5-Day Family Christmas Holiday Itinerary in Aachen, Germany
Aachen, Germany
5 days
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 2
Couven Museum and Ludwig Forum
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.
Day 3
Aachen Town Hall and Aachener Tierpark
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.
Day 4
International Newspaper Museum and Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen
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.
Day 5
Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum and Ponttor
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)
1Aachen 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.
2Aachen 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.
3Couven 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.
4Ludwig 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.
5Aachen 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.
6Aachener 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.
7International 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.
8Carolus 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.
9Suermondt-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.
10Ponttor
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.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
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
A pot roast, usually of beef but also other meats, marinated before being slow-cooked. It's a traditional dish of the region.
Bratwurst
A type of German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal. It's a popular street food in Aachen.
Reibekuchen
A type of German potato pancake. In Aachen, it's often served with apple sauce.
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
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
A type of cider made from apples. It's a popular drink in Aachen and throughout Germany.
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
A traditional soup made from dark rye bread, bacon, and broth. It's a common dish in Aachen and the surrounding region.
Leberwurst
A type of German liver sausage that can be spread on bread. It's a common food item in Aachen.
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
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
How to get around
Walk
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.
Bicycle
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.
Public Bus
Aachen has an extensive bus network operated by ASEAG. Buses run regularly and cover most areas of the city, including popular tourist destinations.
Train
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.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Aachen. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from designated taxi ranks.
Ridesharing
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.
Car Rental
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.
City Tour Bus
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.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance and Fire: 112; Police: 110
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
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.
| Month | Hi / 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?
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