Car rental in Aachen unlocks the wonders of an historic spa city in the western corner of Germany, close to the Dutch and Belgian borders.
Known for its fairy-tale cathedral, connections to Charlemagne and beautiful baroque town hall, Aachen makes a great destination for relaxation or sightseeing.
Driving is a great way to explore Aachen, since you will be able to skirt between neighborhoods, venture out to the world-famous thermal baths – and even take a journey into luscious North Rhine-Westphalia to explore every uncharted corner.
We have a number of convenient car rental pick-up points in and around Aachen, which can get your perfect vehicle ready for a smooth departure. Whether you want a luxury option ready and waiting when you arrive, or a fully equipped family car ready to take you to all the attractions, we have it covered.
Simply reserve your chosen vehicle direct with us in advance, and start planning a dream Aachen itinerary.
Aachen is a beautiful city that is easy to circumnavigate. Hop into your rental car to see the Altstadt, tour the museums or venture out to a mystical castle. The choice is yours.
The historical center is set inside Turmstrasse – a convenient orbital road with dual lanes. Use this road for a short cut to many important attractions. Alexianergraben and Peterstrasse lead right into the vibrant heart.
Turn onto the quaint, one-way streets to find a convenient parking lot, then head out on foot to explore the key attractions. These include the famous town hall, the International Newspaper Museum and the iconic Elisenbrunnen.
This part of Aachen is also home to cinemas, high class restaurants and important business headquarters. Germany’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the breathtaking Dom cathedral, is situated on Domhof. The closest parking lots are on neighboring Annastrasse.
Route Charlemagne meanwhile is a popular walking trail that passes all the most important landmarks.
Though the center is mesmerizing, there’s plenty more to explore beyond. Eurogress Aachen is a popular events venue in the city’s north-east, where you can attend everything from business conferences to cultural events. Continue on Krefelder Strasse to find suburban theaters and casinos.
The western suburbs are home to golf courses and the city’s university and science hub. You can also venture south on Eupener Strasse to parks and the esteemed Aachener Zoo.
Autobahn 4 provides convenient links with the rest of Germany, including Cologne. A selection of smaller roads also lead to Eifel National Park and other rural treasures. Speed limits will be clearly indicated, and typically range from 50km/h in built-up areas to 130km/h on the autobahns. Just check signs as these can vary.
At once lively and charming, German yet with flavors of nearby Belgium and the Netherlands, this is a unique city with a great balance.
Whether you love fairy-tale architecture, days at the spa or energetic evenings, car rental in Aachen can take you to a truly fantastic array of places.
The Romans were the first to discover Aachen’s naturally heated mineral springs, but two millennia later they still draw visitors from around the world.
The thermal springs can be enjoyed at Carolus Thermen – an indoor and outdoor spa that uses the natural phenomenon to heat its waters.
Many claim there are wellness benefits to bathing in the mineral-rich waters, while others say it is simply a great way to relax. Regardless, the surroundings are designed to soothe the mind and the eight pools each have unique temperatures.
There is also a sauna, plus the chance to learn about the local bathing traditions in more detail.
Aachen is famous for being the resting place of Charlemagne, the 8th-century Frankish King and Emperor nicknamed the ‘father of Europe’. As a result, the city became an important royal crowning center and layers of beautiful architecture soon emerged.
Aachen Cathedral has played host to 30 kings over the centuries, and the Rathaus stands as a symbol of the imperial city’s importance.
The former is a must-see – magnificent both inside and out. Interior highlights include the Barbarossa Chandelier, a donation from Emperor Frederick I, as well as the unusual Cupola Mosaic that graces the ceiling. There are also important shrines, regal thrones and vibrant stained-glass windows here.
The town hall meanwhile looks like it has been lifted from a fairy-tale, with castle-like towers and a fantastical fountain. It is situated on Aachen’s main square, which hosts a traditional market twice a week. Visit to see the crowds gather to buy fresh food just as they have for centuries.
Naturally, you’ll want to step beyond the glorious facade that is carved with the faces of 50 historical rulers. Subject to availability, you can enter the Rathaus on most days, and you’ll see the copies of the imperial regalia in the grand coronation hall.
The city is home to a zoo and many relaxing parks, so there is no shortage of interesting wildlife and fresh air nearby. Venture a little further, though, and you will be rewarded.
Aachen is Germany’s westernmost city, set in a beautiful rural spot. This means the magic of thick, evergreen German forests is just waiting to be found. Eifel National Park is a site of natural beauty that can be reached in under an hour.
Here there are cycling trails, glistening lakes and protected woodlands. This is a great place for observing the stars at night, or bringing the family for an educational visit to the exhibition center.
Pick up your rental car in Aachen to begin an unforgettable German journey.
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