Not to miss

Cathedral Treasury

If you were awed by the Dom, don't miss the cathedral treasury (Domschatzkammer), a veritable mother lode of gold, silver and jewels. Besides the numerous reliquary shrines, focus your attention on the Lotharkreuz, a 10th-century processional cross, and the marble sarcophagus that held Charlemagne's bones until his canonisation.

Aachen Cathedral

The UNESCO World-Heritage-listed cathedral (Dom) cradles Charlemagne's exquisite palace chapel (Pfalzkapelle). Completed in 800 AD, the emperor's coronation year, the chapel immediately drew pilgrims - relics said to include Christ's loincloth are still displayed every seven years. You'll only glimpse Charlemagne's throne if you join a German-language tour.

Carolus Thermal Baths

Oriental pools, honey rubs, deep-tissue massages and soothing saunas are just some of the relaxation zones at the baths. Palm trees and resort-like restaurants bring the Mediterranean north, while themed baths conjure spas of the world. Trip from Ice-Snow-Water-World to the Ottoman Bath - a perfect escape on a dreary day.