Aarhus

đŸ”„ Hotspots

Food

Aarhus has a thriving food scene, with options ranging from affordable student eats to upscale Nordic cuisine. Here are some favorites:

  • Street Food Aarhus $$: This popular food market in a warehouse by the harbor offers global street food options, from Vietnamese pho to Danish smĂžrrebrĂžd. It’s affordable and lively, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

  • La Cabra Coffee Roasters $$: A famous spot for coffee lovers, La Cabra is known for artisan coffee and delicious pastries. Their sourdough bread and pastries are a hit, and it’s a great spot to start a day of exploring.

  • HĂŠrvĂŠrk $$$: A more upscale spot with a focus on local and organic ingredients. HĂŠrvĂŠrk’s ever-changing menu makes it a unique place to experience modern Nordic cuisine if you’re up for a splurge.

  • Pizza Propria $: A budget-friendly pizzeria with some of the best pizzas in town, including great vegetarian options.

☕ Coffee

  • Stiller’s Coffee: Known for their carefully sourced beans and expert baristas, Great Coffee is a must-visit for any coffee enthusiast. They have a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for studying or unwinding.

  • CafĂ© Stiften: A local favorite located in the city center, with a cozy vibe and reasonable prices. Try their brunch options alongside a great cup of coffee.

  • LĂžves Bog- og VinCafĂ©: A unique cafĂ© for book lovers, LĂžves doubles as a bookstore and cafĂ©. It’s a cozy place to grab a coffee or a glass of wine while enjoying the literary vibe.

  • CafĂ© Jorden: Located in the Latin Quarter, this cafĂ© is great for people-watching with its outdoor seating. They have excellent coffee, and their brunch plates are delicious.

  • Moccacity: Known for its quality coffee and friendly service, Moccacity has become a staple for students and locals alike.

đŸŸ Going Out

Aarhus offers a mix of bars and clubs, many of which cater to the city’s large student population.

  • Sway: A trendy bar with a lively atmosphere, Sway is a popular hangout for students. Their cocktails are affordable, and the music is a mix of indie, rock, and electronic.

  • HeadQuarters: Known for its quirky decor, HeadQuarters is a vibrant music venue and bar. They often host live music events and DJ nights, making it a fun place to go dancing.

⛰ Activities

Aarhus is packed with cultural and outdoor activities, from museums to scenic parks.

  • ARoS Aarhus Art Museum: Known for its striking architecture and iconic “Your Rainbow Panorama” rooftop, ARoS is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum features contemporary Danish and international art.

  • The Old Town (Den Gamle By): This open-air museum recreates life in Denmark’s past centuries. It’s a unique experience with costumed staff, traditional houses, and artisan shops.

  • Moesgaard Museum: A museum dedicated to archaeology and ethnography, Moesgaard is located in a scenic area south of Aarhus. The exhibitions are fascinating, covering Viking history, prehistoric Denmark, and more.

  • Botanical Garden: Free and open year-round, the Botanical Garden offers a beautiful green space to relax or study. The Greenhouses feature exotic plants and are warm and cozy, even in winter.

  • Marselisborg Palace and Park: The Danish royal family’s summer residence, Marselisborg is surrounded by beautiful gardens open to the public when the family is not in residence.

đŸ„Ÿ Day Trips

Aarhus is close to some beautiful Danish landscapes and is a great starting point for day trips.

  • Mols Bjerge National Park: A little over an hour from Aarhus, this national park is home to scenic hills, ancient burial mounds, and coastal areas. It’s perfect for hiking, picnics, or a peaceful day in nature.

  • EgĂ„ Marina: Just a short drive away, EgĂ„ Marina is a picturesque spot with sailing boats, small cafĂ©s, and a beach. It’s great for a relaxing afternoon by the water.

  • Aarhus Ø (Aarhus East): This modern district by the water is a mix of cool architecture, boardwalks, and swimming areas. The area is popular for evening walks and outdoor gatherings in the summer.

  • Risskov Forest: Close to the city center, this forest is ideal for nature walks and has beautiful views of the Aarhus Bay. It’s a popular spot for locals to exercise and enjoy the outdoors.

  • Ebeltoft: A charming seaside town about an hour’s drive away, Ebeltoft has narrow streets, half-timbered houses, and the impressive Frigate Jylland, one of the largest wooden warships in the world.

 

đŸ’¶ Cost of Living

Accommodation:

  • Private rental: Renting an apartment in Aarhus ranges from €700–€1,300 per month, depending on location and amenities.
  • Student housing: AU Housing offers options for students, typically ranging from €300–€600 per month. The dorms are often shared but very affordable and located near campus or the city center.

Groceries:

  • Budget options: Netto, Fakta, and Rema 1000 are popular choices for budget groceries in Aarhus. Irma and SuperBrugsen are pricier but offer more gourmet options.
  • Local specialties: Aarhus has a variety of markets offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and more. Try smĂžrrebrĂžd (open-faced sandwiches) and frikadeller (Danish meatballs) for a taste of traditional Danish food.

Transportation:

  • Public transport: Aarhus has an efficient bus and light rail system, with student discounts available. A monthly pass costs around €50 for students.
  • Biking: Aarhus is very bike-friendly, and biking is often the preferred way to get around. Many students use city bikes, which are affordable and convenient.
  • Ferry to Zealand: For trips to Copenhagen, there is a ferry service that’s scenic and often affordable. Alternatively, trains and buses run regularly between cities.