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Aachen Cathedral
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
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Aachen Cathedral

Getting around: Aachen is roughly 70-90 minutes from Cologne by regional or IC train; the cathedral sits in Aachen's compact old town, a short walk from the Hauptbahnhof.
Hours: Typically open daily, roughly 7am-7pm outside services, though hours shift for Mass and special events; the treasury (Domschatzkammer) has separate hours, generally 10am-6pm, closed Monday mornings.

Aachen Cathedral was Charlemagne's palace chapel, consecrated around 800 AD, and it was the first German site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, largely because so much of the original Carolingian octagonal core survives intact — a rarity for a building this old. Charlemagne is buried here, and for centuries it served as the coronation church for German kings.

The interior mixes that original Byzantine-influenced octagon with later Gothic choir additions, and the gold Shrine of Charlemagne and the Pala d'Oro altar are the standout treasures, best appreciated with the separate treasury visit next door, which holds one of the most important collections of church treasures north of the Alps.

Aachen Cathedral FAQs

Is Aachen a day trip from Cologne?

Yes, it's about 70-90 minutes each way by train, making it a comfortable day trip focused on the cathedral and old town.

Do I need a ticket to enter?

The cathedral itself is generally free to enter outside of guided tour slots, but the treasury requires a separate paid ticket.

Is Charlemagne actually buried here?

Yes, his remains are held in a shrine within the cathedral, a major reason for its historical significance.

Can you visit during Mass?

Tourist access is restricted during services; check the schedule or plan around midday hours to avoid overlap.

What's in the treasury?

One of the richest collections of medieval church treasures in Europe, including reliquaries, the bust of Charlemagne, and his marble throne.

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