KØN – Gender Museum Denmark
One of the world's few museums exploring gender, equality, and sexuality through history and contemporary dialogue.
KØN is one of the world's few museums dedicated to the cultural history of gender, equality, and sexuality. Housed in the former Aarhus City Hall (built 1857), this intimate museum explores gender roles, sex education history, the women's movement, and contemporary gender issues through permanent and rotating exhibitions. The museum also hosts talks, workshops, and debates, and features a welcoming café with free entry.
A brief summary to KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
- Domkirkepladsen 5, Aarhus, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- +4525454510
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for a meaningful visit to the permanent exhibitions. The museum is intimate in scale, making it easy to explore thoroughly without feeling rushed.
- Check the website for upcoming talks, panel debates, and workshops. These events offer deeper engagement with the museum's themes and often feature guest speakers and community members.
- Visit the café for a quiet break or light meal. Entry is free, and it's a pleasant spot to reflect on the exhibitions or simply enjoy the atmosphere in central Aarhus.
- The stained glass windows in the historic building are worth noticing as you move through the space. They reflect the building's original civic purpose and add to the architectural experience.
- If visiting with children, ask staff about the hands-on areas and interactive exhibits designed for younger visitors to engage with gender history in an age-appropriate way.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Public Bus
Multiple bus routes serve central Aarhus and stop near Domkirkepladsen. Journey times from Aarhus Central Station are typically 5–15 minutes depending on the route. Single tickets cost approximately 24 DKK; day passes are around 80 DKK. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with reduced service on Sundays.
-
Walking from Aarhus Central Station
The museum is approximately 800 metres from Aarhus Central Station, a pleasant 10–12 minute walk through the city centre. Head north through the pedestrian shopping streets toward the Cathedral quarter. The route is flat, well-lit, and passes through busy commercial areas, making it accessible and safe.
-
Bicycle
Aarhus is highly bike-friendly with extensive cycle lanes throughout the city. The museum is easily reachable by bicycle from most central locations within 5–15 minutes. Bike parking facilities are available near Domkirkepladsen. Rental bikes are available at several stations across the city for approximately 30–50 DKK per day.
-
Parking and Car Access
Multiple paid parking facilities are located nearby, including parking by Dokk1 library, Navitas shopping centre, and the Magasin department store. Disabled parking is available in front of Hotel Royal, across from the Cathedral. Standard parking rates in central Aarhus are approximately 25–35 DKK per hour; disabled spaces are free. Street parking is limited and time-restricted.
KØN - Gender Museum Denmark location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
A Museum Born from Grassroots Activism
KØN – Gender Museum Denmark began as a grassroots movement in 1982, founded by a group of women in Aarhus determined to ensure women's representation in Danish museums. Originally called Kvindemuseet (Women's Museum), it operated as a volunteer-driven association before gaining state recognition in 1991 as a national specialist museum. In 2021, the museum expanded its scope and mission, rebranding as KØN to reflect a broader focus on the cultural history of gender, sexuality, and equality across all genders and identities. This evolution mirrors Denmark's changing social landscape and the museum's commitment to inclusive dialogue.The Historic Building and Its Significance
Since 1984, KØN has occupied the former Aarhus City Hall, an elegant 19th-century structure completed in 1857. The building's architectural heritage adds gravitas to the museum's mission, creating a striking contrast between its classical exterior and the contemporary conversations happening within. Located at Domkirkepladsen 5 in the heart of central Aarhus, the museum sits in a vibrant cultural quarter near the Cathedral and other civic landmarks. The historic setting reinforces the museum's role as a custodian of cultural memory while simultaneously challenging visitors to reconsider how gender and equality have shaped Danish society.Permanent Exhibitions and Thematic Explorations
The museum's permanent exhibitions invite visitors to explore the history of sex education in Denmark, trace the development of the women's movement from pioneering figures like Mathilde Fibiger to contemporary movements like #metoo, and examine how gender roles have evolved over time. One notable permanent exhibition, "The History of Boys and Girls," examines childhood experiences and gender socialization across generations. The museum also features a "Wall of Body Activism" and explores interconnections between gender and other social issues, including food, climate, and cycling. These exhibitions are designed to provoke thought and encourage debate rather than present a single narrative.Rotating Exhibitions and Contemporary Discourse
Beyond its permanent collections, KØN regularly presents thematic and contemporary art exhibitions that keep the museum's dialogue fresh and relevant. Recent exhibitions have tackled topics such as gender and food systems, masculinity and meat consumption, veganism, and climate justice. These rotating shows ensure that the museum remains a living platform for reflection on how gender intersects with pressing social and environmental issues. The curatorial approach emphasizes accessibility and engagement, inviting visitors of all backgrounds to participate in conversations about equality, diversity, and social change.A Hub for Dialogue and Community Engagement
KØN positions itself as a leading dialogue creator on the importance of gender in society. Throughout the year, the museum hosts talks, discussion salons, panel debates, and educational workshops designed to deepen understanding and foster critical thinking. The museum offers dialogue-based and student-centered educational programs for school groups, covering topics such as gender, equality, sexuality, body image, democracy, and citizenship. These initiatives reflect the museum's foundational belief that gender is not merely a historical topic but a living issue that shapes contemporary society and requires ongoing community conversation.The KØN Café: A Welcoming Social Space
The museum's café serves as an integral part of the visitor experience, offering a cosy and atmospheric retreat in the heart of Aarhus. Visitors can enjoy homemade sourdough buns, coffee, and light refreshments in a thoughtfully designed space. Entry to the café is free, making it accessible to anyone seeking a quiet moment or casual meeting space in the city centre. The café embodies the museum's philosophy of creating inclusive, welcoming environments where people can gather, reflect, and connect.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Agnete og Havmanden
0.8 km
Discover the poetic fusion of Danish folklore and modern sculpture at Aarhus’ Agnete og Havmanden, a landmark bronze fountain embodying myth and emotion.
