Salling ROOFTOP & Roofgarden, Aarhus
Panoramic rooftop park and café above central Aarhus, blending sky-high gardens, a glass-floored skywalk, artful lounge zones and casual Nordic dining with sweeping city views.
Perched atop the Salling department store on Søndergade, Salling ROOFTOP is Aarhus’ signature urban lookout: a free-access roof terrace with a 360-degree panorama, skywalk, lush roofgarden and a stylish café-bar. Open during store hours, it blends city-park greenery with lounge zones, art installations and a glass-floored walkway that hovers high above the pedestrian street below. Come for coffee, cocktails or a casual meal, and linger for wide views of the harbor, cathedral spire and ARoS rainbow in the distance.
A brief summary to Salling ROOFTOP
- Søndergade 27, Aarhus, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- +4587786000
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
- Thursday 10 am-7 pm
- Friday 10 am-7 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Aim for late afternoon on a clear day to see Aarhus in daylight, then watch the city lights glow as the sun sinks behind the rooftops.
- If you want a specific table or a more elaborate meal, consider booking ahead through Salling’s channels, especially on weekends and during events.
- Not a fan of heights? Enjoy the views from the main terraces and Roofgarden first before deciding whether to step onto the glass skywalk.
- Bring an extra layer outside of high summer; even on sunny days the wind can feel cooler at rooftop level over the city.
- Remember that access to the rooftop and roofgarden is free; you only pay for what you eat and drink in the café and bar areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public transport from Aarhus H (central station)
From Aarhus H, Salling ROOFTOP is in the central shopping district and can be reached by city bus to stops along Park Allé or Banegårdspladsen in around 5–10 minutes including walking. A single adult ticket on local buses typically costs about 20–25 DKK, and services run frequently throughout the day. The route is flat and suitable for most visitors, and lifts inside the department store provide step-free access to the rooftop.
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On foot from central Aarhus
If you are already in the city centre, Salling department store is located directly on Søndergade, the main pedestrian shopping street. Reaching it from nearby sights such as Aarhus Cathedral or ARoS usually takes 5–15 minutes on foot, depending on your starting point. The route follows paved, largely level city streets, making it easy for most walkers and suitable for strollers; once inside, escalators and elevators lead up to the rooftop.
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Car and nearby parking garages
Drivers can use central Aarhus parking garages such as those near Bruun’s Galleri or other city-centre car parks within roughly 5–10 minutes’ walk of Salling. Expect to pay in the region of 20–30 DKK per hour, with higher total costs for longer stays. Parking spaces can be in high demand at peak shopping times, and note that the streets directly around Søndergade are pedestrianised, so you will complete the final approach on foot.
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Bicycle within Aarhus
Cycling is a practical way to reach the area from most inner-city neighbourhoods in about 10–20 minutes, using the city’s network of bike lanes. Bicycles must be parked off the pedestrian street in marked racks nearby; it is not permitted to ride up to the entrance on Søndergade itself. From the bike parking, the walk to Salling is short and level before you continue by lift or escalator to the rooftop.
Salling ROOFTOP location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Hot Weather
Discover more about Salling ROOFTOP
Skylines, Sea Breezes and a Department Store Surprise
Salling ROOFTOP crowns the classic Salling department store in the very heart of Aarhus, transforming a commercial building into one of the city’s most distinctive open-air spaces. Step out onto the broad decks and the first impression is of height and openness: a 360-degree sweep over tiled rooftops, the cathedral tower, ARoS art museum and, on clear days, all the way to the bay and forested hills beyond. What began as a rooftop terrace in 2017 has evolved into a fully fledged urban realm above the city. Cleverly layered platforms, glass railings and sheltered pockets make it feel more like a public square in the sky than a simple viewing platform, with multiple levels to explore rather than a single viewing edge.Green Roofgarden and Art under the Open Sky
At one end you slip into the Salling Roofgarden, a surprisingly lush city park suspended above the main shopping street. Pathways weave between small trees, abundant shrubs, perennials and beds of herbs whose scent hangs in the air on warm days. Sculptural benches, including playful, curved designs by Jeppe Hein, invite you to sit, recline or simply people-watch in unusual poses. The garden zones are arranged to create variety: sunny decks for basking, shaded corners for quiet conversation, and tucked-away nooks that feel far removed from the bustle below. Artworks and installations appear around corners, turning a simple stroll into a mini sculpture trail, especially atmospheric in the soft evening light or under festive winter decorations.Skywalk Thrills and Glass-Floor Perspectives
