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Itinerary Suggestions

Itinerary Suggestions

North Rhine Westphalia, Germany

-hour Layover Highlights

A whirlwind tour to experience Aachen's core history and charm, maximizing a short stay.

This itinerary focuses on the city's main attractions and offers a taste of local life and culinary treats.

Suggested Activities

  • Morning: Aachen Cathedral tour, Treasury, Town Hall exterior.
  • Lunch: Quick bite at a local bakery or Currywurst stand.
  • Afternoon/Evening: Old town stroll, Printen shopping, traditional dinner.

Extended Stays

Plan a immersion into Aachen and its surroundings, whether for a weekend or a more comprehensive week-long journey.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 days

Experience imperial history, old town charm, spa relaxation, or nearby nature, tailored to your preference.

Main Highlights

  • Day 1: Aachen Cathedral, Town Hall, Centre Charlemagne.
  • Day 2: Carolus Thermen OR Ludwig Forum/Lousberg hike.
  • Evenings: Dinner in city center, Pontviertel nightlife.
  • Optional Day 3: Day trip to Maastricht, Liège, or Dreiländereck.
Tailor activities to your interests and pace for a memorable weekend.

One-week Comprehensive Experience

A deep dive into Aachen's cultural sites, museums, and regional day trips, making the most of your extended stay.

Extended Itinerary

  • Days 1-3: Deep exploration of Aachen museums, neighborhoods.
  • Days 4-7: Day trips to Cologne, Monschau/Eifel, Maastricht/Liège.
  • Consider dedicated Printen tasting tours and exploring local markets.

Long-term Stay Recommendations

For immersive experiences, consider a longer stay in Aachen, allowing you to truly live like a local.

Local Immersion

  • Consider a vacation rental or serviced apartment for accommodation.
  • Enroll in a German language course at RWTH Aachen University or a local school.
  • Explore local community events and sports clubs, discovering new facets of the city.
  • Benefit from extensive hiking and cycling opportunities in the Eifel and cross-border regions.

Two-week In-depth Exploration

Combine the one-week Aachen and regional itinerary with further exploration of North Rhine-Westphalia and beyond.

Broadened Horizons

  • Continue exploring North Rhine-Westphalia (Düsseldorf, Bonn, Ruhr Area).
  • Extend into a multi-country trip to more of Belgium (Brussels, Bruges, Ghent).
  • Visit more of the Netherlands (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague).
  • Consider a scenic train journey along the Rhine River Valley for added beauty.

Itinerary Adaptability

These suggestions serve as a foundation. Adjust them to match your personal interests and available time for your ideal trip.

Flexibility

Change the pace, combine activities, or spend more time at favorite spots for a customized journey.

Personalize

Add specific interests like shopping, art galleries, or local events to truly make the trip yours.

Explore Further

Utilize Aachen as a base for wider regional discovery, venturing into nearby countries or German regions.

Your Journey

These itineraries offer structure. Tailor your perfect trip by adapting activities to your preferences and discover Aachen at your own pace.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your Aachen itinerary to your specific interests, whether history, food, adventure, or art, for a truly satisfying visit.

Historical & Heritage Focus

Immerse yourself in Aachen's rich past and nearby ancient sites for a deep dive into history.

Main Historical Sites

  • Day 1: Aachen Cathedral, Treasury, Town Hall, Centre Charlemagne.
  • Day 2: Grashaus, Ponttor, Marschiertor, medieval city wall remnants.
  • Day trip to Trier for extensive Roman history and UNESCO sites.
  • Focus on Carolingian and Roman periods for a comprehensive view.
Deepen your appreciation for Aachen's imperial legacy and historical significance.

Food & Culinary Experiences

Savor local specialties, from traditional Printen to diverse eateries, indulging your palate.

Gastronomic Journey

  • Day 1: Printen tasting tour (Nobis, Klein Printenbäckerei).
  • Visit the Wochenmarkt (weekly market) if operating.
  • Enjoy a traditional German dinner or try local Reibekuchen.
  • Day 2: Explore Pontviertel for diverse international eateries.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

Embrace the natural beauty and active pursuits around Aachen for a refreshing and engaging experience.

Outdoor Pursuits

  • Day 1: Hike Lousberg for panoramic city views.
  • Explore Stadtpark for a green urban escape.
  • Day 2: Day trip to Eifel National Park for extensive hiking or cycling.
  • Visit Dreiländereck for more outdoor time and the unique border point.
Engage with the varied landscapes and fresh air surrounding Aachen.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Activities for all ages, combining history, playful exploration, and relaxation for a fun family trip.

