find a cluster of museums (the Museum of Ancient Art, the Natural History Museum, and the Steno Museum) that you can read more about in the "Museums" section above. As well, the park is worth a visit, no matter the time of year. (updated Nov 2021)

Aarhus has a few large parks and several smaller green spaces. The largest and most notable parks includes the University Park, Aarhus Botanical Gardens and The Memorial Park. The city has some nice woodlands, beaches and countryside within easy reach.

21 Aarhus Botanical Gardens (Botanisk Have), Peter Holms Vej, ☏ +45 89 40 44 00. Daily 24 hours. Founded in 1873 as a research garden for students at Aarhus University, nowadays the Botanical Gardens have been repurposed as a pleasant outdoor park for citizens to enjoy during the warm months. However, for laypeople who may be interested in botany, there are still thousands of different species of plants on display throughout, all labelled in Latin and Danish. The bulk of the park is hilly open lawns, ponds, and landscaped gardens. Facilities include a large outdoor children's playground, an amphitheatre, toilets, and a big covered Greenhouse complex. At the Greenhouses you can experience plants from all around the world, including the tropics, and there's a café serving coffee, cake, ice cream, and light lunches. Free. (updated May 2026)

22 Aarhus University Park. The University Park at the university campus is a soothing spot of greenery in the city centre and it is open year round. It is a celebrated piece of landscape architecture with rolling hills, open lawns, large old oak trees and a couple of duck ponds. If there, be sure to visit the southern section as well, known as Vennelystparken; it is the oldest park in Aarhus, dating to 1824, and is a bit different from the main park. (updated Apr 2023)

23 Brabrand Lake (follow the pathway along the Aarhus River from the city centre). The Brabrandstien pathway leads upstream the river all the way to the Brabrand Lake nature site in the western parts of the city. Brabrandstien is a 20-km-long safe and tranquil corridor of greenery perfect for hiking, cycling and rollerblading. There are several spots for picnicking and resting, and even though it doesn't feel like it, you are always close to the city and its bus lines, if you don't want to backtrack. It is not possible to bath in the lake, but you can go there by canoe from the inner city if you want some alternative action. (updated Jan 2018)

24 Den Japanske Have, Randersvej 395, ☏ +45 40 40 29 48, info@park13.dk. Garden May-Sep: Th F 09:00-15:30. Located in Lisbjerg on Aarhus' northern outskirts, this is a large, authentic Japanese garden laid out in traditional chisen kaiyu style designed for promenading. While the garden is only open for random visitors in late spring and summer, larger special events, such as concerts, are occasionally arranged in the winter by the event company Park13. The garden shows some signs of neglect, and outside events, it has few visitors. Eventhough visits are free of charge, call the park in advance if you plan to visit. Free. (updated Jul 2017)

1 Salling Rooftop, Søndergade 27 8000 Aarhus C (Take the elevator to the rooftop garden). Ma-Fr: 10-20; Sa 10-19; Su 10-18. Impressive skyline view of Aarhus from the stylishly designed rooftop of the Salling department store in the city center. Walk around to enjoy the different vistas on your own, or find a secluded corner to enjoy a cup of coffee. There is also a good eatery, bar, and café here and sometimes small concerts and other events are happening. Check the website for details. Free. (updated May 2026)

32 Dokk1 (Dock-one, Dokken, Urban Media Space), Hack Kampmanns Plads 2, ☏ +45 89 40 92 00. M-F 08:00-22:00; Sa Su 10:00-16:00; Staff available M-Th 10:00-19:00; F 10:00-17:00. This large state-of-the-art public library and culture centre at the harbourfront is the largest public library in northern Europe, and is designed as a public meeting place for all kinds of activities. Enjoy the peculiar and futuristic architecture or engage in the library's many activities. Guided tours are arranged at regular intervals. Good café and an interesting four-section outside playground (adults may try the slides too). There is a specialized toddlers' play section inside. Large subterranean robotic car park below the building. Great for kids and adults alike. The whole building is accessible to people who use wheelchairs. Free.

33 Marselisborg Palace (Marselisborg Slot), Kongevejen 100, ☏ +45 33 40 10 10. This small summer residence of the Queen of Denmark is just west of Mindeparken. The surrounding garden-park is fenced, but open to the public when the Queen is not in residence. It is dotted with sculptures from the private art collection of Prince Consort Henrik, the Queen's late husband. (updated Jun 2019)

A selection of top-rated guided tours in Aarhus includes:

AarhusGuides (Go to the city hall or the cathedral, depending on your tour). Organisation of professional guides offering group tours in and around Aarhus in multiple languages. Regular tours comprise a City Hall tour available year round and a city walk, starting out from the Cathedral, available in July and August. Book and pay for your tour online. Personalized tours for your own group is also possible; this organization is very experienced. kr 136 - 146 (free for children). (updated May 2026)

2 Aarhus Culture Walks, Banegårdspladsen 1 (Go to the Central Station's main entrance), ☏ +45 27 12 21 79, info@aarhusculturewalk.dk. Sa 11:00 and 14:00. Every Saturday at 11:00 and 14:00, two-hour culture walks starts off from the square outside the Central Station. Just show up or book on-line and save 15 percent. The tours covers both present and older times city life, architecture, art and local stories. Tours on other days of the week and with more personalized themes can be arranged for groups of ten or more people. Adults kr 170; Seniors and Minors kr 140, free for Children under 12 years. (updated May 2026)

3 Hop-on-hop-off Aarhus (hop on at 7 spots around the city). See Aarhus from an open double-decker bus. With an audioguide in five languages you can hop on or off at 7 stops along the route. Buses come and go every half-an-hour, so you can spend as much time in each spot as you would like, but it takes 75 minutes to complete the circuit if you don't hop off at all. Suitable for the handicapped. The service operate from May through September. Check the website for specific days, but be assured that hop-on-hop-off is always available when there is a cruise ship in town. from kr 259. (updated May 2026)

4 VoiceMap Self-guided audio tour (Start your walk at the Dokk1 media space). Explore the ancient Viking stronghold of Aros behind the present city facade on this 90 minute walk. Download the VoiceMap app, put in your ear plugs, and immerse yourself in Viking history as you walk around town. kr 77. (updated May 2026)

5 Aarhus Theater, Teatergaden, ☏ +45 89 33 23 00. The city's main theatre. A luscious outstanding art nouveau interior design. Guided tours of the interior are scheduled every week, but they are in Danish exclusively.

6 Bora Bora, Valdemarsgade 1. Bora Bora is a small dance and visual theater located in a cultural centre that was once a school. (updated May 2016)

7 Filuren, Thomas Jensens Allé 2. Another small niche theatre with room for up to 150 inside the large building complex at the Concert Halls. Filuren is a theatre and a theatre school for youth. A nice alternative thing to do if you are with children. Each play has a strictly enforced age limit (usually 3, 4, 5 or 13 years), so be sure to check out the programme beforehand. kr 65. (updated May 2016)

8 Helsingør Theatre. A reconstructed historic theatre building from the town of Helsingør north of Copenhagen, now at The Old Town museum complex and still a working theater with room for an audience of 220. Throughout the year, you can catch summer operas, intimate classical concerts and occasional plays here. Not the most active theater in Aarhus, but certainly an interesting visit especially for aficionados of period architecture. (updated Jul 2016)

9 Teater Katapult, Godsbanen, Skovgaardsgade 3, ☏ +45 86 20 26 99, info@katapult.dk. Inaugurated in 1995 and located today in the new Godsbanen cultural centre, Teater Katapult is probably the largest alternative theater in Aarhus. The focus here is on fertilizing, stimulating and nurturing the local scene in Aarhus, "catapulting" new talents and projects of a more offbeat bent into the limelight. Several plays are put on monthly, mostly with timely themes explored from a local perspective and presented so as to stimulate debate. kr 170 (kr 60 for people under 25 and discounts for students and pensioners).

10 Svalegangen, Rosenkrantzgade 21, ☏ +45 86 19 19 44, post@svalegangen.dk. The second-largest theatre in Aarhus, located just off the city's major high street. There is a nice café attached. (updated Oct 2018)

11 Teater Refleksion, Frederiksgade 72, ☏ +45 86 24 05 72, refleksion@refleksion.dk. This is a good example of one of the many small niche theatres in Aarhus. Located in a tranquil backyard in the city centre, Teater Refleksion specializes in puppet and animation theatre of a high international standard. Equally suited for children and adults. Most performances can be enjoyed without knowledge of the Danish language. Sometimes workshops. (updated May 2016)

There are three mainstream movie houses in Aarhus, and a number of smaller niche theaters.

13 CinemaxX, M. P. Bruuns Gade 25 (in Bruun's Galleri), ☏ +45 70 12 01 01. The largest and most high-tech cinema in Jutland, showing mostly mainstream Hollywood blockbusters with Danish subtitles, some in 3D. Large lounge parlour with a candy store (no outside food or drink!)

14 Nordisk Film Biografer Aarhus C, Sankt Knuds Torv 15 (opposite the Catholic church on the high street near the central station), ☏ +45 70 13 12 11. Another large mainstream cinema with nine large screens and a 4DX film theatre. Lounge parlor with café and large candy store.

15 Nordisk Film Biografer Trøjborg, Tordenskjoldsgade 21, ☏ +45 70 13 12 11. Daily from 15:00. A smaller mainstream movie theater in Trøjborg, with five screens and a café.

16 Øst for Paradis, Paradisgade 7, ☏ +45 86 19 31 22. Showing a mix of indie and European arthouse films with some mainstream Hollywood fare thrown in for good measure, Øst for Paradis (East of Eden) comprises three stories of what is left of an old former craftman's guild complex from 1868, most of which was destroyed during the Second World War. The cinema has seven screens, equipped with state-of-the art digital technology. There is a cozy café at the cinema with newspapers and cultural magazines to browse, as well as a nightclub (Café Paradis) on the top floor.

17 Slagtehal 3, Mejlgade 50. If you're into horror movies, head here: these folks show them every Thursday. kr 50.

There is only one big permanent music venue in Aarhus: The Concert Halls in the city centre. This is the only place where you can experience big live music events at regular intervals, otherwise you'll have to wait for the recurring outdoor festivals of NorthSide or Grøn Koncert in the summer. That said, there are several small or tiny scenes across town, each with their own focus.

18 FOLK, Frederiksgade 78C (in a backyard near the City Hall Square). A new venue in the city centre, presenting a broad mix of genres, and an opportunity for local musicians. Relatively small scene with a focus on intimate and interactive events. Run by experienced people as a social enterprise.

19 HeadQuarters (HQ), Valdemarsgade 1 (across from the Concert Halls building). Tu-Sa from 19:00. HeadQuarters is a small cultural venue for theatre, dance and music in a basement. There are usually three concerts per week on a tiny stage, as well as a night club with DJs. (updated May 2016)

20 Musikhuset (The Concert Hall). The largest concert hall in Scandinavia, Musikhuset has seating for more than 3,600 people in six halls with a large variety of events and concerts throughout the year: classical performances, rock and jazz concerts, operas, musicals, chamber music, as well as more intimate performances on some of the smaller stages. Good restaurant and café. (updated Dec 2015)

21 Phono, Mejlgade 43 (at the far end of a backyard in Mejlgade). New name and makeover for a tiny, yet historic, venue in Mejlgade. A playground for the local experimental underground scene.

