10 Things to Do in Aachen 🇩🇪: Ultimate Guide to Top Attractions

🏠 Where to Stay in Aachen

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Aquis Grana City Hotel
• ✨ 5-Star: Parkhotel Quellenhof Aachen
• 🏨 4-Star: Best Western Plus Hotel Regence
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Hampton By Hilton Aachen Tivoli
• 💸 Cheap: B&B Hotel Aachen-Hbf
• 🏢 Apartment: Ferienwohnungen Triebels
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Novotel Aachen City
• 🏩 For Couples: Pension Altes Rathaus

From the famous Christmas Market to the traditional German treats like Aachener Printen (whose exact recipe is a closely guarded secret), there are countless top things to enjoy during a day in Aachen. Dive into this guide to discover the best things to do in Aachen and spend a long, memorable trip exploring this unique destination.

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Explore Aachen with Passionate Tour Guides from € 15 (⭐ 4.8/5)
• Aachen Center in 1 Day: Walking Tour with Digital Guide from € 12 (⭐ 4.7/5)
• Aachen: Old Town Guided Fountain Rally from € 10 (⭐ 4.6/5)

Top Attractions in Aachen

1. Aachen Cathedral (Aachener Dom)

History. Standing majestically in the heart of Aachen, the Cathedral has been drawing pilgrims and history enthusiasts since 800 AD. I was immediately struck by its unique octagonal design, a masterpiece of Carolingian-Gothic architecture that served as the coronation church for 30 German kings.

Must-See Features. The Palatine Chapel took my breath away with its soaring marble columns and glittering gold mosaics. The highlight is Charlemagne’s throne, perched atop six ancient stone steps – though you’ll need to join a guided tour to access this area.

Pro Tips. Visit early on weekdays to avoid crowds. Photography is allowed in most areas except the Treasury. The best time for photos is during morning hours when sunlight streams through the stunning stained glass windows.

Treasury Highlights. The Cathedral Treasury houses some of Europe’s most precious religious artifacts. The Bust of Charlemagne and the Cross of Lothair particularly caught my eye – their intricate goldwork is simply remarkable.

⭐ Best tour

• Explore Aachen in 60 minutes with a Local – From Aachen Cathedral to City Hall Aachen, get to discover the city’s most defining landmarks. Your local will also share insider tips on the best cafes, restaurants, and lively bars in Aachen to ensure you get the most out of your stay.

2. Aachen Town Hall (Rathaus)

First Impressions. Dominating the marketplace since the 14th century, this Gothic masterpiece sits on the foundations of Charlemagne’s palace. The façade’s recent restoration has returned it to its former glory, making it impossible to miss.

Interior Gems. The coronation hall on the upper floor left me speechless with its massive frescoes depicting scenes from Charlemagne’s life. The Imperial Hall’s ceiling paintings and restored throne replica offer a glimpse into medieval grandeur.

Insider Knowledge. The best views of the building are from Katschhof square, especially during golden hour. I recommend timing your visit to catch the carillon concert at noon – the bells create a magical atmosphere.

Local Events. During the Christmas market, the Town Hall becomes a magical backdrop for one of Germany’s most enchanting holiday celebrations. The building is illuminated with colorful projections that tell stories from Aachen’s history.

Time-Saving Tip. Purchase a combined ticket for both the Cathedral and Town Hall to save money and time. The buildings are just a 2-minute walk apart, making it easy to visit both in one morning.

⭐ Best tour

• Sightseeing Tour in Aachen – Aachen has an attractive city center with important historic buildings as the Dom Cathedral ( Unesco heritage site ) and Rathaus ( Town Hall ). Both monuments tell visitors the story of Charlemagne / Charles the Great, the famous emperor of western Europe around 800.

3. Elisenbrunnen

Architecture. This elegant neoclassical pavilion caught my eye with its striking columned design. Built in 1827, it’s one of Aachen’s most photographable spots, especially when the morning light hits its pristine white façade.

