8 Best Free Things to Do in Aarhus

Kunsthal Aarhus is said to be one of Denmark’s most beautiful and spacious exhibition spaces for contemporary art. The contemporary art center is found in the center of city, not far from the famous ARoS museum. The understated exterior of the building provides a stark contrast to its sleek, modern interior. Exhibitions are usually eccentric and thought-provoking, looking at social and political issues through mediums such as sculptures and paintings. The exhibitions change every 3 months and often feature local artists.

The walk from Marselis Forest to Moesgård Manor House will take you through forest trails lined with enchanting beech and oak trees. Start your route south of Aarhus and make your way down towards Moesgård Forest, where you’ll be surrounded by clusters of 200- to 300-year-old trees. Make sure you visit Skovmøllen, an old, restored water mill, which also houses a popular restaurant. Since the forests are near the beach, a lot of the trails can be taken down to the water.

The Latin Quarter is best seen in the morning or in the evenings, when the crowds are smaller and you can really enjoy the charm of the quarter. As one of the oldest areas in the city, the Latin Quarter’s buildings exude history, which can be seen in its aging paint and old-style architecture. Some of the buildings date back to the 16th century but still radiate color as if they were built yesterday. Dotted around the area are many hygge cafés and shops and the famous Møllestien lane – an exquisitely picturesque Danish street – is nearby.

The Aarhus Concert Hall is home to the Aarhus Royal Academy of Music, the Danish National Opera, the Aarhus Symphony Orchestra and a children’s theatre. The building is impressive in nature, with its 200 sq m open, glass foyer full of palm trees, olive trees and artwork exhibited on the walls. The concert hall holds an air of sophistication, mirrored in its stylish staff and superbly curated performances. Events normally include Danish and international artists, who perform everything from opera to dancing. Free events are held every week, so check the website for dates and times.

The Infinite Bridge, also known as Den Uendelige Bro, is a circular wooden walkway jutting out into the sapphire waters of Aarhus Bay. Located near Marselisborg Palace, this peaceful place boasts beautiful views of the sea and is pleasant at any time of the day. Walk to your hearts content, taking in the sounds of the waters and the smells of the nearby forest. In summer months, head down to the beach and cool off in the water.

Havnebadet, or the Harbour Baths, contains a 50-meter-long pool, a circular diving pool, a children’s area and 2 saunas. Found in Aarhus Ø, by Bassin 7, the baths are an oasis in the center of the city and many come here to cool off in the summer heat. Here, you’ll find crowds of all ages enjoying the crisp waters of the pools and basking in the Danish sun. Made completely out of sustainable materials, the triangular complex points out to sea and so offers superb views of Aarhus Bay. When the baths have reached capacity, a red light switches on and newcomers can wait at one of the neighboring pop-up cafés. The baths open every day during summer, but check their website for specific dates.

Marselisborg Palace is the summer and Christmas residence of the Danish Royal family. Surrounded by immaculately manicured gardens, the palace looks like part of a quintessential Danish fairy tale. The gardens are closed off if the Queen or her family are in residence but are free to roam when they are away. The Queen’s guard is famously adorned in distinctive bearskins – an icon of the Danish monarchy. Watch the changing of the Royal Life Guards every day at noon when the royal family is present. Stroll around the vast, green Marselisborg Memorial Park afterwards.

The outdoor spaces of the Aarhus Botanical Gardens display typical Danish scenery while greenhouses containing flora from 4 different climate zones. Found in the middle of the city, this green space offers a tranquil escape from the city. For a scenic afternoon, enter the gardens from the ancient streets of Dem Gamle By. The greenhouses are large, with very well maintained and labeled ecosystems. The tropical greenhouse is filled with flurries of pretty butterflies and exotic plants. The gardens are an ideal place to come for a break from sightseeing in the city.