With centuries of fascinating history, a unique geographical position and a gorgeous old town with UNESCO cathedral, Aachen is a German city that you should definitely be considering visiting.Â
Located near the borders of Belgium and the Netherlands, it’s easy to access – but tourists usually favour nearby Cologne.
However, I’m here to tell you that Aachen is well worth your time.
Save this guide to the city to help you plan your trip!Â
You can also watch my YouTube video about exploring Aachen!
Click here to go through to my YouTube channel.
Where to stay in Aachen
B&B Hotel Aachen City
I stayed in this city centre hotel on my trip to Aachen.Â
Located conveniently near the cathedral and town hall, this hotel provides a no-frills yet comfortable stay.
The minimalist rooms include all the essentials, from flat-screen TVs and workspaces to beds with high-quality mattresses for a good night’s rest.
It’s perfect for those looking to balance affordability and comfort. I particularly appreciated its proximity to key attractions – there’s also a B&B hotel by the station.Â
Take a look at its listing here.
Top attractions in Aachen
Aachen Cathedral (Aachener Dom)
As one of Germany’s most historic churches, Aachen Cathedral is a must-visit.Â
Built in the 9th century as Emperor Charlemagne’s royal chapel, it became the coronation site for more than 30 Holy Roman Emperors.
The octagonal design of the Palatine Chapel, adorned with gilded mosaics and marble columns, is a true highlight.
Entry is free – visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.Â
Aachen Rathaus (Town Hall)
Adjacent to the cathedral, the Aachen Town Hall showcases a mix of Gothic and Baroque styles. Originally constructed in the 13th century, it has undergone significant changes due to fire damage and restoration efforts.
The Coronation Hall is particularly worth visiting – unfortunatley it was closed when I was there but you can see photos of it here.
The surrounding square often hosts seasonal events and markets – this is where the wonderful Aachen Christmas market takes place.Â
The Three-Country Point
A 20 minute drive from Aachen, the Three-Country Point marks the meeting of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
It’s a fun and unique experience to cross borders on foot – no passport checks required, as all countries are in Schengen. I even managed to stand in all three countries at once!
Beyond the marker, there are observation towers with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
There’s also the nearby labyrinth which is perfect for families – here you can learn about Amikejo, which is also known as Neutral Moresnet, the forgotten fourth country in the area.Â
To get there, you can take a taxi or Uber (these are in quite short supply in Aachen, but I managed to get one when I was travelling to the Three-Country Point).
Alternatively, take the 25 or 35 bus from Elisenbrunnen to Aachen, Vaalserquartier Keltenstraße and walk around half an hour. It’s a pleasant walk through fields and woodland (follow Google Maps to get there – this is the point you want to aim for), although there is one steep part so may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.Â
Centre Charlemagne
Named after the emperor who made Aachen the capital of his empire, this museum is perfect for history enthusiasts.Â
The exhibits, ranging from archaeological finds to multimedia presentations, cover Aachen’s transformation from a Roman spa town to a medieval powerhouse.
Non-German speakers should download the museum’s app for translated information.
Look out for the temporary exhibitions, which often explore broader European themes tied to Aachen’s role as a political and cultural hub. When I was there, there was a somewhat chilling exhibition about true crime in Aachen!
International Newspaper Museum and Reuters Plaque
This museum explores the evolution of journalism and the impact of media over the centuries, focusing particularly on German media and exploring themes like WW2 propaganda and the evolution of television in East and West Germany pre-reunification.Â
Its historic building survived Aachen’s Great Fire which makes it one of the oldest in the city today.Â
Nearby, the Reuters Plaque honours Paul Julius Reuter, who launched his news agency here using carrier pigeons to deliver updates between Aachen and Brussels – yes, he was the Reuter who launched what is Reuters today!
Find the Reuters Plaque on Google Maps.
Elisenbrunnen
This neo-classical pavilion, located in the heart of Aachen, was built over natural hot springs.
Though no longer functional as a bathhouse, the site is a reminder of Aachen’s Roman and spa heritage.
The nearby fountains, flowing with the same sulphur-rich spring water, are worth seeing – it’s not advised to drink it, but interestingly, the water flowing is always warm!Â
Granus Tower
Granus Tower – which dates back to the 8th century – is one of Aachen’s oldest structures and a remnant of Charlemagne’s royal palace. Built as a watchtower, it symbolised the city’s importance during the Carolingian era.
While you can’t go inside, its well-preserved exterior is worth a stop.
Below is Postwagen Aachen, one of the oldest restaurants in the city (it survived Aachen’s great fire in 1656).
Where to eat and drink in Aachen
Leni Liebt Café
This café is ideal for a quick recharge.
Known for its quality coffee and plant-based milk options, it’s a great stop during your sightseeing.
It’s can be quite busy inside, but I grabbed a coffee to go and sat out the front!
Aachener Printen
No visit to Aachen is complete without sampling its famous Printen.
Resembling gingerbread, these treats are available in varieties such as chocolate-coated, almond-topped, or plain.
Many shops near the city centre sell freshly made Printen, making them a perfect souvenir or snack for the road.
The most famous is Printenbackeri Klein, which is en-route to the station (see it on Google Maps).
Elisenbrunnen Restaurant
Enjoy a delicious meal at Elisenbrunnen Restaurant, known for its Mediterranean-inspired menu.Â
I enjoyed their Mediterranean pasta paired with a glass of German Sauvignon Blanc.
There’s an outdoor seating area with heaters and covered tables, too.
Seasonal highlight: Christmas Market
Aachen’s Christmas Market is among the most popular in Germany – it runs from the end of November to just before Christmas.
Located near the cathedral and Town Hall, it boasts festive stalls offering mulled wine, roasted nuts, and beautifully crafted gifts. It’s one of my favourite Christmas markets in Europe!
Visit in the evening for the best atmosphere – the lights are unmissable.
How to get around Aachen
Aachen’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot. Buses also serve the outskirts.
Uber operates in Aachen, but the service is limited.
Traditional taxis can be arranged through most hotels, but they are much more expensive than Uber!
How to get to Aachen
By train
Aachen is well-connected by rail.
From London, take the Eurostar to Brussels, then transfer to a direct train to Aachen.
Trains from major German cities, including Cologne and Düsseldorf, are also frequent.
By air
The nearest airport is Cologne Bonn Airport which is located about 45 minutes from Aachen by train.
Düsseldorf Airport is just over an hour away by rail or car.
Both airports have a range of domestic and international flights.
