Forstbotanisk Have
A serene botanical sanctuary with exotic greenhouses and peaceful walking paths in the heart of Aarhus.
Forstbotanisk Have is a serene forestry botanical garden located in southern Aarhus, Denmark, offering lush landscapes, peaceful walking paths, and a charming lake. The garden features over 2,000 plant species housed in modern greenhouses, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers, families, and those seeking quiet contemplation. Free entry and open 24/7, it combines natural beauty with educational opportunities, situated conveniently near Marselisborg Castle and the historic Old Town.
A brief summary to Forstbotanisk Have
- Forstbotanisk Have, Aarhus, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
- Duration: 1.5 to 3.5 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes with good grip—the garden's paths include steep sections and uneven terrain, particularly in the greenhouses. Light clothing is recommended as the greenhouses become warm and humid.
- Visit in spring mornings for the best experience: blooming flowers, fewer crowds, and cooler temperatures before the greenhouses heat up. Avoid very windy or rainy days if you prefer outdoor exploration.
- Download the greenhouse app before your visit to unlock detailed botanical information about the 2,000+ plant species. This transforms a casual walk into an educational experience.
- Bring a packed picnic and enjoy it in the designated picnic areas on the first floor of the greenhouses or on benches throughout the garden. The café also offers traditional Danish food if you prefer not to bring your own.
- Plan 2–3 hours for a thorough visit, allowing time to explore both the outdoor garden paths and the greenhouses. The nearby Old Town (Den Gamle By) makes an excellent follow-up destination.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Routes 2A, 3A, and 5A stop directly along Peter Holms Vej at the Botanical Garden entrance. Journey time from Aarhus city centre is approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic and starting point. Buses run regularly throughout the day with reduced frequency in evenings and on Sundays. Single journey tickets cost around 25 DKK (approximately 3–4 EUR). Check Midttrafik for current timetables and real-time updates.
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Bicycle
Cycling is a popular and practical option in Aarhus. The garden is accessible via dedicated cycle paths from the city centre, with a journey time of 15–20 minutes depending on your starting point. Bike racks are available at the garden entrance. The route is relatively flat through the city but becomes hillier as you approach the garden's southern location. No rental cost beyond standard Aarhus bike-share fees if using the city system.
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Car with Parking
Drive up Peter Holms Vej from Langelandsgade to reach the pay-and-display car park located within the garden grounds. The first two hours of parking are free; additional hours cost approximately 30–50 DKK per hour. Parking spaces for disabled visitors are located near the main greenhouse entrance. Journey time from central Aarhus is 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Remember to register your vehicle at the pay station.
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Walking
The garden is accessible on foot from multiple points in Aarhus via established footpaths from the city and Ringgaden ring road. Walking from the city centre takes approximately 25–35 minutes depending on your route and starting point. The terrain becomes progressively hillier as you approach the garden. Paths are well-maintained and clearly marked, though some sections feature steep gradients.
Forstbotanisk Have location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Forstbotanisk Have
A Hidden Sanctuary in Southern Aarhus
Forstbotanisk Have is a forestry botanical garden nestled in the southern reaches of Aarhus, Denmark, where rolling terrain and carefully curated landscapes create an immersive natural experience. The garden's location, hidden away near Marselisborg Castle and Castle Park, offers visitors a genuine escape from urban life while remaining easily accessible from the city centre. The garden's topography features winding paths that ascend and descend through varied terrain, past serene ponds, picnic tables, and wooden benches positioned to capture quiet moments of reflection.The Greenhouses: A World of Exotic Flora
At the southern end of the garden lies the crown jewel—a series of modern greenhouses housing over 2,000 plant species from around the world. Stepping inside these climate-controlled spaces transports visitors into humid tropical environments filled with exotic vegetation, from towering cacti to giant water lilies and fluttering butterflies. The greenhouses maintain a carefully controlled atmosphere that allows delicate and rare plants to thrive far from their native habitats. An interactive app provides detailed botanical information, transforming a casual stroll into an educational journey through global plant diversity. The café within the greenhouses serves traditional Danish food with contemporary twists, allowing visitors to dine surrounded by lush greenery.Seasonal Rhythms and Natural Beauty
The garden's character transforms throughout the year, with spring bringing abundant blooms and fresh growth, summer offering ideal conditions for outdoor picnics and socialising, and autumn painting the landscape in warm tones. Winter visitors discover a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere. The varied terrain includes both gravelled and paved pathways, with some sections featuring steeper inclines that add gentle challenge to exploration. Ponds throughout the garden reflect the sky and surrounding vegetation, creating natural focal points for photography and meditation.Community and Accessibility
Forstbotanisk Have functions as a genuine community space where locals gather for jogging, picnicking, and social gatherings, particularly during warm summer evenings. The garden's central location within Aarhus makes it accessible from multiple entry points via footpaths from the city and surrounding ring roads. The greenhouses feature wheelchair-accessible wide paths and dedicated parking for visitors with mobility needs. A cloakroom and self-service lockers provide convenient storage, while the café offers both indoor seating and outdoor patio areas for dining and relaxation.Gateway to Cultural Experiences
The garden's proximity to major attractions enriches any visit. From the southern exit, the historic Old Town (Den Gamle By) is within walking distance, offering authentic 19th-century buildings, cobblestone streets, and period-appropriate shops and bakeries. The location also places visitors near Aarhus's acclaimed museums, vibrant cafés along Åboulevarden, and the eclectic shops of the Latin District. This strategic positioning allows visitors to combine botanical exploration with broader cultural discovery.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Marselisborgmonumentet
0.6 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
2.7 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
2.9 km
Discover the poetic fusion of Danish folklore and modern sculpture at Aarhus’ Agnete og Havmanden, a landmark bronze fountain embodying myth and emotion.
