Aachen Travel Guide (Eifel/North Rhine-Westphalia/Germany/Central Europe/Europe)

Aachen, a city located in the Eifel region of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a perfect destination for travelers seeking cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and scenic views. From stunning historical sites to striking landscapes, Aachen has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best things to do, places to stay, and more in Aachen, Germany.

Introduction to Aachen

Aachen, situated on the border of Belgium and the Netherlands, is often referred to as “the spa city” due to its thermal baths and mineral springs. The city has been home to many famous historical personalities, including the Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne, who made Aachen his imperial capital.

Today, Aachen is known for its beautiful architecture, historic sites, and natural beauty. The city attracts visitors from all over the world who come to experience its rich culture and natural wonders.

List of Places to Visit in Aachen

Whether you’re interested in history, culture or outdoor activities, Aachen offers plenty of places to visit. Here are some of the top sights and attractions you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Aachen Cathedral: Aachen Cathedral is one of the most important historical landmarks in Germany and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978. The cathedral was built in the Gothic style between the 8th and 15th centuries and is the burial place of Emperor Charlemagne.
Couven Museum: Couven Museum is an impressive 18th-century bourgeois building that now serves as a museum dedicated to the city’s history and architecture.
Suermondt-Ludwig Museum: The Suermondt-Ludwig Museum is an impressive art museum that houses artworks from the 12th to the 20th century. Its collection includes works by famous artists like Jan van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden, and Pieter Bruegel.

Natural Attractions of Aachen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Eifel National Park: Aachen is located just a stone’s throw away from Eifel National Park, a stunning national park known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife. The park offers hiking and cycling trails, as well as several lakes for swimming and water sports.
Lousberg Hill: Lousberg Hill is a popular hiking spot in Aachen that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The hill is also home to a small park with picnic areas and a playground for kids.
Dreilanderpunkt: Dreilanderpunkt is a tripoint where the borders of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands meet. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular hiking destination.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aachen

Aachen is famous for its beautiful hiking and biking routes. Here are some of the best trails to explore:

Aachen Green Belt: The Aachen Green Belt is a 16 km long hiking and biking trail that runs along the border of Aachen and Belgium. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and passes through several beautiful forests and parks.
Vennbahn: Vennbahn is a 125 km long cycling trail that runs from Aachen to Luxembourg via Belgium. The trail follows the former railway line and offers breathtaking scenery.
Eifelsteig: The Eifelsteig is a 313 km long hiking trail that runs from Aachen to Trier through the beautiful Eifel National Park. The trail passes through several quaint villages and offers stunning views of the natural beauty of the region.

Best Things to Do in Aachen: Activities and Tours

Aachen offers a multitude of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Aachen:

Spa and Thermal Baths: Aachen is famous for its thermal baths and spa resorts. Visitors can relax and unwind in one of the many thermal baths or treat themselves to a spa treatment.
City Tour: A city tour is a great way to explore Aachen and learn more about its history and culture. Aachen offers several guided tours that take visitors to the city’s top sights and attractions.
Beer Tasting: Aachen is known for its excellent beers, and a beer tasting tour is a great way to discover the local brews. Visitors can try different beers and learn more about the brewing process.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aachen

Here’s a week-long itinerary for visitors to get the most out of their stay in Aachen:

Day	Activities
Day 1	Visit Aachen Cathedral and the Couven Museum
Day 2	Explore the Suermondt-Ludwig Museum and take a city tour
Day 3	Relax in one of Aachen’s thermal baths or spa resorts
Day 4	Hike in the Eifel National Park or Lousberg Hill
Day 5	Bike along the Vennbahn trail
Day 6	Take a beer tasting tour
Day 7	Visit the tripoint at Dreilanderpunkt and enjoy the stunning views

Food and Drink Scene of Aachen

The food and drink scene in Aachen offers a range of local delicacies and international cuisines. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Aachener Printen: Aachener Printen are a type of gingerbread that’s been produced in Aachen for over 500 years. The gingerbread is made with honey, cinnamon, and other spices, and is often shaped into hearts or other traditional shapes.
Rhenish Sauerbraten: Sauerbraten is a traditional German dish made with marinated beef, potatoes, and vegetables.

