Südstraße – Aachen’s creative corner off the beaten path

I walk from Aachen Cathedral for a good 10 to 15 minutes through Annastraße and the Rosviertel, approaching a little world characterized by graffiti-covered building basements, a few restaurants, small shops, back alleys, and potted plants in front of building entrances. On my way to Südstraße, I pass through Mörgensstraße. In a way, the journey is the destination, isn’t it?

From an urban planning perspective, it’s an intersection ; but it feels more like a little island where “Theater Mörgens” and “Last Exit” are located. When the weather is nice, a colorful mix of regulars, students, neighbors, people on their lunch break, and passersby sits outside on the terrace—in beach chairs—surrounded by street traffic. The atmosphere, even inside, is relaxed, lively, and down-to-earth. I love spending time there. A cool drink, watching the hustle and bustle on the street, and simply enjoying the moment—sometimes that’s all you need. I definitely recommend the selection of great food at Last Exit, whether for lunch, a snack with a beer, or dinner. Salads, soups, tarts, and punch—a real treat.

On the corner across the street is the Theater Mörgens. It’s known as the “Playground for Everyone,” the smallest venue of Theater Aachen. Small with 99 seats, yet truly great in its diversity. I love the fantastic program, which features both performances by the theater ensemble and “open” concepts that encourage experimentation, participation, self-expression, and discussion. A space for everyone, in the truest sense of the word.

Lovers of fine ice cream specialties shouldn’t miss “Leana und Luise” on Boxgraben, a café serving ice cream, specialty coffees, and—starting in the fall—breakfast and savory dishes. I love the selection of homemade ice cream flavors, ranging from classics to vegan options and unique treats.

Sitting outside at the intersection with Südstraße gives off a bit of big-city charm. People of all ages and sizes gather here, waiting in line. Dako Gnjato comes from a family that has owned an ice cream shop in the region for decades. He emphasizes a blend of family recipes and new trends. His ingredients are fresh and sourced locally whenever possible. A treat that melts in your mouth.

If the term “backyard romance” had its own street name, in my opinion it would be “Südstraße.” As I stroll down this short street—a good 250 meters—I find a mix of restaurants beyond the hip mainstream, a tattoo studio, a beauty salon, two long-established thrift stores, and a goldsmith with wonderful one-of-a-kind pieces. Graffiti on building basements competes for attention with potted plants next to scattered front doors. A bike shop and a music school, along with the other retailers—all owner-operated, of course—draw a diverse clientele to Südstraße. Old buildings from the Gründerzeit era and Wilhelminian-style architecture create a special atmosphere that magically draws me in. Every step reveals new perspectives and makes me wonder what this street has witnessed over the years. I feel magically drawn to it.

In the middle of the street, a large passageway beckons —a gateway into a green oasis that couldn’t be more diverse. Next to a historic, landmark-protected bunker, mature trees, and shrubs, a playground—which is also located next to an elementary school—was built many years ago. Here and there, people linger on the concrete steps, enjoying ice cream from Leana and Luise or a drink, while children play, run around, laugh, kick a ball, and ride their bikes in circles. It’s a little slice of paradise that I loved visiting with my children for many years.

For fans of amazing cream-sauced schnitzel, lively game nights, or soccer fans—Bayern Munich sends its regards!—I can definitely recommend the “Meisenfrei.” It’s a long-established pub with a down-to-earth menu, fresh draft beer, always a relaxed atmosphere, in-depth soccer discussions, live broadcasts, a large selection of games, and a lovely outdoor terrace out back . That’s quite a lot of things that truly make you happy. No frills. Just “be” and be happy.

Fans of “Dein Hotel Europa” describe the club on Südstraße in exactly these words. A two-story club with a vintage interior and a unique atmosphere for parties and culture—a space for artists, a place to grab a drink at the bar, and a spot to dance the night away. A place beyond mainstream parties. A place where everyone can be themselves.

Time and again, the highlight of the neighborhood is the festival—a two-day subculture open-air event organized by “Dein Hotel Europa,” the KIMIKO Festival Crew, local residents, and Aachen DJ collectives. It’s a truly exhilarating celebration that I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying with my kids over the past few years. Such a great get-together with cool music, drinks, a kids’ flea market, food stands, and so much more. Let yourself be swept up in the magic of the festival, run into familiar faces, meet new people, and celebrate life!