Moesgaard Museum
A striking grass-roofed museum above Aarhus where archaeology, anthropology and architecture combine to bring 10,000 years of human stories vividly to life.
Set in forested hills just south of Aarhus, Moesgaard Museum pairs cutting-edge architecture with immersive archaeology and anthropology. Its grass-topped, sloping roof flows into the landscape, inviting you to walk up for sweeping views of woods and sea before delving inside to meet the Grauballe Man, explore Iron Age bog offerings, Viking voyages and global cultures brought to life through dramatic, multi-sensory exhibitions.
A brief summary to Moesgaard Museum
- Moesgård Allé 15, Højbjerg, 8270, DK
- +4587394000
- Visit website
- Duration: 2.5 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-9 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-9 pm
- Sunday 10 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least four hours if you want to see both the permanent galleries and the latest special exhibition without rushing, plus time to enjoy the rooftop views.
- Bring or borrow layers: indoor temperatures are comfortable but some galleries are kept slightly cool to protect sensitive artefacts, and the roof can be breezy.
- If you are keen on photography, visit earlier in the day on weekdays when the galleries are generally quieter and natural light filters softly through the building.
- Combine your visit with a short walk in the surrounding woods toward the sea to appreciate how the museum’s design connects to the wider landscape.
- Check ahead for current temporary exhibitions and family activity programmes, as these can significantly shape how you plan your time in the museum.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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City bus from central Aarhus
From Aarhus city centre and the main train station, city bus line 18 runs to Moesgaard Museum in around 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. Buses typically depart several times per hour on weekdays and less frequently on weekends. A single adult ticket for the relevant zones usually costs around 20–30 DKK, with discounts for children and some travel cards. Low-floor vehicles and space for prams and wheelchairs make this option convenient for most visitors.
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Regional bus to Moesgård Allé
Regional bus services running along Oddervej stop near the junction with Moesgård Allé, from where there is an approximately 1 km walk along the tree-lined avenue to the museum. The ride from central Aarhus generally takes 20–30 minutes. Expect fares broadly similar to city buses, typically in the 20–35 DKK range for adults depending on zones. This option suits those comfortable with a short, mostly level walk through semi-rural surroundings.
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Taxi from Aarhus centre
Taxis from central Aarhus or the main station reach Moesgaard Museum in roughly 15–20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Fares vary by time of day and company but a one-way journey commonly falls in the 200–300 DKK range. Taxis can be a good choice for small groups sharing the cost or travellers with limited mobility, as they offer a direct drop-off close to the entrance.
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Bicycle from Aarhus
For confident cyclists, riding from central Aarhus to Moesgaard Museum takes about 30–45 minutes each way, using a mix of city bike lanes and quieter roads toward Højbjerg. The route includes some gentle hills but is manageable for most regular riders. There is no extra charge beyond any bicycle rental you might arrange in the city, and this option allows you to experience the transition from urban streets to forested countryside at your own pace.
Moesgaard Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Moesgaard Museum
A hillside museum woven into the Danish landscape
Moesgaard Museum sits on a green slope above the woods and coast south of Aarhus, its vast concrete form disappearing beneath a living carpet of grass. The building is designed as an extension of the surrounding terrain, so the roof doubles as a giant ramp that you can walk up, picnic on and use as a lookout over forest, fields and Aarhus Bay. Large glass façades blur the boundary between interior galleries and the tranquil landscape beyond. The museum’s setting is part of the experience. Trails lead from the entrance into nearby woodland and down toward the sea, making it easy to combine culture with fresh-air walks. Even if you step inside on a rainy day, the ever-present views of trees and sky keep you connected to nature.Time travel from Stone Age hunters to medieval believers
