Aachen might be a small city, but it’s packed with sights that deserve more than just a passing glance. Its medieval architecture, thermal baths, and Charlemagne landmarks make it a perfect place for guided tours and sightseeing adventures. We love how some options, like the 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus, allow you to see the highlights at your own pace while enjoying the city from an open-top double-decker. Others, like the classic walking tour, take you deep into the history with passionate guides. Whether you prefer a quick snapshot or an in-depth experience, this list covers a variety of ways to enjoy Aachen.
For those who like flexibility, the bus ticket offers a 2-hour route with audio commentary, perfect for a first-time visit or a quick overview. If you’re more into personal stories and local insights, the Passionate Tour Guides provide a friendly, inexpensive way to dive into Aachen’s secrets. History lovers will appreciate the private walking tour, while cultural explorers might enjoy the in-depth historic walking tour. For a full day, the Cologne & Aachen guided tour combines sightseeing with relaxation in thermal baths.
1. Aachen: 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Ticket
At number one, we have the Aachen 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus. This option is great if you want to get a broad view of the city without much hassle. For $27, you get access to a flexible route on an open-top double-decker bus, with multiple stops around Aachen’s most famous sites—think Elisenbrunnen, the Lindt Chocolate Factory, and the Aachen Cathedral. The bus features audio-guided commentary in multiple languages, so you can learn about the city’s history and culture as you go.
This tour is especially good for first-timers or travelers with limited time who want to see as much as possible without walking between sites. The 24-hour ticket allows you to hop off at any stop, explore at your own pace, and hop back on when ready. The reviews note the scenic ride and the convenience of a quick overview, though some mention that the audio guide can be a bit static. Still, for the price, it offers excellent value and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick, easy overview of Aachen’s top sights with the freedom to explore on their own schedule.
$27 per person
2. Explore Aachen with Passionate Tour Guides
Coming in at number two, this small-group tour costs just $3.40 per person to reserve, making it one of the most budget-friendly ways to get a personalized look at Aachen. Led by guides with genuine passion—like Esra, who is praised for her engaging storytelling—this tour takes you beyond the typical tourist route.
Over 1.5 to 2 hours, you’ll explore Aachen’s lesser-known corners and hear stories that bring the city to life. The guides often share anecdotes, local tips, and insights into Aachen’s character, including its thermal baths and historic streets. The reviews highlight how engaging and knowledgeable the guides are, with one mentioning how Esra’s enthusiasm makes the tour particularly memorable. Because it’s small and intimate, you’ll have plenty of chances to ask questions or customize your experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want an inexpensive, personalized introduction to Aachen’s hidden stories and local flavor.
3. Aachen classic walking tour
Ranked third, the classic walking tour offers a 1.5-hour deep dive into Aachen’s key sights with a native Italian-speaking guide. For $28, you’ll explore the city’s most iconic landmarks—including the Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site—and learn about Charlemagne’s impact on the city.
This tour is especially suited for those interested in history and culture, as the guide tells stories with passion and uses historical images to make the past come alive. Guests have noted how interesting and engaging Sara, the guide, made the history, with anecdotes about Charlemagne and Aachen’s thermal baths. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want a thorough yet accessible introduction to Aachen in a short period.
Bottom Line: For those seeking a rich historical narrative delivered by a knowledgeable local, this tour hits the mark.
4. Aachen: Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
This private tour costs about $278 for up to 15 people and lasts 1.5 hours. It’s ideal if you want to explore Aachen at your own pace with a dedicated guide. This tour focuses on the Aachener Dom, where 30 kings were crowned, as well as the Puppet Fountain and other historic sites from Roman times through the medieval period.
The guide shares stories about Charlemagne, the city’s royal past, and details behind local symbols like puppet characters. It’s a very personal experience, perfect for history buffs or families wanting a tailored visit. Guests often comment on how engaging and informative the guide is, making the history of Aachen vivid and memorable.
Bottom Line: Best suited for small groups or families wanting an exclusive, in-depth look at Aachen’s royal and medieval history.
5. Aachen: Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes
In just 60 minutes, the Express Walk with a Local provides a quick yet authentic taste of Aachen’s core. For $78 per person, you’ll stroll through the city with a local guide, uncovering its most important landmarks and hidden gems. The tour focuses on Aachen’s cathedrals, market squares, and charming streets, giving you a sense of the city’s regal past and lively current scene.
What stands out is the chance to get personalized tips on local cafes, bars, and shops, perfect if you have limited time but want an authentic experience. Guests highlight how the small group and local perspective make it feel like exploring with a friend.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a quick, friendly introduction to Aachen’s culture and essentials.
6. Aachen – Historic walking tour
Number six is the historic walking tour, which offers a comprehensive look at Aachen’s historic districts. For $397 per group, up to 20 visitors, this 1.5-hour tour explores the Gothic town hall, Dolls fountain, and other notable sites.
The guide shares rich stories about Aachen’s medieval and modern history, with an emphasis on architecture and legends. Guests appreciate how well the tour balances storytelling with sightseeing, making it a good option for those wanting a detailed overview with a small group. It’s ideal for travelers interested in architecture and local lore.
Bottom Line: Suited for visitors who want a thorough, story-rich exploration of Aachen’s historic heart.
$397 per group up to 20
7. Cologne: Aachen Guided Tour with Carolus Thermen Entry
The Cologne and Aachen guided tour combines a full-day experience with sightseeing and relaxation. Starting from Cologne, it includes visits to Aachen’s Cathedral, Town Hall, and Treasury, plus free time. After the tour, you relax in the Carolus Thermen spa, with entry included.
This tour is perfect for those who want a mix of cultural exploration and leisure. The 10-hour itinerary offers detailed guided visits and ample free time to explore or shop. The thermal spa adds a relaxing touch after a busy day of sightseeing. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with wellness.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a full, relaxing day combining history and spa time.
$83 per person
8. Germany: Guided tour of Aachen
Finally, the guided tour of Aachen provides a 2-hour overview for $34 per person. It covers the major sights like the Aachen Cathedral and key monuments. This tour is straightforward and perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful introduction.
The guide shares engaging stories about Aachen’s most important landmarks, making history accessible and interesting. While shorter, this tour offers valuable context that can enrich your visit, especially if you want to understand the city’s background quickly.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking a concise yet informative overview of Aachen’s highlights.
$34 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Aachen, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you want a flexible, scenic overview, the Bus Ticket is hard to beat. For a personalized experience, the private walking tour offers depth, especially for history lovers.
Budget travelers looking for a fun, engaging guide at a low price should try the passionate guides, while those with limited time might prefer the 60-minute insider walk. If you’re combining sightseeing with relaxation, the Cologne & Aachen tour makes a great day trip.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on popular tours or private sessions. Think about what kind of experience suits your style—whether that’s a quick overview or an in-depth, personal journey through Aachen’s storied streets.
Aachen offers a surprising variety of ways to explore its ancient streets and grand buildings. Whether you prefer a hop-on-hop-off bus, a guided walk, or a private tour, there’s something to match every interest and schedule. Start planning early, pick the tour that excites you most, and enjoy discovering this unique city in your own way.