Where to go, what to see, where to stay and what to eat if you’re heading to Aarhus for the first time

Central Aarhus on a sunny day — Aarhus is one of Denmark’s best cities for tourists | **Marc Lechanteur / Shutterstock**

There’s something about Aarhus that feels instantly welcoming. Perhaps it’s the easygoing charm of a city that seems to hum with quiet confidence, happy to let Copenhagen bask in the international limelight while it steadily builds its own reputation as Denmark’s best-kept secret. Or maybe it’s the fact that Aarhus, officially crowned as one of the happiest places in the world, seems to radiate an unshakable sense of contentment, as if the city itself is giving visitors a reassuring nod, saying, “Take your time. You’re going to love it here.”

For first-time visitors, Aarhus is a delightful discovery. Denmark’s second-largest city, perched on the eastern coast of the Jutland Peninsula, is an accessible, walkable, and endlessly fascinating blend of old-world history and sleek Scandinavian modernity.

It might not have the global name recognition of its bigger sibling, but what it lacks in fame, it more than makes up for in cultural treasures, mouthwatering food, and a distinctively Danish knack for effortlessly cool design. Whether you’re wandering through its historic Latin Quarter, strolling along its tranquil waterfront, or exploring its cutting-edge museums, Aarhus manages to strike a perfect balance between urban sophistication and small-town warmth.

The Best Time to Visit Aarhus

Snow across the city of Aarhus — Winter in Aarhus sees cold temperatures, but does often deliver magical snowy scenes | **RGTimmermann / Shutterstock**

Like any northern European city, Aarhus knows how to make the most of its fleeting summers. The long days and mild temperatures between June and August bring out a festival-loving spirit, with events like the massive Aarhus Festival—a ten-day cultural extravaganza kicking off on the last Friday in August—turning the city into one big celebration. NorthSide, a hip and carefully curated music festival, brings international acts to the city each June, while the more refined Flower Festival in Tivoli Friheden offers a more tranquil affair for those who prefer their summer outings with a side of botanical beauty.

That said, Aarhus is a joy to visit year-round. Autumn cloaks the city in crisp air and golden hues, creating the perfect backdrop for cozying up in one of its many stylish cafes. Winter, though cold, has its own charm, especially when the festive lights go up and the scent of spiced gløgg (Danish mulled wine) drifts through the air. Spring, meanwhile, is when the city reawakens—cherry blossoms pop along the streets, locals take their coffee outside, and everything seems to hum with renewed energy. No matter the season, Aarhus has a way of making visitors feel right at home.

Getting to Aarhus and Getting Around

Train in Aarhus — Like the rest of Denmark, Aarhus has a well-developed transportation network | **Karl Aage Isaksen / Shutterstock**

Reaching Aarhus is easier than you might think. While Aarhus Airport is technically the city’s own, it’s a modest operation, sitting 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the center and serving a smattering of seasonal airports and a shuttle to Copenhagen. The 925x bus service is your best bet for getting into town, with regular departures that take around 50 minutes.

However, many travelers opt for Billund Airport, a major hub for international flights, and from there, a scenic drive or train ride gets you to Aarhus in under two hours. If you’re coming from Copenhagen, the train journey is a breeze—just three hours of smooth travel through Denmark’s pastoral landscapes, depositing you right at Aarhus Central Station.

Once you arrive, you’ll quickly realize that Aarhus is a pedestrian’s dream. The compact city center makes walking the most enjoyable way to explore, and with so much visual charm along the way—from colorful townhouses to stylish boutiques—it would be a shame to rush through it. If you need to cover more ground, renting a bike is an excellent option; Denmark’s cycling infrastructure is second to none, and Aarhus is no exception. The city also has an efficient tram system (Letbane) and a solid bus network, though chances are you won’t need them much unless you’re venturing beyond the center.

Where to Stay

Hotel Royal exterior in Aarhus, Denmark — Aarhus’ Hotel Royal blends historic charm with a great central location | **Traveller70 / Shutterstock**

Aarhus offers a diverse range of accommodations, catering to every budget and travel style. For those seeking luxury, Hotel Royal is a top choice, blending historic charm with modern comfort. Located in the heart of the city, this elegant hotel features stunning interiors, an art collection, and easy access to Aarhus’s main attractions. If sleek Scandinavian design is what you’re after, Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel provides stylish rooms with panoramic views, plus a prime location near the ARoS Art Museum.

If you’re looking for a more boutique experience, you’ll love Hotel Oasia, a chic, minimalist hotel with a focus on sustainable design and cozy atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate understated elegance and a great night’s sleep.

On the budget-friendly side, BOOK1 Design Hostel redefines the hostel experience, offering a mix of dormitory-style and private rooms in a stylish setting that feels more like a modern boutique hotel. With an in-house bakery and social common areas, it’s a great option for travelers who want affordability without sacrificing style.

What to Pack

Packing for Aarhus depends largely on the season of your visit, but some essentials apply year-round. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the city’s charming cobblestone streets and waterfront paths are best explored on foot. A lightweight, waterproof jacket will come in handy regardless of the season—Danish weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers even in summer.

