Aarhus

Aarhus, Denmark's second-largest city, offers visitors a range of experiences. You can walk through a rainbow-colored skywalk at ARoS museum, explore cobblestone streets in the Latin Quarter, or step back in time at Den Gamle By open-air museum. The city's Gothic cathedral stands tall in the skyline, while a nearby deer park provides a calm space for nature lovers. Due to its compact size, you can easily explore Aarhus in just a few days.

Exploring ARoS Art Museum

ARoS Art Museum is one of Aarhus' most recognizable buildings. The museum contains Danish and international art from the 18th century to today. Its circular skywalk, "Your Rainbow Panorama" by Olafur Eliasson, allows you to see Aarhus through rainbow-colored glass. The museum's nine floors hold exhibitions that change regularly. On the lower level, you'll find the giant "Boy" sculpture by Ron Mueck, which appears both lifelike and unusual.

Experiencing Danish History at Den Gamle By

Den Gamle By (The Old Town) takes you through Danish urban life from the 1500s to the 1970s. This open-air museum has 75 buildings moved from various parts of Denmark. You'll walk on cobblestone streets, look inside old shops, and meet people in period costumes going about their daily activities. The museum shows life in three time periods: 1864, 1927, and 1974. Each area demonstrates how Danes lived, worked, and spent their free time in different eras. The 1974 section recreates a typical Danish town during the hippie period.

Admiring Aarhus Cathedral

Aarhus Cathedral's 96-meter tower is visible throughout the city. Built in the 12th century, it's Denmark's longest and tallest church. Inside, you'll see Gothic architecture, detailed frescoes, and a large altarpiece from the 15th century. You can go up the tower for views of Aarhus. In the cathedral's crypt, an archaeological museum shows remains of earlier churches on the site, dating back to the Viking age.

Discovering Ancient History at Moesgaard Museum

Just outside the city, Moesgaard Museum focuses on Danish prehistory and archaeology. The modern building appears to come out of the hillside, with a sloping grass roof you can walk on. Inside, you'll find exhibits from the Stone Age to the Viking Age. One key exhibit is the Grauballe Man, a well-preserved Iron Age bog body. The museum uses modern technology in its displays, making you feel like you're walking through different historical periods.

Exploring the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter, Aarhus' oldest neighborhood, dates back to the 14th century. Its narrow, cobblestone streets have colorful houses, small shops, cafes, and art galleries. This area has a relaxed atmosphere and is good for a slow walk. You can get coffee at La Cabra or look through records at Dandelion Records. The Latin Quarter also has many restaurants, serving both Danish and international food.

Getting Around Aarhus

Many of Aarhus' sights are within walking distance of each other. For longer trips, you can use the city's bus and light rail system. Cycling is common, with many bike lanes throughout the city. You can rent a bike from several bike-sharing services. If you plan to use public transport often, consider getting an Aarhus Card. This gives you unlimited travel on buses and light rail, and free or cheaper entry to many places of interest.