Inside, Moesgaard unfolds as a journey through Danish prehistory and early history, arranged in a series of atmospheric galleries. Each age has its own distinct universe: the Stone Age explores the first immigrants to this land; the Bronze Age glows with sun cults, ritual objects and shining weaponry; the Iron Age delves into warfare, sacrifice and everyday life; the Viking Age brings seafaring, trade and mythology to life; and the Middle Ages explores faith, fear and the power of the church. Rather than glass cases alone, you move through staged environments, soundscapes and dramatic lighting that create a sense of stepping into other times. Along the way, original artefacts anchor the storytelling in meticulous archaeological research, from delicate jewellery and tools to monumental weapons and grave goods.Meeting the Grauballe Man and other unforgettable finds
One of Moesgaard’s most compelling experiences is the encounter with the Grauballe Man, one of the world’s best-preserved bog bodies. Discovered in a Jutland peat bog, his skin, hair and even fingernails survived for more than two millennia. In the subdued light of his dedicated gallery, you can study the details of his final moments and learn how scientists have reconstructed his age, diet and cause of death. Elsewhere, the museum highlights spectacular hoards, runic stones and everyday objects that collectively chart more than 10,000 years of life in the region. Careful interpretation reveals how these finds shed light on social structures, beliefs and contacts with distant parts of Europe and beyond.World cultures, human stories and an evolutionary stairway
Moesgaard is not only about Denmark. Its anthropological collections explore human societies across the globe, linking distant cultures through themes such as ritual, identity and migration. Exhibits use film, sound and interactive elements to show how people in very different environments tackle universal questions of belonging and meaning. A signature feature is the evolutionary stairway, which acts both as a dramatic architectural spine and as a chronological timeline of human origins. As you climb, you encounter life-sized reconstructions of early hominins, each based on current scientific knowledge. The sequence provides a tangible sense of our long evolutionary story, culminating in modern humans and our diverse cultures.A full-day experience with roof walks, café and changing exhibitions
The museum’s scale and depth reward unhurried exploration, and many visitors treat it as a full-day outing. Temporary exhibitions frequently add new angles, from underwater archaeology to themed explorations of specific cultures or eras. Between galleries, you can rest in bright lounges with forest views or step outside onto the broad grass roof for a change of perspective. On-site, a contemporary café serves Danish-style lunches, cakes and coffee, often with an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients, while a shop offers books, design objects and replicas connected to the collections. Thoughtful accessibility features, including lifts and wide pathways, make the building easy to navigate for wheelchairs and strollers, ensuring that the stories of Moesgaard can be enjoyed across generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Marselisborgmonumentet
4.7 km
Standing tall in Mindeparken, Marselisborgmonumentet honors Danish World War I volunteers with solemn beauty, monumental sculpture, and panoramic bay views near Aarhus.
Frederiks Plads
6.8 km
A vibrant, contemporary city square where modern architecture, open green space, and urban life converge in the heart of Aarhus near Frederiksbjerg.
Agnete og Havmanden
7.1 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
7.1 km
A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.
Aarhus Culture Walk
7.6 km
Modern Scandinavian architecture meets world-class music and culture at Malmo Live Concert AB—Malmö’s vibrant venue for concerts, conferences, and the arts.
KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
7.7 km
A groundbreaking museum in Aarhus dedicated to gender, identity, and equality, featuring interactive exhibitions in a historic building near the city’s iconic cathedral.
The Occupation Museum
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Malmo Live Concert Hall offers world-class music, architecture, and vibrant city energy in the heart of Malmö, steps from the waterfront and cultural highlights.
Store Torv
7.7 km
Store Torv is the historic plaza at Aarhus’ city heart, a hub of medieval charm, vibrant markets, and the dramatic silhouette of Denmark’s tallest cathedral.
Møllestien
7.7 km
Odense Cathedral (St. Canute’s Church) blends Gothic grandeur, royal tombs, and centuries of history in the vibrant heart of Denmark’s fairytale city.
Aarhus waterfront
7.7 km
Aarhus Waterfront blends urban vibrancy, Nordic design, and harbor heritage with panoramic sea views and lively promenades, making it a quintessential Danish experience.
Lille Torv
7.7 km
Charming central square in Aarhus’ historic district, Lille Torv blends centuries-old architecture, local life, and a vibrant social atmosphere for visitors.
Latin Quarter
7.8 km
Winding cobblestone streets, historic facades, and a creative spirit fill Aarhus’s Latin Quarter, the city’s oldest district and its cultural heartbeat.
Our Lady Church
7.8 km
Medieval layers of faith: from Viking-era crypt to Dominican monastery, Aarhus' oldest sacred space.