Den Svangre
0.9 km
A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.
Frederiks Plads
0.9 km
A vibrant, contemporary city square where modern architecture, open green space, and urban life converge in the heart of Aarhus near Frederiksbjerg.
Folkehuset Trøjborg
1.0 km
Folkehuset Trøjborg blends Danish hygge, vibrant community life, and affordable culture, making it a beloved gathering place in the heart of Aarhus’ Trøjborg district.
Møllen i botanisk have Århus
1.1 km
Historic mill at the heart of Aarhus's verdant botanical sanctuary, blending heritage with living gardens.
Greenhouses in the Botanical Garden
1.2 km
Step into a vibrant world of exotic plants, interactive exhibits, and striking glass architecture at Aarhus's Greenhouses—a serene escape for nature lovers.
Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden
1.2 km
Explore contemporary art at Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden, Aarhus' premier gallery showcasing local and international talent.
University Park, Aarhus
1.4 km
Explore seven centuries of art at SMK – Denmark’s national gallery, marrying old masters, modern pioneers, and cutting-edge exhibitions in stunning parkland surroundings.
Botanical Garden
1.5 km
Experience Denmark's artistic heritage and international masterpieces at SMK, Copenhagen's dynamic national gallery housed in landmark architecture beside the Kings’ Garden.
Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg
1.5 km
Experience local Danish cinema culture at Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg—an atmospheric neighborhood movie house blending modern comfort with classic charm in Aarhus.
Trøjborg Beboerhus
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Aarhus at Trøjborg Beboerhus, a hub for cultural events, workshops, and local gatherings.
Udsigtspladsen
1.6 km
Experience breathtaking city, harbor, and bay vistas from one of Aarhus C’s most beloved scenic viewpoints, perfect for relaxation and panoramic photography.
Tivoli Friheden
2.5 km
Experience the thrill and magic of Tivoli Friheden, Aarhus' premier amusement park with rides, live music, and family-friendly fun for all ages.
Marselisborgmonumentet
3.1 km
Standing tall in Mindeparken, Marselisborgmonumentet honors Danish World War I volunteers with solemn beauty, monumental sculpture, and panoramic bay views near Aarhus.
Flagpladsen
3.1 km
Historic plaza overlooking Aarhus Bay, gateway to royal heritage and astronomical discovery.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Occupation Museum
0.0 km
Aarhus’ former Gestapo headquarters turned museum, where original cells, local stories and moral dilemmas bring Denmark’s wartime occupation chillingly close.
Aarhus Cathedral
0.1 km
Aarhus Cathedral—Denmark’s tallest and longest church, home to medieval frescoes and ornate altarpiece, anchors the city’s vibrant heart with Gothic grace.
Latin Quarter
0.1 km
Aarhus’ Latin Quarter blends cobbled medieval streets, historic townhouses and bike-friendly lanes with creative cafés, boutiques and boundary-pushing Nordic dining.
Bishop's Square
0.1 km
Marselisborg Castle offers royal heritage, tranquil English-style gardens, and the dramatic changing of the guard—an essential cultural and green escape south of Aarhus city center.
Herman Sallings Plads
0.1 km
Marselisborg Castle offers royal heritage, tranquil gardens, and public art in Aarhus—a unique glimpse into Danish monarchy, all set within lush, accessible parklands.