Thermal Experience. The two fountains inside dispense natural thermal water at a steamy 52°C (125°F). While the sulfuric smell is quite strong, I found it fascinating to taste this mineral-rich water that made Aachen famous among European nobility.

Urban Life. The surrounding park has become my favorite spot to watch local life unfold. Street musicians often perform here, creating a lively atmosphere while visitors relax on the benches under century-old trees.

Local Tip. Visit the small information center inside to learn about the city’s thermal heritage. The interactive displays explain how these waters shaped Aachen’s development.

⭐ Best tour

• Aachen Highlights Half Day Private Walking Tour – Explore the timeless charm of Aachen, a city where history, culture, and hidden treasures come alive.

4. Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen

Wellness Paradise. This modern thermal complex offers an authentic Roman bathing experience with a luxurious twist. I spent a blissful afternoon moving between different temperature pools, each with unique mineral compositions.

Facilities Overview. The complex features seven different saunas, including my personal favorite – an outdoor Finnish sauna with panoramic views. The steam baths are infused with essential oils that change seasonally.

Practical Advice. Bring your own towel to save on rental fees. The quietest times are weekday mornings. Remember that the sauna area is textile-free, following German tradition.

⭐ Best tour

• Aachen: Bus Ticket – See Aachen’s highlights with a ticket to an open-top bus. Hop on and off with stops around the city and enjoy audio-guided commentary at sites like Elisenbrunnen and the Lindt Chocolate Factory.

5. Couven Museum

Time Travel. Stepping into this 18th-century townhouse felt like walking into a time capsule. Each room showcases perfectly preserved interiors from Aachen’s golden age, when wealthy merchants shaped the city’s culture.

Collection Highlights. The kitchen particularly impressed me with its original copper cookware and ceramic tiles. The formal dining room displays exquisite Aachen-made silverware and porcelain that tells stories of elaborate social gatherings.

Cultural Impact. The museum’s furniture collection showcases the evolution of local craftsmanship. I was fascinated by the detailed marquetry work – a technique that made Aachen’s cabinet makers famous throughout Europe.

Smart Visit. Pick up the English audio guide (included in the ticket price) – it reveals fascinating details about bourgeois life that you might otherwise miss. The guided tours on Saturdays are particularly engaging, offering insights into the restoration process.

Photography Notes. While photos are allowed without flash, the best shots are in the rococo salon where natural light streams through original windows, illuminating the gilded mirrors and intricate wall coverings.

⭐ Best tour

• Germany: Guided tour of Aachen – Do you want to explore the city that Charlemagne completely fell in love with? Don’t hesitate and book this Tour of Aachen.

Fun Things to Do in Aachen

1. Explore the Historic Old Town

Atmosphere. Wandering through Aachen’s Old Town, I discovered a maze of winding cobblestone streets that tell centuries-old stories. The medieval layout creates perfect photo opportunities, especially in the golden light of early evening.

Shopping Scene. The Krämerstraße and Pontstraße burst with character. I found unique boutiques selling everything from handmade chocolates to local crafts. My favorite discovery was a tiny workshop where an artisan creates traditional brass items.

Café Culture. The historic Café van den Daele became my go-to spot, with its Art Nouveau interior and homemade cakes. A coffee and slice of Black Forest gateau here costs around 7€ ($7.60).

⭐ Best tour

• Aachen - Old town Guided tour – This is a great pick for travelers with limited time in Aachen. Save time studying a map, and let a private guide show you around the highlights of Aachen’s beautiful Old Town.

2. Try Aachener Printen

Taste Adventure. These spicy-sweet treats are nothing like regular gingerbread. The traditional recipe, protected by EU law, creates a harder, more complex flavor that develops as you eat it.

Best Spots. Klein’s Backstube offered the freshest Printen I’ve tasted. Their chocolate-covered variety (2.50€/$2.70 per piece) is divine. The family-run Nobis Printen lets you watch the baking process through large windows.

