There are many cities and towns that you can visit in Germany, but one that you need to add to your list is Aachen. A stone's throw from the border of Holland, you can step into Aachen – the Spa of Kings. It's less than four hours by rail and one of the best places to visit on your trip through France and into Germany.
There is so much to know about Aachen, from visiting the Kaiserbrunnen to visiting the umweltzone in Aachen, and you need to get these six things down so that you can make the most of your trip there.
Aachen is one of the most significant places to see for culture and history, so when you visit, make sure you spot as many historical sites as you can. Let's take a look!
Couven Museum
Located just behind the former weigh house in Aachen, the Couven Museum features a massive collection of traditional furniture.
Couven Museum gives visitors some insight into the architectural past of the area. There are tons of exciting exhibits to enjoy, from high-quality furniture options to Italian stucco work.
Those who are interested in the history of chocolate will also love the fact that it's the home to the historic Adler-Apotheke. This is where chocolate was made for the first-ever time in Germany – way back in 1857.
Imperial Cathedral
Taking a walk through the city will take you directly to the Imperial Cathedral. The construction of the spectacular cathedral was under the influence of Emperor Charlemagne, so if you're trying to tick off all of the oldest chapels in Northern Europe, you're in the right place.
The tower itself is almost 75 meters high, so it's an imposing sight to behold. It's also a place of reverence, so soak up the atmosphere on your visit!
The Carolus Thermen Spa
Are you tired from walking all day long? Why not book into the Carolus Thermen Spa? You'll get a chance to get off your feet and enjoy something amazing.
You'll follow in the footsteps that the Romans took, relaxing in the thermal mineral water and enjoy all of the most modern facilities. The doors opened in 2001, almost 20 years ago, and the theme of the spa is “health by water.”
You can enjoy differently tempered pools here, which is precisely how the Romans used to do it when they occupied the land. Take a moment and enjoy Baltic Sauna Landscapes and oriental baths, too, breaking from the bustle of the cathedrals and the busy days in the art galleries.
Stop for a moment and relax, enjoy the Roman heritage, and immerse yourself in a different kind of history.
Ludwig Forum for International Art
Art lovers have somewhere to be in Aachen, and it's right here at the Ludwig Forum for International Art.
Displaying a vast range of European art, the Ludwig Forum shows how the art has evolved from the 1960s until today. This includes everything from videos to live art pieces and performances, so there is always something to see here.
You'll be able to see Lichtenstein and Vostell's artworks, and you'll see photorealism and Pop Art, too!
As it's a pretty interactive place to be, it's far more interesting than other areas in Aachen. It's the perfect way to add a little culture with a twist to your trip.
Aachen Town Hall
The Gothic Town Hall in Aachen was built on the ruins of a palace, so if you're looking for unique architecture, you're going to love the 17th and 18th century rebuilds you find here.
The Baroque stylings will interest the art history lovers who travel to Aachen, and the best bit is that when the local government is not using the Town Hall, it's open to the public for use.
There is a Gothic Coronation Room that has been previously used for spectacular feasts, and this was up until 1531!
The Town Hall is also something of a museum, with replicas of the imperial crown jewels – exciting for those who love history.
The Marktplatz
Lastly, but definitely not least, is the Aachen Marktplatz.
This is the site of the Carolingian palace courtyard, featuring the essential attractions in the area, from the Town Hall all the way to the Katschof.
It may be a square in the description, but the shape is a triangle, and it connects all the major roads in the city, making it an excellent place to visit easily from wherever you arrive.
The Kaiserbrunnen (Emperor's Well) is in the center, an imposing relic on the history of Aachen.
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