Just outside Aachen, you’ll find one of the world’s most accessible Tri-Country Points.
This Three-Country Point is where Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands converge – here you’ll have a rare chance to stand in three countries simultaneously!
It’s a must visit for all geography nerds – so I knew that, when I was in Aachen, I had to go.
What is the Three-Country Point?
The Three-Country Point, known locally as Drielandenpunt or Les Trois Bornes, is marked by a simple stone pillar where the borders of Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands meet.
Visitors can stand with a foot in different countries (and if you don’t mind a bit of a game of Twister, you can put your hand in another!).
From 1816 to 1919, the site wasn’t just a Three-Country Point—it was a Four-Country Point, thanks to the tiny neutral territory of Neutral Moresnet or Amikejo.
This little-known micronation was established after the Congress of Vienna and existed as a neutral zone for over a century.
Today, you can learn more about Neutral Moresnet and its peculiar history at the on-site labyrinth.
The point is surrounded by open fields and woodland, so it’s a great place for a nature walk near Aachen.
How to get to the Tri-Country Point near Aachen
Visiting the Three-Country Point is quite straightforward, but your mode of transport will depend on your preferences and starting location.
- By car: Driving is the easiest way to reach the Three-Country Point, as it’s just a 20-minute journey from Aachen (the closest town in Netherlands is Vaals and the closest in Belgium is Plombieres) There’s parking available nearby, and from the car park, it’s a short walk to the marker itself.
- By public transport: If you prefer not to drive, take the 25 or 35 bus from Aachen to Vaalserquartier Keltenstraße. From there, it’s a pleasant 30-minute walk through fields and woodland. The walk is mostly flat, but there is one steep section, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
- By taxi or Uber: Taxis are readily available in Aachen, but they can be pricey. Uber operates in the area, though it’s limited, so availability might vary. I managed to grab an Uber for my trip.
If you’re walking from the bus stop, download Google Maps in advance to guide you through the trails. Mobile signal can be spotty in some parts of the route.
What to do at the Three-Country Point
The main draw of the site is, of course, the chance to stand in three countries at once.
The stone marker designates the exact spot where Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands meet, and it’s a perfect spot for photos, seeing how quickly you can cross two borders and work out how you can be in three countries at once!
For panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, head to one of the observation towers nearby.
The Wilhelminatoren tower on the Dutch side boasts views into all three countries.
Families will enjoy the labyrinth which introduces visitors to the history of Neutral Moresnet in a fun and interactive way.
There are also several walking trails in all three countries – one that leads to a bus stop that will take you back to Aachen.
Practical tips for visiting
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk from the bus stop or explore the surrounding trails.
- Weather: The site is all outdoors, so check the weather forecast before you go. Clear days offer the best views from the observation towers.
- Food and drink: While there are small cafés and food stands in the area, bringing your own snacks or drinks is a good idea, especially if you’re walking or spending time in the labyrinth.
- Accessibility: If you have mobility issues, driving or arranging a taxi is your best bet. The marker itself is accessible via flat paths if you park close by.
Why the Three-Country Point is worth visiting
The Three-Country Point is is a place where history and geography come alive. Standing in three countries at once is a rare experience – and the site’s peaceful surroundings make it an ideal escape from the bustle of Aachen!
So, next time you’re in Aachen, set aside a few hours to visit the Three-Country Point! Take a look at my full list of things to do in Aachen and accompanying YouTube video, too.
