Aachen on a Budget: 3 Days of Culture and Nature

Experience the historic charms of Aachen without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Discover Aachen's rich history and cultural heritage on a budget-friendly trip. Explore medieval landmarks like Aachen Cathedral, the city hall, and Elisenbrunnen. Sample traditional dishes at local restaurants and spend evenings in cozy gasthauses, immersing yourself in authentic German culture.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check in at the Ibis Budget Aachen City hotel, just a 10-minute walk from the historic center.
  • Visit the iconic Aachen Cathedral, where Charlemagne once worshipped and his throne still awaits a worthy successor.
  • Relax in the Elisenbrunnen, a neoclassical pavilion in a picturesque park, and sample the famous Aachen mineral water.
  • Wander around the charming old town and peek into the boutiques, cafes and patisseries that give it a French vibe.
  • Savour a hearty and affordable meal at Zum Goldenen Einhorn, a lively tavern that has been serving traditional German fare since 1390.
Day 2

Culture and Nature

  • Catch a train or bus to Eifel National Park, a stunning wilderness of forests, lakes and hills just a half hour away.
  • Hike or bike through the scenic trails and spot the rare wildlife, from wildcats and lynxes to black storks and kingfishers.
  • Explore the Rursee, a stunning lake surrounded by idyllic villages, and rent a boat or a paddle board to enjoy the views.
  • Visit the Couven Museum, a fascinating collection of local art, crafts, furniture and curiosities from the 18th to the 20th century.
  • Indulge in some authentic Belgian chocolate and pastry at Cafe Albert, a cozy corner cafe with a sweet tooth.
Day 3

History and Relaxation

  • Take a stroll to the historic City Hall, a Gothic masterpiece with ornate frescoes, towers and gables.
  • Learn about the complicated history of Aachen by visiting the Centre Charlemagne, a modern museum that combines archeology, art and technology.
  • Relax in the Carolus Thermen, a luxurious spa with pools, saunas, steam rooms and wellness treatments that use the local mineral water.
  • Taste some of the local beer at the Brauhaus Am Markt, a lively pub that serves fresh brews from its own brewery and hearty pub food.
  • Farewell Aachen with a warm heart and a full stomach, already dreaming of your next adventure.

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.

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