Aachen

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Aachen

The 2000-year-old imperial city of Aachen, a cosmopolitan hub brimming with historical charm, lies at the nexus of Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium — a trio inviting exploration. Not only famed as Charlemagne's imperial capital and his final resting place, Aachen is also renowned for its Aachener Printen, a unique type of gingerbread originating from this city.

The City

Aachen uniquely embodies the essence of Western culture, blending its rich history with contemporary architecture. Aachen's roots extend deep into history, with evidence of human activity dating back to Neolithic times. The region was notably valued by the Celts for its thermal springs, dedicated to Grannus, the god of light and healing. These hot sulphur springs, known since the Iron Age, underscored the area's significance long before the Romans established their famed baths, capitalising on this natural wonder. The city gained prominence in the Middle Ages when kings were crowned in the magnificent Aachen Cathedral. Nearby, the gothic Town Hall, steeped in legends of Charlemagne, offers a striking historical counterpoint to the cathedral. Surrounding this architectural splendour, lush nature reserves like the Ardennes and Eifel frame the city, providing verdant retreats for quiet contemplation. Aachen is a mosaic of diverse landscapes, home to a vibrant community of international students, traditional "Oecher" residents, and young families, making it a dynamic and liveable city. Attracting Europeans for its natural beauty, historical legacy, and modern lifestyle, Aachen stands as a testament to a harmonious blend of past and present.

Do & See Dining Cafes Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

Most of Aachen’s must-see attractions are relics of Charlemagne’s era, introducing visitors to the city’s rich medieval history. The city has a vibrant museum scene that draws artists from around the globe and theatres that present both classic plays and modern reinterpretations, alongside opera performances. Aachen's Christmas Market is a major attraction in December. The squares around the cathedral transform into a festive wonderland, brimming with charming wooden stalls. Here, you can find unique gifts, local delicacies, the famous Printen, and, of course, warming glühwein.

Aachen Cathedral

Aachen Cathedral, one of Europe's oldest, was commissioned by Emperor Charlemagne. He has been interred here since 814, and his legendary throne has not been moved in centuries. The Palatine Chapel has been a significant site for the coronation of German royalty and remains a key pilgrimage church. Its rich cultural-historical architecture makes it …

Aachen Cathedral Treasury

The treasury of Aachen Cathedral is regarded as the most important north of the Alps, featuring over 100 art pieces across various themes. Highlights include the Cross of Lothair, the Bust of Charlemagne, and the Proserpina sarcophagus. The museum offers a remarkable insight into religious and historical …

Centre Charlemagne

Centre Charlemagne is a modern city museum in the heart of the historical centre. Here, the history of city comes to life, explaining how Aachen became the residence of the Carolingian rule and the medieval city of coronations. Apart from that, the Centre Charlemagne is the starting point of the Route Charlemagne that connects …

Aachen Town Hall

The Aachen Town Hall, a distinctive example Gothic architecture, is a historic symbol of the city's rich past. Originally built in the 14th century on the ruins of Charlemagne's palace, this iconic building has witnessed numerous coronations and remains a testament to Aachen's medieval grandeur. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a …

Ludwig Forum for International Art

The Ludwig Collection, boasting over 14,000 artworks, stands as one of the world's most significant art collections. Irene and Peter Ludwig have gathered more than 3,000 pieces by artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Jean Michel Basquiat under one roof. The collection also hosts special exhibitions that highlight the latest trends in contemporary …

Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum

The Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum showcases art from antiquity to modernity and everything in-between, with its medieval sculpture collection being particularly notable. It also houses significant works by artists like Rembrandt, Cranach, Antoon van Dyck, Otto Dix and Max Beckmann. The museum's eclectic collection includes a print room, glass paintings, Flemish tapestries, and goldsmith works, offering a …

Couven Museum

Monheim house, a remodelled 17th century pharmacy, has housed the collection of Couven Museum since 1958. Showcasing Directoire, Empire, and Biedermeier-style period rooms, it also features a historic pharmacy, kitchen, and porcelain tiles collection. It's a fascinating visit for those interested in art and the lifestyles of the upper classes during those …