22 Radar (behind the Scandinavian Centre and the Concert Halls). Located in the cultural centre of Godsbanen, Radar hosts many concerts and music events. (updated Dec 2015)

23 Train (at First Hotel Atlantic). Train hosts a large variety of modern contemporary music concerts and other events, from rock, pop and jazz to hip-hop and electronica. (updated Dec 2015)

24 Voxhall, Vester Alle 15 (at Mølleparken in the city centre), ☏ +45 87 30 97 97. A good, tightly planned schedule of mainstream rock and pop concerts, occasionally dipping its toes into other genres, Voxhall is Aarhus' venue of choice for big-name acts from abroad. A relatively small stage, but room for many people. The associated venue Turkis is just as active, but mainly focuses on other genres, including world music and folk. Tickets are usually bought at the door, but if you're going to a major concert, buy beforehand! Nice wine and tapas bar in the same building complex at Pica Pica. (updated Mar 2016)

26 Aarhus Festuge. The whole city is decorated for partying and filled with music, theatre, food, experimental architecture, film, literature and other events during this 10-day festival held every year in late August and early September. It is the largest multicultural festival in Northern Europe.* Aarhus Arkitekturløb is a recurring casual running event around architecturally interesting areas of the city.* Aarhus Cykeltour is a new annual recreational cycling event to be held for the first time as part of the 2026 festival. The ride will start and finish near Pier 3 on Aarhus Ø harbourside and offers several route options, including a short family-friendly route for children. Free. (updated Sep 2015)

Aarhus International Jazz Festival. Held every year in the summer, following the Copenhagen Jazz Festival. Hundreds of concerts, many of which are free and open to the public, with a mix of nationally and internationally famous names as well as local up-and-coming talents. (updated Sep 2015)

LiteratureXchange (Aarhus International Literature Festival), ☏ +45 88 43 80 00, litx@fuau.dk. A relatively new literature festival with an international outlook, first held in the summer of 2018. The festival event runs for 5 days in early June with many events around the city, including talks, debates and readings with celebrated writers along with more experimental happenings and small offbeat events. The theme for the 2026 festival will be life in the seas. (updated Jun 2021)

27 Moesgaard Viking Days (formerly Moesgaard Viking Moot). Daily 10:00-17:00. A large Viking event held every summer in July at Moesgård beach, with reenactments, markets, workshops, and living-history presentations. Interesting activities for all age groups. The event has drawn about 12,000 attendees, both Vikings and audience. A ticket also gives you access to the Moesgaard Museum (MOMU) close by. Because of the event's popularity, it can be very difficult, if not impossible, to find a place to park a car nearby. Take a bus, bike or hike through the Marselisborg Forests to get there. Biking from the centre of Aarhus should take you less than an hour. 160 kr, children (3-17 years) 50 kr. (updated Apr 2023)

28 Northside. A three-day, three-stage annual summer music festival in early June featuring a range of well-known national and international stars at festival site, Eskelunden, west of the city center. (updated Apr 2023)

SPOT festival. A music festival, show-casing local amateurs and up-and-coming bands for a few days in early May every year. The festival also arrange several concerts around town throughout the year. SPOT Festival is meant as a rendezvous between the Danish and international music industries and is headquartered at the Concert Halls and the conservatory but with concerts all over town. Small and large concerts from a tightly packed programme of many musical genres. Also talks and interviews with musicians and the music industry as well as conferences and networking opportunities. SPOT Festival includes films and fashion. 715 kr for both days (day-tickets are also available at 480 kr). (updated Apr 2023)

Almost the entire coastline of Denmark consists of publicly-accessible sandy beaches well suited for leisurely activities, and the Aarhus area is no different. Beachcombers might want to be on the lookout for petrified belemnites and sea urchins, but you shouldn't expect to spot any amber in this part of Denmark.

Check the water quality, temperature, etc., for you destination in real-time updates at the Badevand website, or download the free mobile app. After heavy rains, the water quality is generally bad and bathing is not advised for health reasons. Be aware that there is increased wave activity throughout the entire bay whenever the catamaran ferry is passing through. The phenomenon is harmless and only lasts 5-10 minutes, but small children are sometimes frightened by this, especially when it happens on an otherwise calm day.

The most popular beaches in Aarhus are:

29 Bellevue Beach Park. Probably the most popular Aarhus beach in a verdant yet often crowded setting. You will find Bellevue Beach on the northern outskirts of town, past the Riis Skov forest, facing Aarhus Harbor in the distance. Bellevue's sands are delightfully white and powdery, and the water is shallow and balmy, but notably less clean than other beaches listed here, especially after heavy rains. Amenities includes public toilets, drinking water, trash bins, and a small kiosk. You can get a meal at the café in the adjacent Bellevuehallerne sports complex and there are several small eateries in the immediate neighbourhood. (updated Jul 2017)

30 Den Permanente (ride your bicycle along the bay below the Riis Skov Forest, or take a hike through the forest itself.). Public and private bathhouse in a shared building. One section is open year round for the public from dawn till dusk, while the popular inner beach - complete with changing rooms, showers, public toilets, and lifeguards - is only accessible for the public in June and August. The tiny sandy beach immediately south of the bathhouse structure has been designated as a nudist spot, but welcomes everybody. Small kiosk nearby, open in the summer, serving ice cream, hotdogs, beverages, and various snacks. If you are ready for a more substantial meal, the historic inn Sjette Frederiks Kro, just up hill in the forest, is the place to go for a nice traditional Danish meal after your swim. The sea bath opened in 1933, but half of it was destroyed in a storm in 1966. In 2023-24, the bathhouse was rebuilt to its original grandeur, reopening in June 2024. Free. (updated Nov 2019)

31 Moesgaard Beach (Moesgaard Strand). 12 km south from the city centre, beyond the Marselisborg Forests, Moesgaard Beach is the cleanest of the beach sites and a popular destination in the summer months. In the peak season it is patrolled by lifeguards. There are large green areas here, a car park, toilet facilities, and a kiosk with fast food, beverages, candy and ice cream for sale in the summer. You can reach the area by road (bicycle, car or bus) through the forests, on foot by the Prehistoric Trail from the Moesgaard Museum or from the beachside. If you go by bus, one option is to take Bus 31 from the Aarhus Bus Station. (updated May 2026)

There are a total of four public indoor swimming pools throughout the city that can be used most of the year. Be sure to check up, as some are closed for extensive periods in the summer. Same price at all venues: kr 57 for age group 26-66 years; discount prices for other age groups. You can rent towels and bathing suits at some places, but it is expensive.

Interesting swimming pool options for tourists in Aarhus include these two venues:

35 Badeanstalten Spanien, Spanien 1 (at the central bus terminal), ☏ +45 89 40 20 70. M-Th 08:00-20:00, F-Su 08:00-16:00. The pool at this renovated historic bathhouse from the 1930s hosts many families and children on weekends, but Badeanstalten Spanien is so much more than just swimming: there's a luxury co-ed wellness section (Grossererbadet) with saunas, steambaths, spas, infrared heat lamps and other facilities. Sauna infusion sessions (Sauna Gus) at regular intervals and occassional events. The building also houses a private fitness centre. Adults kr 88 and up for the all inclusive wellness section. (updated May 2026)

36 Havnebadet (Aarhus Havnebad), Irma Pedersens Gade (go to Bassin 7 on Aarhus Docklands). Jul-Aug: daily 11:00 to 19:00. Large floating bathhouse in the northern parts of the harbour, part of the developing docklands district, designed by renowned architecture company BIG. The open-air bathhouse has several pools, including child friendly paddling pools. It is open to the public from June through August. The surrounding area is still under development, but a number of small shops offers coffee, drinks, ice cream and some food. Free. (updated Jul 2018)

Other regular swimming pools around town:

37 Aarhus Svømmestadion, F. Vestergaards Gade 5, ☏ +45 86 12 86 44. All week. If swimming specifically is what you want to do, this is a better option than Badeanstalten Spanien, with an outdoor pool (summer only) to go along with the indoor one. Aarhus Swimming Stadium is only for swimmers, as you must be able to swim 200 m without aids to use the pools. Swimming is on short course (25 m) on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and long course (50 m) on the remaining days of the week. There are also two associated sports halls known as Frederiksbjerghallerne. Bring your own padlock for your personal locker, or buy one at the reception for kr 30. (updated May 2026)

38 Lyseng Svømmebad, Lysengvej 4, Højbjerg, ☏ +45 87 13 33 85, info@vigirbyenpuls.dk. Sa-Tu and Th. Located in the outer district of Højbjerg to the south of the city centre, this is a swimming hall complex for everybody. Three pools to choose from: a shallow one with swimming toys for the kids, a deep one with diving boards, and swimming lanes for exercise and competitions. Sauna in both the men and women departments. (updated Mar 2016)

Throughout the city there are a number of sports complexes, small and large stadiums, indoor sports halls, and several facilities for street sports. Apart from the free street-level activities, you'll need to be a member of a team to visit most of these places, but sometimes hourly rental or trial lessons are offered.

Football: Aarhus GF play soccer in Superliga, Denmark's top tier. (And other sports: GF is Gymnastikforening, since you were wondering.) Their home ground is Ceres Park (capacity 19,400) 2 km south of city centre.

40 Aarhus Skøjtehal, Gøteborg Alle 9 (behind the green-roofed watertower at the junction of Randersvej and Ring 2), ☏ +45 86 10 42 19. Aarhus Skøjtehal is an indoor ice rink offering ice skating in season, including occasional "ice disco" events and hockey matches. In winter, an outdoor ice skating venue is set up in the inner city park outside the Concert Halls. kr 45.

41 Ceres Park & Arena (Stadion) (on the outskirts of the Marselisborg Forests next to Tivoli Friheden). The home pitch of local soccer team AGF, Ceres Park & Arena holds around 21,000 spectators. If you're a soccer fan, don't miss a home game (played on Saturdays or Sundays) as the atmosphere is amazing during game night! (updated Mar 2016)

42 DGI-huset, Værkmestergade 17 (behind the Bruun's Galleri shopping centre), ☏ +45 86 18 00 88, info@dgi-huset.dk. DGI-Huset is a sports centre of about 5,000 m² in the city centre where you can engage in many kinds of indoor sporting activities. If you're not a member of a team, you can still play badminton or football, or pay by the hour to tackle one of the large climbing walls. Children are welcome and accommodated with a special play area, and there's also an onsite café. Weekends and holidays often see discounts on admission. Free entry, courts kr 100 for an hour.

43 Jysk Væddeløbsbane, Observatorievejen 2 (behind the Ceres Park & Arena, enter from Carl Nielsens Vej), ☏ +45 88811202, info@jvb-aarhus.dk. Horse racing. kr 50. (updated Nov 2021)

44 Aarhus Watersports Complex (Kabelpark i Aarhus). Aarhus Watersports Complex is a voluntary organisation at Bassin 7, Aarhus Ø, offering watersports activities with focus on wakeboarding, waterskiing and SUP. A cable system similar to a ski lift serves as a replacement for the speed boats traditionally used for wakeboarding, water skis etc. (updated Jun 2021)

45 Surf Agency, Fiskerivej 2F, 8000 Aarhus C, ☏ +45 42903010, surf@surfagency.dk. A certified surf school offering lessons in Stand Up Paddle surfing and rental of SUP boards and other necessary equipment. (updated Jun 2021)

46 Harbour cruise, Herman Sallings Plads 2 (Go to the harbourside square close to the Cathedral), ☏ +45 71 99 60 66, info@aroscruises.dk. From May to December. Experience Aarhus from the waterside with a guided harbour cruise. Several options and events. A regular tour takes 75 minutes. kr 160 (discount for children). (updated May 2026)

47 River canoeing, ☏ +45 36 20 67 45, mail@aarhuskanoudlejning.dk. In the summer from early May through September you can rent canoes at the central community centre of Folkestedet and paddle along the Aarhus River for short or extended journeys.

To fish as a recreational activity in Denmark, you are required to buy an Angler Fishing License (Fisketegn).

There are several popular spots for angling on the harbourfront, although eating bottom-feeders caught in the harbour is not recommended for health reasons. The sea, coasts and countryside around Aarhus, present many opportunities for angling. Saltwater fish includes sea trout, cod, mackerel, herring, and flatfish. Sometimes migrating fish like garfish are plentiful, depending on the season. Freshwater fish in streams and lakes, includes trout, pike, perch, and in some places zander, roach or bream.

