ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

Ten floors of Danish and international art crowned by Olafur Eliasson’s luminous rainbow rooftop, ARoS is Aarhus’ bold cultural beacon and a full‑day museum experience.

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ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is one of Northern Europe’s largest and most ambitious art museums, rising over ten floors in the heart of Aarhus. Home to more than 8,000 works from 18th-century masters to cutting-edge contemporary installations, it is crowned by Olafur Eliasson’s iconic Your rainbow panorama, a circular rooftop walkway in coloured glass with sweeping views of the city. Inside, bold architecture, major temporary exhibitions and immersive installation spaces make ARoS a full-day destination for art lovers of all ages.

A brief summary to ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

Aros Allé 2, Aarhus, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
+4561904900
Visit website
Duration: 2.5 to 4 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 10 am-9 pm
Tuesday 10 am-9 pm
Wednesday 10 am-9 pm
Thursday 10 am-9 pm
Friday 10 am-9 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Plan at least three hours to explore multiple floors, special exhibitions and the rooftop; ARoS is much larger than it appears from the outside.
Aim for clear weather if you can to experience the most vivid colours and best views from Your rainbow panorama on the roof.
Check exhibition listings in advance; blockbuster shows can influence how you prioritise time between the collection and temporary galleries.
Use the lifts strategically if mobility or stamina is an issue; starting at the top floors and working down can reduce backtracking.
Budget extra time for the museum shop and café, both strong on Danish design and a good way to round off your visit.

Getting There

City bus from central Aarhus

From Aarhus H railway station, regular city buses run toward the city centre and Musikhuset area, taking around 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay roughly 20–30 DKK for a single adult ticket purchased via app or ticket machine. Buses generally have low-floor access and space for prams and wheelchairs, but they can be busy in rush hour and on wet days.
On foot from Aarhus H and city centre

Walking from Aarhus H or the pedestrian shopping streets to the museum typically takes 10–15 minutes at a relaxed pace. The route is gently sloping and follows broad pavements through the cultural district, suitable for most visitors with standard mobility. Surfaces are mostly smooth, though cobblestones appear in some sections, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Bicycle within Aarhus

Aarhus is very bike-friendly, and cycling from most central neighbourhoods to ARoS usually takes 5–10 minutes. You can rent a bike via local bike-share schemes or rental shops for around 80–150 DKK per day. Dedicated cycle lanes lead through much of the centre, but be prepared for traffic lights, other cyclists and occasional short inclines near the museum.
Car or taxi within the city

By car or taxi from central Aarhus locations, the ride to the museum area is typically 5–15 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis start around 50–60 DKK plus distance and time, with total fares within the core city often in the 80–150 DKK range. Paid parking spaces are available close to the museum but can be limited at peak cultural hours and during major events.

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum location weather suitability

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Discover more about ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

A vertical world of art in the heart of Aarhus

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum towers above the city centre as a ten-storey temple to art and ideas. Purpose-built and opened in 2004, the museum occupies 20,000-plus square metres arranged around a soaring central atrium, so you navigate up and down like moving through a vertical city of galleries. Natural light pours in from above, while long sightlines frame both artworks and glimpses of Aarhus outside. The collection is Denmark’s largest outside the capital, spanning more than 8,000 works from around 1770 to the present. Classic Danish painting, international modernism and contemporary experimentation all sit under one roof, giving you a sense of how Nordic and global art have evolved in dialogue over centuries.

From Danish masters to global icons

Several floors are dedicated to collection displays where 19th‑century landscapes, Golden Age portraits and expressive 20th‑century canvases trace the changing face of Danish art. You might move from quiet maritime scenes to bold abstract compositions in just a few steps, with sculpture, photography and video woven through the narrative. ARoS also has a strong international outlook. Over the years, its galleries have hosted major shows with names such as Monet, Munch, Dalí, Cindy Sherman and Bill Viola, alongside key Danish figures like Asger Jorn and Per Kirkeby. The emphasis is on thematic, carefully curated exhibitions rather than simple greatest‑hits displays, so familiar artists often appear in fresh, thought‑provoking contexts.

Immersive installations and the 9 Spaces

One of the museum’s signatures is its commitment to large‑scale installation art. An entire level, known as The 9 Spaces, is devoted to darkened, atmospheric rooms where sound, light and moving image surround you. Here, time slows down: you might stand in a glowing environment, walk through a dreamlike corridor or watch a film piece unfold across multiple screens. Other permanent installations appear throughout the building, from subtle light works to monumental sculptures that alter your sense of scale. This focus on the experiential makes ARoS as much about how art feels in your body as how it looks on the wall, and encourages lingering rather than rushing from piece to piece.