Klostertorvet
7.8 km
Klostertorvet is Aarhus’s vibrant plaza, fusing historic monastery grounds with a lively social scene, independent cafés, and open-air city life in the heart of Denmark.
Mindrebæltsbroen
7.9 km
Vibrant urban bridge transformed into Aarhus’ open-air street art gallery, revealing the creative soul of Øgadekvarteret’s lively neighborhood.
Unmissable attractions to see
Moesgård Beach
1.6 km
Sheltered beneath Marselisborg Forest, Moesgård Beach blends sandy shores, calm Aarhus Bay waters and accessible bathing in one of the city’s most scenic coastal escapes.
Gyngetræ ud over havet
1.6 km
Experience LEGO-themed accommodations and conference facilities adjacent to LEGOLAND Billund.
Bænken med den smukkeste udsigt
3.7 km
A simple bench on the forested coast of southern Aarhus offering a wide, tranquil view over Aarhus Bay and the curving shoreline below.
Marselisborg Deer Park
3.8 km
Free-roaming deer and wild boars in a pristine 22-hectare forest sanctuary near Aarhus.
Kirkeskov
3.8 km
A compact beech and oak forest on Aarhus’ southern edge, Kirkeskov offers a calm, everyday escape where city streets quickly give way to quiet paths and leafy glades.
Det lille vandfald på Varna Strand.
4.0 km
A modest woodland cascade where a forest stream meets Aarhus Bay, adding gentle sound and character to the shoreline between Varna Strand and Ballehage.
The Infinite Bridge
4.0 km
Marselisborg Castle blends royal heritage with tranquil parklands in the heart of Aarhus, offering a peaceful escape and glimpses of Danish regal life.
Forstbotanisk Have
4.3 km
A quiet forest botanical garden in Aarhus where winding paths, tall trees and a reflective lake offer a simple, contemplative escape just beyond the city streets.
Villa Margarinely
4.4 km
A recycled factory spire turned royal pavilion, Villa Margarinely adds quirky charm and quiet intrigue to the leafy English-style landscape of Marselisborg Palace Gardens.
Marselisborg Strand
4.5 km
Easygoing Aarhus city beach where forested hills, open bay views and everyday Danish coastal life meet just south of the urban centre.
Marselisborg Castle
4.5 km
Royal summer residence nestled in peaceful parkland by Aarhus Bay, Marselisborg Castle offers gardens, royal traditions, and bucolic charm in Denmark’s vibrant second city.
Mindeparken
4.6 km
Experience royal Danish heritage and stunning public gardens at Marselisborg Castle, the summer home of Denmark’s monarch, in vibrant Aarhus.
Ole Rømer Observatory
4.7 km
Historic hilltop observatory in Aarhus where Art Nouveau architecture, Denmark’s largest telescope and a leafy science park bring the starry sky within easy reach.
Flagpladsen
4.8 km
Explore the cosmos at Aarhus's historic Ole Rømer Observatory, home to Denmark's largest functioning telescope.
Rømerhaven
4.8 km
A quiet flower garden in Aarhus’ Mindeparken, where a long mirror pool and the bronze Solhesten sculpture create a tranquil, reflective retreat near Marselisborg Palace.
Essential places to dine
Moesgård Forest Mill
0.9 km
A thatched 18th-century watermill deep in Marselisborg Forest, where historic timbered buildings, rushing water and classic Danish cuisine create a timeless woodland retreat.
Restaurant Thors Mølle
3.7 km
Historic forest mill turned cosy restaurant, serving seasonal Danish classics in light-filled rooms where Aarhus’ woodland scenery feels just an arm’s length away.
Restaurant Frederikshøj
4.1 km
Two‑Michelin‑star Nordic‑French gastronomy on a wooded hillside by Marselisborg Palace, where long, playful tasting menus meet one of Denmark’s most serious wine cellars.
Restaurant Martino
5.5 km
Harbourfront Italian and Mediterranean dining at Marselisborg Marina, where pizzas, seafood and long Nordic evenings meet sweeping views of Aarhus Bay.
Restaurant Kohalen
6.6 km
Aarhus’ beloved harbor canteen, where timeworn interiors, white‑shirted waiters and hefty Danish lunch classics keep over a century of tradition alive.
