Step Back in Time at The Old Town, Aarhus

Experience Danish history come to life at The Old Town in Aarhus, an open-air museum showcasing urban life from the 16th to the 20th centuries with authentic buildings and engaging exhibits.

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The Old Town

Den Gamle By, or The Old Town, in Aarhus, is a captivating open-air museum that transports visitors through Danish urban history. Wander through meticulously recreated streets and buildings from the 16th century to the 1970s, experiencing the atmosphere and daily life of different eras. Encounter costumed interpreters demonstrating traditional crafts, explore historic homes and workshops, and discover the evolution of Danish society. From cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses to retro shops and apartments, The Old Town offers an immersive and engaging glimpse into Denmark's past, making it a unique and memorable destination for all ages. Don't miss the opportunity to sample traditional Danish treats at the bakery or enjoy a meal at one of the historic restaurants.

A brief summary to The Old Town

Viborgvej 2, Aarhus C, Aarhus C, 8000, DK
+4586123188
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Local tips

Check the museum's website for special events and activities happening during your visit, such as concerts, theater performances, and craft demonstrations.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets.
Visit during the off-season (January to March 22) for lower admission fees and fewer crowds.
Take advantage of the free admission for children under 18, making it an affordable family outing.
Sample traditional Danish pastries at the bakery or enjoy a meal at one of the historic restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.

Getting There

Public Transport

Aarhus's efficient public transport system offers a convenient way to reach The Old Town. From Aarhus Central Station, take a local bus (yellow city buses) directly to Den Gamle By. Several bus lines stop near the museum's entrance. A single ticket for 2 zones costs DKK 26 and can be purchased via the Midttrafik app. Please note that you have to purchase a ticket before entering Letbanen as you can't buy tickets in the light train.
Walking

The Old Town is located within the Aarhus Botanical Garden, making it easily accessible by foot from many central locations. From the Latin Quarter, it's a pleasant walk of approximately 15-20 minutes. Follow signs for the Botanical Garden and then for Den Gamle By. This route allows you to enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Aarhus. A short taxi ride from the city center to Den Gamle By will typically cost between DKK 80-120, depending on traffic and the specific starting point.
Driving

If driving, parking is available in the Ceres Byen underground parking facility, located directly opposite Den Gamle By. Pre-booking is available for 6 or 8 hours, starting from DKK 82. Free street parking is available on Sundays and public holidays. On weekdays, paid parking zones are in effect, costing around DKK 23 per hour during peak times. Parking for buses is available on Dollerupvej, with free parking.

Discover more about The Old Town

Step into a living history book at Den Gamle By, The Old Town in Aarhus, a unique open-air museum that vividly recreates Danish urban life from the 16th century to the 1970s. Founded in 1909, this remarkable museum isn't just a collection of old buildings; it's a vibrant, breathing testament to Denmark's rich cultural heritage. As you enter Den Gamle By, you're immediately transported to another time. Cobblestone streets wind past meticulously reconstructed houses, shops, and workshops, each building telling a story of the people who lived and worked there. The air is filled with the sounds of traditional crafts being practiced, the aroma of freshly baked goods, and the chatter of costumed interpreters who bring the past to life. The museum is divided into distinct historical periods, allowing you to witness the evolution of Danish society over centuries. In the oldest section, you'll find half-timbered houses from the 16th and 17th centuries, offering a glimpse into the lives of merchants, artisans, and ordinary citizens during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Explore their homes, examine their tools, and learn about their daily routines. As you move forward in time, you'll encounter the 18th and 19th-century market town, a bustling center of commerce and trade. Visit the apothecary, the blacksmith, and the merchant's house, each filled with authentic artifacts and staffed by knowledgeable interpreters. Take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage for a truly immersive experience. The 20th-century sections of Den Gamle By offer a fascinating look at more recent Danish history. Step into a 1920s town, complete with a car dealership, a soap factory, and a post office. Explore the homes of families from different social classes, and discover the latest technological innovations of the era. The 1974 neighborhood is a trip down memory lane for many visitors, with its retro shops, apartments, and cultural references. Visit Poul's Radio, the local TV and radio store, or browse the shelves at the mini-market. Peek into the homes of a working couple, a single mother, and Turkish guest workers, reflecting the changing social landscape of the time. Den Gamle By is more than just a visual experience; it's a multi-sensory journey that engages all your senses. Sample traditional Danish pastries at the bakery, enjoy a meal at one of the historic restaurants, or have a pint of beer in the cozy beer cellar. The museum also hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, including concerts, theater performances, and craft demonstrations. For those interested in history, architecture, or simply experiencing a different way of life, Den Gamle By is a must-see destination. It's a place where the past comes alive, offering a unique and unforgettable glimpse into Denmark's cultural heritage. The attention to detail is remarkable, from the authentic artifacts to the costumed staff who are passionate about sharing their knowledge. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or on your own, Den Gamle By is sure to captivate and inspire. Beyond the historical immersion, Den Gamle By provides a deeper understanding of Danish values and traditions. You'll gain insights into the importance of community, craftsmanship, and social progress that have shaped Danish society over centuries. The museum also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage for future generations. Visiting Den Gamle By is an enriching experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for Danish history and culture. It's a place where you can step back in time, connect with the past, and create lasting memories. Whether you're interested in exploring the daily lives of ordinary people, learning about traditional crafts, or simply enjoying the atmosphere of a bygone era, Den Gamle By has something to offer everyone. It's a destination that will stay with you long after you've left, inspiring you to learn more about the world around you and the people who have shaped it. Den Gamle By is not just a museum; it's a living, breathing community that invites you to become a part of its story. So, come and experience the magic of The Old Town, and discover the rich tapestry of Danish history and culture that awaits you.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden

