Aachen Cathedral, also known as Imperial Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic church in Aachen, Germany. It is one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Aachen Cathedral, also known as the Imperial Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic church in Aachen, Germany. It is one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe and was constructed by order of the emperor Charlemagne, who was buried there after his death in 814. For 595 years, from 936 to 1531, the Aachen chapel was the church of coronation for 30 German kings and 12 queens. The church has been the episcopal seat of the Diocese of Aachen since 1802. /n The cathedral is a mix of Carolingian and Gothic architecture, with the Palatine Chapel representing the former and the choir the latter. The cathedral's treasury is considered one of the most important ecclesiastical treasuries in the world, housing a collection of precious relics. The cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit attraction in Aachen.

Aachen Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit attraction in Aachen.

The Couven Museum is located in a Rococo mansion in Aachen, Germany. It showcases the lifestyle and furnishings of the 18th and 19th-century bourgeoisie.

The Couven Museum is located in a Rococo mansion in Aachen, Germany. The museum is named after the Aachen architect Johann Joseph Couven and showcases the lifestyle and furnishings of the 18th and 19th-century bourgeoisie. The museum's collection includes furniture, porcelain, silver, and glass from the Rococo, Louis XVI, and Empire periods. /n The museum also hosts special exhibitions on topics related to the history of Aachen and the surrounding region. The Couven Museum offers a unique glimpse into the past and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.

Couven Museum offers a glimpse into 18th and 19th-century bourgeois life in Aachen.

Aachen Christmas Market is an annual event that transforms the city into a festive wonderland. It offers a unique shopping experience with a variety of stalls selling crafts, food, and drinks.

Aachen Christmas Market is an annual event that transforms the city into a festive wonderland. The market is set up in the city center, around the Aachen Cathedral and the Town Hall. It offers a unique shopping experience with a variety of stalls selling crafts, food, and drinks. /n The market is known for its festive atmosphere, with beautifully decorated stalls, twinkling lights, and the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread in the air. Visitors can find a wide range of products, from handmade crafts and Christmas decorations to traditional German food and drinks. The Aachen Christmas Market is a must-visit event for anyone visiting the city during the holiday season.

Aachen Christmas Market is a popular annual event with a festive atmosphere and unique shopping experience.

Ludwig Forum is a museum for contemporary art in Aachen, Germany. It houses a collection of modern and contemporary art from the 1960s to the present.

The Ludwig Forum for International Art is a museum for contemporary art in Aachen, Germany. It is located in a former umbrella factory, a striking example of post-industrial architecture. The museum houses a collection of modern and contemporary art from the 1960s to the present. /n The collection includes works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Nam June Paik. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and offers a wide range of educational programs. The Ludwig Forum is a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary art.

Ludwig Forum is a museum for contemporary art in Aachen.

Elisenbrunnen is a historic fountain located in Aachen, Germany. It is a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike, known for its neoclassical architecture and healing waters.

Elisenbrunnen is a historic fountain located in Aachen, Germany. It is a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike, known for its neoclassical architecture and healing waters. The fountain was built in the early 19th century and is named after Elisabeth Ludovika of Bavaria, the wife of King Frederick William IV of Prussia. /n The fountain is fed by one of Aachen's famous hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. Visitors can fill their bottles with the spring water or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding gardens. The Elisenbrunnen is not just a fountain, but a symbol of Aachen's rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Elisenbrunnen is a must-visit destination in Aachen.

Historic fountain and popular meeting spot in Aachen.

The Suermondt-Ludwig Museum is a major art museum in Aachen, Germany. It houses a vast collection of sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the present day.

The Suermondt-Ludwig Museum is a renowned art museum located in Aachen, Germany. It is named after its founders, Barthold Suermondt and Irene Ludwig, and houses a vast collection of sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts from the Middle Ages to the present day. The museum's collection is particularly strong in German and Dutch art from the 14th to the 16th centuries. /n The museum is housed in a beautiful villa that is a work of art in itself. The villa was built in the 19th century and has been carefully restored to its original grandeur. The museum also hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers visiting Aachen.

A renowned art museum in Aachen, housing a vast collection of sculptures and paintings.

Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen is a luxurious thermal spa in Aachen, Germany. It offers a variety of wellness services, including thermal baths, saunas, and massage treatments.

Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen is a luxurious thermal spa in Aachen, Germany. The spa is named after Charlemagne, who discovered the city's hot springs in the 8th century. The spa offers a variety of wellness services, including thermal baths, saunas, and massage treatments. /n The thermal water used in the spa comes from Aachen's hot springs, which are rich in minerals and have a temperature of up to 74°C. The spa also features a large outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a fitness center. Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen is a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate after a day of sightseeing in Aachen.

Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen is a luxurious thermal spa offering a variety of wellness services.

Aachen Rathaus is a historic city hall located in Aachen, Germany. Known for its distinctive Gothic architecture, it is one of the city's most iconic landmarks.

Aachen Rathaus, or Aachen City Hall, is a historic building located in the heart of Aachen, Germany. It is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, known for its distinctive Gothic architecture. The Rathaus was built in the 14th century on the foundations of Charlemagne's former palace. /n The Rathaus is not only a significant architectural monument but also a symbol of Aachen's rich history. It has been the seat of the city's government for centuries and has witnessed many important events in the city's history. The Rathaus is open to the public and offers guided tours that provide insights into the city's history and the building's architecture.

Aachen Rathaus is a historic city hall, known for its distinctive Gothic architecture.

Centre Charlemagne is a museum in Aachen, Germany, dedicated to the history of the city and its most famous resident, Charlemagne.

Centre Charlemagne is a museum in Aachen, Germany, dedicated to the history of the city and its most famous resident, Charlemagne. The museum is located on the site of Charlemagne's former palace and features a permanent exhibition titled 'Aachen: From the Beginnings to the Coronation City'. /n The exhibition covers the history of Aachen from its prehistoric beginnings to its time as the coronation city of the Holy Roman Empire. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions on various topics related to the history of Aachen and Charlemagne. Centre Charlemagne is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.

Centre Charlemagne is a museum dedicated to the history of Aachen and Charlemagne.

Aachen Zoo is a popular attraction in Aachen, Germany, featuring a variety of animals from around the world. It's a great place for families and animal lovers.

Aachen Zoo, also known as Tierpark Aachen, is a popular attraction located in Aachen, Germany. The zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world, including elephants, lions, monkeys, and many more. The zoo is committed to the conservation of wildlife and provides a natural and enriching environment for its animals. /n The zoo is a great place for families and animal lovers. It offers a range of activities and experiences, including animal feeding sessions, educational programs, and special events throughout the year. The zoo's spacious and well-maintained grounds also make it a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. With its diverse collection of animals and its commitment to conservation, Aachen Zoo is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the city.

Aachen Zoo, a popular attraction featuring a variety of animals from around the world.

Ponttor is one of the remaining city gates of Aachen's medieval city wall. It is a significant landmark and a testament to the city's rich history.

Ponttor is one of the remaining city gates of Aachen's medieval city wall. It is a significant landmark and a testament to the city's rich history. The gate was built in the 14th century and is one of the best-preserved examples of medieval fortifications in the city. /n The gate features two massive round towers and a bridge over the former city moat. Visitors can walk along the old city wall and enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the top of the gate. Ponttor is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Ponttor is one of the remaining city gates of Aachen's medieval city wall.

Experience the charm of Aachen, Germany, a city rich in history and culture. Nestled at the border of Belgium and the Netherlands, Aachen is renowned for its stunning cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its historic town hall. The city was once the place of coronation for German kings, and its regal past is evident in its architecture. Visit the Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen for a relaxing spa day, or explore the Couven Museum to delve into local history. Indulge in Aachen's culinary delights, including the famous Aachener Printen, a type of gingerbread. With its blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, Aachen offers a unique travel experience.

Aachen Cathedral

Couven Museum

Aachen Christmas Market

Start your day by visiting the Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This cathedral is an architectural masterpiece with its Palatine Chapel and Charlemagne's Palatine Chapel. Don't miss the chance to see the Palatine Chapel, which is decorated with Byzantine mosaics.

Enjoy a traditional German lunch in one of the local restaurants in the city center.

After lunch, head to the Couven Museum. This museum is located in a 17th-century house and showcases the lifestyle and furniture of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Have dinner in a restaurant that offers a view of the city's beautiful Christmas lights.

End your day by exploring the Aachen Christmas Market. This market is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany, offering a variety of food, drinks, and crafts.

Exploring Aachen Cathedral and the Christmas Market

Ludwig Forum

Elisenbrunnen

Start your second day by visiting the Ludwig Forum. This museum houses a collection of contemporary art from the 1960s to the present.

Have lunch in a restaurant near the Ludwig Forum.

After lunch, visit the Elisenbrunnen, a neoclassical hall that houses one of the city's famous hot springs.

Enjoy a hearty German dinner in a restaurant in the city center.

Contemporary Art and Hot Springs

Suermondt-Ludwig Museum

Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen

On your third day, visit the Suermondt-Ludwig Museum. This museum houses a collection of sculptures and paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Have lunch in a restaurant near the Suermondt-Ludwig Museum.