Your rainbow panorama and the city above

Crowning it all is Olafur Eliasson’s Your rainbow panorama, the circular rooftop walkway that has become a contemporary symbol of Aarhus. The ring of coloured glass slowly shifts from red through the spectrum to violet, tinting the city below in constantly changing hues as you walk. Views of the harbour, old town and surrounding neighbourhoods unfold like a living 360‑degree painting. Inside the ring, the museum’s roof terrace and outdoor spaces give you a chance to pause in the open air. On clear days, the coloured light is especially vivid, while overcast skies bring softer, more introspective tones. Many visitors treat the rainbow as a finale to their visit, but stepping up mid‑way can be just as rewarding, reframing the rest of the museum when you return inside.

Cafés, design and the rhythm of a visit

Multiple cafes and a bright orangery offer coffee, pastries, light meals and a front‑row seat to the museum’s architecture. Floor‑to‑ceiling windows keep you connected to the city outside, turning a quick break into part of the experience. The museum shop is another highlight, heavy on design objects, art books and inventive gifts that reflect both Danish aesthetics and current exhibitions. With ten levels, five main gallery areas and ambitious temporary shows, ARoS rewards slow exploration. Many visitors spend three to four hours here, weaving between permanent collection, headline exhibitions and immersive installations before ending on the roof. Whether you are a dedicated art enthusiast or simply curious, the building’s clarity of design and the variety of experiences make it easy to find your own pace.

Access, atmosphere and who it suits

The museum’s central location places it within easy reach of other cultural institutions, and its interior is designed with lifts and wide circulation routes that support step‑free access. Clear signage, staffed information points and spacious seating zones help you navigate, rest and orient yourself between galleries. Families often gravitate towards the large, dramatic works and interactive elements, while solo travellers find quiet corners for contemplation. Couples drift through the coloured glow of the rooftop ring, and groups spread out across the floors before regrouping in the café. Throughout, the tone is relaxed but focused, with enough buzz to feel alive yet ample space to let the artworks speak.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Den Svangre

0.3 km

A bronze sculpture celebrating the female form in Aarhus's cultural heart.

Agnete og Havmanden

0.3 km

Discover the poetic fusion of Danish folklore and modern sculpture at Aarhus’ Agnete og Havmanden, a landmark bronze fountain embodying myth and emotion.

Frederiks Plads

0.7 km

A vibrant, contemporary city square where modern architecture, open green space, and urban life converge in the heart of Aarhus near Frederiksbjerg.

History Hunts med Hvem.nu

0.9 km

Malmo Live Concert Hall blends iconic Nordic architecture, world-class live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in Malmö, just across the bridge from Copenhagen.

Herman Sallings Plads

0.9 km

Aarhus’s vibrant harborfront plaza, bridging the historic city and the modern waterfront, alive with urban energy, culture, and panoramic views.

Endless Connection

0.9 km

Experience the dynamic interplay of art and water at Aarhus's Endless Connection, an interactive fountain by Jeppe Hein.

Aarhus waterfront

1.0 km

Aarhus Waterfront blends urban vibrancy, Nordic design, and harbor heritage with panoramic sea views and lively promenades, making it a quintessential Danish experience.

Botanical Garden

1.1 km

Experience Denmark's artistic heritage and international masterpieces at SMK, Copenhagen's dynamic national gallery housed in landmark architecture beside the Kings’ Garden.

Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden

1.2 km

Explore contemporary art at Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden, Aarhus' premier gallery showcasing local and international talent.

Steno Museum

1.3 km

Explore the Steno Museum in Aarhus, where science and history come alive through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences.

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.

University Park, Aarhus

1.7 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.

Tivoli Friheden

1.9 km

Experience the thrill and magic of Tivoli Friheden, Aarhus' premier amusement park with rides, live music, and family-friendly fun for all ages.

Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg

2.1 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

2.2 km

Experience the vibrant community spirit of Aarhus at Trøjborg Beboerhus, a hub for cultural events, workshops, and local gatherings.

Unmissable attractions to see

Musikhuset Aarhus

0.1 km

Northern Europe's largest concert hall delivering world-class performances in stunning Scandinavian architecture.

Kunsthal Aarhus

0.2 km

Free contemporary art in a light-filled modernist space, showcasing international and Danish artists since 1917.

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.

Mølleparken

0.2 km

Compact yet characterful, Mølleparken is Aarhus’ riverside green room, blending mill-town history, public art, student life and festival energy in one urban pocket.