International Newspaper Museum

The International Newspaper Museum presents a cutting-edge, insightful exhibition on the 21st-century global media landscape. It effectively imparts media literacy in an engaging manner. A highlight is the access to 200,000 international newspapers spanning five centuries, offering a unique window into the evolution of journalism and news …

Aachen Theatre

A combination of spectacular plays, amazing operas and national celebrated concerts — that's Theater Aachen. It takes you into the land beyond the limits of everyday life and invites you to encounter with characters and stories that touch and …

Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo

The Aachen zoo has become one of the most popular recreational facilities in the region. The Euregiozoo houses around 1,000 animals of 200 species, including zebras, camels and ostriches. Families can enjoy tours, children will love the petting zoo, pony rides and …

Dining

Aachen’s cuisine is influenced by the neighbouring countries of the Netherlands and Belgium. The Öcher Puttes is a famous sausage served with apples, potatoes or sauerkraut. Aachen offers upscale restaurants and affordable eateries, as well as international choices. If you are looking for a nice place to eat, you will find most of the restaurants in the heart of the city close to the cathedral. There will be something for everyone.

Hanswurst — The Sausage Restaurant

Between cathedral visits and shopping sprees, Hanswurst is the go-to for a quick German snack. Enjoy sausages with a choice of sauces, accompanied by either a bread roll or fries. Summer days are perfect here for outdoor seating, watching the world go by on …

La Becasse

La Becasse offers an elegant French dining experience, with options ranging from set multi-course menus to à la carte French classics. The lunch menu is updated daily. Stylish and dramatic, this restaurant is also noted for its extensive wine list, adding to the sophisticated …

Am Knipp

Am Knipp combines traditional German cuisine with the charm of Aachen's oldest eatery, dating back over 300 years. Specialising in meat-based dishes, it boasts a central location with a beer garden for enjoying summer nights. Due to its popularity, booking ahead is …

Sankt Benedikt

Sankt Benedikt, located in historic Kornelimünster just outside Aachen, delights with a Michelin-starred French-cosmopolitan menu. Its offerings change weekly, reflecting the best seasonal and regional products. A mere ten minutes from Aachen’s heart, it promises an unforgettable culinary …

Al Triangolo

For an authentic Italian experience in the city centre, Al Triangolois the perfect spot. It's not just the cuisine that's Italian, but the entire atmosphere, including the chef. A cosy place for an evening of pasta, meat, fish, and fresh vegetables, all housed in the historic Haus am …

Best Friends

Best Friends offers a laid-back dining experience, featuring a menu of sushi rolls, sashimi, stir-fries, and Thai-style curries. Their selection of plant-based dishes is equally impressive, ensuring a satisfying meal for …

Polonia

Predictably, Polonia serves Polish specialities that are traditionally meat-based, but also include a variety of soup and dumpling dishes. The interior is simple and pricing affordable, which makes this place a popular spot for lunch and dinner, or even just a pint of Polish …

AKL Lebanese Kitchen

With the philosophy of home-made and fresh dishes from their own traditional recipes, AKL is the restaurant you have to visit for the best Lebanese food in the area. The menu is simple, so they can keep preparing everything just as you order. This compact restaurant has a close relationship with Egmont, the bar …

Homeburgers

Homeburgers delivers a quintessential American diner experience with a twist. Beyond their standard menu, guests have the freedom to craft their own burger or opt for the weekly special. All burgers come with the option to be made vegetarian or prepared for …

Cafes

Aachen's cafés offer a delightful array of treats, from the local Aachener Printen gingerbread to Reisfladen, Belgian waffles, and exquisite pralines. Inspired by the nearby Benelux countries, these cafés dot the city, inviting you to indulge in a luxurious hot chocolate or a slice of homemade cake in a cosy atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to recharge and enjoy quality time with friends. Plus, most cafés feature outdoor seating in the summer, allowing you to bask in the city's vibrant street life.

