Discover Aachen's Best: History, Nature, & Fun

Discover history, culture and charm without breaking the bank in Aachen, Germany.

21 June 2023

With its rich history and stunning architecture, Aachen is a beautiful destination to explore on a budget. Visitors can take advantage of free walking tours to discover the city's top sites, such as the Aachen Cathedral and the Elisenbrunnen Fountain. For affordable dining options, there are plenty of local markets and food stalls serving up delicious traditional meals.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Immerse Yourself in Aachen's History

  • Start the day at the Cathedral of Aachen, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the burial place of Charlemagne
  • Take a stroll through the Old Town, filled with half-timbered houses and quaint shops
  • Visit the Couven Museum, showcasing the 18th-century architecture and furnishings of Aachen
  • Indulge in a traditional German lunch at Zum Goldenen Einhorn, known for their schnitzel and beer
  • Relax at Carolus Thermen spa, featuring multiple Saunas, indoor/outdoor pools, and an aqua-massage station for a nominal fee
  • End the day with a beer tasting at Brauhaus 1516, with unique brews and rustic ambiance that's hard to beat.
  • Hotel recommendation: A&O Aachen Hauptbahnhof, situated walking distance from the Cathedral and Old Town, with affordable prices and a lively atmosphere.
Day 2

Explore Nature and Modernity

  • Head to Lousberg Park for a scenic hike and stunning views of the city; alternatively, rent an e-bike and cycle your way through the park and surrounding areas.
  • Visit CHIO Museum while still at park, showcasing various sport of horses and exhibitions that keep changing.
  • Head to the Ludwig Forum for contemporary art and cutting-edge exhibits
  • Enjoy a quick bite at street vendor's stands near Ponttor gate or one of the food truck parks makeshift around different town squares
  • Spend the evening at Carolus Thermen Baths thermal spa, unwind while taking a dip in hot mineral water before departing Aachen.
  • Hotel recommendation: A&O Aachen Hauptbahnhof, an affordable option situated walking distance from the main train station which makes it ideal for day trips to nearby attractions.
  • There you have it, an itinerary that combines both Nature's and Old City's allure, giving you a taste of Aachen's rich history, contemporary art, and stunning landscape, all on a budget!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Aachen by plane is to fly into the Cologne-Bonn Airport and take a connecting train or bus to Aachen.

Car

Driving to Aachen is possible and there are good connections to major highways from neighboring countries. However, be prepared for heavy traffic and limited parking options in the city center.

Train

A direct train to Aachen can be taken from various cities in Germany, including Cologne and Dusseldorf. The Aachen Hauptbahnhof is the main train station in Aachen.

Boat

There are no boat options to reach Aachen as it is not located on a major body of water.

Bus

Taking a bus to Aachen from major European cities like Brussels, Amsterdam, or Paris is a convenient and affordable option. The Aachen central bus station is located in the city center.

Destination

Aachen

If you're a fan of thermal baths and horse shows, you might think you're in heaven in this city. But don't worry, even if you're not into those things, Aachen still has more to offer than just steamy water and fancy equine displays.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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Unleashing the Charm of Aachen: A Perfect Day Trip

A trip to Aachen, Germany on a limited budget can still offer a rich experience. The city is home to beautiful architecture including the Aachen Cathedral and the Elisenbrunnen. Visitors can also enjoy local cuisine such as Aachener Printen, a traditional gingerbread-like cookie.