7 days in Aarhus, Denmark: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city, is an absolute gem. Overflowing with rich history, cutting-edge architecture, art, and gastronomy, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of the Latin Quarter, immerse yourself in history at Den Gamle By Open-Air Museum, or take in the views from ARoS Aarhus Art Museum’s rainbow panorama. Trust me, my friends, Aarhus will keep you entertained and amazed.
Things to Consider Before Arriving to Aarhus
• A balance of modernity and history: Aarhus effortlessly combines the charm of historical buildings with modern architectural wonders.
• A haven for foodies: Be ready to indulge in the best of Danish cuisine, as Aarhus boasts a vast array of restaurants, bars, and cafes.
• Accessibility: Navigating the cobbled streets can be challenging for people with mobility issues.
• Best for: Culture and art enthusiasts, history buffs, and food lovers.
What to Bring with You
• Comfortable walking shoes: With so many places to explore, it’s essential to wear comfortable footwear.
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Aarhus’ weather can be unpredictable, so bring a mix of clothes, including a raincoat and an umbrella.
• A universal adapter: Denmark uses the Type K outlet, so make sure you have a proper adapter for your gadgets.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
There’s no bad time to visit Aarhus, but if you’re looking for the best experience, aim for summer (June to August). During this time, the city enjoys long daylight hours, comfortable temperatures, and plenty of outdoor events.
Getting into the City
• By plane: Aarhus Airport (AAR) is located about 43km from the city center. You can take the airport bus (shuttle) service which drops you in the city center, or get a taxi.
• By train: Aarhus Central Station connects the city to other major Danish and European cities. You can get there by train via the national train company, DSB, or another regional provider.
• By car: If you prefer a road trip, Aarhus is connected to major highways, making it easy to reach from different parts of Denmark or neighboring countries. Be prepared, though, as parking fees in the city might be on the pricier side.
7 Day City Guide Trip to Aarhus, Denmark
Day 1: Arrive and Explore the City
Welcome to Aarhus! Start your trip by wandering through the charming streets of the Latin Quarter, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. Make sure to visit the stunning Aarhus Cathedral and the towering Aros Art Museum, which houses a unique rainbow panorama rooftop. Enjoy some traditional Danish cuisine at Jensens Bøfhus for dinner.
Day 2: Visit the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum and the Botanical Garden
Spend your second day at the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, where you can immerse yourself in contemporary art. In the afternoon, walk to the nearby University of Aarhus Botanical Garden, which features 4500 different plant species. End the day with dinner and drinks at the cozy and trendy restaurant and bar, AroS Food Hall.
Day 3: Explore the Countryside and the Old Town of Silkeborg
Take a day trip to the idyllic Silkeborg, just 45 minutes away by train, and enjoy the scenic countryside on the way. Visit the Museum Jorn, which showcases the works of Danish artist Asger Jorn and other artists. Afterward, go for a stroll in the Old Town and see the quaint houses and fascinating museums. Enjoy a delicious meal at the Michelin-starred restaurant Frederikshøj.
Day 4: Take a Bike Tour and Visit the Viking Museum
Rent a bike and enjoy a leisurely ride through the beautiful forests that surround Aarhus. Stop by the Moesgaard Museum, where you can learn all about Viking history and culture. Enjoy dinner at the cozy and intimate restaurant, Italian Dining.
Day 5: Visit Marselisborg Palace and Den Gamle By
Start your day by visiting the impressive Marselisborg Palace, the summer residence of the Danish Royal Family. Then, head over to Den Gamle By, an open-air museum that features more than 40 historical houses from different periods. Enjoy dinner at the highly rated restaurant, Sct. Oluf.
Day 6: Visit the Tivoli Friheden Amusement Park and the Music Museum
Take a day trip to the Tivoli Friheden Amusement Park and enjoy the fun rides, games, and food stalls. Afterward, walk to the nearby Music Museum, which showcases the rich music history of Denmark. For dinner, visit the cozy and charming Pinden Restaurant.
Day 7: Explore the City by Boat and Visit the Central Market
End your trip by taking a relaxing boat tour on the river that flows through the city and see Aarhus from a different perspective. Visit the Central Market, where you can find delicious local and organic produce and indulge in some street food. For dinner, visit the cozy and friendly restaurant, Mefisto.
How to Continue Your Travel After You Have Spent 7 Days in Aarhus, Denmark
After spending a week in charming Aarhus, consider taking a day trip to the nearby city of Randers, where you can visit the impressive Randers Regnskov, a tropical rainforest zoo. Another option is to visit the coastal city of Skagen, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant art scene. Just take a train ride to Frederikshavn and then hop on a bus to Skagen – it only takes about 90 minutes!
