From its Viking roots to its contemporary architectural masterpieces, Aarhus is a city with a rich history and a keen eye on the future.
Just a few kilometres from the Aarhus port is "Den Gamle By," a captivating open-air museum that invites visitors to step back in time. Unlike any other museum in Denmark, Den Gamle By showcases the full spectrum of Danish urban history and culture. Here, you can walk through townscapes that span three centuries, including houses and shops brought here from all corners of the country and meticulously reconstructed to reflect various eras. Explore the cobbled streets and you'll encounter characters in period costumes, from bakers to blacksmiths, who add to the immersive experience. The museum also features exhibitions on Danish art, culture and history, making it a treasure trove of education and entertainment. Whether you're watching a 19th-century silversmith at work or tasting traditional Danish pastries from a 1927 bakery, Den Gamle By offers a unique and engaging experience for all ages.
A short distance from the port, ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is one of the largest art museums in Northern Europe. Known for its visually striking architecture, including the colourful panoramic rainbow walkway on its rooftop, ARoS presents a world-class art experience. The museum's extensive collection includes works from the Golden Age of Danish painting to contemporary art installations. One of the museum's highlights is "Your Rainbow Panorama," a creation by the renowned artist Olafur Eliasson. This circular skywalk offers a 360-degree view of the city, but the real magic lies in the kaleidoscope effect created by the walkway's coloured glass. Beneath this, the nine spaces of the museum offer a journey through themed galleries with art from the Danish Golden Age to the present day, including works by international artists. ARoS is not just a museum but a cultural space for relaxation, reflection and inspiration.
Situated in a scenic area south of Aarhus, the Moesgaard Museum (MOMU) is an anthropological and archaeological museum offering state-of-the-art experiences. With its ultra-modern, sloping roof design, which doubles as a viewpoint and picnic area, the museum integrates seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Inside, the Moesgaard Museum brings Denmark's past to life with its impressive collection of archaeological and ethnographic artefacts. The standout exhibit is the Grauballe Man, the best-preserved bog body ever discovered, dating back to the Iron Age. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on diverse international cultures and histories.
Which cruise lines sail to Aarhus?
