Top Destinations for a Memorable Getaway
Aachen, a city located south of the Aachen city region, is often recognised as one of the most beautiful places in Germany. With over 330 protected historic buildings, it offers a glimpse into the past while maintaining a modern charm.
One of the city's most famous landmarks is the Aachen Cathedral (Aachener Dom), a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1978. Built for Charlemagne between 796 and 800 AD, this masterpiece features the historic octagonal Palatine Chapel and a Gothic choir added in 1414 with impressive medieval stained glass. The Cathedral Treasury holds significant relics like the Bust of Charlemagne and the Cross of Lothair.
Aachen Town Hall, built on the remnants of Charlemagne’s palace, is another architectural marvel. Katschhof, a historic plaza located between the Cathedral and the Town Hall, offers insights into Aachen's history with nearby spas and quaint surroundings. For relaxation and wellness, visitors can head to Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen, a thermal spa complex reflecting Aachen’s reputation as a spa city.
GaiaZOO and Tierpark Aachen are popular choices for animal lovers. GaiaZOO features over 150 animal species in a natural environment, including a large European flamingo habitat. Tierpark Aachen, on the other hand, is located near the city and offers a variety of animals, making it a convenient option for a day out.
For those interested in exploring the city's charm, Eurogress Aachen hosts events, the Theater Aachen offers performances, and historical walking tours and guided city tours are available.
Beyond Aachen, there are numerous attractions waiting to be discovered. Panabora in Waldbröl offers a barrier-free Baumwipfelpfad, leading on a circular course through the tree tops. The Kaiser Wilhelm I memorial on the Wittekindsberg is one of Germany's most significant national monuments, offering far-reaching views.
In Hagen, Beachclub Hengsteysee offers sun, sand, music, palm trees, and beer garden vibes. Borusseum in Dortmund offers a stadium tour, allowing visitors to sit on the trainer's bench, visit the player's cabin, and learn about the stadium's history.
Waterski Langenfeld in Mettmann District offers lessons in waterskiing, wakeboarding, or surfing on a stationary wave, and there's a beach, bar, and restaurant at the waterski facility. Maxipark in Hamm offers an adventure playground in jungle style, a water playground for cooling off on hot days, and behind the famous giant glass elephant, there are several slides and a cable car.
Cologne Cathedral is a multifaceted destination, even for locals, with the best time to go being early in the morning or late in the evening, according to cathedral experts. Freilichtmuseum Lindlar offers over 30 hectares for a whole family to spend the day, with historical buildings and craftsmen demonstrating old work techniques.
Metabolon, from climbing the "cone" with a panoramic view over the Bergisches Land, via trampolines and an 110-meter-long slide, to a Miscanthus labyrinth and diverse play opportunities, offers interactive exhibits about recycling.
These attractions offer a mix of historical, cultural, and leisure experiences that define the unique character of each city. Whether you're a history buff, an animal lover, or simply seeking relaxation, Germany has something for everyone.
The other appealing destination among the city's offerings is the Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen, a thermal spa complex that reflects Aachen’s reputation as a spa city. For those seeking a different lifestyle, environmental and animal-centered attractions like GaiaZOO and Tierpark Aachen offer diverse experiences in a natural environment.
