Aachen
Germany · North Rhine-Westphalia · 173 m
Description
Aachen is Germany's westernmost major city, located at the crossroads of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The historic imperial city is closely associated with Charlemagne and is renowned for Aachen Cathedral, whose octagonal Palatine Chapel became Germany's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. As the coronation site of 30 German kings, Aachen ranks among Europe's most significant historic cities. Today, the city combines its rich cultural heritage with science and innovation. RWTH Aachen University, together with numerous research institutes, gives the city an international reputation as a leading center of technology and research. Thermal springs, the famous Aachen Printen gingerbread, and the welcoming Rhineland spirit add to its distinctive character. As a European border city, Aachen embodies history, knowledge, innovation, and the idea of a united Europe.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: April – September
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Aachen Cathedral & Palatine Chapel (UNESCO)
- Charlemagne's Throne & Shrine
- Aachen Town Hall
- Aachen Old Town
- Elisenbrunnen
- Centre Charlemagne
- Aachen Cathedral Treasury
- Carolus Thermen Thermal Spa
- Couven Museum
- Aachener Printen Bakeries
- Pontstraße
- Lousberg Viewpoint
- Suermondt-Ludwig Museum
- Ludwig Forum for International Art
- Westpark
- Drielandenpunt (Germany–Belgium–Netherlands)(Day trip)
- CHIO Aachen (June - July)
- Aachen Christmas Market (November - December)
- Tivoli Stadium
Getting there
- Train stations:
- Aachen Hauptbahnhof, Aachen Schanz, Aachen West
- Border town:
- Germany