City guide
Aachen, Germany’s Westernmost City by Three Borders
Aachen lies just a few kilometres from Belgium and the Netherlands near the Dreiländer Eck. Its compact historic centre includes the cathedral, Rathaus, and Charlemagne museum, all within a short walk of one another.
Fast facts
- Country
- Germany
- Region
- North Rhine-Westphalia
- Founded
- Circa 1st century AD
- Population
- Approx. 250,000
- Known for
- Aachen Cathedral, thermal baths, Charlemagne heritage, Christmas market
Aachen developed around thermal springs first used by the Romans over 2,000 years ago, an origin that still shapes its spa culture today.
The city’s medieval core holds Aachen Cathedral with Charlemagne’s marble throne, used in German royal coronations until the 16th century, alongside the Gothic Rathaus on the site of Charlemagne’s palace. Many visitors arrive from Cologne for a day trip or pause here on a Rhine itinerary.
Charlemagne’s Cathedral
See the 8th-century Palatine Chapel origins and Charlemagne’s marble throne inside Aachen Cathedral, used for royal coronations until 1531.
Rathaus and Frescoes
Visit the 14th-century Gothic Rathaus built on Charlemagne’s palace site, featuring the Coronation Hall with 19th-century frescoes.
Thermal Springs Legacy
Experience Aachen’s longstanding spa tradition based on Roman-era hot springs that remain central to the city’s identity.
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