Den Svangre
2.9 km
A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.
Store Torv
3.5 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.
KØN - Gender Museum Denmark
3.6 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.
Lille Torv
3.6 km
Charming central square in Aarhus’ historic district, Lille Torv blends centuries-old architecture, local life, and a vibrant social atmosphere for visitors.
The Occupation Museum
3.6 km
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.
Herman Sallings Plads
3.6 km
Aarhus’s vibrant harborfront plaza, bridging the historic city and the modern waterfront, alive with urban energy, culture, and panoramic views.
Our Lady Church
3.6 km
Medieval layers of faith: from Viking-era crypt to Dominican monastery, Aarhus' oldest sacred space.
The Old Town
3.6 km
Experience Danish urban life through the ages at The Old Town in Aarhus, an immersive open-air museum showcasing historical buildings and authentic cultural experiences from the 16th to 20th centuries.
Klostertorvet
3.6 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.
Aarhus waterfront
3.6 km
Aarhus Waterfront blends urban vibrancy, Nordic design, and harbor heritage with panoramic sea views and lively promenades, making it a quintessential Danish experience.
Latin Quarter
3.7 km
Winding cobblestone streets, historic facades, and a creative spirit fill Aarhus’s Latin Quarter, the city’s oldest district and its cultural heartbeat.
Mindrebæltsbroen
3.7 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
Marselisborg Castle
0.2 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.
Villa Margarinely
0.3 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.
Kirkeskov
0.5 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.
Mindeparken
0.5 km
Experience royal Danish heritage and stunning public gardens at Marselisborg Castle, the summer home of Denmark’s monarch, in vibrant Aarhus.
Flagpladsen
0.5 km
Explore the cosmos at Aarhus's historic Ole Rømer Observatory, home to Denmark's largest functioning telescope.
Ole Rømer Observatory
0.6 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.
Rømerhaven
0.6 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.
Marselisborg Strand
0.8 km
Easygoing Aarhus city beach where forested hills, open bay views and everyday Danish coastal life meet just south of the urban centre.
Det lille vandfald på Varna Strand.
1.0 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
1.0 km
Marselisborg Castle blends royal heritage with tranquil parklands in the heart of Aarhus, offering a peaceful escape and glimpses of Danish regal life.
Marselisborg Deer Park
1.1 km
Free-roaming deer and wild boars in a pristine 22-hectare forest sanctuary near Aarhus.
Tivoli Friheden
1.2 km
Discover Denmark’s cultural icons along Frederiksberg Allé, where the Walk of Fame honors entertainment legends among cafés and tree-lined elegance.
Bænken med den smukkeste udsigt
1.4 km
A simple bench on the forested coast of southern Aarhus offering a wide, tranquil view over Aarhus Bay and the curving shoreline below.
Walk'n'talk
2.0 km
Transform your meetings into dynamic conversations while walking through nature's inspiring landscape.
Rådhusparken
2.9 km
Stately royal residence set amid sweeping landscaped gardens, Marselisborg Castle is an emblem of Danish tradition and a tranquil green escape in Aarhus.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Frederikshøj
0.4 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 Thors Mølle
0.8 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 Martino
1.6 km
Harbourfront Italian and Mediterranean dining at Marselisborg Marina, where pizzas, seafood and long Nordic evenings meet sweeping views of Aarhus Bay.
