East Jutland beckons with its blend of vibrant cities, historical towns and natural wonders. Forming one half of the Central Denmark Region, the area stretches from the western shores of the Kattegat sea across lush green countryside, lakes and fjords. From outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters to superb culinary and cultural experiences, East Jutland’s attractions cater to all tastes.
Start in Aarhus, a 10th-century Viking settlement and Denmark’s second-largest city. Learn about the Viking past at the Viking Museum, admire Danish art at the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum and witness life in the 1900s at Den Gamle By open-air museum. Sample global delicacies at Aarhus Street Food Market and unwind at Aarhus Botanical Gardens. Along the city’s coastline you’ll find Marselisborg Castle, the Infinite Bridge and Moesgaard Museum.
Several enjoyable cities sit less than an hour’s drive from Aarhus. In Randers, the Randers Regnskov is a recreation of a rainforest with waterfalls, rope bridges and wildlife such as lemurs and monkeys. Inspect the UNESCO-listed Jelling Mounds, which are two Viking-era rune stones raised by King Gorm the Old and his son Harald Bluetooth.
Djursland peninsula is the Nose of Jutland where beaches dot a 155-mile (250-kilometer) long shoreline. Here, Mols Bjerge National Park encompasses towns such as half-timbered Ebeltoft. Meet black rhinos and lions at Ebeltoft’s Ree Park Safari and visit Rønde’s ruined Kalø Castle. See tropical marine life at Grenaa’s Kattegatcentret aquarium and ride rollercoasters and waterslides at Djurs Sommerland.
Inland, Søhøjlandet is Denmark’s Lake District set between the towns of Silkeborg, Skanderborg and Vejle. Cruise the lakes and rivers by kayak and paddle steamer and walk up Møllehøj, Denmark’s highest natural point. Bike amid the green countryside and 22 villages of peaceful Samsø island.
Reach East Jutland by flying to Aarhus Airport, located on the Djursland peninsula. A direct train link operates from Copenhagen to Aarhus. Use local buses to get between the towns or travel at your own pace along scenic roads by rented bicycle.
