Socializing in Aachen as an Expat

Moving abroad, whether to a different continent or country, is no easy feat, financially and emotionally. Community is a key aspect of how you feel in your new environment and life, so finding your circle plays a crucial role in the quality of life you will have. Let’s look into some ways to find your tribe in Aachen!

Student City

Aachen's atmosphere is largely influenced by its significant student population. Home to renowned institutions like RWTH Aachen University and the Aachen University of Applied Sciences (FH Aachen), the city attracts students from around the globe. Expats, especially those in academia or research, will find numerous opportunities to engage with this youthful and diverse community. The numerous cafés, bars, and cultural events in the city serve as informal settings for networking and socializing.

Online Forums

The Anglophones in Aachen Discord server is a valuable resource for English-speaking expats in Aachen. This platform facilitates real-time conversations, event planning, and information sharing among members. This server has multiple channels such as ones for hiking, meetups, sports, and many others. So no matter what you are planning to do, there is a high chance that you will find some company here.

Similarly, the Girl Gone International Aachen private Facebook group offers a supportive community for women seeking friendships and local insights, which can be helpful in a male-dominated city like Aachen.

Meetups

Face-to-face interactions remain integral to building lasting relationships. Platforms like Meetup.com host numerous different types of events in Aachen. Universities also often host events, workshops, and seminars open to the public, presenting further opportunities for engagement.

Language and Communication

While many locals speak English, learning German can significantly enhance your experience as an expat in Aachen. Several institutions, including VHS Aachen and the Language Center of RWTH, offer language courses. Language exchange meetups and tandem partners through platforms like Tandem.net can be great options for those seeking a more informal approach.

Expat Communities and Clubs

Aachen has a variety of international clubs and societies that provide opportunities for networking and socializing. Expats can join InterNations Aachen for professional networking and social events. Students and young professionals can also engage with the Erasmus Student Network Aachen to meet international students and participate in organized trips and events.

Doing Sports

Aachen offers a variety of sport-related activities, including Gyms, hiking trails, and other activities.

For gym-goers, places like McFit and FitX offer affordable 24/7 access with solid equipment. The university sports center (HSZ) is another gem, especially if you're a student or university staff – their rates are unbeatable and they offer literally hundreds of courses from bouldering to Zumba.

The city is surrounded by beautiful hiking trails in the Aachen Forest and nearby Eifel region. The Three-Country Point (Dreiländereck) offers scenic routes where Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands meet. The Lousberg hill provides panoramic views of the city and is perfect for jogging or walking.

If you're into casual pickup games, the parks in Aachen won't disappoint. The concrete courts at Westpark are usually buzzing with basketball players on sunny days, and the table tennis tables attract players of all levels. These spots have become impromptu community hubs where locals and internationals connect over friendly matches. No equipment? No problem – there's almost always someone willing to share. Check the sports channels on Anglophones in Aachen Discord server where people regularly organize these meetups.

For team sports enthusiasts, Aachen has numerous sports clubs for football, basketball, volleyball, and tennis. The CHIO Aachen equestrian festival attracts horse riding fans annually, while the Carolus Thermen thermal baths offer swimming and relaxation options.

Cafés, Bars, and Social Hotspots

For those who prefer casual socializing, Aachen has several great hangout spots. Expats can visit Domkeller for a traditional German pub experience, or enjoy a relaxed evening at Bar Cantona. Cafés like Leni Liebt Kaffee provide cozy environments where remote workers and students often meet. For book lovers, Mayersche Aachen is a must-visit. Not only does it offer a vast selection of books, but it also features two cafés, multiple reading spots where you can enjoy a coffee while diving into your latest read. Other notable spots include Café Middelberg, known for its delicious pastries, and Kaiserwetter, a trendy café and restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere. For a more eclectic vibe, check out Café Madrid, which combines great coffee with a touch of Spanish flair. If you're a cat lover, don't miss Katzencafé, where you can enjoy vegetarian and vegan treats while spending time with adorable feline friends. Another cozy option is Café Juli, offering health-conscious meals and a welcoming atmosphere. For a classic café experience, Aachener Café Haus is a charming spot with a variety of delicious offerings and a prime location near the city's historic landmarks. And if you're in the mood for something sweet, Nobis Printen Bäckerei on Münsterplatz is the place to go for traditional Aachener Printen and other baked delights. Chico Mendes, located on Pontstraße, is a unique café and bar run by the Catholic University Community. It serves fair-trade coffee, tea, and vegan soups during the day as a learning café, and transforms into a lively board game pub in the evenings. It even features a bowling alley for added fun(which you should reserve in advance)! Honigtopf, situated in the heart of Aachen, is a cozy café and restaurant offering a delightful menu of hearty meals and snacks. Known for its warm atmosphere and friendly service, it's a great spot to enjoy a relaxed meal or a casual coffee break. If you're in the mood for a lively pub scene, Piano Bar and Goldenes Einhorn are excellent choices to unwind with friends over drinks.

Volunteering and Networking Opportunities

Getting involved in volunteer work is another excellent way to meet people and contribute to the community. Organizations like Aachener Engel offer opportunities to support local charitable causes. The RWTH Student Initiatives provide a platform for students to engage in social, cultural, and political projects, with events like the "Day of Student Initiatives" making it easy to connect with these groups. Additionally, the City of Aachen Volunteering Office helps residents find volunteering opportunities and offers recognition through the Ehrenamtspass. Professional networking groups and career events in Aachen provide valuable opportunities for career-driven expats to connect with like-minded individuals. Business Network Aachen organizes events such as delegation trips, best-practice lectures, and networking sessions for entrepreneurs and professionals. The Founders Running Club Aachen combines physical activity with professional networking, creating a unique space for entrepreneurs and creators to connect. RWTH Aachen University also hosts specialized programs like the Women Career Lunch and the Femtec Career Building Program, designed for women in STEM fields. For expats looking to socialize, groups like Friends in Aachen Meetup Group and InterNations Aachen offer regular meetups, cultural activities, and forums to help newcomers settle into life in the city while building meaningful connections.