The Traditional Århus

Århus is located on the center of the eastern side of the west peninsula Jutland. It is the second largest city in Denmark and also the most important international cargo seaport of the country. In the late 7th century, the Vikings had once built their city and boats in Århus. Today, this historic city has kept many traditional sites and true Scandinavian accents.

Experiencing the True Scandinavian Culture
Although Århus functions as the largest industrial harbor in Northern Europe, the coast line doesn’t look industrial at all. Århus preserves a beautiful open coast line with beaches and restaurant areas. The city has grown around the forest, and some areas are completely surrounded by the forest. Many 19th century red roof buildings remain in downtown, whereas concrete buildings and neon sign boards are rarly visiable. The road systems today are mostly based on the old winding streets. Unlike the more international Copenhagen, Århus represents the typical look of a Scandinavian city, and the residents of the city are more easy-going and relaxed.

When first visiting Århus, you may feel this city has a small town feeling. It is true that Århus has been named “The world’s smallest city”, but this small city has almost everything a large metropolitian has. With its pedestrian shopping streets, amusement parks, cinemas, museums, concert halls and even a royal palace, this is truly a very charming city.

In order to elevate the English recognition of the city name, the city hall had decided to adjust the Danish name from Århus to Arhus in November 2011. Before the government replaces all the signs and publishing in the new name, both names will stand for the city.

Hot Spot in Town
(1) Den Gamle By-The Old Town
A living experience of what it was like to live in a Danish market town in the old days.
(2) Marselisborg Slot-Marselisborg Palace
Queen’s summer palace with large beautiful gardens and ocean views.
(3) Åros -Århus Art Museum
One of the largest art museums in northern Europe. Best known for its large live boy statue on the first floor.
(4) Århus Domkirke-Århus Cathedral Church
13th Century Cathedral. The largest church in Denmark.
(5) Dyrehaven-The Deer Park
Meet deers and wild boars in the forrest.

About Århus
Climate
Surrounding by the ocean, the weather is often unstable and a sudden shower is very common. In its short summer, the average temperature can reach around 16.4¾C. July is usually the warmest month. The coldest month is likely January, where the average temperature stays around -0.4¾C.

Transportation
There is no international airport nearby Århus. It takes about one and half hours to drive from the closest Billund airport to downtown. The best choice to travel to Århus is by train. The Århus central station (Århus Hovedbanegård) is in the heart of downtown. No subway system yet. Most attractions are within half hour walking distance from the station. you may also ride buses, or a free bicycle provided by the city located in front of the station and attractions. Unlock the bicycle with a Danish coin and retrieve it upon return.

Lodging
Hotels near the Århus central station is the most convenient choice for tourists. Here are three different price levels of hotels for reference.
Budget
Business
High-end

By M. Larsen