Things to Do in Aarhus, Denmark

Welcome to Aarhus! Whether you’re here only for ASSW 2026 or extending your stay, Denmark’s second-largest city offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, nature, and culinary excellence. The Visit Aarhus website is the most comprehensive source of local information. Below are some specific recommendations to help you make the most of your time in Aarhus.

 

🚌 Getting Around

Aarhus is a compact, walkable city with an excellent public transportation system including buses and the light rail (Letbanen). Bicycles are widely available through rental services, and the city is very bike-friendly.

Useful Links:

• Journey Planning: Rejseplanen – Plan all journeys across Denmark via bus, train, and light rail. Also available as an app.
• Tickets & Info: Midttrafik – Purchase tickets and access transport information (app available).
• Bike Rental: Donkey Republic – Rent city bikes 24/7 through the app.
• Taxis: Aarhus Taxa – Book a taxi online or by phone. (Note: Uber and Lyft are not available in Denmark.)

 

🎨 Cultural Experiences 

• ARoS Aarhus Art Museum – Famous for the “Rainbow Panorama”. The museum offers workshops and activities for the whole family. Website 
• Den Gamle By – The Old Town – An open-air museum and living time travel experience with historic buildings, performers, and fun activities for children. Free admission for visitors under 18. Website 
• DOKK1 – A modern cultural center with play zones, children’s theater, and the outdoor playground “Kloden”. Website 
• Moesgaard Museum – Interactive historical exhibitions, treasure hunts for kids, and the chance to run on the museum’s roof or take the ancient path down to the beach. Website 
• Science museums website 
  • Natural History Museum & Steno Museum – Great for kids to explore nature, science, the universe, and astronomy at eye level. Website 
  • The Greenhouses in the Botanical Garden – Walk through four climate zones with exotic plants, butterflies, and tropical air. Free entrance for everyone. Website 
  • Herbarium - The herbarium of Aarhus University houses about 750,000 specimens of dried and pressed plants. website 
• The Greenlandic House (Det Grønlandske Hus) – A cultural and community center, Greenlandic cultural activities, and a small shop featuring Greenlandic products. It serves Greenland-connected residents and students in the Midtjylland region. Website 
• Godsbanen – A 10,500 m² cultural production center offering workshops, exhibitions, performances, and maker spaces.
• Salling Rooftop – A public rooftop garden with panoramic city views, located above the Salling department store (free entry).

 

🌳 Nature Experiences 

• Marselisborg Deer Park – Get close to peaceful deer and wild boars. Located near the large playground in Mindeparken. Website 
• Mindeparken – Memorial Park - Perfect for picnics, play, and enjoying the waterfront – with playgrounds and large green areas. Website 
• Forstbotanisk Have – Forest Botanical Garden – Small botanical collections with many tree species, plus opportunities to spot squirrels and birds. website 
• Marselisborg Forests – Expansive woods offering trails, beaches, and views over Aarhus Bay.
• Den Permanente Beach – A popular city beach with clean water and facilities, close to the city center.

 

🚶‍♂️ Day Trips & Nearby Attractions 

• Mols Bjerge National Park – Beautiful hiking routes in Djursland. Website 
• Ree Park Safari – Wildlife park with animals from around the world. Website 
• Randers Regnskov – Indoor rainforest adventure. Website 
• AQUA Aquarium & Wildlife Park (Silkeborg) – Nordic freshwater aquarium with animals and outdoor play areas. Website 
• Kalø Castle Ruins (Kalø Slotsruin) – Picturesque ruins of a medieval castle surrounded by fjord views and walking paths.

 

🍝 Food and Drink

Aarhus is a rising star in the Nordic food scene, offering everything from casual street food to Michelin-starred dining, as well as an impressive café culture.

Local Recommendations:

• Aarhus Street Food – A bustling indoor market with food stalls from around the world.
• Nicolinehus – A newer indoor market located on Aarhus Ø, offering food, drinks, and harbor views.
• Restaurant Domestic – Michelin-starred restaurant featuring innovative Nordic cuisine made with local ingredients.
• Langhoff & Juul – A cozy and organic bistro serving Danish comfort food.
• La Cabra – Renowned café and bakery with specialty coffee and sourdough.
• Jumbo Bakery – A stylish café and bakery known for its relaxed atmosphere and creative bakes.

See more at Visit Aarhus – Eat & Drink.

 

👣 Exploring the City on Foot

Aarhus is a city best experienced at street level. Walking is one of the most popular ways to take in its charm, with cozy neighborhoods, historic buildings, and vibrant public spaces just steps away.

• Latinerkvarteret (The Latin Quarter) – Aarhus’ oldest neighborhood, full of narrow cobbled streets, independent shops, cafés, galleries, and a creative, relaxed atmosphere.
• Gågaden / Strøget – The main pedestrian shopping street, stretching through the heart of the city, lined with boutiques, bakeries, and street performers.

Wandering without a fixed destination is part of the Aarhus experience—there’s always something to discover around the next corner.

 

☀️ Weather & Local Tips

• Aarhus weather in March and April can be cool and changeable. Pack layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy walking shoes.
• English is widely spoken, and locals are friendly and welcoming.
• Tap water is clean and safe to drink—bring a refillable bottle to stay hydrated.

 

For the latest events, dining tips, and visitor resources, visit the official Visit Aarhus website.