The Old Town travel guide

The Old Town, or Den Gamle By, in Aarhus is an open-air town museum consisting of 75 historical buildings collected from 20 townships in all parts of Denmark.

Established in 1914, the museum was initially located near Aarhus Botanical Gardens. The museum's founder, Peter Holm, had the foresight to collect and preserve historic buildings threatened by modern development.

In 1914, the museum opened with a single townhouse but over the years, the collection expanded, making it the world's first open-air museum of urban history and culture. It was moved to its present location in 1923.

The museum showcases a glimpse of Danish urban history and culture from the 1700s to the 1970s, with houses furnished and decorated according to various historical periods.

Key attractions include the Mayor's House from 1597, the Coin Master’s Mansion from 1683 and a range of shops, workshops, and historical gardens.

The Old Town offers a unique journey into Denmark's past and is a must-visit for history buffs.

The Old Town, also known as Den Gamle By, is not your typical museum. It is an open-air town museum consisting of 75 historical buildings collected from 20 townships in all parts of Denmark. What sets it apart is its living history aspect. Rather than static displays, you can witness live demonstrations of period crafts, such as a blacksmith at work or a baker preparing bread as they would in the olden times. The staff, dressed in period costumes, enhance the immersive experience. The Old Town also features several gardens, each showcasing a different period in Danish horticulture, from a Renaissance-style aromatic herb garden to a Baroque flower garden. Lastly, the museum is categorized into three sections, each representing a specific era: the 1860s, the 1920s, and the 1970s. This unique layout allows visitors to experience the evolution of Danish urban life over a century.

Discover The Old Town, a prime feature of Aarhus, in the vibrant Aarhus Municipality. The Old Town is situated at Viborgvej 2, 8000 Aarhus Centrum, Denmark, just a short distance from Rådhusparken and Strøget, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of The Old Town, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Aarhus, a city in Denmark rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Aarhus travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

The Old Town is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Aarhus, Denmark. If you're flying in, Aarhus Airport is approximately 19.2 miles (30.9 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach The Old Town by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Aarhus, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach The Old Town, which is located 0.9 miles (1.5 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Viborgvej 2, 8000 Aarhus Centrum, Denmark.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at The Old Town!

The best time to explore The Old Town in Aarhus, Denmark, is during late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). These periods offer mild weather, making it comfortable to wander around this open-air town museum. While summer (July and August) also provides good weather, it tends to draw large crowds, which might detract from the peaceful, historical charm of The Old Town. Spring and autumn also coincide with cultural events such as Aarhus Jazz Festival and Aarhus Festuge, respectively, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit. In December, The Old Town transforms into a traditional Danish Christmas market, allowing you to experience unique holiday traditions. It is advisable to check the museum's opening hours as they vary seasonally. Planning your visit during these recommended times ensures an optimal mix of pleasant weather, manageable crowd levels, and enriching cultural experiences.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore The Old Town, perfectly planned travel packages to Aarhus make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Aarhus, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring The Old Town.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic museum in Denmark.

Upon arriving at Aarhus Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Aarhus.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Aarhus.

Choosing the right accommodation near The Old Town from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Aarhus can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from The Old Town, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond The Old Town, Aarhus boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From museum to park, the top attractions in Aarhus offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Aarhus is ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, located at Aros Allé 2, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark. This well-known museum enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Moesgaard Museum is worth seeing when you're in Aarhus. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Moesgård Allé 15, 8270 Højbjerg, Denmark.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Greenhouses in the Botanical Garden completes any trip to Aarhus. This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Møllevejen, Peter Holms Vej 10A, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Aarhus below to discover even more incredible places to explore.