Things To Do
in Aachen
Aachen is a historic city in western Germany known for its impressive cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city has a rich history dating back to Roman times and was once the residence of Charlemagne. Modern Aachen is a vibrant city with a mix of historical architecture and contemporary amenities, such as shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Aachen is also home to a renowned technical university, making it a hub of innovation and education in the region.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the renowned Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its stunning architecture and intricate mosaics.
Visit the Elisenbrunnen to experience the famous thermal springs. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the historic town center afterward.
Dine at a local restaurant and savor traditional Aachen specialties like Printen. Consider enjoying a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets.
Go for a refreshing hike in the nearby Eifel National Park. Take in the beautiful landscapes and enjoy nature.
Have a picnic lunch in one of the park's scenic spots. Afterwards, visit the Kaiser-Friedrich-Therme for some relaxation.
Travel back to Aachen and grab a casual dinner at a local beer garden. Savor the atmosphere and perhaps enjoy a local brew.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with famous landmarks like the Aachen Cathedral.
- Culturally vibrant city with numerous events and festivals throughout the year.
- Strong educational institutions, including RWTH Aachen University, known for engineering and technical studies.
- Excellent public transportation and connectivity to neighboring countries such as Belgium and the Netherlands.
- Thermal springs and wellness facilities, attracting visitors and residents alike.
- Cost of living can be relatively high, especially in terms of housing.
- Weather can be unappealing for some, with frequent rain and overcast skies.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
- Language barrier may pose challenges for non-German speakers in daily interactions.
Best Activities in Aachen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A visit to the Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Dom Treasure is a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.
The Lousberg, Elisenbrunnen, and Stadtgarten parks offer picturesque landscapes and are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic.
For nature lovers, the Eifel National Park offers a variety of hiking trails through stunning forests, valleys, and moors.
The Vennbahn is a former railway line turned into a picturesque cycling route, offering a great way to explore the scenic countryside.
Aachen's Old Town boasts charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and cozy cafes, perfect for a leisurely day of exploration.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aachen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aachen
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a stunning view of the city and surrounding area
Hill park with panoramic views of Aachen and the bordering countries
Historic spa house and park with picturesque surroundings
Food in Aachen
Aachen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These are sweet, spiced biscuits similar to gingerbread, and a local specialty. They can be found at bakeries and confectionery shops throughout the city, with the most famous being the Nobis Printen bakery.
Must-Try!
A classic German pot roast, often made with marinated and braised beef, and served with red cabbage and potato dumplings. For an authentic experience, try it at Zum goldenen Einhorn, a traditional German restaurant.
This dish, meaning 'Heaven and Earth' in the local dialect, consists of mashed potatoes, apple sauce, and blood sausage. Visit the historic Alt-Aachener Wirtshaus for a taste of this regional favorite.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aachen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant weekly market offers a wide range of local produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more. It's a great place to sample local flavors and pick up fresh ingredients. Open on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Located in front of the Aachen Cathedral, this market features various street food stalls offering delectable treats such as bratwurst, currywurst, and crepes. It's the perfect spot for a quick bite while exploring the city center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aachen, it is important to maintain a respectful distance when speaking with others, especially in public spaces or on public transportation.
Germans value punctuality, so it is important to be on time for appointments and meetings in Aachen.
When meeting someone in Aachen, it is common to greet them with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. It's also polite to address people using their titles and last names until given permission to use their first names.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Aachen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Aachen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Aachen, Germany, it is customary to leave a tip of 5-10% at restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service was satisfactory. However, tipping is not mandatory and it is not expected in all situations.
In Aachen, Germany, cash is still widely used for making payments, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are generally accepted at most larger stores and restaurants. It is always advisable to carry some cash when visiting Aachen for smaller transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Aachen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Aachen for pleasant weather, colorful flowers, and outdoor activities such as visiting the Aachener Weiher park and exploring the historic city center.
Ideal for outdoor events, festivals, and enjoying the warm weather. Visitors can also explore the Eifel National Park and enjoy various open-air concerts.
Aachen's autumn is known for beautiful fall foliage and comfortable temperatures. It's a great time for scenic drives, hiking, and visiting local vineyards.
During winter, Aachen is transformed into a magical wonderland with its Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and cozy atmosphere. It's a great time to indulge in traditional German holiday festivities.
Aachen at Night
Hiking in Aachen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature park located just northeast of Aachen, known for its unique landscape with wet moors, lakes, and diverse flora and fauna. Offers various hiking trails of different lengths.
Located to the south of Aachen, this national park features stunning forests, hills, and wildlife. It provides numerous trails for hiking, reaching from easy walks to challenging treks.
This former railway track has been transformed into a cycle and hiking path, stretching through the scenic Eifel region. It offers a flat and accessible route for walking and biking.
A popular hiking destination located in the Eifel region, known for its panoramic views and various hiking routes, making it suitable for both casual and experienced hikers.
A picturesque village near Aachen, surrounded by scenic landscapes. The area has several hiking trails leading through the countryside, offering a blend of nature and culture.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Aachen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Aachen by plane.
The nearest major international airport, located approximately 70 km from Aachen.
One of the primary airports serving the Düsseldorf area, around 80 km from Aachen.
The main international airport in Belgium, located about 105 km from Aachen.
An international airport in Liège, Belgium, approximately 80 km from Aachen.
A smaller international airport located around 30 km from Aachen, mainly serving low-cost airlines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group consisting of citizens of Germany who reside in Aachen.
A significant population of Turkish immigrants and their descendants living in Aachen.
Includes residents from various European Union countries, such as the Netherlands, Poland, and others.
A growing demographic group due to recent migration, consisting of individuals seeking asylum.
A diverse group of students from various backgrounds attending institutions like RWTH Aachen University.
Includes individuals from various non-European countries contributing to the multicultural fabric of the city.
The Soul of Aachen
Discover the essence of Aachen through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Aachen, with many local clubs and a strong following among fans.
Handball enjoys a significant following in Aachen, with various local teams participating in regional leagues.
Basketball has a growing popularity in Aachen, supported by local clubs and community programs.
Athletics is popular among both recreational and competitive athletes in Aachen, with facilities for training and events.
Cycling is a favored sport in Aachen, with numerous cycling clubs and events, given the city's cycling-friendly infrastructure.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aachen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Aachen offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with some establishments specializing in plant-based cuisine. Look out for innovative menus that cater to these dietary preferences, such as the vegan restaurant Allgäu.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options at various eateries in Aachen, including cafes and restaurants that specifically accommodate this dietary requirement. Lousberg Markt is known for its gluten-free offerings.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Aachen with these cultural adventures.