After lunch, visit the Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen. This thermal bath offers a variety of wellness treatments and is a great place to relax.

Have dinner in a restaurant in the city center.

Museum Visit and Wellness Treatments

Aachen Rathaus

Centre Charlemagne

Start your fourth day by visiting the Aachen Rathaus. This city hall is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and offers a panoramic view of the city from its tower.

Have lunch in a restaurant near the Aachen Rathaus.

After lunch, visit the Centre Charlemagne. This museum tells the story of Aachen from its beginnings to the present day.

Enjoy a traditional German dinner in a restaurant in the city center.

Spend your evening at the Aachen Christmas Market. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and try some mulled wine and traditional German Christmas treats.

City Hall and History Museum

Aachen Zoo

Ponttor

On your last day, visit the Aachen Zoo. This zoo houses a variety of animals and is a great place for families.

Have lunch in a restaurant near the Aachen Zoo.

After lunch, visit the Ponttor, one of the city's medieval gates. This gate offers a great view of the city.

Have your last dinner in a restaurant in the city center.

End your trip by visiting the Aachen Christmas Market one last time. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and buy some souvenirs to take home.

Zoo Visit and Medieval Architecture

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

Aachen is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the main attractions, including the Aachen Cathedral and the Rathaus, are within walking distance of each other.

Aachen is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and bike rental services. It's a great way to get around and see the city at your own pace.

Aachen has an extensive bus network operated by ASEAG. Buses run regularly and cover most areas of the city, including popular tourist destinations.

Aachen is well connected by train to other cities in Germany and Europe. The main train station, Aachen Hauptbahnhof, is centrally located and offers regional and long-distance services.

Taxis are readily available in Aachen. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from designated taxi ranks.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Aachen. This can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're travelling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

If you prefer to drive, car rental services are available. However, keep in mind that parking can be challenging in the city center, and many streets are pedestrian-only.

Aachen offers a city tour bus that takes you around the main attractions. It's a hop-on, hop-off service, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.

A type of Lebkuchen originating from Aachen. It's a hard, sweet, and spicy type of biscuit made from a variety of ingredients including cinnamon, aniseed, clove, cardamom, coriander, allspice, and ginger.

Printen

A pot roast, usually of beef but also other meats, marinated before being slow-cooked. It's a traditional dish of the region.

Sauerbraten

A type of German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal. It's a popular street food in Aachen.

Bratwurst

A type of German potato pancake. In Aachen, it's often served with apple sauce.

Reibekuchen

A traditional German potato salad. It's a common side dish in Aachen, typically made with vinegar, potatoes, oil, broth, bacon bits, parsley, and onion.

Kartoffelsalat

A type of beer brewed in Cologne, just a short distance from Aachen. It's a clear beer with a bright, straw-yellow hue.

Kolsch

A type of cider made from apples. It's a popular drink in Aachen and throughout Germany.

Apfelwein

A type of white wine that originated in the Rhine region of Germany, not far from Aachen. It's known for its floral aroma and high acidity.

Riesling

A traditional soup made from dark rye bread, bacon, and broth. It's a common dish in Aachen and the surrounding region.

Schwarzbrotsuppe

A type of German liver sausage that can be spread on bread. It's a common food item in Aachen.

Leberwurst

A type of German sausage made from raw minced pork that is preserved by curing and smoking. It's a popular food item in Aachen.

Mettwurst

A traditional Bavarian sausage made from minced veal and pork back bacon. It's usually flavored with parsley, lemon, mace, onions, ginger, and cardamom. The sausages are traditionally served in a bowl of hot water with a side of pretzel and sweet mustard.

Weisswurst

New Year's Day

Epiphany (regional holiday)

Good Friday

Easter Monday

May Day

Ascension Day

Whit Sunday (regional holiday)

Whit Monday

Corpus Christi (regional holiday)

Peace Festival in Augsburg (Bavaria)

Assumption of Mary (regional holiday)

German World Children's Day (Thuringia)

Day of German Unity

Reformation Day (regional holiday)

All Saints' Day (regional holiday)

Repentance Day (Saxony)

Christmas Day

Boxing Day

Easter Sunday (regional holiday)

A renowned monument of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cologne Cathedral

A small landlocked country in western Europe, known for its medieval old town and beautiful landscapes.

Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

The capital of Belgium, known for its historic architecture and the headquarters of the European Union.

Brussels

A large former industrial site in the city of Essen. It is now a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex

An art museum dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries.

Van Gogh Museum

Known for its pioneering influence on electronic/experimental music and its Japanese community.

