Aachen – Old Town Guided Tour

Aachen’s old town is a veritable treasure trove of history, just waiting to be uncovered. Picture yourself strolling through a medieval wonderland, with the iconic cathedral towering above and the healing waters of the Elisenbrunnen fountain beckoning you to take a sip. This guided tour promises to transport you back in time, as you explore the city’s oldest and most captivating sights. Your knowledgeable guide will regale you with tales of Aachen’s rich past, leaving you eager to uncover more of this enchanting German gem. So why not join the adventure and see what secrets the old town has in store?

Key Points

• Guided tour of Aachen’s Old Town featuring iconic landmarks like the Aachen Cathedral, Elisenbrunnen fountain, and well-preserved medieval architecture.
• Aachen Cathedral, dating back to the 8th century, showcases a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles.
• Elisenbrunnen fountain, a 19th-century structure with mythological figures, is a symbol of the city and its thermal spring water.
• Exploration of Aachen’s oldest houses, including the 700-year-old Grashaus and the 600-year-old Haus Löwenstein, for a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
• Private guide provides insider knowledge, cultural insights, and personalized attention, enhancing the overall tour experience.

Tour Highlights

Throughout the guided tour of Aachen’s Old Town, visitors’ll get an up-close look at the city’s most iconic landmarks.

You’ll wander through the charming streets and squares, marveling at the medieval architecture that’s stood the test of time. The star attraction’s gotta be the magnificent Aachen Cathedral – its towering spires and intricate Gothic details’ll leave you simply awestruck.

And don’t miss the Elisenbrunnen fountain, a stunning 19th-century structure that’s become a symbol of the city. Plus, you’ll uncover some of Aachen’s oldest houses, giving you a glimpse into the city’s rich history.

It’s a whirlwind tour that packs a punch!

Aachen Cathedral Exploration

As the centerpiece of the tour, the magnificent Aachen Cathedral never fails to captivate visitors. This stunning masterpiece, dating back to the 8th century, is a true treasure trove of history and architectural wonder.

Prepare to be awestruck as your guide unveils the cathedral’s secrets, from the iconic bronze doors to the stunning golden altarpiece.

Wander through the intricate vaulted ceilings, and imagine the footsteps of Charlemagne himself, who was crowned here centuries ago.

With its mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, the Aachen Cathedral is a true feast for the senses, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for this holy place.

Elisenbrunnen Fountain History

After marveling at the grandeur of the Aachen Cathedral, the tour now shifts its focus to another iconic landmark – the Elisenbrunnen Fountain.

This quirky, neoclassical structure is a must-see for visitors. Here’s why:

1. It’s named after Empress Elisabeth, wife of Emperor Franz Joseph I, who commissioned the fountain in the 19th century.

2. The fountain’s design features mythological figures, like sea nymphs, adding a touch of whimsy.

3. The thermal spring water bubbling up is said to have healing properties, making it a popular spot for locals to fill their bottles.

4. Surrounding the fountain are charming cafes and shops, perfect for a post-tour stroll and refreshment.

Oldest Houses in Aachen

One of the highlights of the Aachen Old Town Guided Tour is exploring the city’s oldest houses. You’ll be amazed at the charming, half-timbered buildings that have stood the test of time. Some date back to the 14th century, with their crooked walls and creaky floors adding to the medieval atmosphere. The guide will point out architectural details and share colorful stories about the former residents. Prepare to be enchanted by these historic gems, where you can almost hear the footsteps of Charlemagne himself!

House	Age (years)	Notable Feature
Grashaus	700	Oldest civic building in Aachen
Haus Löwenstein	600	Beautiful Renaissance-style facade
Marschiertor	400	Charming corner tower with turret
Ponttor	800	Oldest surviving town gate
Aachen Cathedral	1,200	Magnificent Carolingian architecture

Private Guide Insights

With a private guide at your side, you’re in for a real treat on the Aachen Old Town tour. They’ll spill all the juicy secrets about this historic city, making you feel like a local in no time.

Here’s what to expect:

1. Insider knowledge – Your guide knows Aachen like the back of their hand, so you’ll get the scoop on hidden gems and fascinating anecdotes you won’t find in any guidebook.

2. Personalized attention – No fighting for your guide’s time with a big group. It’s just you (and your crew) getting the VIP treatment.

3. Navigate with ease – Say goodbye to getting lost – your guide will lead you straight to the top sights, saving you precious vacation time.

4. Cultural insights – Learn about Aachen’s rich history and traditions, straight from an expert who’s passionate about their city.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for this Aachen Old Town guided tour is Rathausplatz, right in the heart of Richterich.

It’s a quick stroll from the city center, and if you’re staying downtown, the tour guide can even pick you up right at your hotel.

After exploring the historic sights, you’ll wrap up at the charming Grashaus down by the Fischmarkt.

It’s the perfect way to pack a ton of Aachen’s highlights into a single tour.

Just don’t get lost wandering those medieval alleyways on your own – let the expert guide lead the way!

Tour Pricing and Reviews

Aachen’s Old Town guided tour will set you back €350 per group, which can accommodate up to 15 people.

But don’t worry, it’s a non-refundable, no-cancellation-allowed kind of deal – you’re locked in!

Now, let’s talk about the reviews, shall we? There are a whopping 4 of ’em, and the overall rating is a solid 3.5 out of 5.

No 5-star masterpieces, but hey, at least one reviewer raved about the history of Charlemagne. That’s gotta count for something, right?

Anyway, this tour’s not wheelchair-accessible, but it’s close to public transport.

Recap

Discover Aachen’s enchanting old town on this guided tour. You’ll see the iconic cathedral, the famous fountain, and the city’s oldest houses. With expert guides sharing their insider knowledge, you’re sure to deepen your appreciation for Aachen’s rich cultural heritage. It’s an immersive experience that’ll leave you spellbound by this medieval marvel. Don’t miss out – this tour’s a real gem!