Seasonal Tips. Visit during November-December when bakeries produce special Christmas variations. The spice mixture is more intense, and some are decorated with almonds and candied fruits.

3. Visit the Centre Charlemagne

Modern History. This interactive museum surprised me with its high-tech approach to storytelling. Touch screens and 3D models bring Charlemagne’s era to life in ways that engage both adults and children.

Exhibition Highlights. The crown jewel is a detailed scale model of medieval Aachen. I spent ages spotting buildings that still exist today. The interactive map showing trade routes particularly fascinated me.

Smart Timing. Visit on First Thursday evenings when entry is free and they often host special events or lectures in English.

⭐ Best tour

• Explore Aachen with Passionate Tour Guide – Our Walking Tour of Charlemagne’s city, Aachen, offers an unparalleled experience! This tour is 3€ to reserve and if you wish you can leave a tip at the end of the tour based on how much you enjoyed the tour.

4. Discover Unique Fountains

Urban Art. Aachen’s fountains are more than water features – they’re outdoor art galleries. The Puppenbrunnen (Puppet Fountain) made me smile with its moveable bronze figures representing local characters.

Local Stories. Each fountain has its own tale. The Bahkauv Fountain depicts a mythical water creature that supposedly terrorized medieval tax evaders – ask locals about the legend, they love sharing it.

Photo Tips. Early morning light creates the best conditions for fountain photography. The water effects are most impressive after maintenance days (usually Mondays) when the mechanisms are freshly cleaned.

⭐ Best tour

• Aachen Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide – As your guide leads you through Aachen’s downtown, you’ll learn its fascinating history stretching back to the time of Charlemagne while viewing landmarks including the Puppet Fountain and the UNESCO-listed Aachen Cathedral.

Free Things to Do in Aachen

1. Visit Free Museums

Ludwig Forum. Every Thursday (known as ZENTIS day), this contemporary art museum offers free admission to its impressive collection of Pop Art, Photorealism, and European art. The museum occupies a former umbrella factory with striking Bauhaus-inspired architecture and operates from 10:00 to 20:00 on Thursdays.

Kunsthaus NRW Kornelimünster. This hidden gem offers free admission throughout its opening hours (Thursday to Saturday 12:00-17:00, Sundays and holidays 11:00-17:00). Currently featuring exhibitions on time-based art and refugee artists running until February.

2. Explore Parks and Gardens

Westpark Experience. This versatile green space in western Aachen offers excellent facilities for outdoor activities. You’ll find:

• Basketball court
• Table tennis facilities
• Football pitch
• Designated BBQ areas
• Spacious lawns for picnics

Botanischer Garten. The botanical garden houses over 5,000 plant species across specialized areas:

• Arboretum with diverse tree collections
• Alpine garden section
• Marsh habitat
• Specialized collections of ferns and heath plants
• Medicinal plant garden

Pro Tips. For Westpark, arrive early on weekends to secure the best picnic spots. The botanical garden is particularly beautiful in late spring when most plants are in bloom. Both parks offer peaceful retreats from the city bustle, with Westpark being more suitable for active recreation and the Botanical Garden ideal for nature appreciation and quiet contemplation.

Nightlife in Aachen

1. Best Bars and Pubs

Domkeller Experience. Housed in a historic 1658 building, this cultural hub offers an authentic German pub experience. The bar features an impressive selection of German and Belgian beers, while live music performances every Monday create a vibrant atmosphere. The cozy interior with wooden tables and warm lighting makes it perfect for both locals and visitors.

Café Madrid Vibes. Located on Pontstraße, this stylish venue transforms from a casual daytime spot into a buzzing nightlife destination. The bar specializes in creative cocktails and offers a beautiful terrace with views of the Old Town. Opening hours extend until 4 AM on weekends, making it a popular choice for late-night entertainment.

