Day trip to Aachen

There is nothing in America that can compare to the charm and "oldness" of European cities. Simply because America is not old enough to even compete. I don't think I will ever get tired of walking down winding, narrow cobblestone streets, looking up at magnificent architecture. Aachen is no exception.

It is a beautiful little city on the border of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. About 45 minutes away from Cologne by train. It has a charming downtown, and is famous for it's natural springs, cathedral and for gingerbread or Aachener Printen.

I didn't get any pictures of the inside of the cathedral, but it is definitely a must see.. Even if you are tired of seeing the inside of cathedrals, this one was pretty amazing. With huge colorful stained glass windows, tiled mosaic walls and ceilings, marble pillars, and ornate gold fixtures, this was one of the most beautiful, thoughtful, and rich looking churches that I have been to. It is also a UNESCO world heritage site.

The other highlight would be the springs, we only saw two of them, with the main one being the Elisenbrunnen. On the way there the smell of sulfer fills the air. It's an intense earthy smell, definitely eggy. There are two basins with the hot spring water flowing out of them, and I have to say that it was pretty cool. I hope we can go back one day and actually try out the bath house.

If you are looking for an interesting corner of Germany, with a unique history, look no further, definitely worth a visit or two!

 

One of the many cobble stoned streets 

 

A view of the cathedral

 

Elisenbrunnen Spring

 

Gingerbread!

 

Rathaus

 

Roman ruins 

 

We were obsessed with this creative fountain, all the characters move independently!