Aachen, Germany Travel Guide

Discover Aachen: A historic gem in Germany, renowned for its UNESCO-listed cathedral, thermal springs, vibrant student life, and delicious Printen gingerbread.

Aachen, nestled in western Germany, is a city that effortlessly marries the old with the new. Famous for its stunning cathedral, the Aachen Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, this city is a treasure trove of history. The cathedral, with its Palatine Chapel, was the coronation site for German kings and the final resting place of Charlemagne. Visitors can marvel at its impressive architecture that has stood the test of time. Beyond the cathedral, Aachen offers a charming old town with cobblestone streets and beautiful medieval buildings. Strolling through the town, you can visit the Elisenbrunnen, a neoclassical hall with fountains that offer mineral water from the city's thermal springs. These springs have made Aachen a renowned spa destination for centuries. The city is also home to the RWTH Aachen University, one of Europe’s leading technical universities, which brings a youthful and vibrant energy to the area. The many students add a lively atmosphere, especially in the cafés, bars, and restaurants that line the streets. Aachen is also famous for its Printen, a type of gingerbread, which is a must-try for any visitor. Whether you’re exploring historical sites or enjoying the local cuisine, Aachen is a city that promises a rich and varied experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Aachen.

Visit the Aachen Cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Try the local Printen gingerbread, available in many bakeries around the city.
Take a stroll through the old town to enjoy its medieval charm and quaint shops.
Don't miss the Elisenbrunnen for a taste of Aachen's famous mineral water.
Check out the student areas for vibrant nightlife and affordable dining options.

Explore Aachen: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Aachen

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Elisenbrunnen

Discover Elisenbrunnen in Aachen, a historic fountain with thermal springs, stunning architecture, and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.

4.3

Aquarium-Museum of Liège

Explore the wonders of marine life at the Aquarium-Museum of Liège, a unique blend of aquatic adventure and zoological discovery.

4.0

Aachen Cathedral

Explore Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO site with stunning architecture, rich history, and Charlemagne's legacy in the heart of Europe.

4.7

Basilica of Our Lady

Discover Maastricht's ancient Basilica of Our Lady, a Romanesque architectural treasure with a rich history and spiritual significance.

4.6

Best landmarks in Aachen

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Aachen Cathedral

Discover the artistic fusion of Romanesque and Gothic architecture at Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in history and beauty.

4.7

Elisenbrunnen

Discover the historic Elisenbrunnen in Aachen, where stunning architecture meets therapeutic springs in a serene atmosphere.

4.3

Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo

Explore the enchanting Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo, a vibrant animal park in Aachen, Germany, perfect for family fun and wildlife education.

4.6

Mayersche Aachen

Discover the charm of Mayersche Aachen, a cultural treasure offering books, DVDs, and toys for all ages in an inviting, library-like atmosphere.

4.6

Best restaurants in Aachen

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AKL Libanesisches Restaurant

Savor authentic Lebanese flavors at AKL Libanesisches Restaurant in Aachen - a delightful spot for Mediterranean food lovers.

4.5

The ASH Aachen

Experience upscale dining at The ASH Aachen, where local flavors meet modern cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

HOMEBURGERS

Experience gourmet burgers like never before at Homeburgers - Aachen's top American fast-food destination.

4.4

Louisiana Aachen

Experience authentic American cuisine at Louisiana Aachen - where flavors meet fun in the heart of Germany.

4.3

Best bars in Aachen

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Domkeller

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Domkeller, a unique pub and café in Aachen offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music entertainment.

4.5

Guinness House

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Guinness House, Aachen's premier Irish pub, offering delicious food, drinks, and live entertainment.

4.5

SOWISO / OCEAN

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of SOWISO / OCEAN in Aachen, where delicious local cuisine meets a lively bar scene that welcomes everyone.

3.9

UpTown Sky Lounge & Restaurant - Aachen

Discover the elegance of UpTown Sky Lounge & Restaurant in Aachen - where modern European cuisine meets stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Aachen

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NOX - Aachen

Discover the heartbeat of Aachen's nightlife at NOX, where vibrant music, diverse crowds, and unforgettable experiences await every weekend.

3.9

Dein Hotel Europa - Aachen

Unleash your nightlife spirit at Dein Hotel Europa, Aachen's premier destination for live music, dancing, and unforgettable moments.

4.4

Lessie Fair

Discover Aachen's nightlife at Lessie Fair, a vibrant night club where music and fun unite for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Club Nightlife

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aachen at Club Nightlife, where exciting music and a lively atmosphere await you every weekend.

3.9

Best shops in Aachen

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Designer Outlet Roermond

Discover unbeatable designer deals at Designer Outlet Roermond, the ultimate shopping destination in the Netherlands with over 200 stores and dining options.

4.3

Aquis Plaza

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Aquis Plaza in Aachen, where modernity meets tradition.

4.2

Maasmechelen Village

Experience luxury shopping in a beautiful outdoor setting at Maasmechelen Village, Belgium's premier outlet destination.

4.2

Lindt Werksverkauf Aachen

Explore a chocolate lover's haven at Lindt Werksverkauf Aachen, where exquisite Swiss chocolates await your discovery.

4.6

Explore Aachen on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Aachen, mapped for you.