One of the most striking features is the glass Skywalk that projects dramatically out over Søndergade. From the side it looks like a transparent tongue of steel and glass; from above it feels like stepping into thin air. Standing on the clear floor, you can look straight down to the shoppers many metres below, a gently vertigo-inducing reminder of the rooftop’s height. For those less keen on heights, the glass floor is easy to admire from the solid deck nearby, where benches and railings still offer impressive perspectives. The interplay of reflections from the glass, the geometry of the street grid below and the ever-changing Danish sky makes this corner a favourite for photographers and contemplative moments alike.Café Comfort, Cocktails and Nordic Bites
Along the central terraces, café and bar counters serve an informal menu of brunch plates, smørrebrød, salads, burgers and snack boards, paired with coffee, soft drinks, wine and cocktails. Seating ranges from conventional tables to lounge sofas and bar stools clustered around heaters and blankets, allowing visits in all but the harshest weather. The food leans toward modern Danish café fare: open sandwiches on dense rye, seasonal salads, sharing snacks and classic comfort dishes, alongside pastries and sweets for a simple coffee break. On summer days chilled rosé and ice-cold beers are popular companions to the view; in the colder months, hot chocolate and mulled drinks add a cosy note to the rooftop chill.Events, Seasons and Aarhus from Above
Beyond everyday café life, the roof hosts changing events such as DJ evenings, social dining concepts and small concerts on its built-in stage. Seasonal decorations transform the atmosphere through the year, from fresh greenery and long golden evenings in high summer to twinkling lights and festive installations during the Christmas period. Because access to the rooftop itself is free, it attracts a broad mix of locals and visitors: shoppers taking a break, families introducing children to the skyline, and friends meeting up between city-centre errands. Whether you stay for a quick circuit of the viewpoints or settle in for a leisurely meal, Salling ROOFTOP offers a rare combination of park, lookout, gallery and café stacked together above the streets of Aarhus.Practical Atmosphere and Visiting Patterns
The rooftop follows the department store’s daytime opening hours, typically from mid-morning to early evening, making it particularly appealing for daytime city explorations and late-afternoon pauses. Weekends and fine-weather afternoons tend to feel livelier, while mornings and cooler or overcast days bring a calmer, almost contemplative mood. Facilities such as restrooms, indoor seating areas and information signage are available within the store and rooftop complex, and lifts make it accessible for most visitors. Dogs are not permitted on the roof, which helps keep the terraces and gardens focused on pedestrian wanderings, relaxed dining and uninterrupted views over Denmark’s second city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Agnete og Havmanden
0.4 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
0.4 km
A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.
Frederiks Plads
0.5 km
A vibrant, contemporary city square where modern architecture, open green space, and urban life converge in the heart of Aarhus near Frederiksbjerg.
Møllen i botanisk have Århus
1.0 km
Historic mill at the heart of Aarhus's verdant botanical sanctuary, blending heritage with living gardens.
Greenhouses in the Botanical Garden
1.1 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.
Steno Museum
1.3 km
Explore the Steno Museum in Aarhus, where science and history come alive through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences.
Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden
1.3 km
Explore contemporary art at Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden, Aarhus' premier gallery showcasing local and international talent.
Botanical Garden
1.4 km
Experience Denmark's artistic heritage and international masterpieces at SMK, Copenhagen's dynamic national gallery housed in landmark architecture beside the Kings’ Garden.
Folkehuset Trøjborg
1.4 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.
University Park, Aarhus
1.6 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.
Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg
1.9 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
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Aarhus at Trøjborg Beboerhus, a hub for cultural events, workshops, and local gatherings.
Udsigtspladsen
2.0 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
2.1 km
Experience the thrill and magic of Tivoli Friheden, Aarhus' premier amusement park with rides, live music, and family-friendly fun for all ages.
Flagpladsen
2.7 km
Historic plaza overlooking Aarhus Bay, gateway to royal heritage and astronomical discovery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Strøget
0.0 km
Aarhus’ 850‑metre pedestrian high street, where shops, cafés and everyday city life line a car‑free spine between the central station, riverfront and cathedral.
Flodhesteungen Frederikke
0.2 km
A small granite hippo resting in the middle of Frederiksgade, Flodhesteungen Frederikke adds a playful, tactile pause to the busy streets of central Aarhus.
Flodhestefontæne
0.2 km
Aarhus waterfront fuses cutting-edge architecture, vibrant public spaces, and breathtaking bay views, offering an essential experience at the heart of Denmark's dynamic cityscape.
Mural - The Seagull Kiss
0.2 km
An iconic Hans Krull mural on a Fiskergade gable, "The Seagull Kiss" fuses fantasy, seafaring spirit and bohemian Aarhus into one unforgettable street-side scene.
Sankt Clements Torv
0.2 km
Compact, historic and constantly in motion, Sankt Clemens Torv is the everyday crossroads between cathedral, Viking past, riverside cafés and modern shopping Aarhus.
