Aachen – the most detailed information about the city with photos. Aachen main attractions with descriptions, travel guides and maps.
City of Aachen (Germany)
Aachen (German: Aachen) is a city in western Germany located in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Situated just a few kilometers from the border with Belgium and the Netherlands, this area has been renowned for its therapeutic spas since Roman times. Aachen is one of Germany’s most historically significant cities. During the Middle Ages, Charlemagne chose it as his residence, making it one of the centers of the powerful Frankish kingdom. Over six centuries, German kings were crowned here. Aachen attracts tourists with its ancient landmarks, cultural monuments, medieval architecture, and rich history. The city’s jewel is its monumental cathedral, founded by Charlemagne and serving as his final resting place. This stunning medieval structure is Germany’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Geography and Climate
Aachen is located in Western Germany, a few kilometers from its borders with the Netherlands and Belgium. The city lies in the northern part of the Eifel uplands, a northwestern section of the Rhenish Slate Mountains. The surroundings feature forest-covered hills, with the highest point reaching 410 meters above sea level.
Aachen has a moderate climate with warm summers and mild winters. Annual precipitation averages 800 mm, distributed evenly throughout the year. Summer temperatures range between 17-20 °C, while the coldest month, January, averages +3 °C.
Practical Information
- Population: 260,000 residents
- Area: 160 sq. km
- Official language: German
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Visa: Schengen
- Timezone: +1 (summer +2)
- Best time to visit: Year-round
History
The first settlements in Aachen date back to ancient times, with the Romans establishing the town of Aquisgranum, famous for its thermal spas.
In the early Middle Ages, Aachen became one of Europe’s major centers and frequently served as the residence of Frankish kings. Charlemagne greatly influenced Aachen’s growth and significance, initially making it his winter residence at the end of the 8th century and later transferring his capital here in the early 9th century. Charlemagne passed away in Aachen and is considered the city’s patron.
Despite losing its capital status, Aachen retained its significance as a coronation site until the mid-16th century and continued to play an important role in the region. In the early 14th century, Aachen gained the status of a Free Imperial City.
In the 16th century, the coronation ceremonies moved to Frankfurt, and a devastating fire in 1656, along with religious conflicts, marked the beginning of Aachen’s decline. The city survived primarily thanks to continued interest in its thermal springs.
In the late 18th century, Aachen briefly became part of France but returned to Prussia in 1818.
During World War II, Aachen was the first German city captured by Allied forces (USA, UK, France).
Where to Stay in Aachen: Overview of Districts and Hotels
Aachen offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here’s a look at the best areas for lodging:
Altstadt (Old Town)
- Best area for tourists
- Walking distance to all major attractions
- Recommended hotels:
- Aquis Grana City Hotel 4* – near the cathedral
- Hotel 3 Könige – historic building in the center
- Ibis Styles Aachen City – budget option
Burtscheid
- Quiet area with thermal springs
- Ideal for wellness and relaxation
- Top hotels:
- Dorint Thermalresort – premium spa hotel
- Bensons Hotel – cozy boutique hotel
Accommodation Prices in Aachen
- Hostels: from €20 per night
- 3-star hotels: €60-90 per night
- 4-star hotels: €100-150 per night
- 5-star and spa hotels: from €180 per night
Tip: Book accommodations in advance during the Christmas markets (November-December) and summer season (June-August).
Getting to Aachen from Other Cities
Aachen shares an airport with the Dutch city of Maastricht, located 40 km from Aachen in the Netherlands. It operates a limited number of intra-European flights. The nearest major airports in Germany are in Düsseldorf and Cologne, from which Aachen is easily accessible by train. Additionally, the Belgian city of Liège and the Dutch city of Antwerp are nearby.
Trains connect Aachen to Paris, Liège, Brussels, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, and Cologne. Bus networks link Aachen with other major cities in Germany, Belgium, France, and the Netherlands.
Shopping in Aachen: Best Places to Shop
Aachen is renowned for its sweets and delicacies, especially the Christmas market on the old square between the cathedral and the town hall.
Shopping areas and centers:
- AquisPlaza – modern shopping complex in the city center.
- Adalbertstraße – main shopping street with numerous stores and cafés.
- Krämerstraße and Market
- Aachen Arkaden, Trierer Straße 1 – large shopping center
- Großkölnstraße – extensive shopping district
Top Attractions in Aachen
The most famous landmark in Aachen is the Aachen Cathedral (Aachener Dom), founded by Charlemagne in the 9th century and serving as his burial site. This grand sacred structure, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most significant examples of Western architecture. The cathedral’s main chapel was constructed around the year 800, with Gothic elements like the choir and the North and South Chapels added in the 14th and 15th centuries. Over the centuries, more than 30 German kings and numerous queens were crowned here. The building has been expanded, restored, and enhanced multiple times, now standing as a stunning monument of predominantly Gothic architecture, featuring a unique interior that houses invaluable historical artifacts. The cathedral is open to visitors from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (until 6:00 PM in winter), with an entrance fee of €4.
For history and artifact enthusiasts, the Treasury of Aachen Cathedral houses over 100 unique historical pieces from the 9th to the 16th centuries. The entry fee to the Treasury is €5.
Another iconic landmark of the old town is Aachen’s Town Hall. This beautiful Gothic building, constructed on the foundation of Charlemagne’s former palace, is a major architectural treasure from the 14th century. The entrance fee to visit the Town Hall is €6.
Between the Town Hall and Aachen Cathedral, surrounded by historical buildings, lies the Market Square, the heart of the old town and a venue for various markets and events.
On Pontstraße, toward the Bridge Gate, you can see the beautiful St. Christ Church, a notable church from the early 20th century.
Moving along Pontstraße from the Old Market Square, you’ll reach the Bridge Gates, built in the 14th century. This solid stone structure served as the northwest entrance to the inner city. During the Middle Ages, Aachen’s city wall had 11 gates, but only two remain today.
The Marching Gates are one of the two surviving city gates of Aachen, located in the southern part of the old town. Built in the 12th-13th centuries, they were among the main entrances to the inner city and earned their name from the garrison stationed nearby.
Conclusion: Why Visit Aachen
Aachen offers a unique blend of historical heritage, modern infrastructure, and world-class wellness facilities. Reasons to visit include:
- Rich historical heritage: UNESCO cathedral, medieval architecture
- Convenient location at the intersection of three countries
- Thermal spas and global wellness centers
- Charming old-town ambiance
- Delicious local cuisine and famous gingerbread
- Excellent shopping options
The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is ideal for sightseeing. December is especially atmospheric due to the Christmas market. A weekend is sufficient for exploring major landmarks, but 5-7 days are recommended for a full wellness experience.