2. Nightclubs

NOX Nightclub. Spanning two floors, NOX offers diverse themed nights ranging from RnB to techno. The club features state-of-the-art sound systems and regularly hosts popular DJs. Their “NOX DATE NIGHT” on Fridays and “GO TELL HER” events on Saturdays are particularly popular among the younger crowd.

Last Exit Atmosphere. This venue seamlessly transitions from a cozy café by day to an alternative music hub by night. Located at Krakaustraße 1, it attracts a diverse crowd with its laid-back atmosphere and eclectic music selection. The spacious terrace becomes a social hotspot during warmer months.

3. Evening Walks

Cathedral Circuit. The most enchanting evening walk starts at the illuminated Cathedral, where the Gothic architecture creates dramatic shadows against the night sky. Continue past the Town Hall (Rathaus), which looks particularly majestic when lit up at night.

Historic Gates Trail. Begin at the medieval Ponttor gate and follow the old city walls to the Marschiertor. This route offers a unique perspective of Aachen’s historical fortifications and is especially atmospheric during evening hours. The walk takes approximately 90 minutes and passes several well-lit historical landmarks.

Pro Tips. The best time for evening walks is between 8-10 PM when the monuments are illuminated but streets are still lively. Consider joining the evening stroll guided tour, available for €15 for adults and €5.50 for children, which departs from Tourist Info Elisenbrunnen.

Seasonal Events in Aachen

1. Aachen Christmas Market

Dates. The Christmas market runs from November 22 to December 23, open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM. The market transforms Aachen’s city center into a festive wonderland around the Cathedral and Town Hall.

Location & Layout. The market spans three main areas:

• Katschhof Square (between Cathedral and Town Hall)
• Marktplatz am Rathaus
• Münsterplatz

Atmosphere. Despite hosting over 120 vendors, the market maintains an intimate, family-friendly atmosphere. Twinkling lights and festive decorations create a magical setting against the backdrop of historic architecture.

Specialties. The market is famous for Aachener Printen, a traditional gingerbread-like delicacy available in various flavors and shapes. Visitors can also enjoy mulled wine, regional specialties, and handcrafted items from local artisans.

2. CHIO Aachen (Equestrian Festival)

Dates. The World Equestrian Festival takes place from June 28 to July 7, at the Soers Equestrian Stadium.

Event Highlights. The tournament features five main disciplines:

• Show jumping
• Dressage
• Eventing
• Four-in-hand driving
• Vaulting

Scale. Known as the “Wimbledon of equestrian sport,” CHIO Aachen attracts over 350,000 visitors annually, making it the world’s largest equestrian event.

Special Features. The event includes:

• Main competitions in each discipline
• “Soers Sunday” – free admission opening day
• “Horse & Symphony” show with Aachen Symphony Orchestra
• “Farewell to the Nations” closing ceremony

Competition Format. Both individual and team competitions are held in each discipline, with the Aachen Grand Prix jumping competition serving as the prestigious finale on the final Sunday.

Day Trips from Aachen

1. Dreiländereck (Three-Country Point)

Location. The Dreiländerpunkt sits at the convergence of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, near the city of Vaals. Located on Vaalserberg hill at 323 meters, it’s notably the highest point in mainland Netherlands.

Activities. The area offers several engaging experiences:

• Multiple hiking trails through surrounding woodlands
• A viewing tower with panoramic vistas
• A maze for family entertainment
• Restaurants and food stands
• Informational panels about the region’s history

Historical Significance. Between 1830 and 1919, this location was actually a four-country point, including the now-defunct Neutral Moresnet, a small independent territory created due to disputes over a zinc mine.

2. Monschau

Old Town Charm. This picturesque town in Germany’s Eifel region appears frozen in time, with its well-preserved medieval architecture and romantic cobblestone streets. The historic center features stunning half-timbered houses adorned with flower boxes and quaint shops.

