The best city hikes and walks around Vijlenerbos

The Archaeological Display Case in the Elisengarten offers a fascinating glimpse into early medieval Aachen, particularly the remains of the Barbarossa Wall that once surrounded the city. Carefully integrated into the park, the display case exposes this centuries-old city wall and illustrates how Aachen developed from a fortified settlement into a thriving city. Named after Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, the Barbarossa Wall served as a defensive structure but was also a symbol of urban identity and power—a physical boundary that protected the city and simultaneously marked its status.

The Shrine of the Three Kings (Dreikönigenschrein) is one of the most precious and important reliquaries in Europe, preserved in Aachen Cathedral and drawing on the rich tradition of medieval pilgrimage. The shrine was crafted in the 13th century by master craftsmen from the Rhineland using a combination of gold, silver, precious stones, and filigree. Its shape resembles a miniature basilica, completely covered with figural reliefs of apostles, prophets, and scenes from the life of Christ. Tradition holds that the relics of the Three Wise Men from the East—Kasper, Melchior, and Balthasar—reside in this shrine, who visited Christ after his birth. Their relics were said to have been brought to Constantinople in late antiquity, then to Milan, and finally to Aachen by Frederick Barbarossa in 1164. The shrine quickly became an important place of pilgrimage. Every seven years, the Aachener Heiligtumsfahrt (Aachen Cathedral Sacrifice) takes place, showcasing the relics and ancient textile shrines. The shrine is one of the most important treasures of Aachen Cathedral and is a masterpiece of medieval goldsmithing.

The Drielandenpunt (three-country point) near Vaals is the intersection of the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. It's located on the Vaalserberg, the highest point in the European Netherlands (322 meters). Visitors can walk there, climb the viewing platform, and literally step into three countries at once.

Entering Aachen on the Germany side of the border from Vaals, Netherlands. The main road through Vaals is popular and has many people walking about.

In the courtyard of Vaals town hall, you'll find a striking water feature: the dyeing basin, a reminder of Von Clermont's dyehouse.

A stately, elongated building in neo-Gothic style with square corner towers, segmental arch windows, and a central gatehouse. Originally built in the second quarter of the 18th century, with major alterations around the mid-19th century that define its current appearance. The building previously served as a Mennonite church, a cloth dyehouse, and a hall used by the Mennonite community as a church.

The Postwagen is one of the oldest and most famous inns in Aachen's old town, located directly on the market square next to the town hall. Its origins date back to the 17th century, and the small wooden building that has survived to this day is considered a rare example of earlier architecture. At the beginning of the 20th century, the buildings were structurally connected and modernized, before the name "Postwagen" became established. After its destruction in World War II, the inn was faithfully rebuilt and reopened in 1949. Today, it presents itself as a traditional Aachen restaurant serving regional cuisine in a historic setting.

The Art Market in Vaals is a vibrant place where local artists showcase and sell their work. From paintings and sculptures to handicrafts, it's a colorful and inspiring addition to your itinerary.