Café van den Daele

Café van den Daele, a quaint Belgian spot in Aachen's centre, delights with an array of cakes, pastries, freshly-baked bread, and Leonidas chocolates. Pair your sweet treat with a hot chocolate or coffee. The café's hearty meals, especially breakfasts, are worth exploring …

Nobis Printen Bäckerei

Nobis Printen is your go-to for sampling Aachen’s iconic Aachener Printen and other baked delights. With over 40 locations across the city, they offer a wide selection of baked goods and bread. It’s the perfect spot to savour a coffee with gingerbread or pick up delicious …

Café Middelberg

Just two minutes from the cathedral, Café Middelberg serves up a great breakfast, freshly cooked lunch, and fantastic cakes. Don't miss their large brunch buffet on …

Lammerskötter

Lammerskötter in Burtscheid offers an all-day dining, from delicious breakfasts and fresh, healthy lunch offers to incredible cakes and pastries. They stand out for their exceptional service, while keeping alive the recipes that have been perfected three generations ago, when the cafe first opened its doors in …

Pausenbrot

Pausenbrot is celebrated for its delectable sandwiches, crafted from sourdough and available in a myriad of variations. They also offer a limited breakfast menu, alongside pastries, cakes and homemade lemonade. Their commitment to the environment is evident in their eco-friendly takeaway …

Cafe Kittel

Cafe Kittel blends whimsy with simple elegance, making it a favourite among students. Open till after midnight, it offers coffee, tasty meals, and drinks, with shakshuka being a standout dish. Its shaded outdoor terrace provides a perfect setting for …

Leni liebt Kaffee

Leni liebt Kaffee, originally a modest roastery, has become a must-visit café in Aachen. It boasts an all-day breakfast menu, delightful pies, and an array of specialty coffees. Reservations are recommended for peak hours since the café tends to get …

Bars & Nightlife

Aachen's status as a student city since the late 19th century has cultivated a vibrant and varied nightlife. The bars cater to every taste, ensuring an evening spent here is memorable. Nightlife centres around Pontstraße, where clubs and bars sit shoulder to shoulder, offering a dynamic scene for night owls.

Domkeller

Housed in a building from 1658 and serving beer since 1948, the Domkeller is a bar steeped in history. It is a cultural place, offering a learning place for students on weekdays, serving great beer selections and playing life music on the …

Last Exit

The Last Exit serves as a versatile venue, blending the elements of a café, restaurant, bar, and party spot. Located slightly off the centre in Jakobsviertel, it's nonetheless a mere 10-minute walk from the cathedral. The highlight in the warmer months is its spacious terrace, making it a favourite for spring and summer …

Cafe & Bar zuhause

Cafe & Bar zuhause has it all: board games, books, movie screenings, bowling, live music and comedy. It is a very popular place for a cosy get-together with friends, furnished with vintage sofas and armchairs. Look out for their special events, like Family …

Hotel Europa

Hotel Europa offers a unique two-in-one experience with its cosy living-room bar and vibrant cellar nightclub. The retro vibe, combined with techno beats and classics from the 80s and 90s, draws a diverse crowd. Whether you're up for making new friends at the bar or dancing the night away downstairs, it's the place to …

Goldenes Schwein

Goldenes Schwein combines the charm of an old, carefully renovated pub with a warm atmosphere, making it ideal for gatherings over beer or wine. The menu offers regional classics alongside Mediterranean and vegetarian options. Enjoy outdoor seating in their beer garden when the weather …

Vielharmonie

Vielharmonie is a popular spot where you can eat, drink, and celebrate, with ample space to accommodate everyone. It's a favourite among students for cocktails and the laid-back atmosphere, making it easy to meet up with friends. Plus, every Sunday evening features a delightful tapas …

Apollo Kino & Bar

Apollo is the centre of music, dance and film. You find a cinema showing arthouse films and international releases, often shown in their original language with subtitles. In addition to the big screen events, Apollo is a hip …

Café Madrid

Café Madrid is the go-to bar for lively parties nearly every night. Wednesdays are particularly popular with students looking to enjoy the night. Situated in Aachen's party district, it offers an excellent starting point for those interested in exploring various venues in one …

Nox

At Nox, dive into fantastic parties with DJ beats on a spacious dance floor or unwind with a long drink at the bar. It's known for hit events like 'Back to the 90s' and 'Campus Nox', along with other themed parties that draw a …

Shopping

Shopping in Aachen seamlessly combines with sightseeing, since numerous stores are located right in the city centre, just a short stroll from major attractions. From chic fashion boutiques and health and beauty stores to electronic outlets, chain stores, and expansive department stores — all await your discovery. Take the first chance to weave some shopping into your sightseeing itinerary.