How to Find the Perfect Spot to Study in Aachen

Aachen, being a student hub with over 60,000 students enrolled across RWTH and FH Aachen as of recent years (according to the City of Aachen statistics), offers some great places to study, work on group projects, or simply get some work done. Let's look into these places!

Libraries

RWTH Aachen University Libraries

RWTH Aachen University offers several libraries with extensive study spaces and reliable Wi-Fi. These are ideal for students needing a quiet, resource-rich environment.

• Main University Library (Hauptgebäude): Open to all students, with group study rooms and individual desks. Access to a vast collection of academic resources.
• Mensa Coffee Bars: Different opening hours by location. Comfortable for both group work and solo study—check allowed study hours.

FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences Library

• FH Aachen library: Excellent study option, open to the public, not just FH students.

Stadtbibliothek Aachen

• Stadtbibliothek Aachen (City Library): Public library in the city center. Peaceful environment, free Wi-Fi, wide range of books/digital resources. Perfect for those preferring non-university libraries.

Bookstores & Cafés

• Mayersche Buchhandlung: Large bookstore, multiple floors, two cafés, dedicated study area and reliable Wi-Fi. Arrive early for the free study area (10 am–6:30 pm).
• Starbucks (Markt & Adalbertstraße): Familiar spot for study sessions, long opening hours and dependable Wi-Fi, though busy at times.
• Chico Mendes: Local favorite with a relaxed vibe and steady Wi-Fi for extended study sessions.
• Café Kittel: Fair prices, good food, indoor/outdoor seating; ideal for late study sessions.
• Katzencafé Milou: Unique study spot for cat lovers on Alexanderstraße, coffee, vegetarian snacks, friendly felines.
• Molkerei: Large terrace and international breakfast; a relaxed place to study during the day.
• Barbarella Café: Near the market, popular for cupcakes, brunch, and lunch in a pleasant setting.
• Café Egmont: Cozy, open 10:00 AM–1:00 AM with menu items like Flammkuchen and cakes. Quieter in mornings and early afternoons; sometimes hosts live music and readings.

Co-Working & Community Spaces

• Digital Hub Aachen e.V.: Co-working space for students, freelancers, and startups. Modern workstations, high-speed internet, collaborative vibes.

Seasonal & Special Initiatives

• Learn for Life: Summer initiative for free, bookable study spaces outside regular hours.

Tips for Studying in Aachen

• Arrive Early: Popular spots like Mayersche and university libraries fill up fast during exams.
• Check Opening Hours: Hours can vary on weekends/holidays.
• Check Study Hours: Some cafés only allow studying at specific times.
• Bring Headphones: Noise-canceling headphones help focus even in quieter spaces.

This list gives you plenty of options to find your ideal study spot in Aachen. Whether you prefer the quiet of a library or the lively atmosphere of a café, Aachen has something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can non-students use RWTH and FH Aachen libraries?

Yes. The Main University Library at RWTH and the FH Aachen library are both open to the public, not just enrolled students. You may need to register at the front desk before borrowing materials.

What are the best free study spots in Aachen?

The Stadtbibliothek (City Library), the RWTH Main Library, the FH Aachen library, and the dedicated study area on the upper floors of Mayersche Buchhandlung are all free and offer reliable Wi-Fi.

Where can I study in Aachen on a Sunday?

Most libraries are closed on Sundays, but several cafés stay open. Starbucks at Markt and Chico Mendes are common Sunday choices. Check current Sunday hours before going.

Where can I find a co-working space in Aachen?

Digital Hub Aachen e.V. on Jülicher Straße is the main co-working space, offering daily and monthly memberships for students, freelancers, and startups, with high-speed internet and meeting rooms.

Are there 24-hour study spaces in Aachen?

There are no 24-hour public libraries in Aachen, but during exam periods RWTH sometimes extends library hours. The Learn for Life initiative offers extended bookable spaces in summer.

Which café in Aachen is best for group studying?

The dedicated study floor at Mayersche and Chico Mendes are good choices because they tolerate longer sessions and conversation.