Key Attractions:

• Burg Monschau: A 13th-century castle offering panoramic town views
• Historic Mustard Mill: Producing 19 varieties of traditional mustard
• Glashütte Monschau: Features live glassblowing demonstrations
• Red House Museum: Showcases 18th-century bourgeois life

Practical Tips. Visit early on weekdays to avoid crowds. The Christmas market transforms the town into a magical winter wonderland. The best views of the old town can be captured from the castle courtyard.

Getting There. From Aachen:

• By bus: Lines 3B, 25, or 33
• By car: Well-marked routes with parking available
• Walking/cycling: Accessible through scenic routes

⭐ Best tour

• Old Town Private Guided Tour in Monschau – Walk on cobblestone streets besides beautiful half timbered houses and explore the historic Old Town and its prominent attractions on foot.

Practical Information for Visiting Aachen

1. How to Get There

Train Connections. Direct trains from Cologne take just 33-44 minutes, with 51 daily connections starting from €15. From Düsseldorf, the journey spans 1 hour 4 minutes to 1 hour 27 minutes, with fares beginning at €7. The first train departs at 00:20, and the last service runs at 23:40.

Road Access. Driving from Cologne or Düsseldorf is straightforward via the A4 motorway. Take the Aachen-Zentrum exit and follow signs to the city center. The journey typically takes 45 minutes from Cologne, with ample parking available near major attractions.

2. Suggested Itineraries

One-Day Experience. Begin your morning at the UNESCO-listed Cathedral and Treasury, where the morning light creates stunning effects through the stained glass. Spend your afternoon unwinding at Carolus Thermen or exploring the Couven Museum’s elegant rooms. As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk through the historic center, sampling local specialties at traditional restaurants near Elisenbrunnen.

Key attractions to visit:

• Cathedral complex and Treasury
• Town Hall or Couven Museum
• Elisenbrunnen and Old Town

Weekend Adventure. Dedicate your first day to Aachen’s historic core, starting with the Cathedral complex and Treasury in the morning, followed by the Town Hall and Market Square. The second day offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration – begin with a morning thermal spa experience, then venture to the medieval town of Monschau before returning to Aachen for a farewell dinner in the Old Town.

❓ FAQ

Is Aachen worth visiting?

Yes, Aachen is worth visiting for its rich history, unique architecture, and vibrant culture. Highlights include the Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the soothing thermal baths.

What makes Aachen City special?

Aachen stands out for its blend of medieval charm and modern attractions. It was once Charlemagne’s imperial capital and is famous for its Palatine Chapel and historic Old Town.

What are the best attractions in Aachen?

The best attractions include the Aachen Cathedral, Elisenbrunnen thermal springs, and Carolus Thermen Baths. Don’t miss the Couven Museum or the whimsical Puppenbrunnen fountain.

Is driving to Aachen convenient?

Driving to Aachen is convenient but requires a green environmental badge to enter the city center. Alternatively, Park & Ride options are available for €5, including bus transfers.

What are some essential Aachen travel tips?

Plan your visit during spring for mild weather or December for the Christmas Market. If driving, ensure your vehicle meets low-emission requirements to avoid fines.

How can I explore the history of Aachen?

Start with the Palatine Chapel inside the Cathedral, followed by a visit to the Centre Charlemagne museum. The Town Hall also offers insights into Aachen’s medieval past.

What is there to do in Aachen Forest?

Aachen Forest is perfect for hiking or cycling through dense woodlands. Look out for historical remnants like WWI-era electric fences and smuggling trails from the 1940s.

What can I expect at Theater Aachen?

Theater Aachen hosts opera, plays, and musical performances in a post-war reconstructed venue. It’s a cultural highlight for those seeking an evening of entertainment.

How does Aachen compare to the best of Berlin?

While Berlin offers big-city attractions, Aachen provides a more intimate experience with its historic sites and thermal spas. It’s ideal for those seeking relaxation and history.

What’s unique about the Palatine Chapel?

The Palatine Chapel is an architectural masterpiece from Charlemagne’s era with stunning mosaics and the Imperial Throne. It served as a coronation site for Holy Roman Emperors.