Local Beverages

Aachen Beer: Aachen is known for its excellent beers, including the famous Aachener Krug beer, a light beer that’s brewed using traditional methods.
Riesling Wine: Aachen is located in the heart of Germany’s wine region and is known for its excellent Riesling wines.

Where to Stay in Aachen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Aachen has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the top places to stay in Aachen:

Pullman Aachen Quellenhof: Pullman Aachen Quellenhof is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Aachen. The hotel offers spacious rooms, a spa, and several restaurants.
Ibis Aachen Marschiertor: Ibis Aachen Marschiertor is a budget-friendly hotel located close to the city center. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
Aachen Jugendherberge: Aachen Jugendherberge is a popular hostel located in the Eifel National Park. The hostel offers dorms and private rooms, as well as a range of facilities, including a restaurant and a games room.

What to Buy in Aachen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Aachen offers a range of souvenirs and local products that make great gifts for loved ones or a special treat for yourself. Here are some of the top products to bring home:

Aachener Printen: Aachener Printen are the perfect gift to bring home from Aachen. The gingerbread is available in a range of shapes and sizes and makes a great snack or dessert.
Riesling Wine: Aachen is located in the heart of Germany’s wine region, and Riesling wine is a popular local product that makes a great gift for wine lovers.

Local Culture and Customs of Aachen

Aachen has a rich cultural history that’s been shaped by its location at the crossroads of Europe. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to learn about the city’s traditions and customs.

Best Time to Visit Aachen

The best time to visit Aachen is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowds and higher prices. The winter months can be cold and snowy, but also offer enchanting Christmas markets and holiday festivities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aachen

Do:

Take a city tour to learn more about the city’s history and culture.
Explore the beautiful hiking and biking trails in the Eifel National Park.
Visit Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Don’t:

Don’t forget to try the local delicacies like Aachener Printen and Rhenish Sauerbraten.
Don’t miss the opportunity to relax in one of Aachen’s thermal baths or spa resorts.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes and warm clothing if visiting during the winter months.

Safety and Health

Aachen is a safe city, but visitors should still take basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and staying aware of surroundings. It’s also a good idea to have travel insurance in case of unexpected illness or injury.

Safety in Aachen

Aachen is generally a safe city, but visitors should still be aware of their surroundings, especially in busy areas like train stations or tourist attractions.

Health in Aachen

Aachen has excellent healthcare facilities and is home to several hospitals and clinics. Visitors should make sure they have adequate medical insurance before traveling.

Getting to Aachen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Aachen is well-connected to other cities in Germany and Europe by train, bus, and plane. Here are some of the transportation options for getting to Aachen:

Airports Near Aachen

Cologne-Bonn Airport: Cologne-Bonn Airport is the closest airport to Aachen, located approximately 80 km away.
Düsseldorf Airport: Düsseldorf Airport is located approximately 125 km away from Aachen and offers flights to destinations across Europe and beyond.

Bus Stations Near Aachen

Aachen Central Bus Station: Aachen Central Bus Station is located in the city center and offers connections to other cities in Germany and Europe.

Other Options

Train: Aachen is well-connected to other cities in Germany and Europe by train. The city has two train stations, Aachen Hauptbahnhof and Aachen Rothe Erde station.

How to Get Around in Aachen

Aachen is a small city, and most of its sights and attractions are within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also use public transportation, such as buses and trains, to explore the city and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Aachen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Aachen is located in the heart of Europe, making it an excellent starting point for exploring nearby destinations. Here are some of the top places to visit near Aachen:

Cologne: Cologne is a beautiful city located approximately 70 km away from Aachen. It’s known for its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and world-famous cathedral.
Brussels: Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is located approximately 150 km away from Aachen. The city is famous for its beautiful architecture, delicious food, and excellent beer.

Conclusion

Aachen is a beautiful city that offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its stunning cathedrals and impressive museums to its beautiful hiking trails and thermal baths, Aachen has something to offer for every type of traveler. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can discover the best things to do, places to stay, and more in Aachen, Germany.