Aabenraa between seafaring and nature

Aabenraa is shaped by its seafaring history, historic old town and the nature along the fjord. If you’re looking for a hotel in Aabenraa, these different themes can help you choose your destination: Would you mainly like to walk through historic streets, choose a route on foot or experience the landscape around Aabenraa Fjord?

Seafaring history and the old town

The well-preserved houses in the old town offer a glimpse into the city’s development. Aabenraa reflects both Danish and German influences. Sct. Nicolai Kirke is Aabenraa’s oldest church, dating from around 1250. It is named after the patron saint of seafarers, Sct. Nicolaus. On a guided tour of the old town, you can explore cobbled streets and charming lanes.

The exhibition “Fruer på farten” at Kulturhistorie Aabenraa explores the wives of captains from Sønderjylland who followed their husbands to South America, Asia, Australia and Africa in the 19th century. The collection of older art at Brundlund Slot Art Museum also has a regional focus: it consists mainly of works by artists from Sønderjylland or artists with ties to Sønderjylland. Kulturhistorie Aabenraa also offers a bookable guided tour about the city’s seafaring history. If you plan to take this tour, check booking options and dates in advance.

Kløverstierne: city centre or nature

The green By- og kulturrute (city and culture route) of Kløverstierne is 2.4 km long and runs through Aabenraa city centre. The red nature and biology route is 8.3 km long and leads south of the city through quiet forests, wild meadows and alongside flowing streams. It offers abundant plant and animal life. When comparing the two routes, it’s not just the length that matters: the green route stays in the city centre, while the red one passes through a variety of natural landscapes.

Forest, fjord and cycling

Aabenraa Skovene form a green belt around almost the entire city. Jørgensgård Skov stretches all the way to the beach on Aabenraa Fjord. At Åbæk, in the southeastern part of the forest, there is a bathing beach with a beautiful view across the fjord.

The former railway line between Stollig and Aabenraa is now an approximately 4 km gravel-surfaced cycle path. Another cycling experience is offered by the summer rides on railbikes organised by the Aabenraa Veteranbane association on the tracks of the former Aabenraabanen railway. This railway operated between Aabenraa and Rødekro until 1971. As the railbike rides take place in summer, it’s worth checking the dates before your trip.

Saturday market

A market is held every Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm in the historic market square. You’ll find fresh flowers, fruit and vegetables, as well as fish and cheese from local producers. Check the market hours before your visit if the weekly market is an important part of your day’s plans.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Bolderslev, Bylderup-Bov, Felsted, Tinglev, Kravlund, Søttrup, Genner Strand, Hellevad.

Back to the main travel overview: Aabenraa Municipality.