A few places offers horseback riding as an alternative way to experience the immediate countryside.

Understand that all three spots mentioned here use Icelandic horses. They are a sturdy breed, but smaller than most other horses, so the weight limit is 90 kg.

48 Møllegård Islandsheste, Ormslevvej 325 (bike, hike or drive towards the small village of Ormslev west of Aarhus), ☏ +45 23 30 16 50, mollegaardislandsheste@gmail.com. Year round. Try some guided horseback riding on Icelandic horses in the countryside west of Aarhus city. Depending on your skill level, you will be guided by professionals on site, and when deemed qualified you can begin exploring the surrounding area on the back of a horse. The nature around Årslev Lake and Brabrand Lake close by offers a memorable nature experience. This place is open for both single visitors and groups year round. 450 kr for 1½ hour (w. guide and equipment). (updated Aug 2019)

49 Seldrup Islandsheste, Fuldenvej 119 (bike, hike or drive to the village of Beder south of Aarhus), ☏ +45 22 47 81 10, bodil.breyen@mail.dk. Several planned tours every week from 10:30-12:00. Horseback riding on Icelandic horses in the beautiful forests and countryside south of Aarhus. All tours are with guides. Only helmets are for rent here, remember to bring your own boots and long trousers. Minimum age is 12 years. Please book and arrange everything a few days in advance. kr 400 and up. (updated May 2026)

50 Rønbækgård, Rønbækvej 35 (Bike, hike or drive to Søften north of Aarhus), ☏ +45 28 15 73 01. F 15:30-16:30, Su 15:00-16:30. Rønbækgård is in the forest of Himmerigskov between the suburban villages of Trige, Søften and Hinnerup north of Aarhus. Beginners, as well as the more experienced, can participate in guided tours on Icelandic horses every Friday and Sunday afternoon, tailored to the riders skill levels. Visit, or call, in advance to arrange and book. Tours on other days of the week can be negotiated. F 250 kr, Su 350 kr. (updated Aug 2019)

The East Jutland region has many options for golfers. The courses are of a high quality and often situated in beautiful settings. As part of this region, Aarhus has several options:

51 Aarhus Aadal Golf Club, Brydehøjvej 35, Harlev, ☏ +45 86 94 26 77, aagc@aadalgolf.dk. This golf club is west of Aarhus near the town of Harlev. Beautiful countryside. 18 holes. Restaurant. (updated Sep 2015)

52 Aarhus Golf Club, Ny Moesgårdvej 50, Højbjerg (close to the Moesgård Museum and the Marselisborg Forests), ☏ +45 86 27 63 22, info@aarhusgolf.dk. Boasting a great view of the Bay of Aarhus and the excellent bistro and restaurant UNICO (which you can visit even if you're not a golfer), the Aarhus Golf Club has 35 years of experience and more than 1,000 members. 18 holes. (updated Sep 2015)

53 Aarhus Minigolf, M. P. Bruuns Gade 25 (at Bruuns Galleri), ☏ +45 21 85 05 18, kontakt@aarhusminigolf.dk. For something different, how about a round of mini-golf on the rooftops of the inner city? Take the elevator to the top floor of the Bruuns Galleri shopping halls at the central station to access the rooftop terrace. There is a large eatery right next to this place and a small bar outside at the playing field. Closed in the winter. kr 60. (updated Sep 2015)

54 Lyngbygaard Golf, Lyngbygårdsvej 29, Brabrand, ☏ +45 87 44 10 70. West of the centre in the district of Brabrand. Play either 18 or 9 holes, with five tees on every hole. Challenges for all levels. Onsite restaurant. (updated Sep 2015)

55 Mollerup Golf Club, Mollerupvej 7, Risskov (9 km from the centre, in Risskov, on the southern slopes of the Egå Valley), ☏ +45 86 78 55 56, info@mollerupgolfclub.dk. Apart from the golf facilities, Mollerup is known for its beautiful setting near the forest of Mollerup Skov and the lake area of Egå Engsø, with a view across the valley here. 18 holes. Café and restaurant. (updated Sep 2015)

Battlearena, ☏ +45 86 22 14 44, info@battlearena.dk. Write or call in advance to book your time. Gather a group of 10 people or more and enjoy an 56 indoor lasergun battle game in the western part of town or an 57 outdoor paintball battle game in the northern suburb of Trige. Lasergun battles are for groups of 6 or more people and have no age limits, while the paintball battle game is desgined for 8 people, but can be played with less, and have an age limit of 16 years. Instructions and equipment is part of the package. Bring your own food and drink. (updated May 2026)

58 Eventpark Aarhus, Holmstrupgårdvej 18 8220 Brabrand, ☏ +45 86 24 11 22, info@eventparkaarhus.dk. Fr: 12-18; Sa-Su: 10-18. A cluster of activity game arenas and an event venue, located in an otherwise uninteresting area of light industry in the western parts of the city. Apart from the diverse fun and games activities, Eventpark Aarhus on-site associates includes laserwar, bouldering, softgun battle, and VR adventures. Drop-in price kr 100 (4-60 years); kr 50 (1-3 years). (updated May 2026)

62 Food markets, Ingerslevs Boulevard, info@ingerslevtorv.dk. W Sa 08:00-14:00. An outdoor farm and artisan market with fresh vegetables, fruit, bread, fish, meat, cheese, and some prepared foods sold by local producers. There's also a small permanent café here with good coffee. 59 Aarhus Street Food is an indoor food market in the city centre near the central station, offering a culinary world tour ranging from Korean bowls, Turkish grill, and luxury salads to pad thai, fish & chips, and Afro-Caribbean barbecue. The food court is open every day of the week 11:30-21:00. 60 Markedshallen is another indoor food court from early 2023, located in the building complex Nicolinehus in the new harbourside district of Aarhus Ø. Stylish interior, yet with relatively low budget prices and self-help service. The food offered here is also of a broad cultural diversity and the food stations are also open every day from 11:30-21:00. 61 Banken Food Hall opened in 2024 at the central square at the Aarhus Cathedral. Clean and stylish interior. It is the smallest of the three food courts. Free. (updated Nov 2021)

63 Godsbanen, Skovgaardsgade 3 (behind ARoS and the Concert Halls), ☏ +45 25 22 12 10, info@godsbanen.dk. M-S 8-22; S 8-18. A centre for cultural productions of all kinds: theatre, concerts, performance, film, art exhibitions, finders-keepers markets, and more. There is a restaurant and café here too. Even if you are not interested in participating in anything in particular, Godsbanen is worth a visit for its strange and unique architecture, including the DIY commune known as Institut for (X) behind the main buildings. Here people tend gardens, play football, skateboard, play street sports, party and even live. The vibe is a friendly, inviting take on the anarchist "free town" — you'll find none of the decadence of Christiania here. Free. (updated May 2026)

In the last decade or so, Aarhus has experienced a veritable "burger war", with good quality burger joints popping up everywhere, making for strong competition. Middle Eastern fare such as kebab, shawarma and falafel can be had at numerous eateries in nightlife districts, and Aarhus has several choices for traditional Danish-style barbecue as well.

In addition to what's listed below, no visit to Denmark would be complete without patronizing a Pølsevogn (sausage wagon): street vendors that sell a variety of hot dogs, sausages, and sometimes burgers. The inner city has several, including one in front of the central station and another at City Hall Square, most of which are owned by a Danish charity that donates the surplus to needy children.

1 Burger Boom, Østergade 14 (four small burger bars across town), ☏ +45 87 30 30 22. Daily 11:00-21:00. Among the winners in Aarhus' aforementioned "burger war", Burger Boom serves a short but sweet menu of burgers and fries sold at inexpensive prices. The burgers here are minimalist constructions with a notable lack of veggie toppings, so as not to dull the taste of the grilled local free-range beef. Salad and tomato can be added for free, just tell when you order. Fries comes as regular, sweet potato, or loaded cheese fries. Homemade dips. Burger Boom's way of doing things has been popular, and has grown from the small original place, at the central high street, to four spots across town. Lunch offers on weekdays (11:00-15:00). Burgers from kr 69, menus from kr 109. (updated Feb 2024)

2 Kødstadens Burger Joint, M.P. Bruunsgade 45, ☏ +45 40 17 28 36. Daily 11:00-21:00. Great, local and upcoming burger champions. These guys have several years of experience, have won the hearts of Aarhusian burger lovers several times, and in 2023 they received the national badge of honor 'Best Burgers in Denmark' award. Pay them a visit, and put them to the test, at the relatively new expansion in the central Frederiksbjerg district, or the original place in the northern district of Trøjborg. Lunch offers 11:00-15:00. Burgers from kr 84, menus from kr 114. (updated Jul 2017)

3 Havnens Perle, Dagmar Petersens Gade 10 (in the north harbour district), ☏ +45 86 13 22 56. M-F 08:00-21:00, Sa 09:00-21:00, Su 11:00-21:00. Roadhouse-style Danish barbecue place at the harbor, popular with dockworkers and other locals of a blue-collar bent. Enjoy a fresh made burger, hot dogs, fried chicken, roast pork, fish and chips, or various hot meals including traditional Danish fried pork with white parsley sauce and potatoes (kr 119), a hearty dish that calls for a big draft beer. Breakfast and lunch are served too, the latter consisting of smørrebrød (Danish style open faced sandwiches on rye bread). Plenty of room to sit outside when the weather permits. Food quality can be iffy, especially when crowded. Burgers kr 69 and up. Hot dogs kr 34. Hot meals from kr 59. (updated Jan 2016)

5 Bone's, Åboulevarden 20 (at the riverside near Europaplads), ☏ +45 87 30 04 00. Daily 11:00-21:30. American-style barbecue in two floors. Bone's is a family friendly Danish restaurant chain with eateries across the country. Lunch options every day.

Sharks Diner, Frederiksgade 25, ☏ +45 86 20 42 58. Mid-range burger joint inside a pool hall. Worth a visit! About kr 150 for a burger with fries. (updated Aug 2024)

French and Italian fare is popular and easy to find around Aarhus, but the Mediterranean options also includes a few Spanish and Greek style restaurants.

Pizzerias are abundant throughout the city, including the outlying districts. Some places puts in an extra effort:

6 Caffé Ispirazione, Åboulevarden 82 (at the canal in the town centre), ☏ +45 61 30 71 68. M-Th 10:30-21:30, F-Su 10:30-22:30. Excellent pizzas and really good ice creams. Also sandwiches and various pasta dishes. This place has an extra focus on organic ingredients. Broad diversity and vegetarians and vegans has plenty of options here. kr 110 and up for pizzas. (updated Feb 2017)

7 De Martino, Trøjborgvej 8F (around the corner from Casa Mia, a 1-minute walk downhill toward Riis Skov), ☏ +45 31 38 93 49. Daily 16:00-21:30. Good quality pizzeria in Trøjborg, also serving pasta, risotto, and some authentic Italian veal dishes. Children's menu and takeaway available. kr 75-95 for pizza.

8 Delizioso, Silkeborgvej 257, ☏ +45 81 61 71 92. W-M 12:00-20:30. A pizzeria and café-restaurant at the Åbyhøj town square. The menu is mostly pizzas and pastas, but also panini, salads and Italian meat dishes, all of excellent quality. Takeaway available. kr 85-95 for pizza. (updated Jan 2016)

9 La Trattoria, Frederiks Allé 130, ☏ +45 32 16 27 52, kontakt@latrattoria.dk. Daily 11:00-21:00. Italian restaurant and café with a straightforward menu of pasta, pizza and sandwiches. Dishes are primarily in the budget price range, but a few are more expensive. Takeaway offered. Pasta dishes and pizzas from around kr 100 and lunch pizza offer for kr 50.

