Aarhus Old Town (Den Gamle By)
Aarhus, Denmark, 8000
Experience centuries of Danish history at this unique open-air museum that recreates a town in Denmark over four separate eras: pre-19th century, the industrial boom of the 1920s, the social revolution of the 1970s, and contemporary life in 2014. Stroll the streets and pop inside replica houses, shops, and workshops, while interacting with costumed “residents” and sampling historic treats.
The basics
A distinctive Denmark attraction, Aarhus Old Town (Den Gamle By) is an immersive experience that brings the country’s history to life. The reconstructed town bustles with costumed actors who offer context as they go about their business tending gardens and animals, repairing vintage implements, selling goods in shops, and serving baked goods and other snacks. Visit Aarhus Old Town before or after an Aarhus city walking tour or as a day trip from Billund.
Things to know before you go
The interactive vibe of Aarhus Old Town makes it particularly engaging for children, though adults interested in history will appreciate the carefully crafted period cityscapes.
You can explore the town’s four areas at your own pace, or book a themed guided tour or private horse-drawn carriage ride.
There are several functioning shops and eateries built to recreate businesses from the past century; all take both cash and credit cards.
In addition to the open-air town, Aarhus Old Town features an underground historical museum and several themed collections, from clocks and jewelry to posters and porcelain.
Most of the attraction is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, though some of the indoor exhibition areas have steps and other barriers at the entrance.
How to get there
Aarhus Old Town is in the city of Aarhus, just a short walk from the waterfront and city center. Take a taxi from the cruise ship port or join a shore excursion that includes transportation to the top sights, including the cathedral and ARoS Aarhus Art Museum.
When to get there
The open-air museum does not close entirely in the winter, but the shops and other indoor attractions are only staffed a few days a week. To enjoy the full Aarhus Old Town experience, go between April and September, when costumed docents welcome visitors in the shops, workshops, homes, and eateries.
Top shops at Aarhus Old Town
Some of the most transporting attractions at Aarhus Old Town are the shops and workshops, meticulously recreated to evoke the period they represent. Browse a 19th-century bookseller or merchant, choose tools and utensils at a 1920s hardware store, or tune into the 1970s at a radio emporium or embroidery shop. When hunger pangs hit, pick up a sweet treat at the vintage bakery from 1885, or tuck into a cream cake at the recreated landmark Café Bonnich.
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