Overlooking the sparkling waters of the Limfjord, Aalborg is a captivating city in the Jutland region of northern Denmark. It’s home to a charming Old Town and futuristic modern architecture, as well as a diverse range of inspiring cultural establishments. According to the European Commission, Aalborg’s residents are among the most satisfied people in Europe.
Things to do in Aalborg
Clustered with colourful, half-timbered houses, Aalborg’s 15th-century Old Town is a charming area to wander. Stroll down the photogenic Hjelmstad and see the Dutch Renaissance home of Jens Bang while admiring the vibrant murals that decorate many of the streets. To discover the city’s 1,000-year-old history, pay a visit to the Aalborg Historical Museum or go underground to explore the medieval ruins of the Franciscan Monastery Museum.
Learn about Aalborg’s most famous resident, Jørn Utzon, at the architecturally impressive Utzon Centre, which celebrates Nordic architecture and design. After marvelling at its curved rooftop overlooking the Limfjord, you can learn about Utzon’s most famous international work, the Sydney Opera House. Also of architectural note is the eye-catching House of Music, a silver landmark that’s home to the Aalborg Symphony Orchestra.
Want to mingle with the locals? Visit the former Nordkraft power station, which has been transformed into a cultural hub filled with theatres, exhibition spaces and eateries. Alternatively, you can feast on food from around the globe at The Lighthouse, an old furniture factory that’s now an eclectically designed street food market.
Getting around Aalborg
Aalborg Airport is a 10-minute drive from Aalborg’s city centre and has flights to destinations across Europe, while trains connect from Copenhagen to the Aalborg railway station. Buses travel throughout Aalborg, although it’s easy to explore on foot or by bicycle.