Things to-do in Aachen Germany | Our guide for day visit to Aken!
Why not visit Aachen? There are several nice hings to-do in Aachen. Aachen and Maastricht are two cities located in close proximity to each other in Western Europe. They are both situated in the Netherlands and Germany, respectively, and are relatively close to each other by European standards. The distance between the german city and Maastricht is approximately 33 kilometers when measured in a straight line. However, the actual driving distance may be slightly longer due to the road network and the route you take.
You can easily travel between Aachen and Maastricht by car, train or bus, and the journey typically takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic and the mode of transportation you choose. So, in terms of travel time, they are not far from each other. Our editor Laura Swift from MAASTRICHT MAGAZINE ONLINE gives a over view over nice things to-do in Aachen!
Historic Significance
Aachen has a long history, and it was the residence of Charlemagne, the famous Holy Roman Emperor, in the early Middle Ages. The city’s historical center includes the Aachen Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stunning example of Carolingian architecture. The Palatine Chapel within the cathedral is particularly impressive.
Nice things to-do in Aachen
As mentioned, the Aachen Cathedral is a must-visit attraction. It’s one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe and is famous for its architecture and historical importance. The cathedral also houses Charlemagne’s Palatine Chapel.
The “dome” of Aachen is a reference to the Cathedral of the city, which locals also call as the Aachener Dom in German. This cathedral is one of the most important historical and architectural landmarks in Aachen, Germany. It is famous for its octagonal Palatine Chapel, which is located within the cathedral and was the core of Charlemagne’s palace complex. The Cathedral has a distinctive octagonal design with a dome at the top, making it a unique and significant architectural structure.
The Cathedral, often referred to simply as the “Aachener Dom,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds historical and religious significance. It was constructed during the reign of Charlemagne in the 8th century and served as the imperial residence’s chapel. The Palatine Chapel inside the cathedral features intricate Carolingian architecture, mosaics, and other historical artifacts.
The term “dome” is often used interchangeably with “cathedral” or “church” when referring to religious buildings, but in the context of Aachen, it specifically refers to the Aachen Cathedral and its unique architectural features, including the dome.
Hot springs and spa
Aachen is known for its thermal springs, which have been used for relaxation and healing for centuries. The Carolus Thermen spa, like other spas around Maastricht, complex allows visitors to enjoy these thermal baths, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
Old Town: Aachen’s old town is charming, with narrow streets, historic buildings, and cozy cafes. You can explore the town center on foot and enjoy its unique atmosphere. Aix-la-Chapelle Market: The city’s market square, Katschhof, hosts various events and markets throughout the year. The Aix-la-Chapelle Christmas Market is especially popular during the holiday season.
Technical University: Aachen is home to RWTH Aachen University, one of Germany’s top technical universities. The presence of the university contributes to a lively and diverse atmosphere, making it an appealing destination for students and academics.
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, spa experiences, or simply exploring a charming European city, Aachen has something to offer. It’s worth a visit, especially if you’re in Maastricht or cruising Limburg and seeing Heuvelland and Dutch hills! Head out afterwards to Aubel with the monastery Val-Dieu for a beer or two! Or you experience a Skywalk on Vaalserberg!
