The 14 Best Things to Do in Aachen

In this guide, we curate a list of our recommendations for the best things to do in Aachen, including visiting historic landmarks, museums, having fun, where to grab some delicious local sweets, and special places to grab a drink.

Sights & Places To Visit

1. Visit the Aachener Dom

The Aachener Dom is the first UNESCO World Heritage Site of Germany. The entrance is free, but you are expected to pay 1-2 euros for taking photos.

2. Visit the Domschatzkammer (Cathedral Treasury)

If you're curious about Charlemagne's legacy, visit the treasury to see artifacts related to him and his reign.

3. Visit the Grashaus

The Grashaus is one of the oldest non-religious buildings in Aachen, now home to the historical museum for the city. The building originally served as a medieval town hall.

4. Visit the Rathaus (Town Hall)

The Rathaus is a historic building with a coronation hall. You can read more about the history and find the current ticket prices here.

5. Visit Elisenbrunnen

Elisenbrunnen is a historic spa pavilion with two drinking fountains. There is also a park located behind it.

6. Visit Ponttor & Marschiertor

Ponttor & Marschiertor are medieval city gates and beautiful stops for some quick photos.

7. Visit Museums

There are numerous museums in the city, about which you can read more here.

8. Go to the Three-Country Point

The tripoint border (Dreiländernpunkte) is where three countries meet: Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. You can eat Belgian fries and try the special Dreiländernpunkte beer. You can also visit the nearby labyrinth and tower, which are part of the Labyrint Drielandenpunt attraction. They are both just a short walk from the tripoint.

9. Visit the Eifel National Park

The Eifel National Park is a large natural area located about 1 hour by car from Aachen, so it's a day-trip destination rather than a quick visit.

10. Visit Carolus Thermen

Carolus Thermen is a thermal bath with a sauna complex. It offers a sanctuary of relaxation and rejuvenation. Pro tip: With a valid ID, you can enter for free on your birthday!

Local Sweets

11. Eat Streuselbrötchen

Streuselbrötchen are considered one of the defining regional pastries of Aachen. They are sweet rolls with a thick, crunchy layer of streusel (made from butter, sugar, and flour) on top. There is also a version with chocolate chips (our personal favorite).

12. Eat Aachener Printen

The Aachener Printen is a type of spiced gingerbread. They received a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) from the European Union in 1997, which legally restricts their production to the Aachen region. Printenbäckerei Klein sells the most authentic and (according to us) the best-tasting one.

Special Places

13. Visit the Lindt Factory Shop

Lindt, the famous Swiss chocolate manufacturer, has a large factory in Aachen. This factory also has a factory shop, which sells a wide variety of chocolate made in-house. Prices at this shop are typically lower than in retail stores. This shop occasionally sells limited edition products, so you can stop by and buy special gifts.

14. Grab a Drink at Grotesque Absinthe Bar

Grotesque is an absinthe bar in Aachen. It is a unique spot with a cool, Victorian-Gothic vibe. They offer a carefully curated absinthe list. In addition to absinthe, they offer a full bar with cocktails, spirits, and beer. This place is a favorite for locals and tourists seeking a special place to grab a drink and enjoy a unique experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Aachen most famous for?

Aachen is most famous for being Charlemagne's imperial capital and home to the Aachener Dom — the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany. It is also known for its hot mineral springs, Aachener Printen gingerbread, and its tri-border location with Belgium and the Netherlands.

How many days do you need to visit Aachen?

2–3 days are enough to cover the cathedral, treasury, Rathaus, a museum or two, Carolus Thermen, and a meal in the old town. Add a third day for the Three-Country Point and a day trip to Eifel National Park or Monschau. Just be careful not to plan to visit a lot of places on Sunday, as many shops and attractions are closed.

Is the Aachener Dom free to visit?

Entrance to the cathedral itself is free, but a €1–€2 donation for taking photos is expected, and the Domschatzkammer (Cathedral Treasury) charges a small admission fee. Guided tours up to the upper gallery are paid and best booked in advance.

What's the best free thing to do in Aachen?

Walking the Lousberg for panoramic views, exploring the Dreiländereck where Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands meet, and visiting city museums (free for under-21s) are the best free activities in Aachen.

Is Aachen worth visiting in winter?

Yes — the Aachen Christmas market around the cathedral runs from late November to just before Christmas with about 120 stalls and is one of the most atmospheric in Germany. Carolus Thermen and the warm Aachener Printen are particularly enjoyable in winter.

What's the best souvenir from Aachen?

Aachener Printen from Nobis, Klein, or Lambertz, Lindt chocolate from the factory shop in Aachen, and souvenirs from the Aachener Dom are the most popular Aachen-specific souvenirs.