Aachen Essentials

Aachen is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The nearest large international airport is Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS), approximately 90 kilometers away. From Düsseldorf, you can take a direct train to Aachen Hauptbahnhof, which takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) is about 85 kilometers away, and you can reach Aachen in roughly 1 hour by train. If you're coming from within Europe, the Thalys and ICE high-speed trains connect Aachen with major cities like Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam.
Aachen has an efficient public transportation system comprising buses and trains. The ASEAG bus network covers the city and surrounding areas. For intercity travel, Aachen Hauptbahnhof offers connections to domestic and international destinations. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available. If you prefer cycling, Aachen is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and rental options. Walking is another convenient way to explore the compact city center.
The official currency in Germany is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases and in local markets. ATMs are readily available throughout the city. Note that some smaller establishments may not accept cards, so having some Euros on hand is always a good idea.
Aachen is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Aachen doesn't have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. The city center and tourist areas are usually well-patrolled by police.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Aachen has several hospitals and clinics, including the University Hospital RWTH Aachen, which provides comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies (Apotheken) are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress smartly but comfortably. Germans appreciate neat and tidy attire. Avoid overly casual clothing like flip-flops or beachwear in the city. Religion: Do respect religious customs, especially when visiting churches. Dress modestly and remain quiet. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding buses and trains. Don't talk loudly or play music. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake. Maintain eye contact as it shows honesty. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Printen (gingerbread) and Aachener Sauerbraten (marinated beef). Don't leave a tip on the table; instead, hand it directly to the server.
To experience Aachen like a local, visit the weekly markets held at Markt and Münsterplatz for fresh produce and local products. Engage with locals at cafes and try the local specialty, Aachen Printen. Don't miss the chance to visit the Carolus Thermen spa for relaxation. For a cultural experience, attend a concert at the Eurogress Aachen or a performance at the Theater Aachen. Exploring the city by bike is also a great way to see hidden gems and enjoy the scenic beauty.

When is the best time to visit Aachen?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Aachen

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Aachen. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [hah-loh]
- GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [owf vee-der-zay-en]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNein
  [nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bit-teh]
- Thank youDanke
  [dahn-keh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-di-goong]
- How are you?Wie geht es dir?
  [vee gayt es deer]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [goot oont deer]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shpre-khen zee eng-lish]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-shtay-eh nikht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte bitte die Speisekarte sehen
  [ikh merkht-eh bit-teh dee shpy-ze-kahr-teh zay-en]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh ess-eh kine flysh]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bitte bezahlen
  [ikh merkht-eh bit-teh bez-al-en]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-feh]
- Go away!Gehen Sie weg!
  [gey-en zee vehk]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee poh-lee-tsai]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee ine-en ahrts]
- I'm lostIch habe mich verlaufen
  [ikh hah-beh mikh fer-lou-fen]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [ikh been kr-ahnk]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte ... kaufen
  [ikh merkht-eh ... kow-fen]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh sh-ow-eh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel kaws-tet es]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoo toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [kern-en zee den prys zen-ken]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpayt ist es]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist ighn oor]
- Half past (10)Halb (zehn)
  [halb (tsayn)]
- MorningMorgen
  [mohr-gehn]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [nahkh-mit-tahk]
- EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [geh-stern]
- TodayHeute
  [hoy-teh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-gehn]
- 1Eins
  [ayns]
- 2Zwei
  [tsvay]
- 3Drei
  [dry]
- 4Vier
  [feer]
- 5Fünf
  [foonf]
- 6Sechs
  [zeks]
- 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
- 8Acht
  [akht]
- 9Neun
  [noyn]
- 10Zehn
  [tsayn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [vo ist ighn/dehr]
- What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vas ist dee ah-dreh-seh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [kern-en zee meer tsey-gen (owf dehr kar-teh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn komt dehr nekh-steh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ....)
  [i-ne fahr-kahr-teh (nakh)]

History of Aachen

Aachen, known as Aquae Granni in Roman times, was established due to its natural hot springs. The Romans built baths and a settlement that capitalized on the healing properties of these thermal waters, marking the beginning of Aachen's long history as a spa town.
Aachen rose to prominence under Charlemagne, who made it his imperial residence in the late 8th century. The construction of the Palatine Chapel, now part of Aachen Cathedral, signified Aachen as the center of the Carolingian Renaissance. Charlemagne was buried in the Chapel in 814, and it later became a pilgrimage site.
From 936 to 1531, Aachen Cathedral was the site where 31 Holy Roman Emperors were crowned. This tradition began with Otto I and underscored Aachen's significance in medieval European politics. The Throne of Charlemagne and the Cathedral Treasury hold invaluable relics from this period.
During the Middle Ages, Aachen flourished as a center of commerce and trade. The town developed a robust guild system that supported artisans and merchants. This period saw the construction of the Aachen Rathaus (Town Hall), which became a symbol of civic pride and economic prosperity.
In 1748, Aachen hosted the Peace Congress that concluded the War of Austrian Succession. The Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle, as Aachen is known in French, was signed here, making the city a notable location in the diplomatic history of Europe.
Aachen embraced the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century, becoming a hub for coal mining and manufacturing. The growth of industries such as textiles, metalworking, and the development of railways transformed Aachen into an economic powerhouse in the Rhineland.
Aachen was heavily bombed during World War II, resulting in significant destruction. The city was the first German city to be captured by Allied forces in 1944. Post-war reconstruction efforts focused on restoring historical buildings while modernizing the city infrastructure.
In the post-war era, Aachen became a symbol of European unity and cooperation. The city hosts the annual Charlemagne Prize (Karlspreis), awarded to individuals or institutions for their contributions to European integration. Notable recipients include Winston Churchill, Jean Monnet, and Angela Merkel.
Today, Aachen is known for its prestigious RWTH Aachen University, a leading institution in engineering and technology. The city blends its rich historical heritage with cutting-edge research and development, continuing to be a place of significance in both cultural and scientific realms.