NorthSide Festival

The NorthSide Festival, an annual music and arts festival, has firmly established itself as one of Denmark‘s premier cultural events. Held in Aarhus, the country’s second-largest city, NorthSide has grown from a modest one-day event into a sprawling three-day extravaganza, attracting thousands of visitors worldwide. With its eclectic mix of music, sustainability initiatives, and vibrant atmosphere, NorthSide is a must-visit for festival-goers.

NorthSide is celebrated for its diverse lineup, featuring international superstars and local talents. Genres span from rock and indie to electronic and hip-hop, ensuring something for every musical taste. Past performers have included The National, Bon Iver, and Tame Impala, cementing NorthSide’s reputation for high-quality acts.

How to get to the NorthSide Festival

Aarhus is well-connected and accessible via various modes of transport:

By Air: Aarhus Airport (AAR) is the closest airport, located about 40 km northeast of the city. You can take a shuttle bus or taxi to the city centre from the airport. Alternatively, Billund Airport (BLL), around 90 km away, offers more international connections and is serviced by regular shuttle buses to Aarhus.

By Train: Aarhus Central Station is a major hub, with frequent trains connecting it to Copenhagen, Odense, and other Danish cities. International visitors can also take trains from Hamburg and other parts of Europe.

By Car: If you prefer to drive, Aarhus is well-connected by motorways. The drive takes approximately three hours from Copenhagen via the E20 and E45 motorways.

By Ferry: There are also ferry services linking Aarhus to other Danish ports and destinations in Norway and Sweden.

Accommodation

Aarhus offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences:

Luxury: For those seeking a luxurious stay, the Hotel Royal is an excellent choice. Located in the city centre, this historic hotel combines elegance with modern amenities, providing a perfect base for festival-goers who want to relax in style.

Mid-range: The Comwell Aarhus offers comfortable and contemporary rooms with stunning views of the city. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring Aarhus and getting to the festival grounds.

Budget: For budget-conscious travellers, the Cabinn Aarhus is a great option. It offers compact, clean rooms at affordable prices and is within walking distance of the city’s main attractions and transport links.

Hostels: The Danhostel Aarhus City provides a more communal experience with dormitory-style accommodations. It’s an excellent choice for younger travellers or those who enjoy meeting new people.

Exploring Aarhus and Surroundings

Aarhus is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a youthful vibe, thanks in part to its large student population. When not enjoying the festival, visitors can explore a host of attractions:

ARoS Aarhus Art Museum: One of the largest art museums in Northern Europe, ARoS is known for its impressive collections and the striking “Your Rainbow Panorama” installation on the roof, which offers panoramic views of the city through a spectrum of colours.

Den Gamle By (The Old Town): This open-air museum recreates Danish urban life as it was in the 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s a fascinating journey through time with historical buildings, costumed interpreters, and interactive exhibits.

Moesgaard Museum: Located just outside Aarhus, this museum focuses on archaeology and ethnography. Its modern architecture and engaging exhibitions, including the famous Grauballe Man, make it a must-visit.

Tivoli Friheden: A charming amusement park located near the city centre, Tivoli Friheden offers a variety of rides, games, and entertainment suitable for all ages.

Aarhus Street Food: For a taste of local and international cuisine, head to Aarhus Street Food. This vibrant food market features a variety of stalls offering everything from traditional Danish smørrebrød to Asian street food.

Surrounding Areas

Beyond Aarhus, the region boasts beautiful landscapes and quaint towns worth exploring:

Mols Bjerge National Park: Just an hour’s drive from Aarhus, this national park features rolling hills, lush forests, and stunning coastal views. It’s perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching.

Ebeltoft: A picturesque town known for its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the Frigate Jylland, the world’s longest wooden warship. Ebeltoft is a charming day trip from Aarhus.

Djurs Sommerland: One of Scandinavia’s largest amusement parks, Djurs Sommerland offers thrilling rides and attractions for all ages, making it a great destination for families.

Silkeborg: Located to the west of Aarhus, Silkeborg is surrounded by lakes and forests. The town is known for its outdoor activities, including canoeing, hiking, and cycling. The Silkeborg Museum, home to the Tollund Man, is also worth a visit.

Practical Tips

Weather: Danish weather can be unpredictable, so it’s advisable to pack for all conditions. Layers, waterproof clothing, and comfortable footwear are recommended.

Currency: Denmark uses the Danish krone (DKK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always useful to have some cash on hand.

Language: Danish is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

Transport: Aarhus has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trams, and bicycles for hire. Consider purchasing a travel card for convenience.