Aarhus is a wonderful setting to explore Danish history and modern culture.  It’s Denmark’s second largest city and one of the oldest cities in Scandinavia.  Yet it’s compact enough for an interesting walking tour.   I enjoyed my day here and love sharing my Aarhus Denmark highlights tour.  So, read on to learn about what to see and do in this charming city. 

On the Jutland peninsula’s east coast on the mouth of the Aarhus River, Aarhus is about 187 km north of Copenhagen.  Overall, there is plenty to see on a walking tour with many historic buildings, romantic canals, museums, sculpture, shops and cafes.  I started my day off at the Den Gamle By early before the crowds set in and then followed this path outlined in this article. 

Aarhus Denmark Highlights Tour

Den Gamle By (Old Town)

Opening at 10:00 am, Den Gamle By is a must-see living museum in Arhus and the first open-air museum of urban history in the world.  It has more than 80 houses dating back from 1600 to 1970.  These houses were collected from all over Denmark.  Overall, the authentic setting includes large cobblestone pathways, 34 workshops, pharmacy, school, post office and the theatre hosts opera performances, chamber concerts and festivals. 

There are even bakeries with cakes based on pre 1885 recipes and a vintage car dealership.  People are dressed in costumes and visitors can catch a horse and coach ride throughout the cobblestone roads.  Also, there is the Danish Poster Museum, the Silver Collection, Toy Museum and Aarhus Story. 

Botanical Garden

Lying adjacent to Den Gamle By is the Aarhus Botanical Garden.  Trails take you through about 21.5 acres (53 acres) of gardens.  Originally, this was created for the studies at Aarhus University.  So, all the plants are labeled in both English and Danish.   These gardens are both beautiful and educational for an insightful walking tour.   In addition, there is a large greenhouse in the center, an open-air Amphitheatre and 2 ponds. 

Aarhus Canal

Throughout the city is this remarkable Aarus Canal.  Numerous eclectic cafes, restaurants and shops line up along the canal.  This is a great place to have a meal or just relax for a bit.  Also, there is areas with seating to just sit and take it all in. 

AROS Modern Art Museum and Rainbow Bridge

The AROS Museum is another must-see in Aarhus.  One of it’s highlights is the Rainbow Panorama Walkway on the roof of the museum.  This circular walkway takes you through the spectrum of color with vibrant, panoramic views of the city.  Also, on the roof is a café with seating to take it all in.  This was designed by Icelander, Olafur Eliasson.  Inside the museum has 10 floors with paintings, sculptures, installations, art videos and drawings.

Other Landmarks for a Walking Tour

I also walked by the Aarhus Cathedral, Denmark’s longest and tallest church.  Its belltower stands at 310 feet and the interior has gorgeous frescoes from 14^th and 15^th centuries.   The Latin Quarter is the city’s oldest district with 18^th century merchant houses and courtyards.  Also, the Town Hall is incredible and covered in Norwegian marble.

Enjoy Aarhus!

This town is a perfect day tour.   I loved that it is so compact with all the highlights within walking distance from each other.  This is not Copenhagen or Stockholm, but the charm and convenience of this marvel make it just as wonderful.  If your travels bring you to Aarhus, feel free to leave tips or suggestions below.

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