When the thermometer climbs above 30 degrees Celsius, many people just want to get out of the city. But that's precisely when it's worth taking a closer look . Aachen offers a surprising number of places to escape the heat – without a long commute. Between parks, cool churches, watering holes, museums, restaurants, and cultural programs, summer is surprisingly bearable. The best part: Everything is easily accessible on foot or by bike .
So grab your water bottle, don’t forget your sunscreen – and off you go!
Under trees – green retreats
Sometimes the simplest solution is also the best: get out into the countryside. The Aachen Forest south of the city offers shady paths, soft forest trails, and cool corners . Those who take the path to the tri-border point will be rewarded with panoramic views —and maybe even a refreshing breeze.
But even in the heart of the city, there are green spaces to escape to. The Elisengarten ( see photo ) is an urban oasis, ideal for a little siesta in the shade or a chapter in your book. Or you can pack a picnic blanket and some provisions and head to Westpark . There, old trees meet slacklines, and a student atmosphere meets relaxed summer beats.
Water is good – even without a coast
It's not the Mediterranean, of course. But there's still a bit of water. The Hangeweiher outdoor pool is Aachen's classic—with a large lawn and shady trees . On hot days and during the summer holidays, however, it gets crowded, so it's best to do a few laps early in the morning or in the evening.
Right next door is Kaiser-Friedrich-Park – perfect for a pedal boat ride ( see photo on the left ). Those who prefer to relax can head towards the Aachen Forest . There, small streams babble – ideal for cooling off and unwinding the view of the cool water on a stroll around the Kupferbach and Diepenbenden
And even in the heart of the city, there are little water tricks to combat the heat. Drinking fountains like those at Hotmannspief , Möschebrunnen , or at the entrance to Elisengarten provide fresh water for refilling—practical and often underestimated. An almost hidden highlight: the Johannisbach stream at Lindenplatz —a narrow, open stream shaded by trees, ideal for dipping your feet in the water for a moment ( see photo right ).
Art & Coolness – Culture with a Climate Bonus
If you're looking for something different, it's worth planning strategically for hot days. In Aachen, the interplay of heat and culture works surprisingly well. When temperatures exceed 30 degrees Celsius, the city's museums and institutions along the Route Charlemagne open their doors free of charge.
For me, one of the best summer hacks in town: free entry, air-conditioned rooms, and curated inspiration.
Particularly recommended: the Centre Charlemagne ( see photo left ) , where you can stroll through Aachen's history in the cool. An alternative is the Suermondt-Ludwig-Museum – a haven of peace with old masters and a relaxed atmosphere . And last but not least, the Ludwig Forum ( see photo right ) . While not every room here is air-conditioned, the blend of industrial architecture and contemporary art rarely fails to impress.
Cold Stone & Silence – Churches as Places of Refuge
When everything outside shimmers, it suddenly becomes pleasant inside – even in Aachen's churches, which then become far more than spiritual places . They sometimes transform into true architectural climate zones.
First and foremost, Aachen Cathedral : a World Heritage Site – but also a place that can feel quite different. The thick walls, the subdued light, the cold stone beneath your feet – a break here is like a journey to a quieter moment in a noticeably cooler environment .
City Church of St. Nicholas ( see photo ) is also open all day . Located right in the pedestrian zone, it's a haven of peace. The interior is spacious and bright, with a Gothic hall structure—without benches, offering plenty of air. Perfect for a ten-minute break, complete with music to listen to.
And if you want to get out of the city for a bit: drive to the monastery in Kornelimünster , where architecture and nature combine to create a kind of mini-retreat – ideal for clearing your head and briefly forgetting the summer heat.
Refreshment on the plate – food with summer flair
Fresh aromas, airy terraces, a relaxed atmosphere – that's what summer tastes like. And sometimes just a favorite spot is enough to create the feeling of vacation in the heart of the city. At lunchtime, I'm often drawn to the Old Town. The Postwagen Zum Ratskeller , with its view of the cathedral and town hall , is almost like a small outdoor living room. The cuisine combines tradition with lightness – a summery boiled beef salad or gratinated goat cheese with an ice-cold drink, while life passes by in the square.
But sometimes a change of location is necessary. Ferbers ( see photo ) Burtscheid , a little way away from the hustle and bustle : lots of glass, lots of greenery, clean lines, and a menu for every taste – even a short visit here always feels like a mini excursion. Cold, filling summer bowls , refreshing iced coffees , or sparkling wine on ice with your best friend – you often don't need more summer feeling than that.
Those seeking urban flair La Fabrik . Beneath the viaduct and in front of the old brick building, an urban setting meets beer garden charm . The menu is creative, international, and surprising – whether grilled watermelon or melon gazpacho: summer is not only tangible here, but also tasteable. And with an ice-cold drink under the arched bridge? That's big city flair without really having to leave.
Quieter, almost hidden, is the Pepe Verde in the grounds of the Grün-Weiss tennis club. Here, everything feels a little slower – almost like being in Italy: pizza, pasta, antipasti – classic, relaxed, and simply delicious. Followed by an espresso, perhaps a spritz or a limoncello – and the day can end in complete relaxation.
At some point, of course, the path leads to ice cream, for example, at the Leana and Luise ice cream factory on Boxgraben. Whether dragon fruit or salty caramel – homemade and always a choice between too many delicious flavors . But just right for a hot day in Aachen.
Finally evening! Golden hour, cooler spots
As the sun sets, Aachen softens. A stroll through the old town, a drink in the cathedral cellar, or a view of the sunset Lousberg – sometimes that's all you need.
Stadtglühen offers a variety of events : Until August 17, the festival brings concerts, readings, and performances to various venues – outdoors, open, and free of charge. It's a great opportunity to discover small, independent stages. Afterward, Kurpark Classix ( see photo ) : From August 22 to 31, there will be open-air in Aachen's Kurpark , whether you're into pop, rock, or classical music !
And for movie lovers: The open-air cinema runs from August 1st to 10th at the CHIO Dressage Stadium , then at Frankenberg Castle and at the beginning of September in Kennedy Park , weather permitting, of course. A screen under the stars – it doesn't get more summery than this!
– Klio Verigou
