The Old Town: Aarhus’ Living Museum Through Time
Denmark’s living museum where real streets, shops, and people bring centuries of urban history to life in the heart of Aarhus.
The Old Town (Den Gamle By) in central Aarhus is a dynamic open-air museum that immerses visitors in Danish urban history, featuring reconstructed streets, working shops, period homes, and costumed interpreters. This unique site showcases daily life from the 17th to the 20th century, providing both historical insight and lively, interactive exhibits. Visitors wander cobbled lanes, peek into period interiors, meet locals in costume, and experience the atmosphere of Danish city life across centuries.
A brief summary to The Old Town
- Viborgvej 2, Aarhus C, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- +4586123188
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit in December for enchanting Christmas market scenes, carolers, and festive foods unique to Danish tradition.
- Pick up traditional Danish pastries at the working bakery—these are baked fresh daily using original recipes.
- Check the event schedule for live demonstrations; weekends and holidays often feature extra interactive activities.
- Allow at least half a day to fully explore, as the site is much larger and more detailed than first impressions suggest.
- Family travelers: playgrounds and special children’s programs make this a standout destination for kids.
Getting There
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Walking
Standing just west of the Aarhus city center, The Old Town is bordered by the lush Botanical Garden and is easily visible from the main pedestrian zones and museum quarter. From the central square or railway station, it’s a 10–20 minute walk through lively shopping streets or tranquil urban parks. The final approach is flat with ample signage and accessible paths throughout.
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Public Transport
City buses from the main station and central stops head directly toward the Botanical Garden area. Ride time is typically under 10 minutes, with adult single tickets costing approximately 24–27 DKK. The museum entrance is clearly signposted adjacent to the gardens.
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Taxi
Taxis from the core of Aarhus to The Old Town usually take less than 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect typical fares in the range of 70–120 DKK for a short city trip.
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Driving/Parking
While onsite parking is limited, several pay-and-display lots are found by the Botanical Garden nearby. Parking averages 15–25 DKK per hour. Be aware that spaces can fill up quickly, especially on weekends or during special events.
Discover more about The Old Town
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mølleparken
0.5 km
Denmark’s national gallery showcasing centuries of Nordic and European art, iconic masterpieces, modern creativity, and interactive cultural experiences in Copenhagen.
Møllestien
0.5 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.
Flodhesteungen Frederikke
0.8 km
Denmark's national gallery fuses historic masterpieces with contemporary Nordic art in a striking architectural setting at the heart of Copenhagen.
Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden
0.8 km
Explore contemporary art at Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden, Aarhus' premier gallery showcasing local and international talent.
Agnete og Havmanden
0.9 km
Discover the poetic fusion of Danish folklore and modern sculpture at Aarhus’ Agnete og Havmanden, a landmark bronze fountain embodying myth and emotion.
KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
1.1 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.
Frederiks Plads
1.3 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
1.6 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.
Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg
2.0 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
2.0 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Aarhus at Trøjborg Beboerhus, a hub for cultural events, workshops, and local gatherings.
Marselisborgmonumentet
3.2 km
Standing tall in Mindeparken, Marselisborgmonumentet honors Danish World War I volunteers with solemn beauty, monumental sculpture, and panoramic bay views near Aarhus.
The Infinite Bridge
4.0 km
Discover the breathtaking Infinite Bridge in Aarhus, a stunning blend of architecture and nature, perfect for leisurely strolls and memorable views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Danish Poster Museum
0.1 km
Discover the harmonious blend of Danish landscape design and university life at University Park, Aarhus – a peaceful green haven in the city’s academic core.
Møllen i botanisk have Århus
0.2 km
Urban beach escape south of Aarhus city center, offering clean sands, gentle waters, and year-round access beside forest and royal palace grounds.
Greenhouses in the Botanical Garden
0.3 km
Discover lush climate zones, striking architecture, and rare plant life at Aarhus’ Greenhouses in the Botanical Garden—a vibrant urban oasis at the city’s heart.
Museumsbroen
0.3 km
Historic hilltop observatory in Aarhus offering hands-on astronomy, guided stargazing, and a unique glimpse into Denmark’s pioneering scientific past.
Stenpartiet
0.3 km
Experience the harmonious fusion of classic Danish modernist architecture, tranquil lakes, and lively student culture at the sprawling Aarhus University Park.