Store Torv
0.1 km
Historic Great Square where cathedral spires, elegant façades and everyday city life come together in the pedestrianized heart of Aarhus.
Aarhus Theatre
0.1 km
Art Nouveau splendour, golden auditoriums and four busy stages make Aarhus Theatre the historic heart of live performance in Denmark’s second-largest city.
Viking Museum
0.2 km
Walk where Vikings founded Aarhus 1,200 years ago in this underground museum beneath the city center.
Latinerkvarteret
0.2 km
Aarhus’ oldest quarter: cobbled lanes, medieval houses, indie shops and café terraces creating a compact, bohemian neighborhood just behind the cathedral.
Endless Connection
0.2 km
Interactive spiral fountain on Aarhus’ harbourfront where jets of water, inspired by the city’s starry skies, become a playful urban artwork and gathering spot.
Aarhus waterfront
0.2 km
Aarhus waterfront blends bold Scandinavian architecture, city beaches, harborside culture, and urban relaxation along the picturesque shores of Denmark’s vibrant second city.
Sankt Clements Torv
0.3 km
Compact, historic and constantly in motion, Sankt Clemens Torv is the everyday crossroads between cathedral, Viking past, riverside cafés and modern shopping Aarhus.
Lille Torv
0.3 km
Aarhus Waterfront: a vibrant coastal promenade fusing striking modern architecture, rich maritime heritage, and lively urban culture along the city’s scenic bay.
Vadestedet
0.3 km
Historic river crossing turned vibrant canal-side strip, Vadestedet blends cafés, bars and bridges into Aarhus’ cosiest, most atmospheric urban meeting place.
History Hunts med Hvem.nu
0.3 km
Hands-on history hunts in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, where Viking traces and town stories turn into clue-driven adventures for curious families and small groups.
Essential places to dine
Casablanca Aarhus
0.0 km
French‑style brasserie, famous brunch “Crunch” and cosy café‑bar atmosphere in the heart of Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter.
Piccolina
0.1 km
Authentic Italian pizzeria with exceptional vegan options and warm family hospitality in central Aarhus.
Teater Bodega
0.1 km
Classic Danish inn in central Aarhus, offering authentic smørrebrød, cosy ambiance, and a historic link to the city’s arts and theatre scene.
Den Rustikke
0.1 km
Discover Den Rustikke in Aarhus - where traditional Danish cuisine meets modern culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.
Café Hack
0.1 km
Theatre-side brasserie in central Aarhus, where candlelit dining, classic European flavours and a touch of broadcast history create an intimate urban evening.
Lecoq
0.2 km
French-inspired brasserie and bar bringing Southern European warmth, wine and late-night energy to Aarhus’ atmospheric Latin Quarter on Graven.
Plant Food
0.2 km
Small, cosy and completely plant-based, Plant Food serves bold umami burgers, bowls and sandwiches in the heart of Aarhus’ atmospheric Latin Quarter.
A Hereford Beefstouw - Aarhus
0.2 km
Classic Danish steakhouse tradition on the Åboulevarden waterfront, pairing expertly grilled beef with polished Scandinavian design and a serious wine and beer list.
Pihlkjær Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience exquisite modern Danish cuisine at Pihlkjær Restaurant in Aarhus – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Sct. Oluf Restaurant
0.2 km
A vibrant French-inspired bistro offering creative cuisine and Danish hospitality in the artistic heart of Latinerkvarteret, Aarhus’ oldest and most atmospheric quarter.
Mefisto Restaurant & Gårdhave
0.2 km
Aarhus’ beloved seafood restaurant and garden, Mefisto, offers Scandinavian classics, atmospheric courtyard dining, and vibrant local flavor in the city’s oldest quarter.
OliNico
0.2 km
Cozy Aarhus gastro grillbar on Mejlgade, serving generous modern European comfort food, daily changing menus and bistro classics at pleasantly low prices.
Restaurant Domestic
0.2 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine at Restaurant Domestic in Aarhus C - where innovation meets tradition for an unforgettable dining experience.
Carlton
0.2 km
A central Aarhus brasserie-style restaurant and bar where polished plates, a strong wine list and warm lighting create an intimate, grown‑up city evening.
Basso Aarhus
0.2 km
Modern Italian restaurant in Aarhus C serving inventive multi-course social dining with Nordic flair, stylish ambiance, and top-tier ingredients in a lively city-center setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
stoy
0.1 km
Minimalist, design-led fashion hub on Aarhus’ main square, blending luxury labels and independent brands in a calm, curated retail space.
