Located in western Germany, near the borders of Belgium and the Netherlands, Aachen is a city rich in history, legends, and quirky charm. Known for its stunning cathedral, medieval atmosphere, and unusual fountains, this city is a must-visit for travelers exploring the heart of Europe.
Aachen Cathedral: a UNESCO treasure with legends
The Aachen Cathedral (Aachener Dom) is one of Germany’s most important historical sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 8th century by Charlemagne, it became the first cathedral in northern Europe and served as the coronation site for German kings for nearly 600 years. The cathedral’s Palatine Chapel, with its golden mosaics and impressive octagonal structure, is a masterpiece of Carolingian architecture.
One of the most famous legends of Aachen Cathedral tells how the people of Aachen tricked the devil himself. According to this story, the city ran out of funds during the construction of the Cathedral. The devil offered to pay for it in exchange for the soul of the first person who will enter the completed church. The clever townspeople sent a wolf inside first, outsmarting the devil, who, in a rage, slammed the door so hard that he lost his thumb. Today, visitors can still see the “devil’s thumbprint” on the cathedral’s bronze door handle.
Walking through Aachen’s old town feels like stepping back in time. The cobblestone streets, timber-framed houses, and hidden courtyards give the city a charming medieval feel. The bustling Marktplatz (Market Square), surrounded by historic buildings and lively cafes, is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere. But what makes Aachen truly unique is its collection of quirky fountains and sculptures scattered around the city. Puppenbrunnen (Puppet Fountain) is one of these famous fountains, the most interesting in my opinion, adds a playful and artistic touch to the city’s historical streets.
Getting to Aachen: a perfect stop between major cities
Aachen is strategically located near some of Europe’s most exciting destinations like Cologne and Brussels, making it an easy and worthwhile stop on any travel itinerary. And also making Aachen perfect for a day trip from following destinations:
- From Cologne direct train takes only 30-40 minutes.
- From Brussels there is a high-speed trains connect Brussels and Aachen in just over an hour.
- From Düsseldorf trains with a connection take around 1.5 hours.
The journey from the airports of these cities will take approximately the same time: 1 hour by train from Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN), 1 hour by train from Düsseldorf International Airport (DUS), 1.5 hours by train from Brussels Airport (BRU). And its also the same time by car: between 1 and 1.5 hours to go from nearest airport or big city. I visited Aachen by car as part of a large road trip through Germany, and was very pleased with the day spent there, despite the detour.
Why Visit Aachen?
Aachen is more than just a historic city – it’s a place where legends, medieval charm, and quirky art come together in a fascinating blend. Its UNESCO-listed cathedral, its legendary tales, its unusual fountains promise an unforgettable experience. So, next time you’re in Cologne, Brussels, or Düsseldorf, take a day trip to Aachen. You won’t regret it!