Aarhus

Whether in the heart of the city or touching nature on the outskirts, Aarhus has a range of accommodation to suit all tastes. The attractions of the city are mere footsteps from the sleek Scandic Aarhus City (Østergade 10), which features panoramic city views. Nearby, the striking Radisson Blu Scandinavia Hotel (Margrethepladsen 1) may be peppered with suited types, but its top-class facilities and location make it a perfect base from which to explore.

Those on a budget could do far worse than Cabinn Aarhus (Kannikegade 14), a convenient hotel alongside the pretty Aarhus River. For more peaceful surrounds, head out to Helnan Marselis Hotel (Strandvejen 25), a forest-fringed four-star on a beautiful white-sand beach.

Head to the Latin Quarter for an array of independent shops offering one-of-a-kind trinkets. Lesser-known local fashion designers are also to be found along these cobbled streets, but if you'd prefer the more established labels then the imposing Salling (Søndergade 27) just off Strøget should be the ticket. Browse the five-storey Magasin (Immervad 2-8) department store for modern clothing and Danish homeware.

Aarhus has a reputation for taking advantage of seasonal, locally produced ingredients and throwing them together with lashings of Scandinavian style. The French-influenced menu at upmarket Miro (Marstrandsgade 2) exemplifies this approach, which has a solid two decade history to point to. Kähler Spisesalon (M. P. Bruunsgade 33) is a great place to try the Danish speciality smørrebrød, while the Latin Quarter offers plenty of affordable options such as Mefisto (Volden 28).

Events

Classic Race Aarhus

May

Iconic cars from the 1950s to 1980s race through the streets of leafy Mindeparken during one of Denmark’s premier motorsports events. Picnic in the park and browse the multitude of stalls, all while dressed up in the fashion of the era

NorthSide Festival

June

Ådalen is the setting for this contemporary music festival that draws some of the biggest names in rock and pop. Danish bands also use their performances to help springboard their careers.

Aarhus Jazz Festival

July

This festival has lit up the streets of Aarhus since 1989, and now stretches over eight days as various stages, bars and cafes host performances from local and international jazz artists.

Aarhus Festival

August-September

Spread over 10 days and across streets, theatres and galleries, the Aarhus Festival is a cultural feast showcasing performances and work from international and local artists.

The Old Town Museum’s Christmas Exhibition

November-December

Learn about how Christmas has been celebrated down the centuries and browse the markets as Aarhus gets its big old festive hat on.