Aarhus Theatre (Aarhus Teater)
Teatergaden 1, Aarhus, Denmark, 8000
One of the most striking buildings in central Aarhus, the Aarhus Theatre (Aarhus Teater) is also an important cultural hub. This late 19th-century gem houses four stages for theatrical and musical performances in Danish, some with English subtitles. The magnificence of the Art Nouveau facade is matched by the ornate interiors, with gilded details and massive chandeliers, making it a must-see for architecture buffs.
The basics
The Aarhus Theatre is one of the most important historic landmarks in the city and a staple of guided walking or bike tours of Jutland’s capital. Visit from the outside to admire the stately Art Nouveau facade, or join a tour of the interiors with an official theater guide to take in the lavish stucco ceiling and row of sparkling chandeliers. Alternatively, catch a show on one of its four stages—performances are in Danish, but a select few offer live subtitles.
Things to know before you go
The theater can only be visited with an official theater tour or by attending a performance.
The season runs from September to June and includes live theater, musical concerts, and other cultural events.
All performances are in Danish, but the theater provides live subtitles via a smartphone app for select dates.
Wheelchair access is limited for performances, so contact the theater in advance for accessible seats. Theater tours are not accessible.
How to get there
Aarhus Theater sits directly opposite Aarhus Cathedral in the city center and can be reached on foot from most local sights. Aarhus has an efficient bus system, and the closest bus stops are Dokk1 at Europaplads, Busgaden, and Klostertorv. Otherwise, take the light rail to Skolebakken.
When to get there
You can admire the ornate facade of the Art Nouveau theater by day or lit by night, but opportunities to visit inside are limited. Contact the theater for upcoming scheduled tours by official guides, or book tickets to a performance offering subtitles to translate the original Danish.
The fanciful facade of Aarhus Theatre
The most striking element of this 19th-century Art Nouveau theater—one of the rare examples of this style of architecture in Denmark—is its elaborate facade, decorated by images of Danish flora and fauna and topped by a gable featuring a scene from Masquerade painted by Hans Tegner. Other details to notice include botanic motifs in mosaic, a stained-glass owl, and a copper gargoyle perched on the gable peak. Even if you don’t enter the theater interiors, admire its unique exterior for a few moments.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!