Aarhus Culture Walk
0.5 km
Discover Aarhus' oldest neighborhood, Latinerkvarteret, where historic charm meets modern culture in a vibrant blend of cafés, boutiques, and artistic venues.
Botanical Garden
0.5 km
Marselisborg Strand, Aarhus’s urban beach, offers scenic sands, swimming, and panoramic bay views right next to Marselisborg Palace and lush forest paths.
ARoS Aarhus Art Museum
0.6 km
Aarhus University Park blends scenic green spaces, serene lakes, and iconic architecture—offering a tranquil escape and vibrant academic atmosphere in Aarhus' city heart.
Kunsthal Aarhus
0.6 km
The Latin Quarter in Aarhus beckons with historic cobbled streets, vibrant cafés, creative boutiques, and a rich, bohemian atmosphere in Denmark’s oldest neighborhood.
Musikhuset Aarhus
0.7 km
Aarhus University Park blends lush green spaces and tranquil lakes with iconic Danish architecture, serving as a serene and historic heart of academic and public life in Aarhus.
Our Lady Church
0.7 km
Sprawling lawns, iconic yellow-brick university buildings, lakes, and tree-lined paths create a tranquil oasis at the heart of Aarhus' academic and cultural life.
Sherlock Holmes Pub
0.7 km
Discover Aarhus’ charismatic Latin Quarter—a labyrinth of cobbled streets, lively cafés, creative boutiques, and historic charm at the city’s vibrant core.
Klostertorvet
0.8 km
Aarhus waterfront is a vibrant synthesis of modern Nordic architecture, historic harbor heritage, lively promenades, and captivating sea views in Denmark’s urban heart.
Flodhestefontæne
0.8 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.
Mindrebæltsbroen
0.8 km
Royal residence on Aarhus Bay with historic gardens, open parkland, classic Danish architecture, and the chance to witness the royal guard—all amidst city green space.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Malt - Mad, Øl & Vin
0.1 km
Nordic culinary craft, local brews, and Danish heritage converge at Restaurant Malt, where history and inventive cuisine create a must-visit Aarhus experience.
Møf
0.4 km
Møf blends seasonal Nordic cuisine with modern creativity in central Aarhus, offering an authentic taste of Denmark in a stylish and inviting setting.
Den Lille Kro
0.5 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Den Lille Kro in Aarhus - where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
Gastro & Vino
0.6 km
Discover exquisite Danish cuisine and thoughtfully paired wines in an intimate, backyard setting at Gastro & Vino, one of Aarhus’s most celebrated culinary gems.
Lupo
0.7 km
Trendy Italian restaurant in central Aarhus, serving seasonal, shareable dishes with a distinctly Danish twist in a lively, social setting near city landmarks.
Bardok
0.7 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.
SYV NI 13
0.7 km
SYV NI 13: Modern Nordic restaurant in central Aarhus, celebrated for inventive seasonal tasting menus, open kitchen atmosphere, and standout natural wine selection.
Keyser Social
0.8 km
Discover Keyser Social in Aarhus: where seasonal ingredients meet innovative cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Restaurant Dauphine ApS
0.8 km
Restaurant Dauphine in Aarhus blends classic French cuisine with Nordic produce in an elegant setting, offering an acclaimed fine-dining experience in East Jutland.
Restaurant L'øst
0.8 km
Experience modern Danish cuisine at Restaurant L'øst in Aarhus - where local flavors meet contemporary dining.
Raadhuus Kafeen
0.8 km
Experience authentic Danish cuisine at Raadhuus Kafeen in Aarhus – where tradition meets quality in every dish.
Bernth & co
0.9 km
Bernth & Co offers imaginative Nordic dishes in a stylish, central Aarhus setting—blending seasonal ingredients and Danish tradition for a memorable city dining experience.
Langhoff & Juul
0.9 km
Nordic-inspired, organic dining in Aarhus’ historic Latin Quarter, with a focus on sustainability, seasonal menus, atmospheric interiors, and local flair.
Salling ROOFTOP
0.9 km
Sky-high views, stylish cafes, green terraces, and urban energy combine on Salling ROOFTOP, Aarhus’ essential spot for panoramic perspectives and sociable citylife.
