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This is how you experience the best 48 hours in Aarhus
When you think of a city break in Europe, Aarhus, Denmark, probably isn't the city that comes to mind. In fact, it's probably even more likely that you haven't heard of it before. Yet, Aarhus is an ideal destination for a city break. The city itself isn't very large, but its various neighborhoods and unique surroundings create a wealth of diversity. Enjoy shopping in the narrow streets of the Latin Quarter, explore ultra-modern and historic industrial architecture in Aarhus Ø and Old Town, and explore the nearby forests or beaches.
And did you know that Aarhus is the European Capital of Culture in 2017? This is thanks to the city's creative spirit, with all its new projects unfolding against the backdrop of the old port city. The mix of old industrial buildings and new, modern architecture, great coffee spots, street art, and excellent restaurants make Aarhus the perfect destination for a wonderful weekend getaway! For Your Little Black Book, we spent 48 hours in Aarhus and had a wonderfully relaxing city break. Read on and join us on an adventure with this 48 Hours in Aarhus Travel Guide!
Day 1 >> 48 Hours in Aarhus Travel Guide
Billund Airport offers excellent connections to Aarhus city center. The bus waiting outside the airport takes you there in 1,5 hours. What's immediately striking during the bus ride is the sheer amount of greenery surrounding you! The roads are practically silent, especially compared to Amsterdam.
The best place to get off is at Aarhus train station. You'll then be right in the city center, and from here, most things are easily accessible on foot. Don't expect any trams or metro here, though. Aarhus residents mainly do everything by bike or using the excellent bus connections.
After checking in at City Hotel OasiaLocated just a stone's throw from the station, we begin our city walk towards DOKK1. This is Aarhus's brand-new urban media space, a state-of-the-art building that houses the library, the municipal office, and the cultural center under one roof. We'll take a short break at Street Food Aarhus, Aarhus' newest food market. It's comparable to Amsterdam's Hallen: various food stalls with affordable snacks. After enjoying a delicious bao bun, we continue our way to DOKK1. This building perfectly captures the city's character: a hypermodern, multi-functional building located on the old industrial harbor. Be sure to take a look inside, because from the back of the building, you'll be treated to a unique view of the old harbor. So cool!
After DOKK1 it is ARoS Art Museum On the agenda. This museum is located on the other side of the city and is especially famous for its unique rainbow panorama. It's a circular corridor in the colors of the rainbow that you can walk through. It's an absolutely unique experience and therefore highly recommended.
After the cultural dose of the day, it's time for some delicious food. We do that at Langhoff & JuulA hip restaurant where everything is perfect. From the beautiful bar and all the different tables to the texts on the wall and the tableware. There's a lovely atmosphere, and the dishes are presented like little paintings—so beautiful! This restaurant is among the best in Aarhus, and dining here makes your night out complete.
Day 2 >> 48 Hours in Aarhus Travel Guide
On day 2 of our 48 hours in Aarhus we rent after breakfast at F-Høj a bike and we're going to the Moesgard MuseumThis museum is located in the heart of the Aarhus forests, and the route to it is just as adventurous as the museum itself. From the city of Aarhus, you cycle along the coast towards the forest, where, with a bit of luck, you might even spot deer. A wonderful bike ride on hilly paths through the wilderness—I love it!
And after your bike ride, you'll suddenly see the hidden Moesgaard Museum emerge from the forest. This museum tells the story of the Vikings, because did you know they founded Aarhus? The combination of the adventurous bike ride and the museum's exhibitions will automatically transport you on an adventure.
Then it's time for destination number two: Aarhus Ø. This is Aarhus' newest district and stands out for its unique architecture. From Moesgaard Museum, you follow the coastline and cycle past old industrial buildings towards this beautiful contrast. It's certainly a contrast; against the backdrop of gray industrial buildings, you can see the modern white apartment buildings, shaped like icebergs, naturally emerge.
Of course we end the day with a delicious dinner. We do this at Cafe Drudenfuss, a cozy café in a neat, charming street. During the day, it's a great spot for coffee and lunch (the cakes are delicious), and in the evening, you can enjoy a meal without too much fuss. Want to stick around for drinks? That's easily possible too!
Have fun planning your trip to Aarhus!
Tip: Have you seen Yourlbb's other top lists for Aarhus? Or check out Visitaarhus.com for even more tips!
- 3 x the best coffee bars in Aarhus
- 9 of the best restaurants in Aarhus
- 3 of the best hotels in Aarhus
- 4 x shopping tips in Aarhus
- 10 things you want to do in Aarhus
- 9 reasons why you should visit Aarhus
- Discover the Aarhus Central Food Market here
HAPPY TRAVELS!
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