Aarhus — The best European city you’ve never heard of
Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city, is also known as Smilets By (City of Smiles) because of its vibrant atmosphere and uphill landscape that provides a view of the coastline.
While not as large as Copenhagen, it boasts a significant population of 350,000, making it a bustling hub with many incredible sites, such as the harbour, the bustling Dokk 1 Cultural Centre, or iconic buildings like the Iceberg at the new Aarhus Ø district. You can also swim at the harbour baths, or take a green kayak out for free, as long as you bring back some trash from your trip.
Aarhus’s cost of living is generally lower than Copenhagen, and affordable housing options are available. Along with its beautiful waterfront and charming old town, Aarhus has numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural events, and is a popular venue for international scientific conferences.
Aarhus also has a strong job market, particularly in the fields of technology, healthcare, and education, and with a large number of English speakers and several universities, it provides excellent educational opportunities.
The city’s diverse population adds to its cultural richness. Home to 75 different religious groups and denominations, most of which are Christian or Muslim with a smaller number of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jewish communities, Aarhus is a welcoming place for expats.