Kolo
0.9 km
Discover Kolo in Aarhus - where local ingredients meet innovative cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Magasin Aarhus
0.8 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.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.8 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
0.9 km
Discover Danish porcelain heritage at Royal Copenhagen Aarhus, a refined destination for iconic tableware, handcrafted designs, and timeless design inspiration.
Weekday
0.9 km
Experience Scandinavian street style and innovative fashion at Weekday Aarhus, a contemporary hub for trendsetting men’s and women’s clothing in vibrant central Aarhus.
Magpie Lane Vintage
0.9 km
Aarhus’ go-to vintage boutique for unique, handpicked fashion finds and classic accessories in an inviting, sustainability-focused setting.
& Vintage
0.9 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.
LÏST Store
1.0 km
Discover unique women's fashion in Aarhus' charming Latin Quarter at LÏST Store.
Jooma Aarhus
1.0 km
Discover unique Danish crafts and gifts at Jooma Aarhus, nestled in the historic Latinerkvarteret.
Bruuns Galleri
1.2 km
Bruuns Galleri: Aarhus’ premier city-center shopping mall, blending top brands, Danish design, dining, and urban life in a vibrant architectural landmark.
Luna Hvid
1.3 km
Discover handcrafted elegance at Luna Hvid, Aarhus' premier hat boutique in the historic Latin Quarter.
Aarhus Antik
1.5 km
Discover Danish heritage at Aarhus Antik, a charming antique store in Aarhus' Frederiksbjerg district.
Ancher
2.0 km
Discover holistic wellness at Ancher, Trøjborg's premier health and beauty destination in Aarhus.
SecondLux
2.1 km
Browse handpicked sustainable fashion and unique vintage finds in a welcoming consignment boutique at the heart of Trøjborg’s independent scene.
Mols Haven
19.0 km
Experience the freshest local produce at Mols Haven in Knebel, Denmark.
Molsløbet
19.3 km
Experience the natural beauty of Mols Bjerge through the annual Molsløbet running event, offering diverse routes for all fitness levels.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hjorten
0.3 km
Discover the heart of Aarhus nightlife at Hjorten, a lively bodega with local brews and a vibrant atmosphere for all visitors.
Mundhæld
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Mundhæld, a cozy bar in Aarhus offering a delightful selection of craft beers and a unique ambiance for every traveler.
S'vinbar
0.7 km
Experience the charm of Aarhus’ Latin Quarter at S’vinbar, where curated wines, welcoming staff, and Nordic coziness invite wine lovers and explorers alike.
Die kleine Bierstube
0.7 km
Experience German hospitality in Aarhus at Die kleine Bierstube, featuring a vast beer selection, authentic schnitzel, and the city’s most convivial Bavarian-inspired atmosphere.
Tir Na nÓg - Irish Gastropub
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Ireland at Tir Na nÓg, Aarhus' premier Irish gastropub featuring live music, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Oops - Bar, lounge og Rombar i Århus
0.8 km
Discover Oops Bar in Aarhus - a vibrant cocktail haven blending style and comfort with an exquisite drink menu and light bites.
Fairbar
0.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of bar and cafe culture at Fairbar in Aarhus, offering a cozy ambiance and a diverse drink menu.
Heidi's Bier Bar Aarhus
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar Aarhus, featuring a diverse selection of beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Two Socks Ginbar
0.8 km
Discover the enchanting ambiance of Two Socks Ginbar, a haven for gin lovers in the heart of Aarhus, Denmark, where expert mixology meets local charm.
Waxies
0.8 km
Experience classic Irish hospitality, live music, and a vibrant pub atmosphere at Waxies, Aarhus’ favorite gathering spot in the heart of Central Jutland.
Hornsleth Bar Aarhus
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Hornsleth Bar Aarhus, a premier destination for cocktails and dancing in the heart of the city.
Annalise's Bar
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Annalise's Bar, where cozy ambiance meets creative cocktails and friendly service.
Barstart
0.9 km
Discover Barstart, Aarhus' premier cocktail bar offering vibrant drinks, small plates, and a unique Tarantino-themed ambiance for an unforgettable night out.
Clemens Bar
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Clemens Bar, where friendly vibes and delicious drinks await every night.
Vinstuen
0.9 km
Experience the cozy charm of Vinstuen, a beloved bar in Aarhus, offering refreshing drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all.