5-Day Family Christmas Holiday Itinerary in Aachen, Germany

Aachen, Germany

5 days

Aachen Cathedral at Christmas time
Christmas market with a view of the town hall
Aachen in the snow
Aachen city hall and the annual Christmas Market during Blue Hour
Christmas market at Aachen Cathedral in the evening

About Aachen, Germany

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.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Aachen Cathedral and Christmas Market

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This cathedral is one of the oldest in Europe and is known for its Palatine Chapel and Gothic choir.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional German lunch in one of the family-friendly restaurants in the city center.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the Aachen Christmas Market, one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany. Here, you can buy handmade crafts, taste local delicacies, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering traditional German cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a stroll through the beautifully lit city center, enjoying the Christmas decorations and festive atmosphere.

Morning

Visit the Couven Museum, a 17th-century house showcasing the lifestyle and furniture of the region's past.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant in the city center.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Ludwig Forum for International Art, a museum of modern art.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant in the city center.

Evening

Take a leisurely walk around the city center, enjoying the Christmas lights and decorations.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Aachen Town Hall, a Gothic building with a rich history.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant in the city center.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Aachener Tierpark, a large zoo that is home to over 1,700 animals.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant in the city center.

Evening

Enjoy the festive atmosphere of the city center, with its Christmas lights and decorations.

Morning

Visit the International Newspaper Museum, which houses a collection of newspapers from the 16th century to the present.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant in the city center.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen, a thermal bath complex where you can relax and unwind.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant in the city center.

Evening

Take a leisurely walk around the city center, enjoying the Christmas lights and decorations.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum, which houses a collection of sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts.

Lunch

Have lunch in a local restaurant in the city center.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Ponttor, one of the original city gates of Aachen.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Aachen in a restaurant in the city center.

Evening

End your trip with a final stroll through the city center, taking in the Christmas lights and festive atmosphere one last time.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

Aachen Cathedral

1
Aachen Cathedral

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.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Aachen Christmas Market

2
Aachen Christmas Market

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.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping
Couven Museum

3
Couven Museum

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.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Ludwig Forum for International Art

4
Ludwig Forum for International Art

The Ludwig Forum for International Art is a museum for contemporary art located in Aachen, Germany. It is housed in a former umbrella factory, which adds a unique architectural element to the museum experience.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Aachen Town Hall

5
Aachen Town Hall

Aachen Town Hall is a historic building located in the city center of Aachen, Germany. It is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history, which dates back to the 14th century.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Aachener Tierpark

6
Aachener Tierpark

Aachener Tierpark, also known as Euregiozoo, is a popular family-friendly attraction in Aachen, Germany. It is home to over 1,700 animals from more than 250 species, making it a must-visit for animal lovers and families with children.

Attractions
Parks
International Newspaper Museum

7
International Newspaper Museum

The International Newspaper Museum in Aachen is a unique cultural attraction, showcasing the history of newspapers and journalism. It houses an impressive collection of newspapers from around the world, dating back to the 17th century.

Attractions
Museums
Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen

8
Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen

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.

Attractions
Entertainment
Sports
Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum

9
Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum

Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum is a renowned art museum in Aachen, Germany. It features an extensive collection of European art, ranging from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
Ponttor

10
Ponttor

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.

Monuments
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Printen

Printen

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.

Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten

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

Bratwurst

Bratwurst

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

Reibekuchen

Reibekuchen

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

Kartoffelsalat

Kartoffelsalat

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.

Kolsch

Kolsch

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

Apfelwein

Apfelwein

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

Riesling

Riesling

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.

Schwarzbrotsuppe

Schwarzbrotsuppe

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

Leberwurst

Leberwurst

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

Mettwurst

Mettwurst

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.

Weisswurst

Weisswurst

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.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Aachen, Germany, is from late spring to early autumn, specifically between May and October. During this period, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city's numerous festivals and events, such as the CHIO Aachen equestrian event in July and the famous Aachen Christmas Market in late November to December, also take place during these months, providing tourists with a unique cultural experience. However, if you prefer a quieter visit, it's recommended to avoid the peak tourist season in July and August.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany (regional holiday)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday (regional holiday)

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 19

Sun

Whit Sunday (regional holiday)

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi (regional holiday)

August 8

Thu

Peace Festival in Augsburg (Bavaria)

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary (regional holiday)

September 20

Fri

German World Children's Day (Thuringia)

October 3

Thu

Day of German Unity

October 31

Thu

Reformation Day (regional holiday)

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day (regional holiday)

November 20

Wed

Repentance Day (Saxony)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance and Fire: 112; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Aachen, Germany as a first time visitor

1

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

2

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).

3

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

4

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.

5

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

6

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

7

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

8

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

9

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

10

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

11

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

12

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

13

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

14

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

15

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

16

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

17

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

18

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

19

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

20

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.

Basic German to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hallo

ha-lo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Auf Wiedersehen

owf vee-der-zayn

Saying goodbye

Please

Bitte

bit-te

Making a request

Thank you

Danke

dahn-ke

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ja

ya

Affirming

No

Nein

nine

Negating

Excuse me

Entschuldigung

ent-shool-dee-goong

Getting attention/apologizing

I don't understand

Ich verstehe nicht

ish ver-stay-he nickt

Communicating lack of understanding

Do you speak English?

Sprechen Sie Englisch?

shpre-chen zee eng-lish

Asking if someone speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

Wo ist die Toilette?

vo ist dee toy-let-te

Asking for directions

I need help

Ich brauche Hilfe

ish brow-he hill-fe

Asking for help

I'm lost

Ich habe mich verlaufen

ish ha-be mish ver-low-fen

Expressing you are lost

Can I have the menu, please?

Kann ich bitte die Speisekarte haben?

kan ish bit-te dee shpy-zay-kar-te ha-ben

At a restaurant

Water

Wasser

vas-ser

Ordering water

Beer

Bier

beer

Ordering beer

Wine

Wein

vine

Ordering wine

Check, please

Die Rechnung, bitte

dee reck-noong, bit-te

Asking for the bill

How much does it cost?

Wie viel kostet das?

vee feel kos-tet das

Asking for the price

Train station

Bahnhof

bahn-hof

Asking for directions

Hotel

Hotel

ho-tel

Asking for directions

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (5 pairs)

  • Socks (5 pairs)

  • T-shirts (5)

  • Long-sleeve shirts (2)

  • Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sleepwear

  • Lightweight jacket

  • Raincoat or umbrella

  • Swimwear (if planning to use a pool or spa)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Makeup and makeup remover (if applicable)

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Sunscreen

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone and charger

  • Headphones

  • Laptop and charger (if necessary)

  • Universal power adapter

  • Camera and charger (if applicable)

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Snacks

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags for organization

  • Tote bag for day trips

  • Travel lock for luggage

Weather Conditions

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.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

6° / -1°

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

7° / -1°

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

12° / 1°

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

16° / 3°

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

20° / 7°

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

23° / 10°

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

25° / 12°

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

24° / 12°

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

20° / 9°

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

15° / 6°

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

November

9° / 2°

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

6° / 0°

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

Did you know?

Did you know that Aachen is the westernmost city in Germany, located near the borders with Belgium and the Netherlands?

1 of 10

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