Vadestedet
Åboulevarden 66, Aarhus, Denmark, 8000
Experience the bustling dining and imbibing scene in Aarhus—Denmark’s second-largest city—on the riverfront social hub of Vadestedet. Join locals and visitors for dinner and drinks at one of the many eateries along the water, then dance the night away at the area’s clubs that keep the party going long past midnight. Whether you’re dining or dancing, Vadestedet is the trendiest spot in Aarhus.
The basics
Once you’ve explored the sights with an Aarhus sightseeing tour on foot or by bike, relax over drinks or dinner in the vibrant Vadestedet. This popular area for drinks, dinner, and late-night entertainment is just steps away from the city’s top sights—including the cathedral, theater, and ARoS Aarhus Art Museum—making it easy to pop over after a day of sightseeing. Some city tours also include a stroll down the riverfront, and pub crawls and beer tours generally stop here for a drink.
Things to know before you go
Vadestedet’s open-air dining is family-friendly in the early evening, but becomes decidedly adults-only as the clubs come to life after nightfall.
Reserve your table in advance if you plan on dining in Vadestedet—its popular restaurants and cafés are often fully booked.
This stretch of riverfront is particularly attractive at night when the café lights are reflected on the water’s surface and make for memorable photos.
It’s easy to navigate wheelchairs and strollers down this flat, paved promenade, but some restaurants may have steps to access the inside dining room or restroom.
How to get there
Vadestedet is located along the Aarhus River in the city’s old town, an easy walk from most of the main sights. Aarhus is Jutland’s main transport hub and home to an airport, ferry port, and bus and rail stations. The municipal bus system links Vadestedet to locations across the city.
When to get there
The restaurants and cafés along Vadestedet are the main draw to this vibrant area, so visit from midday through the afternoon and evening when the crowds flow out into the streets. Most of the eateries serve lunch and dinner, plus offer afternoon happy hours and late-night cocktails.
Exploring the dining scene in Aarhus
Denmark has made a name for itself as a dining destination over the past decade, and Aarhus is no exception. This small city is home to four Michelin-starred restaurants and countless other upscale eateries serving everything from modern Danish fare to contemporary international cuisine. For a more casual meal, opt for Street Food Aarhus or Nicolinehus Market Hall, or grab a table at the street-side cafés along Vadestedet or in Store Torv square.
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