Atelier 33
6.7 km
Atelier 33 blends classic French gastronomy with Danish seasonal produce in Frederiksbjerg, offering refined tasting menus and intimate ambience in Aarhus’s culinary quarter.
St. Pauls Apothek
6.7 km
Inventive Nordic dining and precision cocktails served in a century‑old Aarhus pharmacy, where historic apothecary charm meets contemporary mixology.
Restaurant MÖR
6.7 km
Indulge in expertly dry-aged Danish steaks and Nordic culinary craftsmanship at Aarhus’ acclaimed Restaurant MÖR, where classic steakhouse tradition meets modern Scandinavian style.
Juliette
6.8 km
A chic French brasserie in the heart of Aarhus' Frederiksbjerg, serving up authentic flavors, Parisian ambiance, and inventive brunches in a vibrant local hotspot.
Restaurant Ombord
6.8 km
Modern Danish bistro with seasonal Nordic menus and inventive small plates, nestled among Frederiksbjerg’s vibrant food hotspots in central Aarhus.
JUHLs spisehus
6.8 km
Creative Danish brunch, thoughtful bistro plates, and local wines in the lively heart of Frederiksbjerg—JUHLs Spisehus is an Aarhus favorite for any time of day.
Klassisk 65, Bistro & Vinbar
6.8 km
Experience the essence of Danish cuisine at Klassisk 65 Bistro & Vinbar in Aarhus – where tradition meets modern dining excellence.
Restaurant Hærværk
6.8 km
Restaurant Hærværk in Aarhus C reinvents Nordic cuisine nightly through inventive tasting menus, hyper-local ingredients, and award-winning sustainability.
Restaurant V
6.9 km
Urban Danish brasserie with seasonal Nordic cuisine, open kitchen views, and one of Aarhus's premier gin bars.
Restaurant Nögen
7.0 km
Vibrant, sustainable Nordic dining near Aarhus station—Restaurant Nögen blends bold flavors, stylish Scandi design, and social shared plates at a moderate price.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BRUGTVARE TERMINALEN ApS
6.2 km
A vast Danish second-hand megastore in Viby J, where 1,500 m² of antiques, design classics and retro curios create an ever-changing treasure hunt under one roof.
Woodstock Guitars
6.4 km
Specialist guitar haven in central Aarhus, where carefully chosen instruments, amps and pedals meet expert advice and a laid-back, musician-friendly vibe.
Aarhus Antik
6.5 km
Discover Danish heritage at Aarhus Antik, a charming antique store in Aarhus' Frederiksbjerg district.
Højkant Design Shop
6.5 km
Cooperative design shop and gallery in central Aarhus, where local makers present contemporary Danish craft, ceramics and art in an intimate, studio-like setting.
Luna Hvid
6.6 km
Discover handcrafted elegance at Luna Hvid, Aarhus' premier hat boutique in the historic Latin Quarter.
Moonchild Vintage Århus
6.6 km
Cosy, handpicked vintage and interiors in a neighbourhood boutique that blends 60s–90s style, Y2K details and sustainable slow fashion in central Aarhus.
NORMAL
6.8 km
A bright, budget-friendly maze of everyday brands and quirky finds in Bruuns Galleri, perfect for quick essentials, impulse treats and low-cost little surprises.
Monki
6.8 km
Playful Scandinavian high-street fashion in the heart of Aarhus C, blending bold colors, relaxed silhouettes, and accessible prices on busy M. P. Bruuns Gade.
Bruuns Galleri
6.8 km
Bruuns Galleri: Aarhus’ premier city-center shopping mall, blending top brands, Danish design, dining, and urban life in a vibrant architectural landmark.
Far-East Trading
7.0 km
Compact, central Aarhus Asian grocery stocked with fresh produce, spices, noodles, snacks and frozen specialties for authentic East and Southeast Asian cooking.
Asian food store (Østens Specialiteter)
7.1 km
Compact Asian grocery on Park Allé in central Aarhus, stocking everyday East and South Asian staples, snacks, and spices for both locals and curious home cooks.
Bog & idé - Aarhus, Svend A. Larsen
7.2 km
Classic city-center book and stationery store where shelves of novels, notebooks, games and gifts offer a cozy cultural pause in the heart of Aarhus.
