Places to Visit Close to Aachen
Budget-Friendly and Splurge Destinations
Whether you're traveling on a tight budget or looking to splurge, Aachen is a fantastic base to explore nearby destinations. Here's an article with useful tips for making the most of your trip.
Practical Tips for Every Traveler
General Orientation
- Languages: German, Dutch, and French are spoken in the region; English is widely understood in tourist areas.
- Currency: The Euro is used in all three countries; some small shops or markets may prefer cash.
- Border Crossing: No routine checks, but carry ID for travel.
Getting Around
- Public Transport: Regional trains and buses are generally affordable. Consider day or group tickets for savings.
- Cycling: The region is bike-friendly, with dedicated paths and cross-border routes. Bike rentals are widely available.
- Travel Passes: Consider the NRW Ticket (Germany) or OV-Chipkaart(Netherlands) for flexible travel options.
Packing & Preparation
- Weather: Pack layers. The weather can change quickly. A reliable umbrella is always recommended.
- Footwear: Comfortable shoes are a must for cobblestones and hiking.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water is safe, and public fountains are common.
Food & Drink
- Local Specialties: Try Aachener Printen, Belgian waffles, Dutch cheeses, and regional beers.
- Markets: Weekly markets in each town offer fresh produce and local snacks.
Nature & Recreation
- Hiking & Cycling: Extensive, well-marked trails for all levels.
- Picnic Spots: Castle grounds, riverbanks, and parks are perfect for picnics.
- Wildlife: Watch for deer, wild boar, and rare birds in the Eifel and High Fens.
Useful Apps
- Navigation: Google Maps, DB Navigator (Germany), NS (Netherlands), komoot (for hikes).
- Translation: DeepL.
- Weather: Wetter.com or local apps.
Accessibility
- Mobility: Many attractions and transport options are accessible, but check ahead for old towns with steep or uneven streets.
Emergency Info
- Emergency Number: 112 (valid in all three countries).
- Pharmacies: “Apotheke” in Germany, “Apotheek” in the Netherlands, “Pharmacie” in Belgium, look for the green cross symbol.
Budget-Friendly Destinations
Monschau: A Fairy-Tale Town
Monschau, located in the Eifel region, is perfect for budget travelers. You can explore its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses for free, or visit The Red House Museum (€4) to learn about 18th-century upper-middle-class life. In addition, you can pack a picnic and enjoy panoramic views from the castle ruins. Regional trains and buses make getting there affordable (€15–20 round trip).
Tip: Visit Monschau during the Christmas season for its magical market—entry is free!
Vaals: Sunday Shopping Across the Border
Just a short bus ride away (€5–10), Vaals in the Netherlands is ideal for Sunday shopping when German stores are closed. In Vaals, you also can enjoy free hiking trails around Vaalserberg to make the most of your cross-border adventure.
Tip: Bring snacks to avoid pricey café stops.
Dreiländereck (Dreilandenpunt)
Explore Drielandenpunt, the point where Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands intersect. This landmark offers a special experience for visitors and is surrounded by scenic hiking routes and panoramic views.
Tip: Try the special Dreilandenpunt beer, available at the landmark, for a unique taste of this cross-border region—it’s a brew you won’t find anywhere else!
Eupen: Belgium’s Hidden Gem
Eupen offers affordable activities like exploring baroque architecture or hiking in the High Fens nature reserve. Entry to the Vesdre Dam and many trails is free, making it a great budget-friendly destination.
Tip: Try local Belgian treats at bakeries; they are delicious and inexpensive!
Aachen Forest: Nature Escape
For those staying local, Aachen Forest is a budget-friendly option. Entry is free, and it offers hiking, cycling, and even horseback riding opportunities. It's easily accessible via bus (€3–5).
Tip: Pack water and snacks to save on costs during your outdoor adventure.
Splurge-Worthy Destinations
Cologne: History and Culture
Cologne offers iconic landmarks like the Gothic cathedral (free entry) and Rhine river cruises (€15–20). You can also enjoy fine dining along the promenade or shop at high-end boutiques on Schildergasse.
Tip: Book tickets for attractions online, when possible, to avoid long queues.
Düsseldorf: Shopping and Dining
Königsallee (Kö) is perfect for luxury shopping, where you can treat yourself to gourmet meals in Little Tokyo or enjoy cocktails with Rhine views at upscale bars. Rheinturm observation tower entry starts at €9.
Tip: Visit MedienHafen for stunning architecture—free to explore!
Maastricht: Dutch Elegance
Maastricht combines charm with indulgence. You can stroll through its medieval streets or visit Bonnefanten Museum (€15), enjoy riverside dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, or shop at unique boutiques. Our favorite cafe for people and dog-watching is De Gouverneur. It is usually packed, but it is worth waiting for a table to become available!
Tip: Take advantage of Dutch train deals for cheaper travel. Taking Bus 350 is a convenient and scenic way to reach Maastricht. The bus runs up to four times per hour, starting early in the morning and continuing until late evening. The journey takes about one hour and passes through picturesque towns like Vaals, Gulpen, and Valkenburg. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver (card only), via transit apps, or with the Dutch OV-Chipkaart, which is available at Aachen’s main station.
For day trips, consider the "Limburg day ticket" for a cost-effective round trip. If you have a Deutschland-Ticket, it covers your travel until Aachen; from there, you’ll need a separate ticket for the cross-border section to Maastricht.
Mixed Budget Itinerary Tips
- Combine Free Activities with Paid Attractions: Pair hiking in Eifel National Park (free) with a visit to the Red House Museum in Monschau (€4).
- Travel Smart: Use regional trains for affordable travel between destinations (€10–20 per trip).
- Plan Ahead: Check opening hours and book tickets online for discounts on attractions.
Whether you're traveling on a shoestring budget or ready to splurge, Aachen's surroundings offer diverse experiences that cater to every traveler!