Restaurant Hærværk
2.5 km
Restaurant Hærværk in Aarhus C reinvents Nordic cuisine nightly through inventive tasting menus, hyper-local ingredients, and award-winning sustainability.
Atelier 33
2.5 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.
JUHLs spisehus
2.5 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.
Juliette
2.5 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.
St. Pauls Apothek
2.5 km
Inventive Nordic dining and precision cocktails served in a century‑old Aarhus pharmacy, where historic apothecary charm meets contemporary mixology.
Klassisk 65, Bistro & Vinbar
2.5 km
Experience the essence of Danish cuisine at Klassisk 65 Bistro & Vinbar in Aarhus – where tradition meets modern dining excellence.
Restaurant Ombord
2.5 km
Modern Danish bistro with seasonal Nordic menus and inventive small plates, nestled among Frederiksbjerg’s vibrant food hotspots in central Aarhus.
Restaurant Kohalen
2.5 km
Aarhus’ beloved harbor canteen, where timeworn interiors, white‑shirted waiters and hefty Danish lunch classics keep over a century of tradition alive.
Restaurant MÖR
2.6 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.
Restaurant V
2.8 km
Urban Danish brasserie with seasonal Nordic cuisine, open kitchen views, and one of Aarhus's premier gin bars.
Restaurant Nögen
2.8 km
Vibrant, sustainable Nordic dining near Aarhus station—Restaurant Nögen blends bold flavors, stylish Scandi design, and social shared plates at a moderate price.
GÄST
2.8 km
Seasonal modern European dining with a Nordic soul, served in a softly lit Scandinavian interior beside Aarhus’ busy central train station square.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Woodstock Guitars
2.2 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
2.2 km
Discover Danish heritage at Aarhus Antik, a charming antique store in Aarhus' Frederiksbjerg district.
Højkant Design Shop
2.3 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
2.3 km
Discover handcrafted elegance at Luna Hvid, Aarhus' premier hat boutique in the historic Latin Quarter.
Moonchild Vintage Århus
2.4 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
2.6 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
2.6 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
2.6 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
2.7 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)
2.9 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
3.0 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
3.1 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
3.1 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
3.2 km
A cosy Aarhus specialty shop where aromatic coffee, fine teas, chocolates and wines come together in beautifully curated gifts and everyday indulgences.
Salling Aarhus
3.2 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Den Runde Bar
2.3 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
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Jacob Skomager, Aarhus' charming bodega, perfect for drinks and socializing with locals.
ButlerBar
2.3 km
Discover the lively ButlerBar in Aarhus, a perfect blend of great drinks, friendly service, and an inviting atmosphere for all travelers.
Væskebalancen Bar
2.5 km
Experience the lively ambiance and extensive drink selection at Væskebalancen Bar, the heart of Aarhus' nightlife.
Den Hvide Hest
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Den Hvide Hest, a charming bar in Aarhus offering local brews and a taste of Danish hospitality.
Mikkeller bar
2.5 km
Experience the best of craft beer at Mikkeller Bar, Aarhus - a paradise for beer lovers with unique local brews and a vibrant atmosphere.
Din Vinbar
2.5 km
Discover unparalleled wine experiences at Din Vinbar, Aarhus' premier wine bar, where quality meets passion in every glass.
Æblet og Gåsen
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Æblet og Gåsen, a charming bar in Aarhus offering local brews and delightful snacks in a cozy setting.
Drop Inn
2.7 km
Discover the charm of Drop Inn in Aarhus, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere create the perfect bar experience.
Centralbar
2.8 km
Easygoing, inexpensive bar by Aarhus Central Station – a relaxed, central meeting spot for simple drinks, local atmosphere and straightforward good times.
Flintstone Pub
3.0 km
Low-lit brun bar in central Aarhus serving inexpensive beers, Guinness and classic pub vibes in a laid-back, wood-paneled setting.
Gedulgt
3.0 km
Discover Gedulgt: Aarhus's premier cocktail bar offering unique drinks and a lively ambiance for an unforgettable night out.
Die kleine Bierstube
3.2 km
Cozy German-style pub on lively Frederiksgade, pouring classic Bavarian beers and serving hearty schnitzel in a wood-paneled corner of central Aarhus.
Thorkilds
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Thorkilds, the local bar renowned for its friendly atmosphere and affordable drinks.
Rabalder Bar Aarhus
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Rabalder Bar, where creative cocktails and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Nature Escape
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Modern
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly