Sunday, February 20, 2011

Aachen Restaurants

Aachen is very rich in history, and there is nothing missing in history when it comes to their restaurants.  There a couple there that are must eats.

One of the first places to eat when you get to Aachen is the Restaurant Goldener Schwan.  The restaurant was first established all the way back in 1438!  It is located at Markt 37 in Aachen.  They feature general German cuisine with a couple of special dishes from none other than Aachen.

If you are looking for authentic German cuisine, you need to try out the sauerbraten.  It is a VERY tender meat!  The rest of the menu is mixed with traditional German foods and a bit of modern German cuisine.

The next restaurant on my list is Goldene Rose am Dome.  This inn dates back to the 14th century, but has seen good days and bad days alike.  It was destroyed in the Aachen town fire of 1656, but was rebuilt and renamed "The Rose".  It was again damaged in World War II, but was redone again by Dr. Leo Hugot.  Again, a great place for German cuisine and a rich history all around - enjoy!

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Aachen Germany Tourist Information and Hotels

Aachen is the western-most town in Germany with an estimated population of 258,380 (December 31 2009).  Aachen has historically been considered a spa town.  Aachen has a rich history, as it was the place of coronation for the Kings of Germany and also the preferred residence of Charlemagne (Charles the Great).

There are several great sites to see in Aachen if you travel there.  One of the more notable tourist destinations is the Aachen Cathedral.  It was built in 786 AD under the orders of Charlemagne, and when finished was considered the largest dome North of the Alps.  To date, the remains of Charlemagne can be found within the Cathedral.  The building itself is fascinating - there are several different styles due to the many building additions performed over the years.  It is definitely a site to behold.

The next stop to make is Elisenbrunnen, just minutes away from the Aachen Cathedral.  It is a neoclassical hall that overlooks one of Aachen's most famous fountains.  Also recommended is to check out the the two remaining city gates.  The closest one to the Cathedral is just a half mile away.  It is called the Pontor - the other is closer to the central train station and is called Kleinmarschiertor.  There are a total of five towers still remaining and part of the old city wall.

For anyone that loves history and is willing to travel, this is a great tourist destination.  If you need to find a place to stay, there are several very well rated hotels in Aachen.  First try to find a room in the Hotel Novotel in Aachen city.  If you are unable to get a room there, check out Aquis Grana City Hotel.  And for those of you who are looking for a recognizable name, the Best Western Hotel Regence in Aachen has been known as a great hotel.