Welcome to HORSENS
Experience the unique blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life in Horsens
In Horsens, you can feel the perfect balance between the energy of a big city and the charm of a small town. Free from the congestion and rush of larger cities, Horsens is a place full of soul, creativity, and rich cultural experiences. Once known for its industrial past and historic prison, the city has transformed into a hub of art, entrepreneurship, and modern living.
Discover award-winning museums that tell the story of Horsens’ intriguing history, explore the newly refurbished city center filled with shops and cafes, and enjoy the striking gable paintings that add a creative touch to the cityscape. Just a short distance from the bustling streets, you’ll find green oases and beautiful nature, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to explore the outdoors.
Horsens has something special to offer every visitor, whether it’s events, culture, the cuisine, or the charming atmosphere.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
The old Horsens State Penitentiary: A unique cultural experience
With a perfect mix of fascinating history and exciting modern experiences, the old Horsens State Penitentiary attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. You can explore the popular museum, attend a variety of events, or even try spending a night behind bars!
If you’re looking for a new perspective on life, a visit to the old Horsens State Penitentiary is a must. The museum is open every day for visitors and gives you a chance to feel the powerful stories that have unfolded behind these walls. The award-winning museum lets you step into the world of prisoners, with exhibits that tell gripping stories from over 150 years of history. You can see the old cells, learn about daily life behind bars, and even view the impressive escape tunnel dug by the infamous “escape king” Carl August Lorentzen.
Beyond the museum, the penitentiary hosts concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year. The walls have echoed with the sounds of international stars like Metallica, Foo Fighters, Rammstein, and Aerosmith, as well as famous Danish artists performing in the prison yard.
The penitentiary’s old infirmary has been transformed into a hostel where you can have the unique experience of sleeping in a real prison cell. While the rooms have been renovated for comfort, you can still feel the authenticity of the place—and leave with a great story to tell!
Photo credit: Jesper Rais
Photo credit: Horsens Folkeblad
Explore Horsens Centre
Take the opportunity to discover the newly renovated center of Horsens, where the streets are full of life and activity decorated with surprising streetart.
The new city centre provides every visitor with at chance to experience the history and culture of Horsens as a former prison- and industrial city. The touch of history spiced with city parks & near-by nature all add to the relaxed atmosphere of Horsens Centre.
Engage in shopping and activities
With around 130 shops in the centre, Horsens provides plenty of possiblities for a day of shopping. When you go shopping in Horsens, you can find everything from the latest fashion clothing, applied art in Danish design to toys, hobby & leisure, delicacies and much more.
In the heart of Horsens, you’ll find Bytorv Horsens. With inspiring surroudings and proction from the weahter, Bytorv Horsens provides a good choice of shops and eating possiblities. Besides shopping Bytorv Horsens has cosy activity zones and regularly host exciting events all year around. From live music to entertainment, there is almost always somehting happening or other special offers. You can find the current events and activities here.
Photo credit: Lasse Torp
Photo credit: Insero Horsens
Horsens from the top
Don’t miss the chance to see Horsens from the roof terrace on the 17th floor of the new campus building.
This easily recognizable 67-meter-tall landmark offers the best view of Horsens, from the charming red rooftops to the parks, the fjord, the harbor, and iconic spots like Fængslet and Nordstern Arena.
You can take a guided tour to enjoy the view, accessible either by elevator or a 378-step climb for those looking for a bit of a workout.
Tickets can be booked here.
Explore the Beautiful Nature Around Horsens
Horsens is surrounded by beautiful nature, from green forests and rolling hills to peaceful lakes and the lovely Horsens Fjord. Just a short trip from the city, you can find many ways to enjoy the outdoors. Walk or bike through the woods, relax by the water, or have a picnic in the parks.
You can fore example visit The Uncovered Bridge or follow the Fjordmino trail along the fjord. Whether you like hiking, kayaking, watching birds, or simply soaking up the natural beauty, Horsens has something for everyone who loves nature.
Photo credit: Sarah Green
TRANSPORT IN HORSENS
All means of transport are easily accessible in Denmark in general. For those who want to experience sight or visit a nearby city, we recommend buying a train ticket at the train station. It’s an easy way to get around in Denmark e. g. to Aarhus or Billund for shopping, Legoland or sightseeing.
BICYCLE
For those who want to experience the city as well as have a transport vehicle, we recommend rending a bicycle. It’s an easy way to get around in Denmark.
ELECTRIC BICYCLE & SCOOTER
Electric means of transport are also available, and shops also offers a variety of electric scooters that can be used for transportation.
TAXI
If you want a taxi to take you to Jyske Bank Arena from the train station, you will find the taxi stop just outside the station. Please follow the signs at the station, as they will guide you to the right place. You can also call Horsens Taxi at +0045 75 50 30 00 and order a taxi.
FOOD & RESTAURANTS
In Horsens, you find food for all tastes, whether you are into modern or classic cuisine, spicy or savoury. Explore the excellent craftmanship at the many restaurants and eating places in Horsens.
In Horsens, the pedestrian street and the atmospheric streets surround the town’s gastronomic nerve centre. Go exploring and find delicious menus when you are looking for wonderful restaurants in Horsens.
Photo credit: Jesper Rais