Bahne
7.2 km
A bright Scandinavian lifestyle store in central Aarhus, blending fashion, homeware, gifts and wellness in a calm, design-led setting on busy Søndergade.
Royal Copenhagen - Aarhus
7.3 km
Discover Danish porcelain heritage at Royal Copenhagen Aarhus, a refined destination for iconic tableware, handcrafted designs, and timeless design inspiration.
Mrs. P Coffee & The
7.3 km
A cosy Aarhus specialty shop where aromatic coffee, fine teas, chocolates and wines come together in beautifully curated gifts and everyday indulgences.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
ButlerBar
6.5 km
Discover the lively ButlerBar in Aarhus, a perfect blend of great drinks, friendly service, and an inviting atmosphere for all travelers.
Den Runde Bar
6.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and local flavor at Den Runde Bar in Aarhus, a must-visit spot for tourists seeking a vibrant nightlife experience.
Jacob Skomager
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jacob Skomager, Aarhus' charming bodega, perfect for drinks and socializing with locals.
Æblet og Gåsen
6.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Æblet og Gåsen, a charming bar in Aarhus offering local brews and delightful snacks in a cozy setting.
Mikkeller bar
6.8 km
Experience the best of craft beer at Mikkeller Bar, Aarhus - a paradise for beer lovers with unique local brews and a vibrant atmosphere.
Den Hvide Hest
6.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Den Hvide Hest, a charming bar in Aarhus offering local brews and a taste of Danish hospitality.
Din Vinbar
6.8 km
Discover unparalleled wine experiences at Din Vinbar, Aarhus' premier wine bar, where quality meets passion in every glass.
Væskebalancen Bar
6.8 km
Experience the lively ambiance and extensive drink selection at Væskebalancen Bar, the heart of Aarhus' nightlife.
Drop Inn
7.0 km
Discover the charm of Drop Inn in Aarhus, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere create the perfect bar experience.
Centralbar
7.1 km
Easygoing, inexpensive bar by Aarhus Central Station – a relaxed, central meeting spot for simple drinks, local atmosphere and straightforward good times.
Flintstone Pub
7.1 km
Low-lit brun bar in central Aarhus serving inexpensive beers, Guinness and classic pub vibes in a laid-back, wood-paneled setting.
Gedulgt
7.2 km
Discover Gedulgt: Aarhus's premier cocktail bar offering unique drinks and a lively ambiance for an unforgettable night out.
Die kleine Bierstube
7.4 km
Cozy German-style pub on lively Frederiksgade, pouring classic Bavarian beers and serving hearty schnitzel in a wood-paneled corner of central Aarhus.
Thorkilds
7.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Thorkilds, the local bar renowned for its friendly atmosphere and affordable drinks.
LA Tequila Bar Aarhus
7.4 km
California beach vibes and tequila culture in the heart of Aarhus—where tropical cocktails meet Scandinavian nightlife.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Luksusmassage Århus
6.1 km
Experience Aarhus's dynamic nightlife at Luksusmassage, where music and energy blend for an unforgettable evening.
Lounge 8000
7.4 km
Discover the best of Aarhus nightlife at Lounge 8000, where vibrant performances and a stylish lounge atmosphere await.
Rustik Bar & Natklub - Aarhus
7.4 km
Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Aarhus at Rustik Bar & Natklub, where vibrant music and an electric atmosphere await.
GBAR
7.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at GBAR in Aarhus, a welcoming dance club where everyone can enjoy an unforgettable night out.
ZenZa Cocktailbar
7.4 km
Discover Aarhus' vibrant nightlife at ZenZa Cocktailbar, where expertly crafted cocktails and lively atmosphere await you.
Bernhardt Natklub
7.7 km
Discover Aarhus' premier nightlife destination at Bernhardt Natklub, where cocktails and beats create unforgettable memories.
equalclub
7.8 km
Discover the thriving nightlife of Aarhus at Equal Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences come together.
V58
7.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at V58 in Aarhus, where live music meets an energetic atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Hornsleth Bar Aarhus
7.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Hornsleth Bar, where innovative cocktails meet an energetic atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
- Roadtrip Stop
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