COS
0.2 km
A calm, design-led COS flagship on Aarhus’ historic Store Torv, blending Scandinavian minimalism, quality fabrics and thoughtful silhouettes in the city’s busy heart.
LAKOR Shop Aarhus
0.2 km
Flagship men’s clothing shop in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, blending Danish west coast vibes with graphic, coastal-inspired casual wear in an intimate, design-led space.
Skagen Clothing
0.2 km
Minimalist Danish fashion where sustainable style meets everyday comfort.
LÏST Store
0.2 km
A calm, curated women’s fashion boutique in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, blending Scandinavian simplicity, quality fabrics and timeless silhouettes on charming Volden.
Utzon
0.2 km
Independent Aarhus boutique where Scandinavian fashion, leather, fur, and design objects are curated into one coherent, softly luxurious universe of style.
Jooma Aarhus
0.2 km
Discover unique Danish crafts and gifts at Jooma Aarhus, nestled in the historic Latinerkvarteret.
Seramikku - Japandi Concept Store
0.2 km
A serene Japandi concept store in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, blending Japanese ceramics and Scandinavian design into a calm, tactile shopping experience.
BESTSELLER Rømerhus
0.2 km
Flagship BESTSELLER fashion house in a historic Aarhus icon, blending classic architecture, modern Scandinavian design and multi-brand style under one roof.
Loppegal
0.2 km
Curated secondhand fashion and interiors in Aarhus’ Latin Quarter, where Danish design sensibility meets flea-market charm in a cosy, character-filled shop.
& Vintage
0.2 km
A boutique in Aarhus' Latin Quarter offering hand-picked vintage treasures, Scandinavian gifts, artisan wares, and a warm, local shopping experience in a creative setting.
Sophies Tøjhus
0.2 km
A cosy central Aarhus boutique for colourful, Scandinavian‑inspired women’s fashion, perfect for a relaxed browse and a wardrobe refresh between city sights.
Badstue Rock
0.2 km
One of Denmark’s oldest independent record stores, Badstue Rock is a cozy Aarhus hub for vinyl, CDs, music books and unhurried crate-digging in the city center.
Royal Vintage
0.2 km
Hidden down a quiet Aarhus lane, Royal Vintage offers a compact, carefully curated selection of pre-loved fashion for travellers who love slow, sustainable style.
RAASTED
0.2 km
Curated design and fashion boutique with an upscale organic café in central Aarhus.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mig og Ølsnedkeren
0.1 km
Experience the best of Aarhus's craft beer scene at Mig og Ølsnedkeren, where local and international brews await in a cozy atmosphere.
Café Under Masken
0.1 km
Bohemian, art‑lined den in central Aarhus where masks, fish tanks and coffee cups share space with beers, late‑night conversations and an old‑school smoky bar vibe.
Cafe Gyden
0.1 km
Aarhus's premier hookah lounge where premium shisha meets craft cocktails in refined urban comfort.
ÅBEN Aarhus
0.1 km
Contemporary craft beer, rotating taps and a relaxed neighborhood buzz in a minimalist taproom tucked into Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter.
Ris Ras Filliongongong
0.1 km
Candlelit basement bar on Aarhus’ Mejlgade, blending an extensive beer selection with bohemian, living-room coziness and easygoing late-night conversations.
Alberts - Cocktailbar i Aarhus
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alberts Cocktail Bar in Aarhus, featuring innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
The Old Irish Pub
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Ireland at The Old Irish Pub in Aarhus, where great food, drinks, and live entertainment await.
PV (Pustervig) - Kaffe & Cocktails
0.2 km
Cosy central Aarhus hideaway where daytime coffee culture flows seamlessly into a warm, late-night world of candles, chatter and creative cocktails.
Bar Smil Aarhus
0.2 km
Loud beats, cheap drinks and late-night energy in a compact bar-club right in the centre of Aarhus’ historic heart.
Herr Bartels
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Herr Bartels, a premier cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Tokio Bar
0.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance and diverse drink selection at Tokio Bar in Aarhus, where unforgettable nights await every visitor.
Fatter Eskil ApS
0.2 km
Aarhus's cosy live music bar where emerging bands and established Danish artists share the stage.
Clemens Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Clemens Bar, where friendly vibes and delicious drinks await every night.
London
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at its premier cocktail bar, blending innovative drinks with a stylish ambiance for an unforgettable evening.
Bitter Bar
0.2 km
Experience the lively ambiance and innovative cocktails at Bitter Bar, a must-visit nightlife gem in Aarhus.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Thought-provoking
- Engaging
- Intimate
- Reflective
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