Fun for All Ages

  • Day 1: Aachen Cathedral (exterior), Puppenbrunnen, old town with ice cream.
  • Day 2: Dreiländereck (labyrinth, playground), local park playtime.
  • Day 3: Relaxing day at Carolus Thermen (family section).
  • Look for family-oriented events and festivals throughout the year.

Art & Architecture Emphasis

Discover masterpieces and innovative designs throughout the city, from ancient structures to modern marvels.

Design & Exhibits

  • Day 1: Aachen Cathedral's architecture, Town Hall frescoes.
  • Admire the modern architecture of RWTH's SuperC building.
  • Day 2: Visit the Ludwig Forum for International Art.
  • Explore the Couven Museum and local art galleries.

Spiritual & Wellness Journey

Find tranquility and rejuvenation in Aachen's sacred sites and thermal waters for a serene retreat.

Calm & Rejuvenation

  • Day 1: Experience the spiritual atmosphere of Aachen Cathedral.
  • Consider attending a service.
  • Day 2: Dedicate a full day to relaxation at Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen.
  • Enjoy rejuvenation in the thermal waters and various spa treatments.

Personalized Exploration

These interest-based routes allow you to focus on what you enjoy most. Combine elements to build your ideal visit and make it uniquely yours.

Budget & Seasonal Plans

Aachen suits various budgets and features different charms with each season. Plan your visit accordingly to maximize your experience.

Backpacker's Guide

Travel smart and experience Aachen on a budget, focusing on affordable accommodations and activities.

Budget-Friendly Tips

  • Accommodation: Stay in hostels (e.g., A&O Aachen Hauptbahnhof) or shared vacation rentals.
  • Food: Rely on supermarket groceries, Döner Kebap, bakeries, and lunch specials.
  • Activities: Focus on free attractions like the Cathedral exterior, Elisenbrunnen, and walking tours.
  • Transportation: Walk for most journeys. Utilize public bus day tickets when needed.
Discover Aachen's charm without overspending and experience it authentically.

Mid-range Traveler's Itinerary

Enjoy comfort and a balanced experience, mixing budget-friendly options with more relaxed choices.

Balanced Travel

  • Accommodation: Stay in mid-range hotels or comfortable guesthouses.
  • Food: Enjoy a mix of casual and mid-range restaurants, with occasional supermarket meals.
  • Activities: Pay entry to a few museums or attractions, possibly include one thermal bath visit.
  • Transportation: Utilize public transport day tickets. Take an occasional short taxi ride for convenience.

Seasonal Highlights

Aachen features different charms depending on the season. Plan your visit around seasonal highlights or events for a richer experience.

Summer June-August

  • Enjoy outdoor cafes and beer gardens.
  • Attend open-air events and festivals in city squares.
  • Experience CHIO Aachen (World Equestrian Festival) in July.

Winter November-March

  • Visit the Aachen Christmas Market from late November to December.
  • Thermal baths (Carolus Thermen) are especially inviting for warmth and relaxation.
  • Cozy cafes and traditional German restaurants offer comfort from the cold.

Event-Centered Visits

Plan your trip specifically around a festival or event for an unique and memorable Aachen experience.

Special Occasions

  • Plan your trip specifically around CHIO Aachen (July).
  • Visit during the Aachen Christmas Market (Advent period) for a festive atmosphere.
  • These events offer distinct and highly memorable experiences.
  • Check local event calendars for other festivals and happenings.

Off-Season Exploration Strategies

Discover a quieter Aachen with different advantages, including fewer crowds and more relaxed visits.

Benefits & Focus

  • Enjoy lower prices for flights and accommodation during off-peak times.
  • Encounter fewer crowds at attractions, leading to more relaxed visits.
  • Focus on indoor attractions like museums and the thermal baths.
  • Embrace the cozy atmosphere of German winter.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Smart Spending

Travel during shoulder or low season for better deals. Utilize lunch menus ("Mittagsmenü") for more affordable hot meals.

Access & Savings

Consider a public transport day ticket. Look for combined tickets or city passes if they suit your planned activities. Find bookable experiences here.

Smart Savings Tip

If you plan to visit multiple museums, check if the Aachen Tourist Service offers a combined ticket or city pass. This can yield savings.