Background

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum: Denmark’s Contemporary Art Beacon

One of Scandinavia’s premier art museums, ARoS impresses with landmark architecture, panoramic rooftop views, and world-class contemporary exhibits at the heart of Aarhus.

5

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum stands as one of Denmark’s largest and most innovative art museums, famous for its striking modern architecture and the iconic rainbow-hued rooftop walkway. Within its galleries, visitors discover a world-class collection spanning Danish Golden Age painting to cutting-edge contemporary installations. Established in 1859 and relocated to its current glass-and-steel home in 2004, ARoS is as renowned for its engaging exhibitions as for its interactive, accessible atmosphere—all set at the heart of vibrant central Aarhus.

A brief summary to Skæringstenen

  • 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

  • Don’t miss the rooftop rainbow panorama for sweeping, multicolored views of Aarhus. Early and late visits tend to be less crowded.
  • Large lockers are available for bags and coats, letting you explore the museum hands-free.
  • Check the temporary exhibitions schedule—these regularly feature major international artists and unique contemporary installations.
  • Families should look out for interactive children’s activities and creative workshops, especially during school holidays.
  • The top-floor café is worth a pause, offering both classic Danish pastries and spectacular city panoramas.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Travelers heading to ARoS from the center of Mols Bjerge National Park typically reach Aarhus by regional bus. Buses frequently depart from major hubs such as Rønde, and the journey to Aarhus takes roughly 50–75 minutes, with tickets averaging 60–90 DKK one-way for adults. Upon arrival at Aarhus Rutebilstation, the art museum is less than 10 minutes away on foot, easily identified by its cube-shaped architecture and the rainbow panorama atop the skyline.

  • Taxi

    For those preferring the comfort and directness of a taxi, rides from the park’s popular visitor towns (such as Ebeltoft) to central Aarhus are available; expect the trip to last around 40–50 minutes and cost in the range of 600–900 DKK, depending on pick-up points and time of day. The taxi can drop you directly at the museum’s main entrance, beside Aarhus’s theater and City Hall.

  • Private Vehicle

    Driving from Mols Bjerge to ARoS is straightforward—main highways bring you into Aarhus city center in 40–50 minutes from major points like Ebeltoft or Knebel. Once in Aarhus, secure parking is available at several municipal car parks within a short walk of the museum; average rates are 25–30 DKK per hour. Be aware that on weekends parking availability may be limited near the museum—especially during major exhibitions.

Unlock the Best of Skæringstenen

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Skæringstenen

Rising above the city center of Aarhus, ARoS Art Museum commands attention with its bold, cube-shaped modern facade—a statement of Denmark’s enduring embrace of contemporary creativity. The museum’s architectural drama is heightened by its crowning feature: ‘Your rainbow panorama,’ a circular glass walkway by artist Olafur Eliasson, whose kaleidoscopic panels offer visitors a mesmerizing stroll with sweeping, color-drenched views of Aarhus. Inside, ARoS unfolds over ten storeys, making it one of northern Europe’s largest art venues. Its permanent collection is a walk through Danish art history, from the Golden Age of the 19th century through to abstract, experimental, and socially engaged works of the 20th and 21st centuries. The building’s spiral staircase, open galleries, and frequently changing major installations—including immersive light, sound, and sculpture pieces—create a sense of movement and innovation at every turn. Internationally significant temporary exhibitions have featured world-renowned artists such as Bill Viola, Ron Mueck, and Yayoi Kusama, making each visit distinct. The museum is celebrated for its commitment to making art accessible. Family visitors will find interactive spaces and thought-provoking children’s activities. The museum cafe and panoramic rooftop terrace provide not just refreshments but also spectacular vistas over Aarhus. ARoS also houses a well-curated shop with Nordic design gifts and art books. The legacy and buzz of the art scene in Jutland are represented in ARoS’s programming, which reflects both the regional context and the global contemporary art dialogue. Whether you are a seasoned art lover or a casual visitor drawn by the rainbow panorama, the ARoS experience is engaging, inclusive, and memorable. Practicalities: ARoS is open daily except for selected public holidays. Admission is typically in the mid-to-upper price range for Denmark’s museums, with discounts for students, children, and groups. The museum’s central location in Aarhus makes it easily accessible by foot from train stations, or by public transport and taxi. On busy weekends and during special exhibitions, advance ticket purchase is recommended to avoid queues.

Popular Experiences near Skæringstenen

Popular Hotels near Skæringstenen

Select Currency