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Aarhus may be Denmark’s second-largest city, but it has all the charm and soul of a creative capital. Set along the east coast of the Jutland peninsula, Aarhus blends Viking roots with youthful energ. This is due to its large student population and thriving art scene. Whether you’re into museums, street food, architecture, or nature, there are various things to do in Aarhus. This destination is cosy, cool, and packed with a personality ideal for a weekend escape or a longer Nordic adventure.
Top 10 Things To Do In Aarhus
From Viking history to modern art, Aarhus offers a perfect mix of experiences. Here are the top 10 things to do in Aarhus:
1. Explore Den Gamle By (The Old Town)
Photo: Villy Fink Isaksen / Wikimedia Commons
Den Gamle By is a museum that feels exactly like the time travel experience in the modern world. Located in the heart of Aarhus, this open-air museum recreates Danish urban life across centuries. You’ll walk through cobbled streets, step into old homes, peek inside vintage shops, and interact with costumed interpreters who bring history to life. There are different sections representing different eras, including a nostalgic 1970s neighbourhood. The museum also includes workshops, exhibitions, and seasonal activities.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Location: Viborgvej 2, 8000 Aarhus C
2. Visit ARoS Aarhus Art Museum
Photo: SmartDrones Aarhus / Wikimedia Commons
ARoS is one of the leading art museums in Northern Europe. It is famous for its rainbow-colored rooftop walkway, “Your rainbow panorama” by Olafur Eliasson. But the magic starts from the moment you enter nine floors of art, starting from the dark, myth-inspired installations in the basement to the light-filled contemporary galleries above. The museum covers both Danish and international artists and is known for pushing the boundaries of creativity. The panoramic rooftop offers incredible city views and makes it one of the best photo ops in Aarhus.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 4 hours
Location: Aros Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus C
3. Take A Walk In The Botanical Garden
Photo: AlixSaz / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Botanical Garden in Aarhus is a green retreat right in the city, offering visitors a quiet place to unwind. It’s home to several themed gardens, tropical greenhouses, and peaceful walking paths. You can explore exotic plants, enjoy a picnic under old trees, or walk along nature trails that are especially stunning in spring and autumn. The greenhouses are a highlight, being warm, immersive, and home to hundreds of species from different climates. Whether you’re a plant lover or just need a breather, this garden is a refreshing pause in your itinerary.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Location: Vestre Ringgade 1, 8000 Aarhus C
4. Stroll Along The Aarhus Waterfront
Photo: Michal Klajban / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Aarhus is the city’s modern waterfront district, where architecture, lifestyle, and nature all meet. Walk along sleek boardwalks, admire striking buildings like the Iceberg apartments, and grab a coffee or ice cream while enjoying sea views. The harbour baths and infinity bridges are great for summer dips, while the benches and open areas invite you to just sit and enjoy the sea breeze. At night, the reflections of city lights across the water turn the area into a serene and photogenic escape, making it one of the best things to do in Aarhus at night.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Location: Aarhus, 8000 Aarhus C
5. Enjoy The Street Food At Aarhus Street Food Market
Photo: Marcin Konsek / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Aarhus Street Food is where the city’s global flavours meet its laid-back, communal vibe. Located in a repurposed bus garage near the central station, it’s a haven for food lovers. Inside, you’ll find more than 30 stalls offering everything from Thai curry and Mexican tacos to Danish specialities and vegan treats. The seating is casual, often shared, and there’s usually music or a buzz of conversation in the air. It’s lively during the day and even more fun at night especially with a local beer in hand and good company at your table.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Location: Ny Banegårdsgade 46, 8000 Aarhus
6. Discover Moesgaard Museum (MOMU)
Photo: Aspatrian / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Just a short drive from the city, Moesgaard Museum is a striking mix of ancient history and modern architecture. Built into a grassy hillside, it hosts one of Denmark’s most exciting archaeological and ethnographic collections. You’ll find Viking relics, Iron Age weapons, and the famous Grauballe Man, an incredibly preserved bog body. The exhibitions are immersive, using lights, storytelling, and sound to bring history alive. Even the museum café and outdoor rooftop are worth the visit. It’s both educational and visually stunning, perfect for travellers of all ages.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Location: Moesgård Allé 15, 8270 Højbjerg
7. Climb The Salling Rooftop Terrace
Photo: Leif Jørgensen / Wikimedia Commons
One of the best-hidden gems in central Aarhus is the rooftop of the Salling department store. Free to enter and unexpected, this spot offers panoramic views of the city skyline. There’s a glass skywalk for the brave, stylish seating areas, and even a rooftop café for coffee or wine. It’s a peaceful escape by day and an atmospheric hangout at night, making it one of the top things to do in Aarhus at night. You can explore the shopping floors below before heading up for the view.
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Location: Søndergade 27, 8000 Aarhus C
8. Relax At Marselisborg Deer Park
Photo: RhinoMind / Wikimedia Commons
Located just outside the city near the forest and beach, Marselisborg Deer Park offers a serene encounter with nature. This fenced woodland area is home to free-roaming deer that you can feed and photograph. Families, couples, and solo travellers often come here to walk the trails, enjoy the peace, or just sit with the animals. It’s especially lovely in the late afternoon, and even more magical during snowfall. Bring carrots or apples, and the deer will likely come right up to you for an unforgettable experience in Aarhus.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Location: Ørneredevej 6, 8270 Højbjerg
9. See A Performance At Aarhus Theatre
Photo: RhinoMind / Wikimedia Commons
Built in 1900, Aarhus Theatre is not only a landmark, it’s one of the most active performance venues in Denmark. With its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, intricate interiors, and top-tier productions, catching a play here feels like stepping into a different world. They offer a range of performances, from classic Shakespeare to bold contemporary plays and musicals. Even if you don’t understand Danish, the atmosphere, staging, and creativity are worth it. At night, the theatre lights up beautifully making this a fantastic cultural thing to do in Aarhus at night.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Location: Teatergaden 1, 8000 Aarhus C
10. Cruise The Aarhus River By Kayak Or Canoe
Photo: Sten Porse / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For a unique way to see the city, rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the Aarhus River. This calm urban waterway winds through green parks, under charming bridges, and past some of the city’s coolest cafés and architecture. It’s a relaxing but active option for travellers who want something different. You can go solo or in pairs, and many rental companies offer guided tours as well. In the evening, as the lights reflect on the water, it becomes a romantic and peaceful adventure ideal for couples or quiet explorers.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Location: Start from Mølleparken or Dokk1 area
Aarhus is more than Denmark’s second-largest city. It’s a vibrant blend of modern culture, Viking history, green spaces, and coastal charm. Whether you’re wandering through immersive museums or catching a show under the night sky, the city offers something for every kind of traveller. From daytime adventures to atmospheric things to do in Aarhus at night, this coastal gem is full of things to do in Aarhus. Don’t just pass through stay, experience, and soak in its unique energy. Plan your trip with TripXL now!
Cover Photo: Julius Yls / Unsplash
