Things To Do
in Aachen
Aachen is a historic spa city in western Germany near Belgium and the Netherlands. It is renowned for Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has drawn pilgrims and rulers for centuries. The city blends Roman baths, medieval streets, and a lively university town vibe thanks to RWTH Aachen University.
Its borderland location gives Aachen a distinct cross-border charm with easy access to neighboring countries by rail and road.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. Spend time marveling at the intricate mosaics and the Palatine Chapel that houses the tomb of Charlemagne. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, soaking in the medieval atmosphere of this ancient city.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local cafes, where you can taste traditional Aachen specialties such as Printen, a type of gingerbread. Post-lunch, explore the Couven Museum to understand the city's history and view its collection of 18th and 19th-century art and artifacts. Take a moment to relax at the nearby Elisenbrunnen, a beautiful fountain known for its thermal springs.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can sample regional delicacies paired with local beers. Afterward, take a leisurely evening stroll through the illuminated streets of the old town, admiring the stunning architecture. End your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Start your day by treating yourself to a rejuvenating experience at the Carolus Thermen spa, famous for its thermal baths and wellness treatments. Immerse yourself in the warm mineral-rich waters, allowing the soothing ambiance to wash away any stress. Enjoy a light breakfast at the spa cafe, featuring healthy options that will energize you for the day ahead.
After your spa morning, take a leisurely walk to the nearby Aachen Botanical Garden, where you can enjoy the beautiful flora and peaceful surroundings. Have lunch at a nearby bistro before continuing your exploration of the gardens, taking in the diverse plant species and tranquil spots. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the botanical collections and their significance.
For dinner, indulge in a meal at a restaurant specializing in regional cuisine that emphasizes seasonal ingredients. After dining, unwind at a nearby café with an outdoor terrace, enjoying the gentle evening breeze and a sweet dessert. Wrap up your day by reflecting on your spa experience and the beauty of Aachen's natural scenery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 in mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel room (mid-range) per night | $90-150 |
| 🚆Public transit pass (1 month) | $65-75 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic cathedral and UNESCO-listed architecture
- Compact, walkable historic center with cross-border access
- Excellent rail connections to neighboring Belgium and the Netherlands
- Relaxed university-town vibe with excellent cafés and markets
- Smaller city feel; fewer big-city amenities
- Some services can be slower outside peak hours
- Weather can be rainy and variable year-round
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Dom?" - Where is the cathedral?
- "Zahlen, bitte" - The bill, please
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Aachen
Visit one of these nice places.
The soaring Gothic façade, cloister arcs, and ornate interior provide dramatic photography opportunities both inside and on the square.
Historic façades and the lively market backdrop with the town’s clock tower offer iconic street photography moments.
A neoclassical bathhouse with a marble fountain, set in a quiet park land nearby the historic baths.
Medieval city walls and towers; great for atmospheric shots of Aachen’s medieval defenses.
Patio and courtyard vantage points for sunset photos with the dome in the background.
Food in Aachen
Aachen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A dark, spicy gingerbread cookie or loaf that’s a city specialty; seek it at local bakeries and souvenir shops.
Must-Try!
A marinated pot roast served with potatoes or dumplings, available in many Rhine-region restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, breads, and prepared foods—great for a quick bite or ingredients for a picnic.
Casual stalls and food trucks offer quick bites and snacks during market days and special events.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual; greet with a handshake and maintain polite, formal address using Sie in formal contexts.
Aachen’s cross-border vibe: English is widely understood, but learning a few German phrases goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Aachen
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafés; small tips are appreciated for taxis.
Cash and debit/credit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; cards like Girokarte are popular for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and fresh markets; good for walking tours in the Old Town and leafy parks.
Warm days with outdoor cafés, festivals, and river breezes; occasional showers—pack a light jacket.
Colorful trees in parks like the Hofgarten; comfortable temperatures for city strolls and day trips.
Chilly but festive, with Aachen Christmas Market lights and seasonal treats; layer up and enjoy warm drinks.
Aachen at Night
Hiking in Aachen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and viewpoints within a short drive offering a real nature escape from the city.
Picturesque hikes around an historic town with scenic wooden bridges and forest paths.
Rail-trail that can be walked or cycled; beautiful cross-border scenery with border views into Belgium and the Netherlands.
Airports
How to reach Aachen by plane.
A short drive from Aachen with seasonal connections across Europe; convenient for short trips.
Major international hub about a 1–1.5 hour drive from Aachen; good for long-haul connections.
Close by with frequent European flights; accessible via train or car from Aachen.
Belgian airport within reach for regional travel; useful for low-cost European connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are students and staff from RWTH Aachen University and its partner institutes.
Aachen attracts residents from across Europe due to its university and cross-border location.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local and regional matches; plenty of clubs and public viewing areas.
The region is bike-friendly with routes like Vennbahn and city cycle lanes.
City hosts local runs and university-sponsored races throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aachen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Aachen offer vegetarian options; look for vegetables, cheeses, and mushroom dishes, and ask for meat-free versions of regional classics. For cross-border trips, ask for egg or cheese-based plates or salads.