Best Travel Guide Aachen | ArrivalGuides.com

AachenGuide was updated: 2024-04-05

The 2000-year-old imperial city of Aachen, a cosmopolitan hub brimming with historical charm, lies at the nexus of Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium — a trio inviting exploration. Not only famed as Charlemagne's imperial capital and his final resting place, Aachen is also renowned for its Aachener Printen, a unique type of gingerbread originating from this city.

Do & See

Most of Aachen’s must-see attractions are relics of Charlemagne’s era, introducing visitors to the city’s rich medieval history. The city has a vibrant museum scene that draws artists from around the globe and theatres that present both classic plays and modern reinterpretations, alongside opera performances. Aachen's Christmas Market is a major attraction in December. The squares around the cathedral transform into a festive wonderland, brimming with charming wooden stalls. Here, you can find unique gifts, local delicacies, the famous Printen, and, of course, warming glühwein.

Aachen Cathedral

Aachen Cathedral, one of Europe's oldest, was commissioned by Emperor Charlemagne. He has been interred here since 814, and his legendary throne has not been moved in centuries. The Palatine Chapel has been a significant site for the coronation of German royalty and remains a key pilgrimage church. Its rich cultural-historical architecture makes it an essential sight for every visitor to Aachen.

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Aachen Cathedral Treasury

The treasury of Aachen Cathedral is regarded as the most important north of the Alps, featuring over 100 art pieces across various themes. Highlights include the Cross of Lothair, the Bust of Charlemagne, and the Proserpina sarcophagus. The museum offers a remarkable insight into religious and historical art.

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Centre Charlemagne

Centre Charlemagne is a modern city museum in the heart of the historical centre. Here, the history of city comes to life, explaining how Aachen became the residence of the Carolingian rule and the medieval city of coronations. Apart from that, the Centre Charlemagne is the starting point of the Route Charlemagne that connects all the important places in the city.

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Aachen Town Hall

The Aachen Town Hall, a distinctive example Gothic architecture, is a historic symbol of the city's rich past. Originally built in the 14th century on the ruins of Charlemagne's palace, this iconic building has witnessed numerous coronations and remains a testament to Aachen's medieval grandeur. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into its regal history.

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Ludwig Forum for International Art

The Ludwig Collection, boasting over 14,000 artworks, stands as one of the world's most significant art collections. Irene and Peter Ludwig have gathered more than 3,000 pieces by artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Jean Michel Basquiat under one roof. The collection also hosts special exhibitions that highlight the latest trends in contemporary art.

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Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum

The Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum showcases art from antiquity to modernity and everything in-between, with its medieval sculpture collection being particularly notable. It also houses significant works by artists like Rembrandt, Cranach, Antoon van Dyck, Otto Dix and Max Beckmann. The museum's eclectic collection includes a print room, glass paintings, Flemish tapestries, and goldsmith works, offering a comprehensive view of artistic evolution.

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Population:	252,000
Currency:	Euro, €1 = 100 Cents
Emergency Numbers:	Firebrigade: 112 Police: 110
Newspapers:	Aachener Zeitung: www.aachener-zeitung.de
Website:	www.aachen-tourismus.de historicgermany.travel/historic-germany/aachen
Opening Hours:	General opening hours for shops are 10am–7pm.
Tourist Information:	Aachen Tourist Service e.v. Tourist Info Elisenbrunnen Friedrich-Wilhelm-Platz, Aachen Email: info@aachen-tourismus.de Phone: +49 241 18029 50 Open Mon–Fri 10am–6pm, Sat 10am–2am, Sun closed