Other noteworthy places with budget options include:

10 Yamas, Vestergade 53, ☏ +45 42 34 32 01. Tu-Su 17:00-21:00. Cosy Greek taverna with good pitas and a selection of traditional Greek dishes. Succulent, marinated and grilled meat is the pride of this place. If you are in for more substantial meals, Yamas can also deliver, but for mid-range prices. Pitas from kr 89. (updated Jun 2026)

Good restaurants with a broader and more substantial Mediterranean menu include:

11 AmoRomA, Vestergade 60 (in the western end of Vestergade), ☏ +45 86 19 30 77, amoroma@outlook.dk. Daily. Tasty Italian food served in romantic surroundings. Vitello Tonnato, traditional pasta dishes, Saltimbocca alla Romana, and of course Tiramisù. For lunch you can have excellent stone-oven-baked pizza, which can also be bought as take-away. The restaurant is located in an old preserved timber-framed house, and AmoRomA's owners draw on experience from their Italian-style specialty store Il Mercatino in Mejlgade, with top-quality ingredients imported from Italy. 3-course evening dinner from kr 295. Pizzas are kr 90-110. (updated Jun 2026)

12 Atelier 33, M. P. Bruuns Gade 33 (Uphill, behind the central station complex), ☏ +45 86 99 88 99, kontakt@atelier33.dk. M-Sa 12:00-14:00 and 17:30-21:00. Bistro with great quality French cuisine and a recommendation in the Michelin guide. The menu changes with the seasons here, and includes many top-notch Danish ingredients, yet never strays far from its dedication to the French cooking tradition. Oysters, Vol au Vent, Poisson en Croûte, and Crème Brûlée are among the many classics here. Reasonable prices, in view of the quality, with some splurge options. Two-course prix fixe lunch special kr 350, four-course evening dinner kr 495. Many options for cheaper à la carte. (updated Jun 2026)

13 Bar' Hapla, Jægergårdsgade 67, ☏ +45 93 95 76 67, info@barhapla.dk. Kitchen is open daily 17:00-22:00, F Sa 12:00-16:00. This place markets itself as a bar with dining options, just how the Spanish love it. Don't hesitate to book a table for dining though, as the food is great and the place is often packed with guests. At Bar' Hapla, the food will arrive sporadically at the table, whenever the kitchen has it ready, so there will be ample time to enjoy your wine and drinks. Fed up with the overuse of the term 'tapas', Bar' Hapla call their small Spanish-style servings 'bites', but they are just as tasty and with purely vegetarian options as well. 'Bites' servings kr 65 and up. Expect three servings to make a full meal. (updated Jun 2026)

14 Brasserie Belli, Frederiksgade 54, ☏ +45 86 12 07 60, belli@belli.dk. The kitchen is open Tu-Sa: 11:00-15:00 and 16:30-21:00. Brasserie with French inspirations, open for lunch and evening dinners, with more than thirty years experience. Many things to choose from, including French classics such as quiche, onion soup, steak tartare, steak frites, and Belli's signature dish Boeuf Bourguignon. Brunch plate kr 180, Lunch from kr 90, Evening dinner main course from kr 190; 3-course prix fixe dinners from kr 300. (updated Jun 2026)

15 L'estragon, Klostergade 6 (in the Latin Quarter), ☏ +45 86 12 40 66, info@lestragon.dk. Tu-Su from 18:00. Superb-quality French-style gourmet restaurant using organic ingredients exclusively (including the wine list), and locally-sourced whenever possible. An interesting specialty for this place are their homemade juices, intended to go along with the food, as a non-alcohol alternative. L'estragon is a very small place, so reservations are recommended. There are actually many options for a mid-range priced meal here, a prix fixe dinner of your choice can be had for kr 265, but if you want the full dining experience, you will have to splurge. Special offers on Sunday evenings. Open for lunch Saturdays. The Full Package kr 1700 (six-course serving with pairing wines), Saturday 3-course Lunch kr 295, Sunday Surprise Menu kr 595 (5-course with wines). (updated Jun 2026)

There are many options for a budget-priced Asian meal. Chinese restaurants usually offer budget-priced lunch buffets, a few à la carte dishes, and takeaway boxes. Notable also is a cluster of Asian-style eateries in Nørregade.

16 Asia Restaurant, Viby Ringvej 4 (Go to the main square in Viby), ☏ +45 87 47 55 55, aarhus@asia-restaurant.dk. Daily: lunch buffet 11:30-15:30, evening buffet 17:00-21:30. Large Chinese-style family-friendly restaurant, with room for 250 guests, situated in the ground floor level of a hotel highrise. Nice, Chinese-inspired traditional decor and good all-you-can-eat buffet with plenty of options. The buffet includes sushi, and in the evening also Mongolian barbecue and soup. A la carte menus are also offered. Lunch buffet kr 118, evening buffet kr 178.

Bánh Mì Bandits, Nørregade 34, Kridthøjvej 5, or Aarhus Street Food. Daily Su-Th 11:30-20:00, F Sa 11:30-21:00. Vietnamese eatery specialising in bánh mì sandwiches. In-house and take-away at three spots across town: a central spot in 17 Nørregade, one at 18 Kridthøj Torv in the southern district of Højbjerg, and another central spot at Aarhus Street Food. Order your takeaway online, or call in advance for the Aarhus Street Food location (+45 51 25 50 30). From kr 80.

Gaijin Ramen, Nørregade 16 or MP Bruunsgade 42 (go to the northern end of Nørregade or visit the basement in MP Bruunsgade behind the Central Station), ☏ +45 30 59 09 80 (Nørregade), +45 30 12 57 77 (MP Bruunsgade). M-Sa 12:00-21:00; Su 12:00-20:00. Good Japanese-style ramen eatery. Visit the original place in the northern end of 19 Nørregade or the newer site in 20 MP Bruuns Gade. Ramen bowls kr 129, sides from kr 59.

21 Pearl India, Fredensgade 46, ☏ +45 86 19 62 64. M-Th 17:00-22:00, F Sa 17:00-23:00, Su 17:00-22:00. Wonderful Indian place near the main train station with great value for money, and a long history in Aarhus. Although budget-priced, the menu is very varied and includes some more expensive choices as well, and the place is furnished for a good in-house dining experience. Excellent choice for vegetarians, with a broad selection of dishes. Remember to specify how spicy you want the food! kr 99-125 for main single dishes, menus from kr 150. Vegetarian single meals kr 75-99. (updated Aug 2024)

22 THA, Frederiks alle 120 (on Frederiksbjerg), ☏ +45 40 52 99 54, thaitakeaway@tha-autentisk.dk. Tu-Su 17:00-21:15, closed Mondays. Tiny place, big flavour. This small Thai-kitchen in the southern neighbourhood of Frederiksbjerg only has a few seats and most meals here are sold as take-aways. Very good food and friendly service. Main meals from kr 100 (two-course menus kr 140). (updated Apr 2019)

Sushi dominates the roster of mid-priced Asian restaurants in Aarhus, and there are many options. In addition, the following restaurants stands out in the Asian-style category:

23 Kiin Kiin, Vestergade 47, ☏ +45 26 11 11 56, eat@kiinkiinaar.dk. Every day, all year. Asian food with a Vietnamese bend. High-end restaurant quality, yet served in cosy, laid back and rustic surroundings for affordable prices. Start with a cocktail in the lounge area for an in-house evening experience, or have your food as takeaway; this place serves the whole range. Shared meal, family-style kr 395; Restaurant main course from kr 165; Take-away full meals from kr 135. (updated May 2024)

24 Sushi Springtime, Park Allé 9 (at Park Allé across from the Town Hall), ☏ +45 22 55 55 44, info@sushispringtime.dk. Tu-Su 16:00-21:00. Possibly the best and most authentic sushi restaurant in Aarhus, with a chef and owner trained in Japan. Original Japanese teas. Best to order well in advance, preferably a day or more and especially if you're arriving with a large party, as everything is made fresh to order.

25 Yi East, Frederiks Plads 6 (downhill from the Bruun's Galleri shopping mall, close to the Aarhus City Tower), ☏ +45 60 87 78 98, info@yieast.dk. M-Th 16:00-21:00, F-Su 12:00-21:30. Chinese restaurant with many authentic options, including Dim Sums and Clay Pot dishes. Spacious and elegant restaurant in a newly built quarter near the southern harbourside. Food is typically served for sharing, Chinese style. Take-away options. Menu offers from 128 kr, Single meals from 108 kr.

While fine dining in Denmark traditionally means French cuisine, the large and diverse slate of such restaurants in Aarhus also includes Italian and Spanish-inspired cooking, seafood restaurants, and New Nordic. Four places have been awarded Michelin stars and several are mentioned in respectable food guides, including the White Guide covering Nordic countries specifically.

Most larger hotels have their own restaurant, usually with decent-quality international fare at mid-range prices, and some with outstanding dining. You don't have to have a room there to eat there. See the "Sleep" section or individual hotel websites for details. Further out into the countryside, traditional inns (kroer) also offer culinary experiences comprising both native Danish fare as well as international cuisine, again mostly at mid-range prices.

Great quality international gourmet food can be had for mid-range prices. Even if your budget is limited to mid-range, do also check out "Splurge" restaurants, as more expensive places are known to offer special promotional discounts from time to time.

26 möf, Jægergårdsgade 81, ☏ +45 61 73 33 33, info@restaurantmoef.com. M 17:30-21:00, Th 17:30-00:00, F 17:30-22:00, Sa 17:00-20:00, Su 17:30-21:00. With more than ten years of experience, and a mention in the Michelin Guide, möf has placed itself among the best and most interesting restaurants in Aarhus, yet with affordable prices. Seasonal, creative, and tasty menus and a broad and interesting selection of organic and natural wines. Three-course dinner from kr 399. (updated Jun 2026)

27 Pondus, Åboulevarden 51, ☏ +45 28 77 18 50, info@restaurantpondus.dk. Daily 17:00-23:00. Cosy modern bistro with a gourmet fare, celebrating local, organic ingredients of excellent quality. Pondus has proved themselves for several years on the Aarhus restaurant scene, and has a longtime recommendation in the Michelin guide for their good value cooking. Let the chefs decide a three-course menu for kr 450, or build your own. Single main course kr 250. (updated Jun 2026)

28 Restaurant ET, Mindegade 8 (In a sidestreet near the end of the riverside), ☏ +45 86 13 88 00, velkommen@restaurant-et.dk. Lunch: W-Su 12:00-16:00; dinner: M-W 17:30-00:00, Th-Sa 17:30-01:00; closed Sunday. At Restaurant ET you can try a good variety of high-quality, yet reasonably-priced specialities inspired by both classic French and Danish cuisine, always with a fresh twist. Excellent choice of wines and cheese. À la carte mains kr 249-379, three-course prix fixe dinner kr 479. Lunch from kr 179. (updated Jun 2026)

29 Restaurant Domestic, Mejlgade 35B (in the backyard), ☏ +45 61 43 70 10, info@restaurantdomestic.dk. Tu-Sa from 18:00 (lunch option F Sa from 12:00). Along with Hærværk (another Aarhus restaurant), Domestic was one of the first places in Aarhus to engage with "New Nordic locavore gourmet" cuisine. This way of cooking, is dedicated 100% to local ingredients in season, and requires great skill and creativity to achieve a gourmet level result. The Michelin star maintained continuously since 2017, shortly after opening, attests to Domestic's success on that front. Be sure to book in advance, for a taste experience out of the ordinary. Evening menus from kr 750. (updated Jun 2026)

30 Restaurant Frederikshøj, Oddervej 19-21 (in the Marselisborg Forest across from Mindeparken), ☏ +45 86 14 22 80. W-Sa 18:00-24:00. One of Aarhus' most exquisite gourmet restaurants, led by renowned chef Wassim Hallal whose original menus has caught the attention of the Michelin Guide since 2015, now with two stars. Stylish modern decor. The Menu kr 2500 (wines excluded); Lunch Menu kr 450. (updated Jan 2016)

31 Restaurant Gastromé, Grenåvej 127 (at the Riis Skov forest, north of the city centre), ☏ +45 28 78 16 17, kontakt@gastrome.dk. Th-Sa from 18:00, lunch F Sa 12:00-15:00. The restaurateurs behind this place have a lot of experience with the New Nordic gourmet cuisine, upholding a Michelin star at Gastromé continuously since 2015. The food is served in welcoming surroundings, in a large old villa outside the central city, completing the dining experience. Evening menu kr 1900 (Lunch menu kr 800).