Düsseldorf

A theme park with a range of thrilling rides, including six roller coasters and a 65-meter freefall tower.

Phantasialand

A city on the banks of the Moselle, it is the oldest city in Germany, founded in or before 16 BC.

Trier

A resort city in the Rhein-Sieg district, known for the Drachenfels hill.

Königswinter

A major city and a municipality in Belgium. It is the principal economic and cultural centre of the Walloon region.

Liège

Berlin

Cologne

Dresden

Dusseldorf

Frankfurt

Hamburg

Munich

Nuremberg

Christmas market at Aachen Cathedral in the evening

Christmas market with a view of the town hall

Christmas market entrance at the town hall

Aachen city hall and the annual Christmas Market during Blue Hour

Aachen is located in the far west of Germany, near the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands.

The city is known for its mild climate. The average temperature in summer is around 70°F (21°C), while in winter it can drop to around 35°F (2°C).

The official language is German, but due to its proximity to Belgium and the Netherlands, English, Dutch, and French are also widely spoken.

The currency used in Aachen is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Public transportation in Aachen is efficient and reliable. The city has a comprehensive network of buses and trains.

Tipping is customary in Aachen. It's common to round up the bill in restaurants or to tip around 10% for good service.

Aachen is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is UTC +1. Daylight Saving Time (DST) is observed here.

The city is known for its spa culture. Don't miss the chance to visit one of the many thermal baths.

Aachen is a university city, home to the RWTH Aachen University, one of the largest and oldest technical universities in Germany.

The city is safe for tourists, but like any other city, it's advisable to take standard precautions, especially at night.

Aachen is famous for its Printen, a type of gingerbread cookie. Be sure to try some while you're there.

The city has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Aachen has a rich history, and you'll find many historical buildings and sites throughout the city.

The city is also known for its horse riding and equestrian events, including the annual CHIO Aachen international horse show.

Aachen has a variety of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to local markets.

The city is pedestrian-friendly, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Aachen has a diverse food scene, with many restaurants offering both local and international cuisine.

The city is also home to several parks and green spaces, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.

Aachen hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Aachen September Special and the Christmas Market.

The city's tourist information center is located in the Elisenbrunnen building. They can provide maps, brochures, and advice on what to see and do in Aachen.

January is the coldest month in Aachen, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or the festive atmosphere.

February is still quite cold in Aachen, with a chance of snow. It's a good month for indoor activities like visiting museums and galleries.

March sees the start of spring in Aachen. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and be prepared for both rain and sunshine.

April is a pleasant month in Aachen, with temperatures starting to warm up. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions.

May is a beautiful month in Aachen, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

June is the start of summer in Aachen, with long days and warm temperatures. It's a great time to visit the city's outdoor attractions and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

July is the warmest month in Aachen, perfect for enjoying the city's outdoor cafes and beer gardens. Don't forget to pack your sunscreen!

August is still quite warm in Aachen, but with less tourists. It's a great time to visit if you prefer a quieter vacation.

September is a pleasant month in Aachen, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. It's a great time to explore the city's historic sites and enjoy the local cuisine.

October sees the start of autumn in Aachen. The city is beautiful with fall colors, making it a great time for photography.

November is a chilly month in Aachen, with temperatures dropping and days getting shorter. It's a good time to visit museums and enjoy the city's indoor attractions.

December is a festive month in Aachen, with Christmas markets and holiday decorations. It can be quite cold, so pack warm clothes.

When visiting Aachen, Germany, it's important to note that the city experiences a temperate maritime climate. This means that the weather can be quite unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to pack layers and be prepared for a variety of conditions.

The warmest months are typically July and August, with average high temperatures reaching around 73°F (23°C). However, even during the summer, it's not uncommon for temperatures to drop in the evenings, so a light jacket or sweater is recommended.

Winter months, from December to February, can be quite cold with average temperatures ranging from 34°F to 41°F (1°C to 5°C). Snowfall is not uncommon during these months, so if you're planning a winter visit, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat.

Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, but the wettest months tend to be June and July. Therefore, it's a good idea to always carry an umbrella or raincoat when you're out exploring the city.

Regardless of the time of year, the weather in Aachen can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast regularly during your visit. This will help you plan your activities and ensure that you're dressed appropriately for the conditions.

Finally, remember that the weather can vary significantly between different parts of the city, especially if you're planning to visit the surrounding hills. These areas can be significantly cooler and more prone to sudden weather changes, so be prepared if you're planning to explore these regions.

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5-Day Christmas Holiday Experience in Aachen, Germany

About Aachen, Germany