Aachen, a gem in western Germany, is a city steeped in history and charm. Famous for its stunning cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it once served as Charlemagne's imperial capital. Enjoy the delightful local specialty, Printen, a spiced gingerbread that’s a must-try. Stroll through the picturesque streets and soak in the vibrant atmosphere, where ancient architecture meets a lively café culture. Whether you're a history buff or a foodie, Aachen offers a unique blend of experiences that will captivate you.
Aachen, Germany
Top things to do in Aachen
15 attractions, landmarks and museums worth your time, ranked by traveler reviews.
Landmark
Palace of Aachen
The Palace of Aachen, Charlemagne's main residence, was a center of Carolingian architecture and power.
Landmark
Aachen Town Hall
Aachen Town Hall, a Gothic building on the Katschhof, is the city's administrative center and venue for the Charlemagne Prize ceremony.
Museum
Aachen Cathedral Treasury
Home to one of the most significant collections of medieval church treasures in Europe, including Charlemagne's reliquary and the Cross of Lothair.
Outdoor & fun
Aachen thermal springs
Natural thermal springs used since Roman times, now feeding modern spas and the Carolus Thermen bath complex for relaxation and wellness.
Museum
Couven Museum
A historic house museum that recreates the elegant living culture of the 18th and 19th centuries in Aachen, with period furnishings and a charming garden.
Religious site
Palatine Chapel, Aachen
The Palatine Chapel is the Carolingian core of Aachen Cathedral, built by Charlemagne and a masterpiece of early medieval architecture.
Entertainment
Theater Aachen
Theater Aachen is a historic venue for opera, ballet, and drama in the heart of the city.
Museum
Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum
The Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum houses European art from the Middle Ages to the present, with a focus on sculpture and decorative arts.
Museum
Ludwig Forum für Internationale Kunst
Contemporary art museum in a former umbrella factory, showcasing international works from the 1960s to today.
Park & nature
Botanischer Garten Aachen
Botanical garden with themed plant collections and greenhouses, part of RWTH Aachen University.
Park & nature
Aachen Forest
Large wooded area on Aachen's outskirts, popular for hiking and nature walks.
Sight
Vaalserberg
Vaalserberg is a hill at the tripoint of Germany, Netherlands, and Belgium, offering panoramic views and the famous Dreiländereck monument.
Religious site
Burtscheid Abbey
Burtscheid Abbey is a former Benedictine abbey with a historic church and cloister, now part of Aachen's spa district.
Landmark
Frankenberg Castle (Aachen)
Frankenberg Castle is a medieval castle housing a museum of local history and a restaurant.
Religious site
Aachen Cathedral
Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, served as the coronation church for Holy Roman Emperors and houses Charlemagne's throne.
Tickets & tours
Skip the queue in Aachen
Compare live prices for entry tickets, guided tours and day trips from trusted local operators.
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.