Rådhusparken

0.3 km

Stately royal residence set amid sweeping landscaped gardens, Marselisborg Castle is an emblem of Danish tradition and a tranquil green escape in Aarhus.

Aarhus Culture Walk

0.3 km

Discover Aarhus' oldest neighborhood, Latinerkvarteret, where historic charm meets modern culture in a vibrant blend of cafés, boutiques, and artistic venues.

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.

Møllestien

0.3 km

Pastel cottages, cobbled stones and climbing roses – a tiny historic lane where centuries of Aarhus history live behind colourful facades.

Flodhestefontæne

0.4 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.

Flodhesteungen Frederikke

0.4 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.

Strøget

0.4 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.

Salling ROOFTOP

0.5 km

Sky-high city park, glass-floored skywalk and stylish café-bar rolled into one panoramic rooftop above Aarhus’ main shopping street.

Our Lady Church

0.6 km

Dokk1 is Aarhus’ iconic harborside library and cultural center—where award-winning design, vibrant community life, and panoramic waterfront views combine.

Vadestedet

0.6 km

Historic river crossing turned vibrant canal-side strip, Vadestedet blends cafés, bars and bridges into Aarhus’ cosiest, most atmospheric urban meeting place.

Sankt Clements Torv

0.6 km

Compact, historic and constantly in motion, Sankt Clemens Torv is the everyday crossroads between cathedral, Viking past, riverside cafés and modern shopping Aarhus.

Big‑hearted Italian dining on Frue Kirkeplads, where homemade pasta, good wine and a lively, sociable room turn an evening in central Aarhus into its own celebration.

Curated fashion boutique in Aarhus city center offering distinctive clothing and contemporary design pieces.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at Clemens Bar, where friendly vibes and delicious drinks await every night.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

equalclub

0.4 km

Discover the thriving nightlife of Aarhus at Equal Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences come together.

Rustik Bar & Natklub - Aarhus

0.6 km

Dive into the pulsating nightlife of Aarhus at Rustik Bar & Natklub, where vibrant music and an electric atmosphere await.

Bernhardt Natklub

0.7 km

Discover Aarhus' premier nightlife destination at Bernhardt Natklub, where cocktails and beats create unforgettable memories.

ZenZa Cocktailbar

0.7 km

Discover Aarhus' vibrant nightlife at ZenZa Cocktailbar, where expertly crafted cocktails and lively atmosphere await you.

GBAR

0.7 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at GBAR in Aarhus, a welcoming dance club where everyone can enjoy an unforgettable night out.

LA Tequila Bar Aarhus

0.8 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aarhus at LA Tequila Bar, offering an extensive tequila selection and energetic ambiance in the heart of Midtbyen.

Lounge 8000

0.8 km

Discover the best of Aarhus nightlife at Lounge 8000, where vibrant performances and a stylish lounge atmosphere await.

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ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

A brief summary to ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

City bus from central Aarhus

On foot from Aarhus H and city centre

Bicycle within Aarhus

Car or taxi within the city

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum location weather suitability

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Discover more about ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

A vertical world of art in the heart of Aarhus

From Danish masters to global icons

Immersive installations and the 9 Spaces

Your rainbow panorama and the city above

Cafés, design and the rhythm of a visit

Access, atmosphere and who it suits

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Den Svangre

Agnete og Havmanden

Frederiks Plads

History Hunts med Hvem.nu

Herman Sallings Plads

Endless Connection

Aarhus waterfront

Botanical Garden

Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden

Steno Museum

Folkehuset Trøjborg

University Park, Aarhus

Tivoli Friheden

Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg

Trøjborg Beboerhus

Unmissable attractions to see

Musikhuset Aarhus

Kunsthal Aarhus

Sherlock Holmes Pub

Mølleparken

Rådhusparken

Aarhus Culture Walk

Museumsbroen

Møllestien

Flodhestefontæne

Flodhesteungen Frederikke

Strøget

Salling ROOFTOP

Our Lady Church

Vadestedet

Sankt Clements Torv

Essential places to dine

SYV NI 13

Raadhuus Kafeen

Restaurant L'øst

Tir Na nÓg - Irish Gastropub

Restaurant Dauphine ApS

GÄST

MASH - Restaurant Aarhus

Bardok

AmoRomA

Restaurant Amalfi

Pho C&P

Møf

Restaurant Nögen

Restaurant Malt - Mad, Øl & Vin

Lupo

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Bog & idé - Aarhus, Svend A. Larsen

Epic Panda

Royal Copenhagen - Aarhus

Asian food store (Østens Specialiteter)

Bahne

UNIQ

Far-East Trading

Salling Aarhus

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Mrs. P Coffee & The