Denmark is well-known worldwide for its pork, but also produces topnotch beef. Many restaurants have steak on the menu, including some of the international gourmet spots, but a few places serve it as the specialty of the house. To enjoy the best possible steak in Aarhus, you will have to splurge.

32 Köd, Åboulevarden 23 (at the riverside near Europaplads), ☏ +45 38 41 60 50, info@koedaarhus.dk. M-Th 17:00-21:00, F Sa 17:00-22:00. Top-quality steak and seafood, with beef sourced from Denmark, Uruguay, the U.S., and Australia.

33 MASH, Banegårdspladsen 12 (at the Ritz Hotel), ☏ +45 33 13 93 00. Every day. Another Danish steakhouse chain, with some of the best cuisine of this type in the country as well as a very impressive wine list. A selection of fish dishes and some high-quality burgers round out the menu. From kr 265. (updated Jan 2016)

34 Mör, Frederiks Plads 20 (Behind the central station and the Bruun's Gallery complex), ☏ +45 86 88 88 88. Closed Sundays. Great steakhouse in a new location at Frederiks Plads behind the central station. Flame grilled steaks par excellence. Also fish and vegetarian options. Sometimes live music in the evening. Three-course menu kr 579.

Unlike the experimental and often quite expensive dining of the New Nordic Cuisine, traditional Danish food is hearty, simple, and of course old-school — and its popularity is surging on Denmark's restaurant scene these days. Special menus are served around Mortens Aften (St. Martin's Day; 11 November), Christmas, and Easter. Prices are mostly mid-range.

35 Den Lille Kro, Nørre Allé 55 (Latin Quarter outskirts), ☏ +45 86 86 44 41, info@denlillekro.dk. Every day 12:00-21:30. A cozy place situated in a somewhat quieter sector of the buzzing Latin Quarter, Den Lille Kro (aptly-named "The Little Inn") serves up a wide-ranging selection of good-quality traditional Danish food in copious portions. Differing lunch and evening menus. Three-course dinners 333 kr (a la carte from 169 kr). Lunch platters from 169 kr. (updated Mar 2016)

36 Europa, Havnegade 28 (Harbourside), ☏ +45 86 19 86 18. W-Sa 12:00-24:00. A small gastropub serving tasty traditional Danish cuisine. Mostly smørrebrød, but also a few hot dishes in the evening. Take away offered. Even if you're not hungry, you can go just to imbibe from their exhaustive beer list. Red wine and homemade snaps are also served. (updated Apr 2016)

37 Restaurant Kohalen, Jægergårdsgade 152-154 (the south harbour district), ☏ +45 86 12 14 81. M-Sa 11:30-16:00. By no means a fancy dining spot, this place takes pride in its local authenticity. Residing in the city's rough former slaughterhouse district in an old house from 1907, Kohalen (The Cow Tail) serves good quality traditional Danish meals in generous portions. The focus of the kitchen here is on lunch platters (known as Det Kolde Bord), yet with a few hot dishes as well. The restaurant is typically filled to the brim with raucous crowds, making it a little difficult to get a free seat, especially around the annual feasts. Lunch platters from 199 kr (a la carte meals from 128 kr). (updated Jan 2016)

38 Skovmøllen, Skovmøllevej 51 (forests south of town), ☏ +45 86 27 12 14. W-Su. Skovmøllen's menu comprises creative twists on traditional Danish lunches, as well as a hearty weekend brunch, served in the picturesque setting of a restored timber-framed medieval water mill in the midst of Moesgaard Forest. Online reservations are available. Lunch from kr 222. (updated Jan 2016)

39 Teater Bodega, Skolegade 7, ☏ +45 86 12 19 17, info@teaterbodega.dk. Every day. With a central location next to Aarhus Theatre, this historic restaurant has served since 1908, while the name Teater Bodega is from 1959. There is a big variety in the meal plan, and the quality is good. The interior is kept in an old traditional Danish design and is an experience in itself. Mid range. (updated Jan 2016)

Many eateries in Aarhus have vegetarian dishes or alternatives on the menu. Only a few places are dedicated vegetarian only.

40 Café Gaya, N.J. Fjordsgade 2 (in a large community centre in the central Frederiksbjerg district), ☏ +45 40 22 45 20. M-Sa. A good variety of organically-grown vegetarian food, with cozy decor and occasional live music. Gaya also serves brunch (ad libitum) on Saturdays. All-you-can-eat lunch buffet kr 89, evening buffet kr 150. (updated Jan 2016)

41 Faour, Klostergade 32 (in the Latin Quarter), ☏ +45 60 15 15 70. Closed Sundays. Relatively new eatery, part of a wave of quality spots of Middle Eastern inspirations across Aarhus. Faour offers falafel, manakish and mezze of various kinds for affordable prices. Almost exclusively vegetarian menu. Good mint tea and Arabian coffee with cardamom. Manakish menu for kr 59. (updated Nov 2018)

42 Green Neighbour, Kannikegade 4 (Next to the central cathedral). 11-21:30 every day. Various and changing seasonal salads and bowls with organic produce only. Freshly squeezed juices to go along. Meat can be had as an extra topping for some salads. Locatated in the Banken Food Hall at the central high street and cathedral square. Salad bowls 115 kr. (updated Apr 2026)

43 Plant Food, Graven 16H (in the Latin Quarter), ☏ +45 91 87 33 35. One of the few dedicated vegetarian eateries in Aarhus. Many options. The plant-based burgers are popular. Small place with only a few seats for eating in-house. (updated Nov 2022)

44 MellemRum, Fredens Torv 2 (near the square of Europaplads at the mouth of the river), ☏ +45 86 17 18 38, info@restaurantmellemrum.dk. M-Sa 17:00-24:00, kitchen closes 21:30. At this gourmet restaurant, you can always choose a seasonal vegetarian menu on par with the non-restricted menu, something the chefs takes pride in. Three, four or five-course seasonal menus that change every two months or so, but also à la carte. A cosy place with excellent gourmet food. Don't be afraid to bring your vegan or meat loving friends along, this place has something for all kinds. Three-course prix fixe vegetarian menu kr 325 (Early Bird: kr 275 if you can finish before 19:00). (updated Apr 2016)

The many cafés in Aarhus span a diverse range, from tiny holes-in-the-wall with two chairs to extravagantly decorated places with mirror rooms and waiters in fancy clothes. Some places serve only the most basic items, while other places offer lunch, evening dinners or cocktails and parties at night. So whatever you are looking for, it shouldn't be a problem to find a café that suits your taste or pocket.

The majority of cafés in Aarhus are unique, each with their own individual charm and character, and you'll find an emphasis on high-quality coffee in quite a few of them. However, national chain cafés also have a presence, with locations of Espresso House, emmerys, and Lagkagehuset across the city, and Starbucks have two cafés in the inner city as well. If you're not a coffee drinker, cafés also often serve hot chocolate and sometimes smoothies, but quality tea is only just beginning to catch on around these parts.

Take note that in almost all cafés in Denmark you are expected to contact staff yourself, usually at the desk, to grab a menu card, to place your order and when you wants to pay. This is often very bewildering to tourists, but is how things are typically done in Denmark and not a sign of rude or ignorant service.

Although there is a high concentration in the inner city, cafés can be found all over town. A few special places might be hard to discover without particular mention:

45 A.C.Perch's Thehandel (Perch's), Volden 3 (close to the central square of Lille Torv). M-F 10:00-17:30, Sa 10:00-17:00. A local branch of the venerable tea-house of the same name in Copenhagen with roots back to colonial times. The Aarhus café is smaller, and only a few years old, but has the same old-fashioned style as the original in Copenhagen. Slow down and take time to enjoy a well-made pot of high quality tea with more than a hundred varieties to sample. The clerks are there to guide you. Splurge with a Breakfast Plate or a Five O Clock Tea serving if you like. If you are a group, you can book a table online. No coffee here. Pot of tea 95 kr, Breakfast Plate (including tea) 210 kr. (updated Jan 2019)

46 Stiller's Coffee, Klostergade 32 H, st. (backyard) (in the Latin Quarter). M-F 10:00-17:00, Sa 10:00-16:00, Su closed. This oasis for true coffee aficionados is hidden away in a backyard of a larger building complex that used to house a chocolate factory. It is not easy to spot, but some of the best things in life require a bit of effort. There are numerous spots for truly great coffee around the city, but this place is among the very best for sure. (updated Feb 2018)

Denmark has a long tradition for unique, good quality bread and confectionery. You might find it in cafés or common bakeries across the city, but some places merit a visit for the special effort they put into the craft of baking.

50 Lagkagehuset and 51 emmerys are two Danish chains of high-end bakeries with attached café sections. Lagkagehuset has eight spots across town and presents a great selection of cakes which, apart from the Danish pastries of course, include cold confectioners cakes such as layercakes and creamcakes. Emmerys is an organic certified bakery with five spots offering brunch servings, while the cake selection is more limited. Both chains offers breakfast and various snack foods and they are open every day of the week. 52 La Cabra started out as a speciality coffee shop and café in Aarhus in 2012, but has since emerged among the other high-end sourdough bakeries in the city, producing top-notch breads and cakes. Aiming for the stars, La Cabra now have a total of three spots in Aarhus, as well as cafés in Copenhagen, New York, and Oman no less. The place in Borggade listed here is La Cabra's bakery central. If you want a café experience, visit one of their two cafés elsewhere in Aarhus. 53 MIBBageri is another Aarhus bakery startup with excellent quality and variety. There are five spots across town.

Some of the smaller businesses that truly honors the craft of baking, includes:

55 DavidBreadHead, Ny Munkegade 4B (and a small shop in J. M. Mørks Gade 7 kl. th) (go to the far end of the backyard). Every day. High-end sourdough bakery and café. They also run a 54 tiny bakery shop in a side street to Strøget. Sourdough bun with cheese 35 kr. Morning board 59 kr. (updated Apr 2026)

57 Jumbo Bakery, Mindet 4 (at the habourfront across from the DOKK1 library). Every day. High-end sourdough bakery and café at the transforming habourside. There is also a Jumbo Bakery café at 56 Ankersgade next to the bouldering climbing center (Boulders Aarhus City) at the central Ringadebroen bridge. Cardamom-swirl cake 34 kr. (updated Jun 2026)

58 Mor Anna, Mejlgade 5 (behind the cathedral). M-F 07:00-18:00; Sa Su 08:00-17:00. Not a café, but an uncompromising bakery and speciality shop offering a good selection of breads, cakes, sandwiches and other foods. Take a look at the large variety and see if there is something for you? Even the jam for the cakes and the pesto for the sandwiches are made on location. Coffees and other beverages to go. Sandwiches or three smørrebrød kr 65. (updated Apr 2026)

A neighbourhood with its own atmosphere, separated from the rest of the city centre by the central rail yard. Frederiksbjerg's nightlife scene is a mix of traditional bodegaer and værtshuse of the type you can read about below, as well as some newer and more fashionable spots.

1 Mikeller Bar, Jægergårdsgade 61. Su-F from 14:00, Sa from 13:00. At this outlet for the renowned craft brewery of the same name, you can choose from a changing slate of 20 beers on tap — both from Mikeller and other breweries worldwide — plus a huge and ever-changing bottle list. If you're (understandably) overwhelmed, the bartenders at this cozy, chilled-out spot are more than happy to help you navigate the vast selection. For non-beer drinkers, a range of high-end spirits and cherry wine (a local specialty) are offered. kr 40 for a tap beer serving. (updated Nov 2021)

2 Peter Gift, M. P. Bruuns Gade 28, ☏ +45 86 12 01 63. Daily 11:00-01:00. The typical Danish bodega, and mention a claimant to the title of oldest surviving bar in Aarhus (in business since 1906), Peter Gift serves a good selection of beers in a pleasant, relaxed and secluded atmosphere. Lunch is served Tu-Sa, but reservations are required. Smoking is restricted to the backyard. (updated Jan 2016)

3 Pub'en, Jægergårdsgade 62, ☏ +45 86 13 60 98. Daily. A local værtshus with local craft brew (Aarhus Bryghus) on tap and opportunity for a game of dart. Also Ceres TOP beer by the bottle and other beverages. Smoking allowed and a more festive vibe on weekend nights. (updated Mar 2018)

4 St. Pauls Apothek, Jægergårdsgade 76, ☏ +45 86 12 08 33. Tu-Th 17:30 - 00:00, F Sa 17:30 - 02:00. This old restored pharmacy (hence the name) from 1899 now wears many hats: St. Pauls Apothek is a high-end restaurant in the early evening, a fashionable cocktail bar afterward, and a nightclub when it gets really late. Creatively conceived and artfully executed speciality cocktails come served on their own or paired with gourmet dinners. (updated Nov 2021)

This partly pedestrianized street brims with nightlife.

5 Hos Anders, Frederiksgade 25 (below Sharks in the same building). A bar with occasional live music, mostly jazz. The audience here is usually a bit more mature. Beer kr 20. (updated Jan 2016)

6 Sharks, Frederiksgade 25 (at the first floor of Busgadehuset, a central car parking house), ☏ +45 86 18 09 90, mail@sharks.dk. Daily. Not only a bar but also Denmark's largest pool hall, with 26 billiard tables that pack 'em in most nights. To get away from the madding crowds, head for one of three cozy lounges where you can enjoy a beer or tuck in to a burger or a plate of nachos (the kitchen closes at 22:00). Sharks is also a popular place to catch major sporting events on TV. Pool tables kr 1-2 per minute, cocktails from kr 45. (updated Jan 2016)

7 Tir Na Nóg, Frederiksgade 40, ☏ +45 86 19 19 10, info@tirnanog.dk. Daily. A huge Irish pub with nice decor, a festive atmosphere, live music, and pub trivia on Thursday night. Good selection of high-end whiskey, scotch, and rums. As at Sharks, the TVs around the bar are a popular place to catch sporting events. (updated Jan 2016)

8 Waxies, Frederiksgade 16, ☏ +45 86 13 83 33, mail@waxies.dk. Daily from 12:00, happy hour from 22:00-00:00. Another Irish pub closer to the river with three floors of action in a hip riverside location. Premier League football Monday and Tuesday nights, pub trivia Wednesday nights, poker Thursdays, and live music on the weekends starting around midnight. Show up early for discounted drinks and a small food menu. (updated Jan 2016)

Most of the cafés near the mouth of the river turn into bars and nightclubs in the late evening, but there are also many places here dedicated exclusively to nightlife. One of the busiest bar scenes in the city, the riverside can be hectic Friday and Saturday nights, attracting many young people. The rest of the week, the promenades along the river offers a more laid-back vibe. Despite the many upscale and fashionable places, there are a surprisingly ample selection of budget-friendly options in between. The nightlife scene here starts off at Immervad, the small bridge crossing the canal at Frederiksgade, and stretches all the way to the mouth of the river at the harbourfront.

9 Barstart, Fiskergade 28, ☏ +45 26 14 93 57. Tu-Sa from 18:00. A short walk away from the riverside, you'll find this small and easy-to-miss place clustered among a handful of similarly busy nightspots. Barstart's constantly changing drink menu encompasses many innovative specialty cocktails, but the experienced bartenders here could most likely make any classic drink you would like. Craft cocktails from kr 100. (updated Jul 2016)

10 Bodegaen, Åboulevarden 33. Daily. Located right at the river, this hip and popular place is only a few years old, but fully equipped as an iconic old fashioned bodega, hence the name. Enjoy a beer and a game for a bit of fun. Games on offer includes darts, dice, pool (bob), or foosball (a quite popular "sport" in Denmark for young people). Ceres TOP kr 25. (updated Jan 2016)

11 Herr Bartels, Åboulevarden 46, ☏ +45 86 18 08 33, herrbartels46@gmail.com. Th-Sa from 19:00. The longest bar desk in town, serving a changing selection of excellent drinks and cocktails in a nice atmosphere. All nights, some selected drinks are "two for the price of one". Age limit is 20 on weekends. Cocktails kr 70-95. (updated Jan 2016)

12 Lava, Åboulevarden 22, ☏ +45 25 53 30 31, kontakt@lavaaarhus.dk. Another jack-of-all-trades type of place at the riverside, Lava is a café, bistro and bar all in one. The latter identity comes into the picture on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights after 21:00, with an international wine list (including champagne by the bottle), superb rums and cognacs, and French spirits like armagnac, calvados and eau de vie for a very reasonable price. They occasionally host live music as well. Cocktails from kr 80 (two for kr 90). (updated Jul 2016)

13 London Bar, Åboulevarden 31, ☏ +45 51 89 56 70, info@londonbaraarhus.dk. F Sa from 20:00. A cocktailbar with dimmed lightning, black tiles and individual tables open for reservations. Many of the bars at the riverside attracts a very young audience, but this bar has a minimum age of 25 and a corresponding relaxed atmosphere. The cocktails are good quality, all made from scratch, half-price before 23:00. Champagne and quality liquor also available. On occassion, events or cocktail courses (1-2 hours) are arranged. Cocktails from kr 95 (discounts available). (updated Mar 2018)

Skolegade is an old narrow sidestreet behind Åboulevarden with a long history as a nightlife destination. Most of the action is near the south end, closest to the riverside.

15 Escobar, Skolegade 32, ☏ +45 86 13 79 26. F Sa 14:00-04:00, Su-Th 18:00-02:00. This is a small bar where heavy metal and hard rock music rule the day, including demo-tapes from local bands. Green chartreuse and absinthe are specialties here. Escobar is a great place to get acquainted with the local metal scene, but if you're not the headbanging type, never fear: the nonjudgmental, come-as-you-are ambience is welcoming to all. Pub quiz Monday nights with a focus on movies and music. (updated Mar 2016)

16 G-bar, Skolegade 28, ☏ +45 21 35 35 61. Th 20:00-02:00, F Sa 22:00-05:00. Aarhus' gay and lesbian club. (updated Aug 2023)

17 Pinds Cafe, Skolegade 11, ☏ +45 86 12 20 60. W-Sa from 16:00. This small bar has served since 1848, but got its name from a miss Elna Pind who took control in 1936, notorious for her sharp tongue and very strict rules. Things are more easy nowadays but the old-fashioned decor clings on. The clientele is typically of the mature and relaxed kind. Smoking allowed. (updated Jan 2018)

As at the riverside, several of the Latin Quarter's cafés turn into festive bars in the evening, while other places serve as such all day.

18 Café Paradis (Den Sidste), Paradisgade 9 (in the top floor loft), info@cafeparadis.dk. Th-Sa from 21:00. Bar and nightclub with cocktails, shots, bubbles, wine and beer. Lively dance floor with DJs on most nights. Age limit is 21+ on weekends. kr 40 entry. (updated Jul 2026)

19 Løve's, Borggade 14 and Nørregade 32, ☏ +45 52 17 50 16. Two separate buildings around the corner from each other: the former a relaxed wine bar-deli, the latter an equally relaxed wine bar-bookstore-café with occasional book and poetry readings, wine tastings, and other events. Løve's attracts a mixed and sociable crowd. (updated Jan 2016)

20 Mig & Ølsnedkeren, Mejlgade 12, ☏ +45 93 85 51 58. M-Sa. Beer bar with a large selection of craft beer, among the best in Aarhus. Some of the beers are brewed specifically for this place, while other are imports from around the world. The tap selection changes regularly, so there will always be new stuff to sample for beer lovers. Good vibe and bartenders who knows what beer is all about. (updated Apr 2018)

21 Ris Ras Filliongongong (Ris Ras), Mejlgade 24, ☏ +45 30 28 72 22. M-W 12:00-01:00, Th-Sa 12:00-02:00, Su 16:00-22:00. At this cozy hipster hangout you can indulge in a great variety of beers, rums, and even hookah to the strains of the latest indie music in the background. If you are new to craft beer and don't know where to start, the Hancock on tap is the beer of the house and always a hit. No food up for sale, but you are welcome to bring your own along, if you buy a beer or two and clean up after yourself. (updated Jan 2016)

22 Under Masken, Bispegade 3 (go to the Royal Hotel opposite the Cathedral), ☏ +45 86 18 22 66. Daily. This bar and café in the basement next to the Royal Casino and Hotel is owned by local artist Hans Krull. The walls here are decorated with strange tribal wooden masks, artsy pictures and miscellaneous objects from his travels around the world. Krull is a prominent artist in Denmark and you can enjoy some of his finer works by glancing at the three bronze sculptures outside the casino next door or his large whole-wall mural in Fiskergade nearby of a woman kissing a sea gull. Be aware that smoking is allowed here and the place is often packed. Happy hour every day from 17:00-21:00 and sometimes live music.

23 Alberts, Store Torv 3 (at the city square in front of Aarhus Cathedral), ☏ +45 31 32 82 68 (food), info@albertsbar.dk. Every day. Outdoor serving at the big square in the summer Monday-Saturday from 12:00. Alberts is a bar in a historic 14th-century monks' cellar at the cathedral. Quality beer, wine, and spirits with free open-mic stand-up comedy; Monday-Thursday in Danish, Sunday in English. You can play dice here too. On weekends, this places turns into a high quality cocktail bar, where the bartenders really shows off their skills. Tapas can be had Friday and Saturday evenings as well, but you need to pre-order and book a table for that. Cocktails from kr 100, drinks and wine from kr 60. (updated May 2017)

24 ST3, Store Torv 3 (go to the main square in front of the Aarhus Cathedral), ☏ +45 42 90 90 39. FSa from 23:00. A soft clubbing concept in the same basement as Alberts. If you are a party, it is possible to reserve your own table. Age limit is 21+. (updated Apr 2018)

25 Gedulgt, Fredensgade 41 (close to the bus station), Aarhus@gedulgt.dk. Th 18:00-24:00, F Sa 16:00-02:00. If you are willing to spend some time on a nightlife treasure hunt, try if you can find Gedulgt. It is a super hip cocktail bar with the most creative drinks, but located in a nondescript backyard as some kind of secret speakeasy. Look for the green door. Outstanding cocktails, including non-alcoholic mocktails. also Quality beer, wine, bubbles, and spirits. Cocktail workshops and tasting arrangements can be ordered for groups online. Cocktails kr 110 and up. (updated Apr 2018)

26 Hantwerk, Fiskerivej 2D, ☏ +45 91 25 62 57, kontakt@hantwerk.dk. W Th 16:00-23:00, F Sa 14:00-24:00. Gastrobar in the northern harbour district. Great food, wine and beer and sometimes small musical arrangements. Many people go here just for a drink. The beer is brewed by the local micro-brewery Humleland in-house and served on tap and bottles. The brews are quite creative, diverse and of a great quality. Special imports are also available. Several options for wine by the glass. If you want to dine, reserve a table on-line before you go. Take note that this place does not accept cash. (updated Jul 2026)

27 Mundhæld, Vestergade 51, mundhaeld@mundhaeld.dk. Tu-Th 16:00-23:00; F Sa 12:00-02:00. Quality beer bar with many craft beers on tap, both local stuff and from far away. Mundhæld takes pride in presenting beer from East Jutland in particular. Take your pick from the big beer board, or talk to the bartender for a proper suggestion. (updated Oct 2025)

In Denmark, a bodega is a traditional Danish pub or bar. The bodega has a long cultural history in Denmark and is conceptually somewhat similar to an English pub, but only a few places offer meals and live music. You could warm up at one before going to a concert or a fancy club, or you can drop in for a coffee or a beer in the afternoon. It should be fairly easy to find yourself engaged in a conversation at these places, as the majority of people are here to socialize and unwind.

