Aarhus, the city on the eastern coast of Denmark’s Jutland has it all
a beautiful seaside, forests and parks, a vibrant city life,a lively nightlife, great museums and loads of cultural events, delicious Nordic food, Danish design and a lot of hygge. But Denmark’s second largest city rarely gets a moment in the limelight because Copenhagen gets all the attention. This year, however, the university town finally steps out of Copenhagen’s shadow and is definitely a place to visit in 2017.
Let’s rethink
On January 21, Aarhus officially opened the year as European Capital of Culture with a spectacular show and light-procession through the city. It will be a year full offestivals, exhibitions and events for everyone in Aarhus and the 18 other municipalities in Central Denmark Region.
In an era of constant change and challenges at different levels, the motto is Let’s rethink - a theme that invites to rethink current models and create sustainable and alternative solutions.
A city of old and new – take a tour
Aarhus being Capital of Culture is just one reason why you should put the Danish city on your bucket list. The combination ofthe old and the new, the historic heritage and the modern city life, makes Aarhus so unique and creates a wonderful,relaxed atmosphere which you will notice for sure when you wander around the streets. There are so many things to see and do and the best way to get around is a biking. You can either rent a bike, or pica free city bike which can be found at one of the many bike stations in the city. So,do it like the Danes, get on a bike and start exploring Aarhus. Here is some inspiration for your tour.
Vibrant city centre
You can find numerous shops, bars, restaurants and cosy cafés along the canal which runs through the lively city centre.Close to the city centre is the city’s oldest and most picturesque neighbourhood, theLatin Quarter. The cobblestoned streets are filled with more cosy cafés creating a very relaxed atmosphere. Right around the corner is Møllestien, Aarhus’ prettiest street with pastel-coloured house facadesfrom the 18th century. Don’t miss this idyllic, little street.
Harbor area
As you walk along the canal, you will end up in the harbor area, right in front of DOKK 1, a brand-new culture and multimedia centre which houses Scandinavia’s largest library. It is one of the architectural masterpieces at the waterfront. The whole harbor area was transformed and extended into a bright modern quarter, Aarhus Ø, which is definitely worth to visit.
Aarhus and History
Aarhus was founded as a Viking settlement in the 8th century. To get a great insight into the city’s history, visit Den Gamle By, the Old Town. History comes to life in this open-air museum as you walk around and meet people from the past.
The museum is located next to the Botanical Garden, a big park in the heart of Aarhus. It is a wonderful place to have a picnic and enjoy some nature. Right in the park is the Tropical House, a huge white bubble, where you can see plants from around the world.
More museums
Among a wide range of museums, ARoS and Moesgaard Museum are the most famous.
ARoS, Aarhus Art museum is an internationally renowned art museum. On top of the museum is a rainbow panorama, a colored glass walkway where you have an incredible view on the city.
Moesgaard Museum is a prehistory museum, located a little outside the city. The museum building itself is already an attraction: an architectural masterpiece with a grass rooftop.
More nature
If you are an outdoor person or you just want to change your mind after a day in museums, cycle along the coast southwards. The view on the sea is great and you will end at the Ballehage Beach, a sandy beach near the Marselisborg Forest. In the forest lies theDeer park, where sika and fallow deer live. Bring some carrots or apples and you can get really close to them. Close to the Deer park is the Marselisborg Palace, the summer residence of the Danish royal family. The Queen’s rose garden and the area around the palace is open to the public.
Obviously, these are just some of Aarhus’ beaches, forests and parks.
Aarhus has everything to become the next big European destination. And whether you just visit to enjoy some of the cultural events this year or explore the whole city, it will definitely be worth it!