If you’re visiting in winter, layers are your best friend, along with a warm coat, scarf, and gloves to fend off the chill. In summer, pack sunglasses, light clothing, and perhaps a swimsuit if you plan on taking a dip in the harbor baths. Lastly, don’t forget a power adapter (Denmark uses Type K sockets) and a reusable water bottle, as Aarhus has some of the cleanest tap water in the world.

What to See and Do

This selection of sights and attractions offer the perfect introductory itinerary for first time visitors to Aarhus.

Walk Through a Rainbow at ARoS Art Museum

Rainbow art installation — ARoS features many modern and thought-provoking exhibits | **Samnata / Shutterstock**

There’s no missing ARoS, one of the largest art museums in Northern Europe. Its striking modernist architecture rises proudly in the city center, drawing over a million visitors each year. While the museum’s ten floors house an impressive collection—from contemporary Scandinavian art to classic masterpieces—it’s the rainbow-colored rooftop installation that truly steals the show.

Designed by Olafur Eliasson, the panoramic walkway bathes visitors in shifting hues as they move through it, offering a surreal, dreamlike perspective of the city below. It’s one of those rare art experiences that feels both playful and profound, an unmissable introduction to Aarhus’s creative spirit.

Step Back in Time at Den Gamle By

For history lovers, Den Gamle By (The Old Town) is a revelation. Unlike traditional open-air museums that focus solely on medieval history, this living museum dares to take visitors right up to the recent past. While you’ll find charming 18th-century cottages and cobbled streets straight out of a Hans Christian Andersen fairytale, what sets Den Gamle By apart is its immersive recreation of a 1970s Danish town.

Step into Paul’s Radio Shop and you’ll be greeted by shelves of vintage vinyl records and retro cassette players, all available for purchase. Wander into the recreated 2014 street and you might experience an eerie moment of recognition—yes, that really is a Blockbuster Video store, frozen in time as a tribute to a not-so-distant era. It’s history, nostalgia, and storytelling wrapped into one unforgettable experience.

Savor the Best of Danish Cuisine

Riverside cafes in Aarhus — Aarhus has a thriving dining and cafe scene | **trabantos / Shutterstock**

Aarhus has quietly become one of Denmark’s top foodie destinations, boasting four Michelin-starred restaurants and a vibrant street food scene. Aarhus Street Food is the perfect place to start, offering a lively, communal dining experience with stalls serving everything from fragrant Thai curries to traditional Danish smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches). For a refined Nordic dining experience, head to Frederikshøj, one of the city’s Michelin-starred gems, where local ingredients are transformed into exquisite tasting menus. Domestic, another Michelin-starred favorite, champions organic, hyper-local produce in a cozy, intimate setting.

For something more relaxed but equally delicious, Hærværk is an ever-evolving dining spot that crafts its menu daily based on the freshest available ingredients, ensuring no two visits are the same. Those with a sweet tooth should make their way to La Cabra Coffee, a renowned specialty café and bakery serving expertly brewed coffee alongside perfectly flaky croissants. Meat lovers will appreciate Olinico, a small but outstanding eatery specializing in gourmet sandwiches and juicy cuts of meat. Meanwhile, those craving international flavors should stop by Restaurant Kowloon for authentic Chinese cuisine or Soya for some of the best sushi in town.

For a deeper dive into the local culinary scene, the city’s Food Walk tours provide an excellent introduction, guiding visitors through the best bakeries, breweries, and hidden gems while offering plenty of tasty samples along the way.

Explore the Harbor and Enjoy Modern Architecture

Aarhus Harbour showcases the city’s focus on a sustainable future | **Kenneth Bagge Jorgensen / Shutterstock**

Aarhus isn’t just about history—it’s a city looking firmly towards the future, and nowhere is that more evident than along its ever-evolving harborfront. Dokk1, Scandinavia’s largest library, is more than just a place for books; its angular, futuristic design is a sight to behold, and inside, cultural events and interactive installations make it a dynamic gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Further north, the striking Iceberg apartments—a collection of jagged, angular buildings designed to resemble floating ice—add a dramatic touch to the skyline. On warm days, the harbor’s outdoor swimming baths provide the perfect spot for a refreshing dip, proving that Aarhus has mastered the art of blending urban life with nature.

Aarhus: The Perfect Danish Escape

Cycling is one of the best ways to get around Aarhus’ heavily-pedestrianised streets | **LeonHansenPhoto / Shutterstock**

First-time visitors to Aarhus often arrive with little expectation, but they leave with a deep appreciation for this effortlessly cool, welcoming city. It’s a place where history and innovation exist side by side, where cozy cafes line historic streets, and where the sea breeze carries a sense of possibility. Whether you come for the art, the food, or simply to experience the warmth of Danish hospitality, Aarhus has a way of capturing hearts. So take your time, soak it all in, and let this city surprise you—because if there’s one thing Aarhus does best, it’s making visitors feel right at home.