0.8 km

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

Den Svangre

0.9 km

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

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.

Herman Sallings Plads

1.2 km

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

Endless Connection

1.3 km

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

Aarhus waterfront

1.3 km

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

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.

University Park, Aarhus

1.4 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.

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.

Udsigtspladsen

2.3 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

2.4 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

3.2 km

Historic plaza overlooking Aarhus Bay, gateway to royal heritage and astronomical discovery.

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.

Unmissable attractions to see

Danish Poster Museum

0.1 km

A compact museum inside Den Gamle By where bold graphics, historic campaigns and global visual culture come together in hundreds of eye-catching posters.

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

Step into Aarhus’ luminous Greenhouses, where four climate zones, towering tropical plants and Danish landscapes outside create a calm, free botanical escape all year.

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

A compact rock garden in Aarhus’ Botanical Garden, where stone, slope and hardy plants create a miniature mountain landscape rich in texture and quiet detail.

Mølleparken

0.5 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.

Møllestien

0.5 km

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

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

Free tropical greenhouses and Danish gardens in Aarhus's verdant heart, open year-round.

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

0.6 km

Ten floors of Danish and international art crowned by a rainbow‑coloured skywalk, ARoS turns Aarhus’s skyline into part of a bold, immersive museum experience.

Kunsthal Aarhus

0.6 km

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

Musikhuset Aarhus

0.7 km

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

Our Lady Church

0.7 km

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

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

Intimate cobbled square in central Aarhus where monastic history, café life and city shopping streets meet in a relaxed, atmospheric urban pocket.

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.

Polished menswear boutique on historic Lille Torv, pairing curated designer labels with minimalist interior design and attentive, style-focused service.

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.

Discover Barstart, Aarhus' premier cocktail bar offering vibrant drinks, small plates, and a unique Tarantino-themed ambiance for an unforgettable night out.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Step Back in Time at The Old Town, Aarhus

A brief summary to The Old Town

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of The Old Town

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Old Town

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kunst ved Kaserneboulevarden

Den Svangre

Agnete og Havmanden

Herman Sallings Plads

Endless Connection

Aarhus waterfront

Frederiks Plads

University Park, Aarhus

Folkehuset Trøjborg

Nordisk Film Cinemas Trøjborg

Trøjborg Beboerhus

Udsigtspladsen

Tivoli Friheden

Flagpladsen

Marselisborgmonumentet

Unmissable attractions to see

Danish Poster Museum

Møllen i botanisk have Århus

Greenhouses in the Botanical Garden

Museumsbroen

Stenpartiet

Mølleparken

Møllestien

Aarhus Culture Walk

Botanical Garden

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum

Kunsthal Aarhus

Musikhuset Aarhus

Our Lady Church

Sherlock Holmes Pub

Klostertorvet

Essential places to dine

Restaurant Malt - Mad, Øl & Vin

Møf

AmoRomA

Restaurant Amalfi

Den Lille Kro

Gastro & Vino

Lupo

Lydmar Restaurang

Bardok

SYV NI 13

Keyser Social

Tir Na nÓg - Irish Gastropub

Restaurant Dauphine ApS

Faour

Restaurant L'øst

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

1 + 1 Textil & Design

Darling Inspire

Vintage Divine

Epic Panda

Blue Caviar

Hørlyck Aarhus

CHANEL FRAGRANCE AND BEAUTY BOUTIQUE

SEPHORA MAGASIN AARHUS

& Other Stories

UNIQ

RAINS Store Aarhus

Magasin Aarhus

Collage the Shop Womens Aarhus

Collage the Shop Mens Aarhus

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Hjorten

Mundhæld