Midtbyen incorporates both the oldest part of Aarhus and some of the city’s most colorful shopping, dining and entertainment districts. Once surrounded by defensive walls, Midtbyen is where the city was established during the Viking era. Visit Midtbyen today to see a network of narrow, meandering streets that lead to pretty squares and hidden alleys that showcase history and contemporary lifestyles.

If you are in the mood for shopping then start by exploring the pedestrian-only Strøget street. Find everything from Danish design shops and popular fashion brands to coffeeshops, kebab houses and hot dog stands.

The street runs for over half a mile from Bruun’s Gallery mall to the 12th-century Aarhus Cathedral. Study the five-paneled altarpiece and medieval frescoes of the cathedral.

Step back in time to the city’s Viking beginnings via original artifacts and interactive exhibits at the Viking Museum. This underground museum occupies the preserved remains of the Viking settlement of Aros. Browse superb exhibitions by Danish artists at the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum and Kunsthal Aarhus. Concerts, dramas and musicals take place at the modern Aarhus Concert Hall and century-old Aarhus Theatre.

In the Latin Quarter, boutiques, vintage stores, chocolatiers and eclectic restaurants occupy colorful centuries-old houses. Walk along Mejlgade to see the half-timbered Juul’s House, which is among the city’s oldest-surviving buildings. Watch the world go by from pretty Pustervig Square. Nearby, the Women’s Museum celebrates the influence of women on Danish society.

For a change of scenery, the tree-shaded lawns and gardens of the Rådhusparken city park present a welcome retreat. Spot sculptures and admire the park’s springtime crocus bloom. Relax at waterfront cafés along the Aarhus river, which cuts through the city center. Sample flavors from the Caribbean to Nepal and Uganda at Aarhus Street Food market.

Midtbyen is a short walk from Aarhus Hovedbanegård central train station. With several of the streets closed to car traffic, the neighborhood lends itself to exploring on foot and by bike.