Things To Do
in Aarau
Aarau is a picturesque town located in the northern part of Switzerland, in the canton of Aargau. It is known for its well-preserved old town with charming cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. The town is also home to the beautiful Aare River, which offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Aarau is a vibrant cultural hub, with museums, galleries, and historic landmarks attracting visitors from around the world.
- "Grüetzi" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Adieu" - Goodbye
- "Wie geht's?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the Aare River. Enjoy the serene views and stop by a local café for breakfast.
Visit the Historical Museum to learn about Aarau’s rich history. Afterwards, stroll through the charming old town and admire the medieval architecture.
Dine at a traditional Swiss restaurant and savor some local cheese fondue. Take a leisurely walk to see the city lights before heading back to your accommodation.
Hike in the nearby Jura Mountains, taking in the fresh mountain air and stunning vistas. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the picturesque viewpoints.
Continue your hike or explore the trails by bike, experiencing the diverse flora and fauna. Engage with local wildlife as you adventure through the natural landscapes.
Relax at your accommodation after a fulfilling day outdoors. Enjoy a simple dinner while recounting the highlights of your nature adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful historic architecture and picturesque old town.
- High quality of life with excellent public services.
- Proximity to nature with access to hiking and outdoor activities.
- Strong educational institutions and opportunities.
- Good public transportation connectivity.
- Safe and clean environment.
- High cost of living, including housing and daily expenses.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Potential language barrier for non-German speakers.
- Somewhat limited job market in certain industries.
- Weather can be variable, with cold winters and occasional heavy snowfall.
Best Activities in Aarau
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the scenic views and peaceful surroundings while getting some exercise.
Explore the charming streets, historical buildings, and cozy cafes in the old town area.
Discover beautiful hiking trails and stunning landscapes just a short drive from Aarau.
Experience the city from a different perspective while enjoying water-based activities.
Relax and enjoy a picnic in this lovely park, which also features playgrounds and green spaces.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aarau with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aarau
Visit one of these nice places.
Explore the charming old town with its narrow streets, historical buildings, and picturesque views of the city and surrounding area.
Visit the castle and take in the stunning panoramic views of Aarau and the enchanting natural surroundings.
Stroll along the banks of the Aare River and capture beautiful scenes of the water and the city's skyline.
Food in Aarau
Aarau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delicious carrot cake specialty originating from Aarau, often served with a dollop of whipped cream. Try it at Cafe Kunz or at any traditional Swiss bakery in the city.
Must-Try!
A hearty plate featuring an assortment of meats, sausages, and sauerkraut, a favorite dish in the region. Savour this at Restaurant zum Deutscen Haus, known for its authentic Swiss cuisine.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aarau better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Aarau weekly market, located at the lower end of the old town, for fresh produce, local cheese, and artisanal bread. Also, explore food stalls offering tantalizing street food options like raclette and Swiss-style bratwurst.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aarau, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, regardless of gender. It is also polite to address people using their titles and last names, especially in formal settings.
Swiss people value punctuality, so it is important to be on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings in Aarau.
Aarau is known for its peaceful and quiet environment, so it is important to be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas and public spaces.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Aarau with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Aarau
Ensure a smooth experience
In Aarau, Switzerland, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is appreciated to round up the bill or leave a small tip for exceptional service.
Payment in Aarau, Switzerland is commonly made by credit or debit cards, and cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payments are popular, and most establishments also accept mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Aarau.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Aarau, with the flowers blooming and the weather starting to warm up. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the picturesque town and surrounding nature.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Aarau, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. It's an ideal time for hiking, swimming in the nearby rivers, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Autumn in Aarau is marked by stunning foliage as the leaves change color. The weather is still pleasant, and it's a great time for scenic walks and enjoying the local harvest festivals.
Winter brings a magical atmosphere to Aarau, with the possibility of snow and charming Christmas markets. It's a cozy time to visit, with opportunities for winter sports in the nearby mountains and enjoying the festive spirit.
Aarau at Night
Hiking in Aarau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with well-marked trails suitable for various skill levels, located just outside Aarau.
An extensive network of hiking routes throughout the Aargau region, providing breathtaking views and landscapes.
A challenging hike that rewards you with panoramic views of the Black Forest and the Swiss Alps.
A popular destination with beautiful trails along the Reuss river, suitable for families and casual hikers.
A nature reserve offering walking paths through the forest, as well as wildlife observation opportunities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Aarau through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Aarau by plane.
Zurich Airport is the largest international airport in Switzerland and is located approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Aarau.
Basel-Mulhouse Airport is located about 50 kilometers northwest of Aarau and serves as a major international airport for the region.
Bern Airport is situated roughly 90 kilometers southwest of Aarau and serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Geneva Airport is located around 280 kilometers southwest of Aarau and is one of the major international airports in Switzerland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group comprises the majority of the population, mainly consisting of individuals who hold Swiss nationality.
This group includes residents from other countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Aarau's demographic landscape.
Individuals and families who have either immigrated to Switzerland or have parents who were born abroad.
This demographic includes families or individuals living below the average income level in Aarau.
Older adults, typically aged 65 and above, representing a significant portion of the demographic landscape.
Children and young adults mostly aged between 0 to 24 years, reflecting the younger demographic segment.
The Soul of Aarau
Discover the essence of Aarau through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Aarau, with local clubs and teams participating in various leagues.
Ice hockey has a strong following in Aarau, with several teams competing at different levels in regional leagues.
Handball is also widely played in Aarau, with both recreational and competitive leagues available.
Athletics is a popular sport in Aarau, with many local events and clubs promoting running, jumping, and throwing disciplines.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Aarau, with various clubs offering training and competition for different age groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aarau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Aarau offer vegetarian and vegan options, with Cafe Barot being a fantastic choice for those seeking delicious plant-based dishes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free offerings at Restaurant zum Schuetzen, known for its accommodating menu featuring gluten-free pastas and breads.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Aarau with these cultural adventures.
