After savoring all the things to do in Aarhus, from its cutting-edge art museums to cozy cobblestone streets, day trips from Aarhus invite you to explore the diverse landscapes and historical sites of Jutland. These excursions offer a deeper look into Denmark’s rich heritage and natural beauty, extending your adventure beyond the city’s boundaries.
Venturing from Aarhus, you’ll discover the broader spectrum of things to do in Denmark, including ancient Viking ruins, majestic castles, and serene coastal towns. Each journey outside the city not only enriches your experience with Danish culture but also showcases the stunning variety of the Danish countryside.
Choosing where to stay in Aarhus can greatly influence your experience, providing a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration. A central location offers the convenience of city amenities while giving you easy access to the region’s attractions, ensuring a fulfilling and diverse visit to Denmark.
Discover Best Day Trips from Aarhus, Denmark
1. Mols Bjerge National Park, Denmark
Mols Bjerge National Park, known for its unique landscape shaped during the Ice Age, offers a range of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The park is a haven for nature lovers with its rich biodiversity and picturesque scenery.
Distance: Approximately 45 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Unique landscapes shaped during the Ice Age, outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and horseback riding
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Free
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Poskær Stenhus, Mols Hills
Travel Tip: Visit the Poskær Stenhus, one of Denmark’s largest and best-preserved round barrows, located within the park.
2. Skagen, Denmark
Skagen, at Denmark’s northern tip, is famed for its unique light that has inspired many artists, its beautiful beaches, and the point where the Baltic and North Seas meet. The town also boasts charming traditional yellow houses and the Skagens Museum.
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Travel Time: About 2 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Unique light that inspired many artists, beautiful beaches, the point where the Baltic and North Seas meet
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Free
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Grenen, Skagens Museum
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the chance to witness the ‘Grenen’ where the two seas meet, a natural phenomenon unique to this area.
3. Legoland Billund, Denmark
Legoland Billund, the original Legoland park, is a fantastic destination for families, offering a range of Lego-themed rides, shows, and models. The park features miniature Lego versions of famous global landmarks and numerous interactive areas.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Lego-themed rides, shows, and models; miniature Lego versions of famous global landmarks
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Adult Ticket: €50
- Child Ticket: €40
Budget: Approximately €80-€150 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Miniature Landmarks, Legoland Castle
Travel Tip: Plan to spend a full day here and consider staying overnight in the themed hotel for the full experience.
4. Randers Rainforest, Denmark
Randers Rainforest is an indoor zoo that replicates tropical environments from South America, Africa, and Asia. It’s an immersive experience where you can see a variety of exotic animals and plants up close.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: About 40 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Indoor zoo replicating tropical environments from South America, Africa, and Asia with exotic animals and plants
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Adult Ticket: €20
- Child Ticket: €15
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Tropical Forests, Exotic Animal Exhibits
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable clothing as it’s warm and humid inside, mimicking the actual conditions of a rainforest.
5. Silkeborg, Denmark
Silkeborg, surrounded by Denmark’s largest forested area and over 50 lakes, is perfect for outdoor adventures. The area is well-known for its art galleries, including the Silkeborg Art Museum, and the Hjejlen, the world’s oldest operational paddle steamer.
Distance: Approximately 45 km
Travel Time: About 45 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Denmark’s largest forested area, over 50 lakes, art galleries, and the world’s oldest operational paddle steamer
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Art Museum: €10
- Paddle Steamer Ride: €15
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Silkeborg Lakes, Silkeborg Art Museum
Travel Tip: Take a boat tour on the Silkeborg lakes for a relaxing and scenic view of the area’s natural beauty.
6. Ebeltoft, Denmark
Ebeltoft is a charming old town known for its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. Key attractions include the Glass Museum and the historic frigate Jylland, one of the world’s longest wooden warships.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Charming old town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, Glass Museum, historic frigate Jylland
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Fregatten Jylland: €12
- Glass Museum: €10
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Fregatten Jylland, Ebeltoft Harbor
Travel Tip: Visit the Fregatten Jylland early in the day to avoid crowds and to have enough time to explore the ship fully.
7. The Old Town (Den Gamle By), Denmark
The Old Town (Den Gamle By) in Aarhus itself is an open-air museum featuring over 75 historic buildings collected from all over Denmark. It offers a unique experience to step back in time and see Danish urban life as it was in the past centuries.
Distance: Within Aarhus
Travel Time: Easily accessible by public transportation or a short walk from the city center
Transportation: Walk or public transport
Main Attractions: Open-air museum featuring over 75 historic buildings collected from all over Denmark
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Adult Ticket: €15
- Child Ticket: €10
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Historic Buildings, Old-Fashioned Shops
Travel Tip: Check out the bakery for traditional Danish pastries and the old-fashioned candy store for a sweet treat.
8. Himmelbjerget, Denmark
Himmelbjerget, or “The Sky Mountain,” is one of Denmark’s highest points and offers stunning views of the surrounding lakes and hills. It’s a popular spot for picnics, walks, and boat trips on the nearby lakes.
Distance: Approximately 50 km
Travel Time: About 50 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: One of Denmark’s highest points, stunning views of surrounding lakes and hills
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Free
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Himmelbjerget Summit, Lake Julsø
Travel Tip: Take a boat trip on Lake Julsø to fully appreciate the beauty of the area from a different perspective.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Aarhus, Denmark
What are some recommended day trips from Aarhus?
Recommended day trips from Aarhus include visiting the ancient city of Ribe, exploring the scenic Mols Bjerge National Park, and experiencing the historic town of Ebeltoft.
Is a visit to the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum worthwhile?
Absolutely! Although not a day trip, ARoS Aarhus Art Museum is a must-see in Aarhus itself, known for its impressive collection of modern art and the iconic ‘Your Rainbow Panorama’ rooftop installation.
Can I explore the Viking history near Aarhus?
Yes, you can visit the Moesgaard Museum near Aarhus, which offers a deep dive into Viking history with interactive exhibits and historical reconstructions.
Are there any castles to visit near Aarhus?
Definitely! You can visit the Egeskov Castle, one of Europe’s best-preserved Renaissance water castles, located within a day’s trip from Aarhus.
What natural attractions can be found near Aarhus?
The Mols Bjerge National Park offers stunning natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and several hiking trails. It’s a perfect getaway for nature lovers.
Is there a beach near Aarhus for a day trip?
Yes, Aarhus itself has several beaches, with Bellevue Beach being a popular choice. For a more secluded experience, visit the beaches near the town of Grenaa.
Can I visit a traditional Danish village from Aarhus?
Absolutely! The Den Gamle By, an open-air museum in Aarhus, replicates a traditional Danish village and is a unique experience to immerse in historical Danish culture.
Are there any culinary experiences near Aarhus?
Aarhus and its surroundings boast a vibrant culinary scene. You can explore local farmers’ markets, visit traditional bakeries, and enjoy fresh seafood along the coast.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/aarhus-l32302/
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