Aarau Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Aarau, Switzerland, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Aarau

Nestled in the region of Zurich, in Central Europe, Aarau is a vibrant and historic city in Switzerland. The city is known for its cultural significance, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation possibilities. Whether you’re interested in history and museums, or hiking and biking, Aarau has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Aarau, Switzerland.

List of Places to Visit in Aarau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Aargauer Kunsthaus: An art museum featuring collections of Swiss and international art spanning the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries.
  • Naturama Aarau: A natural history museum featuring over 3000 specimens of flora and fauna from the region.
  • The Aarau Castle: A 13th-century castle that now serves as the Aargau Museum, showcasing the history and culture of the region.
  • The Stadtmuseum Aarau: A museum featuring exhibits on the history of Aarau and its people.

Natural Attractions of Aarau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Aarau Countryside Walk: A scenic walk along the river Aare, featuring beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The Bally-Park: A beautiful park with well-maintained gardens and trees as well as sculptures and fountains.
  • The Aarau Old Town: A charming old town quarter filled with historic buildings and cobbled streets. Aarau Old Town Square is also popular and lively with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
  • The Jura Mountains: Located to the south of Aarau, the Jura Mountains offer breathtaking landscapes and fantastic hiking routes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aarau

  • Jura Crest Trail: A 60km long trail that runs across the Jura Mountains and provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Aare Cycle Route: A 320km long cycle route along the river Aare, passing through beautiful Swiss countryside and picturesque towns.

Best Things to Do in Aarau: Activities and Tours

  • Swiss Chocolate Tasting Tour: A delicious tour that takes you on a journey of Swiss chocolate making and tasting.
  • Rottenfluh Adventure Park: An adventure park that features zip lines, climbing walls, and other outdoor activities.
  • Aarau Guided Walking Tour: A tour around the charming and historic old town of Aarau where you explore the beauty of the place with a knowledgeable guide and also learn about the history and culture of the city.
  • Aarau Street Food Festival: An annual food festival held in August that offers a wide variety of food from around the world.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aarau

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the historic Aarau Old Town
Day 2 Visit the Aargauer Kunsthaus and the Naturama Aarau
Day 3 Hike the Jura Crest Trail and admire the stunning views
Day 4 Cycle along the Aare Cycle Route and enjoy the Swiss countryside
Day 5 Explore Aarau Castle and the Aargau Museum
Day 6 Have a relaxing day in the beautiful Bally-Park
Day 7 Attend the Aarau Street Food Festival

Food and Drink Scene of Aarau

Must-Try Dishes

  • Käseschnitte: A Swiss dish that consists of toasted cheese on bread, usually served with a side of fries.
  • Rösti: A Swiss dish made of grated potatoes and served as a side dish with meat, fish, or vegetables.
  • Swiss Chocolate: Switzerland is world-famous for its chocolate, and Aarau is no exception.

Local Beverages

  • Swiss Wine: Switzerland produces excellent white, red, and rose wines, and Aarau is located near several wine-growing regions.
  • Beer: Switzerland also produces high-quality beer, with many local breweries in the region.

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

  • Hotel Aarauerhof: A modern four-star hotel located in the heart of Aarau with great amenities and a restaurant serving traditional Swiss cuisine.
  • Hotel Zum Kreuz: A historic hotel with traditional Swiss design and excellent service.
  • Youth Hostel Aarau: A budget-friendly option with shared rooms and a central location.

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

  • Swiss Chocolates: The best gift and souvenir that one could bring back to their friends and family.
  • Swiss Wine: A great souvenir to bring back home and try out unique and excellent wines.

Local Culture and Customs of Aarau

Aarau is a welcoming and friendly city, and its people are proud of their medieval heritage and love sharing it with others.

Swiss people are generally punctual, reserved, and formal, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs and etiquette when visiting Aarau.

Best Time to Visit Aarau

The best time to visit Aarau is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aarau

Do:

  • Greet others politely and use formal titles (Herr/Dame).
  • Take off your shoes when entering someone’s house or apartment.
  • Be punctual for meetings and appointments.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in the streets or public spaces.
  • Don’t be excessively loud or rude in public places.
  • Don’t ignore local customs and etiquette.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aarau

Aarau is a safe and peaceful city with low crime rates. However, it’s always essential to take normal safety precautions when traveling, such as keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.

Health in Aarau

Switzerland has excellent health care facilities, and Aarau is no exception. Hotels usually offer medical support if needed, or you can visit a walk-in health center for minor ailments.

Getting to Aarau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aarau

The nearest airport to Aarau is Zurich International Airport, which is around 40km away. There are several airlines that fly to Zurich from a range of international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Aarau

Aarau has excellent bus and train connections to other major cities in Switzerland. The Aarau Train Station is located in the city center and is well-connected to other parts of the region.

Other Options

Taxis, car rentals and bike rentals are also available to explore the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Aarau

Walking is the best way to explore the charming old town of Aarau. Still, there are excellent public transportation options such as buses, trains, trams, and regional buses to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Aarau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Zurich: Just 30 minutes by train, Zurich is a vibrant metropolis with excellent shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
  • Lucerne: A picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Lucerne, it’s known for its stunning views and outdoor activities.
  • Basel: A cultural hotspot known for its museums, galleries, and architecture.

Conclusion

Aarau is a hidden gem in Switzerland, offering a diverse range of attractions and activities to explore. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in Aarau.

With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re well-equipped to plan an unforgettable trip to Aarau and experience all that this beautiful city has to offer.