Sherlock Holmes Pub
0.2 km
Discover Aarhus’ charismatic Latin Quarter—a labyrinth of cobbled streets, lively cafés, creative boutiques, and historic charm at the city’s vibrant core.
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.
Viking Museum
0.3 km
Walk where Vikings founded Aarhus 1,200 years ago in this underground museum beneath the city center.
Bishop's Square
0.3 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.
Aarhus Theatre
0.3 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.
Kunsthal Aarhus
0.3 km
Free contemporary art in a light-filled modernist space, showcasing international and Danish artists since 1917.
Store Torv
0.3 km
Historic Great Square where cathedral spires, elegant façades and everyday city life come together in the pedestrianized heart of Aarhus.
Lille Torv
0.4 km
Aarhus Waterfront: a vibrant coastal promenade fusing striking modern architecture, rich maritime heritage, and lively urban culture along the city’s scenic bay.
Aarhus Cathedral
0.4 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.
Aarhus Culture Walk
0.4 km
Discover Aarhus' oldest neighborhood, Latinerkvarteret, where historic charm meets modern culture in a vibrant blend of cafés, boutiques, and artistic venues.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant L'øst
0.1 km
Modern Nordic bistro flavors and relaxed hotel comfort meet at Restaurant L’øst, a casual yet polished dining room in the very centre of Aarhus C.
Restaurant Dauphine ApS
0.2 km
Restaurant Dauphine in Aarhus blends Nordic ingredients with French culinary flair, offering a refined tasting menu and expertly paired wines in a stylish, intimate setting.
Tir Na nÓg - Irish Gastropub
0.2 km
A multi-room Irish gastropub in central Aarhus, blending cosy pub dining, live music and big-screen sport with Irish warmth and Danish hygge under one lively roof.
Pho C&P
0.2 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in a cozy Aarhus hideaway—exceptional quality, reasonable prices, reservations essential.
KöD Aarhus
0.2 km
Riverfront steakhouse in central Aarhus, serving premium cuts, generous sides and bold wines in a warm, low-lit setting made for slow, sociable dinners.
Restaurant MellemRum
0.2 km
Restaurant MellemRum in central Aarhus offers creative Danish and European cuisine, served in a stylish, relaxed setting on Fredens Torv in Aarhus C.
Raadhuus Kafeen
0.2 km
Aarhus's most authentic Danish kitchen, serving generations with generous portions and timeless Nordic flavors.
SYV NI 13
0.2 km
Skyline social dining on the 19th floor of Aarhus’ TRÆ building, where minimalist Nordic plates, global flavours and harbour views come together over shared menus.
Bardok
0.2 km
Discover Bardok in Aarhus—a contemporary small-plates restaurant known for inventive cuisine, social dining, and a lively riverside atmosphere in the city center.
Restaurant Klokken Aarhus
0.3 km
Taste the heart of Aarhus at Restaurant Klokken, where traditional Danish cuisine meets warm local hospitality in a historic city center setting.
Restaurant ET
0.3 km
Stylish French dining by the Aarhus river, blending Parisian tradition with Danish seasonal produce and a world-class wine list in the heart of Indre By.
A Hereford Beefstouw - Aarhus
0.3 km
Classic Danish steakhouse tradition on the Åboulevarden waterfront, pairing expertly grilled beef with polished Scandinavian design and a serious wine and beer list.
Bone's Aarhus
0.3 km
Canal-side American BBQ in central Aarhus, serving spareribs, steaks, burgers and a generous salad and soft ice bar in relaxed, family-friendly surroundings.
Grappa Aps
0.3 km
Modern Italian kitchen and wine bar on Aarhus’ lively riverfront, serving pizzas, pasta and antipasti from brunch to late evening in a warm, social setting.
Restaurant Pinden
0.3 km
Hearty Danish classics and old-inn charm in a chandelier-lit dining room on lively Skolegade in the very heart of Aarhus.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Salling Aarhus
0.0 km
Flagship Aarhus department store where fashion, food, design and a panoramic rooftop terrace with glass skywalk and city views all meet under one central roof.
Mrs. P Coffee & The
0.0 km
A cosy Aarhus specialty shop where aromatic coffee, fine teas, chocolates and wines come together in beautifully curated gifts and everyday indulgences.
Femilet
0.1 km
Scandinavian lingerie boutique in central Aarhus, offering personalised fittings, comfortable essentials and cosy nightwear in a calm setting on busy Søndergade.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.1 km
Aarhus C’s most playful gift shop, renowned for quirky Danish design, affordable treasures, and creative finds—perfect for unique souvenirs and cheerful everyday essentials.
