Aachen travel guide

Aachen, a city steeped in history, dates back to the Roman era when it was known for its hot springs. The city's prominence grew significantly under Charlemagne, who chose Aachen as his imperial residence around 800 AD. This decision made Aachen the political center of Western Europe during the Carolingian Empire.

The magnificent Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to this era and houses Charlemagne's Palatine Chapel. Aachen continued to thrive in the Middle Ages, becoming a key site for the coronation of German kings.

During the 19th century, Aachen became an industrial hub, contributing to its economic growth. The city faced considerable destruction during World War II but was resiliently rebuilt, preserving its historical charm.

Today, Aachen seamlessly blends its rich past with modernity, offering visitors a unique glimpse into its storied history through its well-preserved architecture, museums, and cultural landmarks.

Aachen, situated at the border triangle of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, boasts a rich cultural mosaic shaped by its historic past and geographical position. The city is renowned for its annual Aachen Cathedral Choir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its Christmas Market, which draws visitors with its festive atmosphere and traditional crafts.

In terms of social customs, punctuality is highly valued in Aachen, as in the rest of Germany. It's advisable to be on time for appointments and social gatherings. Greeting with a firm handshake and maintaining eye contact is customary, reflecting the local preference for sincerity and respect.

Aacheners are known for their warmth and hospitality. When visiting homes, it’s polite to bring a small gift, such as flowers or chocolates. Additionally, Sundays are generally reserved for family time and rest, so many shops and businesses are closed. Travelers should plan their shopping activities accordingly.

Respecting local traditions, such as the celebration of Karneval in February, can enrich your experience. During this lively festival, expect flamboyant costumes, parades, and a general air of merriment. Remember to greet people with a friendly 'Alaaf!' during this festive period. Understanding and appreciating these customs will help you navigate and enjoy the vibrant culture of Aachen.

The best time to explore Aachen is during the late spring and early summer months, specifically from May to June. During this period, the weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures averaging between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city's parks and gardens are in full bloom, providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls and photo opportunities.

Another excellent time to visit is in December, when Aachen transforms into a winter wonderland with its famous Christmas Market. This festive event, held in the historic city center, draws visitors from around the world and offers a magical experience with twinkling lights, traditional crafts, and delicious seasonal treats.

While summer (July to August) also offers warm weather and longer days, it tends to be more crowded with tourists, which might lead to longer wait times at popular attractions. Conversely, the autumn months of September and October provide a quieter atmosphere and comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring Aachen's rich history and culture.

To avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed visit, consider planning your trip during the shoulder seasons of late spring or early autumn. These times not only offer favorable weather conditions but also allow for a more immersive experience in this charming German city.

When visiting Aachen, take the time to explore the hidden gem of the Pontviertel district, a favorite among locals. This vibrant area, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and independent shops, offers an authentic taste of Aachen's lively culture. For an insider tip, head to the Café Kittel, an unassuming spot beloved by residents for its cozy atmosphere, excellent coffee, and delicious pastries. It's the perfect place to relax and people-watch while soaking in the local vibe. Additionally, don't miss the chance to visit the weekly farmers' market at the Münsterplatz on Saturdays, where you can sample regional delicacies and fresh produce. This bustling market offers a slice of everyday life in Aachen and a chance to mingle with the friendly locals. By venturing beyond the well-trodden paths, you'll discover the true essence of this charming city.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Aachen, Germany. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Aachen, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Germany. Check out the best things to do in Aachen. Compare the rates and services of the 6 types of stays and 3 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Aachen with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Aachen from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Aachen with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Aachen travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Aachen!

With destinations such as Aachen, a trip to Germany needs no further explanation. Spanning over 357,588 square kilometers, Germany is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Germany has something to enchant every traveler.

In Aachen alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Aachen Cathedral, Elisenbrunnen, and Carolus Thermen. Thus, a trip to Germany becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Germany offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Germany. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Germany and its offers.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Aachen, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Aachen offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Aachen travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Booking a vacation package to Aachen means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Aachen to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Aachen also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Aachen travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the city.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Aachen is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Aachen usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Aachen offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Aachen and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Aachen planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Aachen, you'll find 6 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Germany can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Aachen. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Aachen.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Aachen in the following sections.

To navigate Aachen effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 3 car rental companies in Aachen, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Aachen start at 30 EUR per day or 209 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Smart Fortwo. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Aachen, starting at 30 EUR per day or 213 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Kia Picanto.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Aachen, Germany below.

The city of Aachen is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Germany. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Germany has it all.

Each destination in Germany offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Germany that are as magical as the city of Aachen. The most popular travel destinations in Germany are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

Aachen, a historic city in western Germany, offers a variety of transportation options to help you navigate its charming streets and attractions. The public transit system is efficient and well-connected, primarily consisting of buses operated by ASEAG. These buses cover almost all parts of the city and surrounding areas, making it easy for visitors to reach key destinations, including the renowned Aachen Cathedral and the university campus.

Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through various apps and phone services. For a more flexible travel experience, rental cars are an excellent option, with several rental agencies located in the city. This is particularly useful if you're planning to explore the scenic Eifel region or nearby cities like Cologne and Maastricht.

A unique transportation experience in Aachen is the cross-border bus service into the Netherlands and Belgium, reflecting the city's strategic location at the confluence of three countries. Whether you're using public transit, taxis, or rental cars, getting around Aachen is convenient and straightforward.