Germany
Aachen Travel Guide
Charlemagne's imperial capital — where 30 Holy Roman Emperors were crowned in a cathedral that defines European civilisation
HistoryArchitectureFood & DiningArts & Culture
Top Attractions in Aachen
Highlights included in EME itineraries
Architecture2h
Aachen Cathedral
UNESCO World Heritage cathedral — Charlemagne's palatine chapel built in 805 AD, still the oldest cathedral in northern Europe. The golden octagon interior and Charlemagne's gilded shrine are among the most extraordinary medieval sights on the continent
Arts & Culture1.5h
Aachen Cathedral Treasury
The Domschatzkammer houses one of the world's richest collections of medieval ecclesiastical art — Charlemagne's marble throne, jewelled reliquaries, and the golden bust of Charlemagne, untouched for over a thousand years
History2h
Aachen Old Town & Rathaus
The medieval city hall stands on the foundations of Charlemagne's imperial palace — explore Katschhof square, the Gothic Rathaus façade, and the cobbled lanes linking Münsterplatz to the fish market
Nature & Outdoors3h
Carolus Thermen
Europe's largest thermal spa complex fed by Aachen's natural sulphurous hot springs — the same waters that brought Romans and Charlemagne here. Eight outdoor and indoor pools, saunas, and a grotto
History2h
Centre Charlemagne
Aachen's city history museum built directly above Carolingian palace foundations — traces the city from Roman spa town through Charlemagne's empire to today, with artefacts found beneath the streets
Food & Dining1h
Leo van den Daele
Aachen's most beloved café since 1884, set in a gorgeous timber-beamed room — the place to try Aachener Printen, the city's iconic honey-spiced gingerbread with a recipe unchanged for centuries
Planning Your Aachen Itinerary
Aachen is one of Germany's most compelling destinations, known for its History、Architecture、Food & Dining. Use EME's free itinerary builder to plan day by day — add Aachen to a multi-city route, set your interests, and get a personalized schedule with attractions and travel times built in. No paywall, no sign-up to start.
Currency
EUR
Language
German
Visa
Schengen visa for non-EU citizens. 90 days in 180-day period.
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