Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Aarhus gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from AAR to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of AAR:
- Can you legally enter Denmark? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Aarhus Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Aarhus Airport into town:
- local transport: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Aarhus, we’d suggest AROS Aarhus Art Museum & Your Rainbow Panorama and Aarhus Cathedral & Latin Quarter Stroll. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at AAR, check out Aarhus Airport Tax Free Shop or Terminal Observation & Relaxation to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Aarhus, local travelers recommend Aarhus Street Food. If you have time for a second stop, Slap Af is another popular pick.
Back at AAR, Aarhus Airport Restaurant & Bar is the go-to. Lagkagehuset (Aarhus Airport) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Aarhus might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Luggage Storage at AAR
Luggage storage options at AAR can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Aarhus for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and AAR is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Aarhus and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Need a Nap? Options at AAR
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, AAR has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Aarhus with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Aarhus may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.