29 Peder Wessel, Niels Juels Gade 49 (go to Tordenskjoldsgade, the main street on Trøjborg), ☏ +45 30 36 75 16. M-Sa from 11:00, closed Sundays. Nice classic bodega on Trøjborg, north of the city center. Relaxing and cosy atmosphere on the week days, but packed with people ready to party on weekend nights. Often live music. (updated Jul 2019)

In the older days, when alcohol was seen as a basic thirst-quencher for the working man, bars were much more abundant. These were watering holes with the sole purpose of serving cheap beers all day, every day. The Danish word for these basic bars is værtshus, which loosely translates as "hosting-house": in other words, a place that hosts people for drinking. Times have changed, but there are still some of these places left in Aarhus, many with their own peculiar charm. They are mostly frequented by regulars, but visiting strangers are welcomed too. The crowd at these places can be a lovely mix of joyful people at times, especially weekend nights.

Ceres TOP pilsner is the de rigueur beer in bodegaer and værtshuse, but other alcoholic beverages are usually available too, along with coffee and soft drinks. An "Aarhus set" consists of a Ceres TOP with a shot of Arnbitter on the side, both beverages from Aarhus. Shots of black liquorice-flavoured vodka, often referred to as Fisk, are popular with young people.

In popular usage, the terminology can be confusing: the words værtshus, bodega, and café are nowadays often employed indiscriminately in business names, and in particular værtshus can be used for any kind of bar. To learn more about the true original værtshus concept — and to learn how to differentiate between the three categories yourself — you can start your field research at these spots:

30 Bro Cafeen (Bro Cafe), Frederiks Allé 61 A (at the Frederiksbroen bridge), ☏ +45 86 12 86 11. M-Th 11:00-22:00, F Sa 11:00-01:00, Su 11:00-18:00. Claimed by some to be the oldest værtshus in Aarhus still in operation, Bro Cafeen has presumably served thirsty guests since 1899. Nice old-fashioned, bright yellow townhouse at an excellent location, right at the central Frederiksbroen bridge. Outside terrace, dart, and occasionally live music. (updated Apr 2016)

Raising your own tent at a campsite is the absolute cheapest option you have in Aarhus. If you are not camping, hostels are the next cheapest way to accommodate. There are budget-priced hotels in Aarhus, but none of them have single rooms. If you are a solo traveller, your most budget-friendly option is either a dormitory bunk bed at one of the hostels or sleeping in your own tent at a campsite.

Camping grounds

1 FirstCamp Aarhus, Randersvej 400 (4 km north of town), ☏ +45 86 23 11 33, aarhus@firstcamp.dk. A campsite in a forest at the northern suburb of Lisbjerg, with easy access to nature. Raise your own tent, park your camper, or stay in a cabin. Communal bathrooms, laundry and kitchen facilities. Cabins all come with their own kitchen, shower, and toilet. Charging stations for electric vehicles. Bus lines connect easily to the city centre in about 15-20 minutes and a bicycle route leads all the way. Peak season prices for tents from kr 155. Cabins (two people) from kr 630. (updated May 2026)

2 Blommehaven (DCU-Camping Aarhus - Blommehaven), Ørneredvej 35 (drive south through the Marselisborg Forests), ☏ +45 86 27 02 07, blommehaven@dcu.dk. Campsite with cabins located In the Marselisborg Forest 5 km south of the city centre. Pets allowed. Beautiful nature, yet easy transport access. Peak season price for tents from kr 245. Cabins (four people) from kr 614. (updated May 2026)

Hostels

3 Danhostel Aarhus, Marienlundsvej 10 (in Riis Skov), ☏ +45 86 21 21 20, info@aarhusdanhostel.dk. A hostel with a kitchen perfect for guests who are self-catering their meals. There are no dormitory or single rooms at this hostel, you will have to book a double bedroom as a single traveller. Some rooms use communal bathrooms, while others have their own installed. Laundry, eating hall, lounge areas, and outdoor space. Free Wi-Fi and free parking that includes an electric charging station. Easy access to busses and the beach. From kr 660 for a double bedroom (bedsheets, towel and breakfast are extra). (updated May 2026)

4 Danhostel Aarhus City, Fiskergade 10 (in the night life district at the riverside), ☏ +45 86 10 10 20, info@danhostelcity.dk. Another Danhostel, but right in the city center in a high-rise building. Communal bathrooms, kitchens, laundry, and lounge areas. General free Wi-Fi and individual electric plugs and lamps at every bed. A dormitory bunk bed is the cheapest, but private double and family bedrooms are also available. A few family rooms have private bathrooms installed. Excellent views from the cosy roof-top café and terrasses. Breakfast buffet option. From kr 180. (updated May 2026)

9 First Hotel Atlantic, Europaplads 10 (at Europaplads), ☏ +45 86 13 11 11. Set in a modern high-rise building with views across the harbour and the city. Limited safe parking for a fee. Breakfast option. From kr 756.

10 Havnehotellet, Marselisborg Havnevej 20, ☏ +45 7022 5530, bbhotels@bbhotels.dk. A clean, modern, and completely unstaffed hotel at the pleasant Marselisborg Marina where the check-in process is entirely computerized: you can stroll out of your room and watch the sunset with a bottle of wine from the vending machine! There are a couple of restaurants and an ice cream shop nearby. From kr 650.

11 Hotel Ritz (Milling Hotel Ritz), Banegårdspladsen 12, ☏ +45 86 13 44 44, ritz@millinghotels.dk. Iconic historic hotel right across from the central station, operated by Milling Hotels. Breakfast buffet and notable MASH steakhouse restaurant. Several packages and discount offers avaialble. From kr 1000 (special discount offers). (updated May 2026)

12 Hotel Oasia, Kriegersvej 27, ☏ +45 8732 3715, mail@hoteloasia.dk. Hotel Oasia is in a central but quiet location close to the Central Station. Rooms are smartly furnished in modern Nordic style. Nice lounge and breakfast buffet. The entire hotel is non-smoking. From kr 1195.

13 Radisson SAS Scandinavia Hotel, Aarhus, Margrethepladsen 1 (at Margrethepladsen in the Scandinavian Congress Center), ☏ +45 8612 8665, reservations.aarhus@radissonblu.com. Large, modern chain hotel centrally located next to the City Hall and the Concert Halls. Big breakfast buffet. Restaurant and bar RAA offers three and five-course gourmet dinners. From kr 805.

14 Scandic The Mayor Hotel, Banegaardspladsen 14, ☏ +45 87320100, hotel@themayor.dk. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. A modern chain hotel next to the City Hall and the Central Station. Large full breakfast with bread baked in the hotel's own bakery and good gluten-free and lactose-free options. 24-hour convenience store and safe car parking for a fee. From kr 940. (updated Jun 2015)

15 Comwell Aarhus, Værkmestergade 2 (at the Aarhus City Towers downhill east of the central station), ☏ +45 86 72 80 00, hotel.aarhus@comwell.dk. Easily recognisable as one of the tallest skyscrapers on the Aarhus skyline, Comwell Aarhus presents 240 rooms decorated in modern Danish style. Great views across the bay and city from the upper floors. Fitness, restaurant, bar and several lounges, roomservice, plus own underground car park fitted with charging stations. Bicycles for rent. With free Wi-Fi, co-work areas, and large rooms equipped for meetings and conferences, Comwell Aarhus is also catering to large gatherings, events, and business meet-ups. Restaurant V serves every day, all day. This hotel is Green Key certified. From kr 1183 (standard single room). (updated May 2026)

16 Helnan Marselis Hotel, Strandvejen 25 (near Mindeparken), ☏ +45 86 14 44 11, marselis@helnan.dk. A bit south of the city centre, this monumental waterfront hotel was designed by Danish architects Friis and Molkte and completed in 1967. Free parking, bicycle rental, swimming pool and fitness. In-house Restaurant Marselis and bar serves every day, all day. From kr 1350.

17 SOFS Boutique Hotel, Guldsmedgade 40, ☏ +45 86 13 45 50, reception@sofshotel.dk. A small boutique hotel right in the old Latin Quarter. A bit expensive for what you get, but it has a nice patio and good breakfast buffet which is included in the price. Green Globe certified and all food and drink here is organic. All 26 rooms at this hotel are unique, but comes with free Wi-Fi and TV. Ground floor rooms use a communal bathroom, although of a high quality. Some rooms allow for dogs. There are no single rooms here; you will have to pay for a double bedroom at this place. From kr 1555 (single person in a double bedroom). (updated May 2026)

18 Hotel Royal, Store Torv 4, ☏ +45 86 12 00 11, royal@hotelroyal.dk. Opened in 1838, you'll find this grand old hotel right in the city centre, guarded by iconic bronze sculptures (the work of local artist Hans Krull) out front. A stay at Hotel Royal is an experience in itself; the entire hotel is smartly decorated in a sumptuous old fashioned style. All rooms are unique, but come equipped with private bathroom, TV, free Wi-Fi, and roomservice of course, as to be expected for this kind of hotel. Valet parking service. Rooftop atrium garden with a breakfast and lunch restaurant café, and ground floor casino. From kr 2268 (single room or smallest double bedroom). (updated May 2026)

19 Hotel Villa Provence, Fredens Torv 12, ☏ +45 8618 2400, hotel@villaprovence.dk. A small French oasis in the center of Aarhus, with an intimate atmosphere and brimming with character. kr 1400.

The countryside around Aarhus presents several noteworthy places for accommodation, both for short stopovers and extended stays. Even if you have your base in Aarhus, many of these spots are great destinations in their own right as one-day trips out of town.

23 Sophiendal Slotshotel (Sophiendal Gods), ​ (20 km east of Aarhus in the lake-highland region), ☏ +45 98 34 18 88, book@slotshotel.dk. Spend a day or two like spoiled aristocracy in an the old castle! Sophiendal Gods is nestled in a rural woodland area in the beautiful lake-highland region Søhøjlandet between Aarhus and Silkeborg and easily accessible by car. The castle dates back to the 1600s, and has been perfectly preserved in its old opulent glory. The castle stay itself is worth the trip, but the surrounding nature is equally fit for a visit. Adjacent golf course. Single rooms available. From kr 1148 per person (overnight stay including afternoon tea, dinner, and breakfast). (updated Jun 2026)

Kroer (singular kro) are traditional country inns of a type that has a long history in Denmark: a nationwide network of these places was laid out by royal decree beginning in the 13th century (and culminating in the 17th) in order to provide easy shelter, dining and fresh horses for the king and his entourage when travelling through the country. Others emerged in places like village halls and old flour mills to provide food and accommodation for larger gatherings and celebrations in the surrounding rural communities. Today, kroer are usually held in high social regard. If you're looking for an all-inclusive getaway in a romantic countryside setting, yet not too far away from the action of the central city, this might be the option you're looking for.