Royal Copenhagen - Aarhus
0.2 km
Discover Danish porcelain heritage at Royal Copenhagen Aarhus, a refined destination for iconic tableware, handcrafted designs, and timeless design inspiration.
Epic Panda
0.2 km
Cozy underground game store in central Aarhus, blending packed shelves of board games and card games with a friendly, late‑night community play space.
Bahne
0.2 km
A bright Scandinavian lifestyle store in central Aarhus, blending fashion, homeware, gifts and wellness in a calm, design-led setting on busy Søndergade.
UNIQ
0.2 km
Compact, curated vintage in the heart of Aarhus, blending sustainable fashion, Scandinavian style and an easygoing boutique atmosphere on lively Frederiksgade.
Plakaten
0.2 km
Long‑standing Aarhus poster boutique on Sankt Clemens Torv, blending curated art prints with expert framing services in the heart of the city’s main shopping street.
Bog & idé - Aarhus, Svend A. Larsen
0.2 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.
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.
CHANEL FRAGRANCE AND BEAUTY BOUTIQUE
0.3 km
Luxury fragrance and beauty in the heart of Aarhus, with personalized consultations and CHANEL's complete cosmetic collection.
Magasin Aarhus
0.3 km
Experience the stylish pulse of Aarhus at Magasin, a landmark department store with historic roots, Nordic design, fashion, gourmet eats, and city-center charm.
SEPHORA MAGASIN AARHUS
0.3 km
A bright, modern Sephora on Magasin’s ground floor, bringing international beauty brands, fragrance and skincare to the very heart of downtown Aarhus.
Royal Vintage
0.3 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Vinstuen
0.1 km
Experience the cozy charm of Vinstuen, a beloved bar in Aarhus, offering refreshing drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Barstart
0.2 km
Discover Barstart, Aarhus' premier cocktail bar offering vibrant drinks, small plates, and a unique Tarantino-themed ambiance for an unforgettable night out.
Oops - Bar, lounge og Rombar i Århus
0.2 km
Discover Oops Bar in Aarhus - a vibrant cocktail haven blending style and comfort with an exquisite drink menu and light bites.
SWAY
0.2 km
Central Aarhus bar with affordable drinks, attentive staff, and vibrant late-night atmosphere.
LouLou Aarhus
0.2 km
Glam cocktail bar and 23+ nightclub on Aarhus’ riverside strip, where playful décor, crafted drinks and a pulsing dance floor keep weekends going till dawn.
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.
Rabalder Bar Aarhus
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Rabalder Bar, where creative cocktails and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Waxies
0.2 km
Lively Irish pub and sports bar in central Aarhus, blending cosy wood‑panelled charm with live music, games and big‑screen sports late into the night.
Clemens Bar
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Clemens Bar, where friendly vibes and delicious drinks await every night.
Gedulgt
0.2 km
Discover Gedulgt: Aarhus's premier cocktail bar offering unique drinks and a lively ambiance for an unforgettable night out.
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.
Die kleine Bierstube
0.2 km
Cozy German-style pub on lively Frederiksgade, pouring classic Bavarian beers and serving hearty schnitzel in a wood-paneled corner of central Aarhus.
Flintstone Pub
0.2 km
Low-lit brun bar in central Aarhus serving inexpensive beers, Guinness and classic pub vibes in a laid-back, wood-paneled setting.
Der Kuhstall
0.2 km
Rowdy après-ski vibes, thumping party tunes and wallet-friendly drink deals in a wood-clad “cow stable” right on Aarhus’ lively riverfront bar strip.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rustik Bar & Natklub - Aarhus
0.2 km
Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Aarhus at Rustik Bar & Natklub, where vibrant music and an electric atmosphere await.
ZenZa Cocktailbar
0.2 km
Discover Aarhus' vibrant nightlife at ZenZa Cocktailbar, where expertly crafted cocktails and lively atmosphere await you.
GBAR
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at GBAR in Aarhus, a welcoming dance club where everyone can enjoy an unforgettable night out.
Lounge 8000
0.3 km
Discover the best of Aarhus nightlife at Lounge 8000, where vibrant performances and a stylish lounge atmosphere await.
Bernhardt Natklub
0.3 km
Discover Aarhus' premier nightlife destination at Bernhardt Natklub, where cocktails and beats create unforgettable memories.
Hornsleth Bar Aarhus
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Hornsleth Bar, where innovative cocktails meet an energetic atmosphere.
equalclub
0.5 km
Discover the thriving nightlife of Aarhus at Equal Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences come together.
V58
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at V58 in Aarhus, where live music meets an energetic atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- TikTok-Friendly
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
