Things to do in Aachen in December

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Overview

December is a less popular time to visit Aachen. The weather is usually cold and breezy, with temperatures ranging from 33—42°F (1—5°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Aachen during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the Aachen Christmas Market, attend the Aachen Christmas Concerts, take a dip in the Carolus Thermen thermal baths to warm up from the winter chill, and more!

Aachen has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your December trip to Aachen. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to December. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Aachen in December. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout December, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Aachen in December

Top experiences in December
Visit the Aachen Christmas Market
The Aachen Christmas Market is a magical experience in December. With over 120 wooden stalls selling traditional crafts, festive decorations, and delicious food and drinks, the market is a must-visit during the holiday season. The market is set against the backdrop of the Aachen Cathedral, adding to the festive atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy live music, carol singing, and other entertainment throughout the market.
Attend the Aachen Christmas Concerts
Throughout December, Aachen hosts a variety of Christmas concerts featuring traditional carols, classical music, and festive performances. Whether you're a fan of choral music, orchestral performances, or jazz renditions of holiday classics, there's something for everyone to enjoy during the Christmas season in Aachen.
Take a dip in the Carolus Thermen thermal baths to warm up from the winter chill
After a day of exploring Aachen in December, warm up from the winter chill with a relaxing soak in the Carolus Thermen thermal baths. The thermal baths offer a range of indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and wellness treatments, providing the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate during the holiday season.
Take a stroll through the Old Town
Aachen's Old Town is especially charming in December, with its historic buildings adorned with festive decorations and twinkling lights. Take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the architecture, stop in at cozy cafes and shops, and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Visit the Aachen Cathedral during Advent
The Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is especially stunning during the Advent season. Admire the beautiful architecture, intricate decorations, and festive displays inside the cathedral, and take a moment for quiet reflection amidst the holiday hustle and bustle.
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Sample traditional German Christmas treats at the Aachen Christmas Market
Indulge in traditional German holiday treats such as gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and bratwurst at the Aachen Christmas Market. These delicious treats are a staple of the holiday season in Germany and are not to be missed during a visit to Aachen in December.
Visit the Aachener Printen Bakery for traditional holiday treats
Aachener Printen is a type of traditional German gingerbread that is synonymous with the holiday season in Aachen. Visit the Aachener Printen Bakery to sample these delicious treats and pick up some to take home as a tasty souvenir of your December visit to Aachen.
Take a day trip to the Eifel National Park for a winter hike
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a day trip to the Eifel National Park for a winter hike. The park's beautiful landscapes are especially enchanting in December, with snow-dusted forests, frozen lakes, and peaceful trails to explore.
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Aachen's festive streets
For a truly magical experience, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Aachen's festive streets. Snuggle up under a warm blanket and enjoy a leisurely tour of the city, taking in the sights and sounds of the holiday season.
Attend the Aachen Christmas Eve Mass at the Aachen Cathedral
For a truly special experience, attend the Christmas Eve Mass at the Aachen Cathedral. The service is a beautiful and traditional way to celebrate the holiday season and experience the spiritual side of Christmas in Aachen.
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Holidays in Aachen in December
December
  • First Advent Sunday (December 1)
  • Saint Nicholas Day (December 6)
  • Second Advent Sunday (December 8)
  • Third Advent Sunday (December 15)
  • Fourth Advent Sunday (December 22)
  • Christmas Day (December 25)
  • Boxing Day (December 26)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Aachen in December

Temperatures on an average day in Aachen in December

The average temperature in Aachen in December for a typical day ranges from a high of 42°F (5°C) to a low of 33°F (1°C). Some would describe it as cold and breezy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Aachen, July, has days with highs of 75°F (24°C) and lows of 55°F (13°C). The coldest month, February has days with highs of 42°F (5°C) and lows of 29°F (-1°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Aachen in December based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in December
42°F
highs
33°F
lows

General weather summary

Cold and breezy
Feels like
42%
Chance of rain
0.117 in
Amount
19.5 mph
Wind speed
96%
Humidity
8.1 hrs
Daylight length
8:28 AM
Sunrise
4:32 PM
Sunset
24%
Cloud cover
Jacket
What to wear
What to wear in December
With an average high of 42°F (5°C) and a low of 33°F (1°C), it generally feels cold and breezy. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something warm like a jacket and remember to bring an umbrella
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Best attractions for Aachen in December

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Aachen has to offer for travelers in December, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Aachen that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Aachen for December.
Aachen Cathedral
1. Aachen Cathedral
4.7
(15095)
Cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
Landmark Carolingian cathedral, known for Charlemagne's striking octagonal chapel & gilded shrine.
City Hall Aachen
2. City Hall Aachen
4.6
(834)
City Hall
Sights & Landmarks
Gothic-baroque town hall housing 1800s frescoes by Rethel & replicas of the imperial crown jewels.
Aachen Cathedral Treasury
3. Aachen Cathedral Treasury
4.7
(621)
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Black Table Magic Theater - Zaubertheater
4. Black Table Magic Theater - Zaubertheater
4.9
(342)
Event management company
Concerts & Shows
Markt-Apotheke
5. Markt-Apotheke
4.5
(23)
Pharmacy
Sights & Landmarks
Puppenbrunnen
6. Puppenbrunnen
4.6
(284)
Sights & Landmarks
Fountain
Small, whimsical fountain featuring bronze figures of puppets with movable parts.
Elisenbrunnen
7. Elisenbrunnen
4.3
(8547)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Originally built in 1827, this iconic neoclassical pavilion features 2 sulfurous drinking fountains.
Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo
8. Aachener Tierpark Euregiozoo
4.6
(6870)
Zoo
Zoos & Aquariums
Zoo with zebras, camels & ostriches, plus tours, children’s petting zoo, pony rides & playgrounds.
Centre Charlemagne
9. Centre Charlemagne
4.4
(725)
Local history museum
Museums
Modern building with exhibits on the city's history, including media stations, plus a gift shop.
Aquis Plaza
10. Aquis Plaza
4.2
(16756)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Well-known shops & a food court in an enclosed shopping mall with unique modern architecture.
Couven-Museum
11. Couven-Museum
4.2
(289)
Museum
Specialty Museums
Restored 1660s house with middle-class furnishings & decor from the 18th & early-19th centuries.
Ponttor
12. Ponttor
4.4
(2604)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Stone gate with fortified towers dating to the 14th century, once part of the original city walls.
Kreislauf des Geldes
13. Kreislauf des Geldes
4.4
(441)
Fountain
Sights & Landmarks
Lindt Werksverkauf Aachen
14. Lindt Werksverkauf Aachen
4.6
(9105)
Chocolate shop
Shopping
Retailer known for fine Swiss chocolate, truffles & confectionery since 1845.
Marschiertor
15. Marschiertor
4.4
(411)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
One of 2 remaining original city gates, dating from the late 13th century, with a turreted tower.
Ludwig Forum for International Art
16. Ludwig Forum for International Art
4.2
(974)
Art museum
Museums
Museum in a former umbrella factory with a collection of modern & pop art, plus rotating exhibits.

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