24 Malling Kro, Stationspladsen 2, 8340 Malling (about 12 km south of Aarhus), ☏ +45 86 93 10 25, info@mallingkro.dk. Dating from 1884, Malling Kro has a superb onsite restaurant with a renowned wine list that's won the place membership in the prestigious Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Dégustateurs. Various accommodation packages available. Aarhus is easily reached by bus or light rail. From kr 945 (single rooms, including breakfast). (updated May 2026)

25 Norsminde Kro, Gl. Krovej 2, 8300 Odder (in Norsminde), ☏ +45 86 93 24 44, Norsminde@norsminde-kro.dk. This historic kro boasts an outstanding high-end gourmet restaurant and a more informal and affordable brasserie serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert. There's also easy access to good beaches from this place. From kr 1198 (overnight stay, including afternoon tea, evening gourmet dinner, and breakfast). (updated May 2026)

Nearly all hotels supply free Wi-Fi and limited workspaces. Most cafés also offers free Wi-Fi for customers, but gazing into your laptop for more than half-an-hour in a café is usually disapproved and you are best advised to find another spot to satisfy your digital needs. In this case Aarhus's free municipal Wi-Fi network, Smart Aarhus, can be freely accessed in and around most public squares, parks, and institutions, including the Urban Mediaspace of Dokk1, where finding a spot to sit around should not be a problem.

If you need to use a computer, the library at Dokk1 has several terminals for public use, with Internet access through an SMS authentification system and printing services available for a fee. Also free Wi-Fi throughout the building.

In Denmark, all newer buildings — and quite a few older ones as well — are specially equipped with ramps, elevators, lifts, and sometimes escalators to help handicapped people navigate the public space. As well, the beeping sound you hear coming from the traffic lights at some of Aarhus' busier intersections are there to help visually impaired pedestrians know when it's safe to cross. Guide dogs are allowed in most places (even in some cinemas), and personnel are unusually friendly and helpful towards the handicapped.

The homeless in Aarhus are usually harmless (to the point where you could make small talk with many of them), and aggressive begging is uncommon. Many of them earn a nominal income selling the street newspaper Hus Forbi ("House Passed") to passersby in public places.

The city has seen an increase in foreign beggars since the mid-2010s, mostly from Romania. They have taken over a significant part of the Hus Forbi street sales as well.

8 Austria (Consul Steffen Ebdrup), Hans Broges Gade 2, 8000 Århus C, ☏ +45 89 34 00 00, seb@holst-law.com. (updated Jun 2019)

9 Belgium (Consul Carsten Henriksen), DOKK1, Hack Kampmanns Plads 2, Niveau 3, 8000 Århus C, ☏ +45 33 34 07 90, carsten.henriksen@dlpiper.com. (updated Jun 2019)

10 Burkina Faso (Consul Jens Pauli), Hjortevænget 11, 8270 Højbjerg, ☏ +45 40 27 76 24, konsulburkina@gmail.com. (updated Jun 2019)

Chile (Consul Kjeld Ranum), Skovboulevarden 8, Stevnstrup, 8870 Langå, ☏ +45 40 28 40 37, k.ranum@mail.tele.dk. (updated Jun 2019)

11 Croatia (Consul Jakob Østervang), Bech-Bruun, Værkmestergade 2, 8000 Århus C, ☏ +45 72 27 00 00, fax: +45 72 27 00 27, consulate.croatia@bechbruun.com. (updated Jun 2019)

Cyprus (Consul Zooulla Winding Jensen), Oldrupvej 57, 8350 Hundslund, ☏ +45 40 68 05 38, windingzoe@gmail.com. (updated Jun 2019)

Czech Republic (Consul Mark Stig Hellstern), Sofienlystvej 6-8, 8340 Malling, ☏ +45 88 80 82 40, aarhus@honorary.mzv.cz. (updated Jun 2019)

12 Estonia (Consul Claus Emil Engel Johansen), Østhavnsvej 5, 8000 Århus C, ☏ +45 70 10 05 55, fax: +45 70 20 05 75, sk@f-t.dk. (updated Jun 2019)

13 France (Consul Allan Aagaard), Skolegade 4, 8000 Århus C, ☏ +45 40 60 88 62, allan.aagaard@aarhusteater.dk. (updated Jun 2019)

14 Germany (Consul Klaus Schäfer), P.O. Pedersens Vej 10, 8200 Aarhus N, ☏ +45 28 92 23 98, aarhus@hk-diplo.de. (updated Jun 2019)

15 Hungary (Consul Heine Sveistrup Jensen), Helgesvej 18, 8230 Åbyhøj, ☏ +45 86 18 49 33, fax: +45 86 19 81 11, consul@huconsulate.com. (updated Jun 2019)

16 Iceland (Consul Carl Erik Skovgaard Sørensen), DLA Piper Denmark, DOKK 1, Hack Kampmanns Plads 2, 8000 Århus C, ☏ +45 33 34 00 00, fax: +45 33 34 00 01, carl.erik.skovgaard@dlapiper.com. (updated Jun 2019)

17 Italy (Consul Carlo Domenico Prola), Laksedalen 81, 8220 Brabrand, ☏ +45 42 37 69 65, carloprola@gmail.com. (updated Jun 2019)

18 Malta (Consul Mogens Ellerbæk), Flakvej 3, 8240 Risskov, maltaconsul.aarhus@gov.mt. (updated Jun 2019)

19 Mexico (Consul Klaus Erik Krogh), Stenvej 25 B, 1, 8270 Højbjerg, ☏ +45 87 40 80 00, mail@mexicon.ck. (updated Jun 2019)

20 Netherlands (Consul Jochem van Rijn), Vestre Skovvej 14, 8240 Risskov, ☏ +45 20 60 73 62, jochem.van.rijn@tmf-group.com. (updated Jun 2019)

21 Norway (Consul Erik Rasmussen), Axel Kiers Vej 13, 8270 Højbjerg, ☏ +45 23 28 02 48, konsulat@viabiler.dk. (updated Jun 2019)

Djursland is the "nose" of Jutland immediately northeast of Aarhus, a thinly-populated rural area where folks have made a living farming and fishing for millennia — a history you can get a sense of in the large historic 67 Gammel Estrup manorhouse-museum, at the 700-year old ruins of the 1 Kalø Castle, or by walking the cobblestoned streets in the preserved Medieval-era port town of Ebeltoft.

Both the Kalø Castle ruins and the rural port town of Ebeltoft are part of 1 Mols Bjerge National Park which comprises most of southern Djursland, perfect for hiking. Great sandy beaches abound, and if you are visiting in late spring or summer, 2 Femmøller Strand, 3 Grenå Strand, and 4 Bønnerup Strand are all well worth a trip. Many people visit or vacate here, just to experience the beachlife of these three spots, yet there are plenty of other good, but less popular, beaches throughout. The large Molskroen inn and beach hotel at Femmøller Strand is a fine destination for a stopover; it is home to one of the best restaurants in Denmark.

If animals are your thing, you'll find a pair of open-air zoos: 5 Skandinavisk Dyrepark with large animals related to Scandinavia exclusively, and 6 Ree Park with a plethora of exotic animals from all around the world. In the town of Randers, you can experience 7 a jungle zoo, and in the town of Grenå on the coast, you can swim with seals at the 8 Kattegatcentret aquarium.

Last, but not least, the 9 Djurs Sommerland amusement park is a very popular summer attraction, presenting the largest rollercoaster in Northern Europe. It is a fun 1-day jaunt from Aarhus for the whole family.

Søhøjlandet, the "lake-highlands", is a scenic region of forests, hills and lakes west and south of Aarhus that's historically important as the birthplace of the Danish national state and home to several medieval religious orders. The town of Silkeborg is central to this area, sometimes referred to as the "outdoor capital of Denmark", and the whole region presents good opportunities for nature experiences in the summer, including hiking, biking, canoeing, and various outdoor activities.

Visit Søhøjlandet as a one or two-day excursion from Aarhus, or book an extended stay in Silkeborg, at a local inn, hostel, or private bed & breakfast in this region. If you are ready for a long hike, the Aarhus-Silkeborg hiking trail leads all the way from the city centre of Aarhus to Silkeborg, through a varied rural landscape of waterways, woodlands, lakes, and meadows. In 2026, the extensive 175 kilometre long marked hiking trail of Gudenåstien was inaugurated, traversing the entire Gudenå River, which is central to the lake-highland landscape, nature, and history.

10 Himmelbjerget is a popular destination, presenting beautiful nature, history, and panoramic vistas across extensive woodlands. The name translates as "The Sky Mountain", as it is among the highest points in Denmark. At just 147 metres above sea level, this doesn't say much, but the views from the red brick tower at the top are indeed worth the climb, nevertheless.

In and around Silkeborg you'll find several impressive modern art museums, including 11 Museum Jorn dedicated to the late Asger Jorn specifically, one of the most influential modern artists of Scandinavia, the lively five-day Riverboat Jazz Festival in June, and an engaging aquarium park 12 AQUA Akvarium & Dyrepark, displaying native freshwater aquatic species tied to the lake-highlands. The small historic town of Skanderborg just south of Aarhus, was once the royal family's favorite hunting grounds, and home to an early important monastery of The Benedictine Order in Medieval times. Both the royal family and The Benedictine Order is long gone, but you can experience the rich religieous history of the region at the nearby 13 Øm Abbey Museum, and if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of some festive Danish royalty at the annual Smukfest music festival. The port town of Horsens, on the southern perimeter of Søhøjlandet, is also worth a visit, both for its charming townscape and its cultural attractions, including the annually recurring 14 Horsens Medieval Festival.

15 Samsø is clearly visible from Aarhus across the bay, and is accessible by ferry directly from the city center. The small catamaran ferry (no vehicles except bicycles), M/F Lilleør, docks behind the Dokk1 library. The pace slows on this pastoral island powered entirely by renewable energy. Plenty of sandy beaches, camping, horseback riding, golf and fine dining on offer. Popular music festival in the midst of July.

16 Tunø is a small island close to Samsø, and a perfect destination for a weekend trip in the summer. The route to Tunø is a bit more complicated, as you will have to go to the rural town of Hou south of Aarhus, to take the one-hour Tunøfærgen ferry. There is a primitive campsite next to the harbour and child-friendly sandy beaches abound. Good opportunities for surf fishing as well. It is a beautiful, slow-paced island where most of the residents are farmers. There is a small central village with a grocery shop and apart from bringing your own tent to the beachside camping grounds, you can pay more and stay in a small town house in the village, at the old inn, or rent a summerhouse for an extended stay. Bring your own bicycles or just your good old legs; cars are not allowed on this island.

Larger towns in Jutland of interest to tourists, and within easy reach from Aarhus, include:

Aalborg, the only large city in North Jutland, and home to the eponymous University of Aalborg. Experience the old historic center, as well as several cultural sights. A lively young student culture, and a lovely night life. Go to Jomfru Ane Gade, the longest bar street in Scandinavia, if you are looking for some nice partying.

Vejle, South Jutland's regional capital, boasts a range of history and art museums as well as Trekantsområdets Festuge, a 10-day regional cultural festival akin to Aarhus Festuge.

Viborg is - like Aarhus - an old Cathedral town with an interesting townscape full of history, quirky alleyways and summertime street life. It is a work-hard, play-hard town, home of one of Denmark's most popular and dominant football teams. Viborg has been administrative capital of the entire Region Midtjylland (Central Denmark Region) since 2007.

Odense, Denmark's third-largest city, after Aarhus, is located on the island of Funen and also a great base for tourists in its own right. It is also a university city, but is perhaps most famous abroad as the birthplace of fairy-tale fabulist Hans Christian Andersen, and it plays that connection to the hilt for the benefit of tourists: the house he grew up in is now a museum. Little Mermaid statues dot the town liberally, and there are parades and monuments in his honor.