The Charm Of Aachen Christmas Market

If you’re considering a trip to Aachen this holiday season, get ready to experience the city’s enchanting Christmas markets. 

Aachen, located in Germany, is renowned for its lively and festive atmosphere during the Christmas season. 

 

Whether you’re an experienced traveller or planning your first trip, visiting these markets is a must. 

Aachen (Aix-la-Chapelle) is a beautiful historic town closest to Britain, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

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The Best OF Aachen Christmas Markets

The Aachen Christmas Markets are a must-visit during the holiday season. This charming city is in the heart of Europe and offers an abundance of festive markets to explore, with gifts, crafts, and tasty treats available. The markets are a feast for the senses, with traditional foods such as roasted almonds, mulled wine, and gingerbread filling the air with their delicious scents. 

 

A visit to the Aachen Christmas Market is a magical experience. Glittering lights around the cathedral and town hall add to the festive atmosphere. Over 120 traders, artists, and restaurateurs will offer a feast for all the senses.

Take advantage of the chance to be enchanted by the magic of the stalls and the festive spirit of the Aachen Christmas Markets.

 

They say the Aachen Christmas Market is one of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas markets. I find it small but friendly. It is famous for the cathedral and the Printen cookies.

Making the most of your day At Aachen Christmas Markets

Aachen Christmas markets dates.

From 22 November to 23 December 2024

Daily from 11 AM to 9 PM

24 November – from 6 PM to 9 PM

Where is the Christmas market in Aachen located

Aachen’s primary Christmas market is in the old town area around the cathedral (Dom) and Rathaus. The cathedral, which reflects a blend of styles from the Carolingian era to the present, provides an ideal backdrop to the market.

 

Few European Christmas markets can compete with Aachen when you have a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a backdrop. 

 

Like other Christmas markets in Germany, this one focuses on traditional Christmas decorations, wooden toys, and handmade items. You won’t find mass-produced items or low-quality items here. 

 

Although the prices may not be cheap, you can expect high-quality goods and excellent artistry. The prices are somewhat equivalent to those here in Canada.

Aachen Christmas Market

The amazing Aachen Cathedral

The Aachen Cathedral, a popular tourist attraction in Germany, is a stunning beauty and a UNESCO Heritage site with a rich history. Constructed by Emperor Charlemagne in the ninth century, it is a remarkable structure in Europe, a testament to his love of the arts and culture. 

 

The Aachen Cathedral’s unique architecture and intricate design are a testament to its builders’ exceptional skills and creativity. Its features will surely pique the interest of history enthusiasts and architecture buffs alike.

Visiting the Aachen Cathedral is not just a trip but a journey back in time. The wonder and awe surrounding this extraordinary building will captivate and engage you, inspiring admiration and respect for its builders and their accomplishments. 

 

History enthusiasts and architecture buffs alike should consider this a must-visit spot. This extraordinary building has a rich history and is one of the most remarkable structures in Europe.

Aachen’s famous Printen cookies

I love Printen cookies. Although I am a big fan of “pain d’epices-(gingerbread),” Printen is different, and I couldn’t stop eating them. The fact is, I finished all of my bags before even getting home!

 

Aachener Printen is the local version of gingerbread. It is made from flour, sugar, and warm spices such as cinnamon, ginger, clove, and cardamom. While the original recipe used honey, most Aachener Printen recipes today use a special sugar beet syrup.

 

Interestingly, Aachen is the only place where you can purchase them.

aachen christmas market

You will find the traditional foods and gifts at the Christmas market in Aachen.

I’m not a fan of mulled wine (glühwein), but I do enjoy Baileys Hot Chocolate. The aroma of the spices and food at the market is simply intoxicating. Hot drinks are available for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, including hot chocolate with whipped cream, herbal infusions, the German version of eggnog, and mulled beer.

 

Some must-tries at the market include bratwurst (sausage) in a bun, flammkuchen (a thin and crispy pizza-like dish), pommes (French fries), waffles, pancakes, and more. You won’t leave the market feeling hungry, for sure.

All Around Aachen Old Town

One of the most enchanting ways to fully appreciate Aachen’s Christmas market is by wandering around. In addition to the main market spots, we were captivated by the numerous stalls scattered around the cathedral area, all aglow with pretty lights at night. 

Don’t miss the chance to wander through the smaller streets in Old Town – you never know what delightful surprises you might stumble upon! 

 

Despite the persistent rain, we refused to let it dampen our spirits. Although most of my photos may appear gray or damp, they still capture the essence of our enjoyable time there.

Note

*Dress warmly when visiting the markets. Bring gloves, thick socks, a woolly hat, and an umbrella.

 

*The streets are cobblestones; wearing waterproof and comfortable shoes is best. 

 

*I recommended bringing a tote or shoulder bag to hold your belongings. Most Kiosks don’t have paper bags to give.

 

*Be cautious of pickpocketing incidents and keep your valuables to a minimum. I bought a leather wallet that you can wear around your neck and under your coat.

 

*Battery life in phones and cameras can be affected by colder temperatures, so keep your phone charged.

 

*Most kiosks ask for cash but don’t have a visa machine.

**Hotel to train station 15-20 minutes walk.

**Hotel to Market Kiosks 25-30 minutes walk.

Our Hotel

B&B Hotel

Zollernstraße 2-4 , 52070 Aachen, Germany
+49 241 51840

My favourite place to stay in Aachen is the B&B Hotel. It is close to the train station and the Christmas Market, and you can walk from the hotel to either the train station or the market.

 

It is the perfect place to visit all the attractions on foot.

Friendly staff, clean rooms.

Plan And Book Your Trip

🚆Getting There: Find your train fares using Trainline. 

🏨Where to Stay: Booking.com

📲 E Sims: Airalo

🎫Thing to do: get your guide

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**Are you looking for travel resources to plan your trip? Click Here.

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