North Rhine Westphalia, Germany
Imagine a city where Charlemagne, a figure of immense power, once held court. Picture kings crowned in a grand cathedral that has stood for over a thousand years. Envision thermal waters bubbling up, inviting relaxation as they have for millennia. This place exists, and it awaits you. Aachen, nestled in the heart of Europe, presents these experiences and more, blending its imperial legacy with the lively spirit of an university town. Here, history breathes, and modern life thrives.
Aachen sits in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia, in Germany's far west. Its location makes it a geographical anomaly, as it shares borders with two other nations: Belgium to the west and the Netherlands to the northwest. This triple border point, the Dreiländereck, is a short trip away.
The city occupies a valley carved by the Wurm river, surrounded by the gentle hills of the Eifel and Ardennes foothills. This green landscape provides a calm contrast to the city's urban core. Its proximity to major European cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf, Brussels, and Maastricht makes it an easily reachable hub for regional exploration.
Aachen's story stretches back to Roman times, when soldiers discovered and used its warm sulfur springs. Its true rise to prominence began with Charlemagne in the 8th century. He chose Aachen as his imperial residence and built a palace and a chapel, which later became the core of the Aachen Cathedral. This cathedral served as the coronation site for German kings for over 600 years, making Aachen the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire for centuries.
Later, Aachen became a center for industry, notably textiles and metallurgy. Its resilient spirit lingered through wars and rebuilding, preserving a rich architectural and cultural heritage that remains today.
UNESCO World Heritage Site, coronation place for kings.
Built on Charlemagne's former palace grounds.
Source of famous thermal waters.
Gateway to natural beauty and hiking.
Easy day trips to Belgium and Netherlands.
Aachen offers a compact city experience with a wealth of attractions. The towering Aachen Cathedral, an UNESCO World Heritage site, dominates the skyline and anchors the city's historical narrative.
Elisenbrunnen offers a taste of the thermal springs, while Carolus Thermen provides a modern spa experience.
Explore the Ludwig Forum for International Art or the Couven Museum for local history and culture.
Prepare for a destination that captivates with its layered past and inviting present.
The city is also a gateway to the natural beauty of the Eifel region and presents easy day trips to neighboring countries. Aachen presents culture, relaxation, and exploration.
The city's rich history extends to its local traditions and student life. From delicious Aachener Printen to the bustling Christmas markets, there is always something to discover.
Discover hiking and cycling trails in the Eifel and around Lousberg.
Taste the famous Aachener Printen, an unique gingerbread cookie.
Experience the charm of Aachen's Christmas markets and Carnival.
Aachen's unique location makes it an ideal base for exploring three countries in one trip.
Germany, North Rhine-Westphalia, Western Border
Euro (€)
German (English understood in tourist areas)
A unique position directly bordering Belgium and the Netherlands, offering diverse cultural influences.
Famous for its warm sulfurous springs, a tradition dating back to Roman times.
A significant university city with a young, dynamic atmosphere and research focus.
