Our journey begins with a visit to the impressive Aachen Cathedral, a true pearl of architecture and history. This majestic building, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not only a symbol of the city, but also a testament to the power of Charlemagne. The cathedral impresses with its monumental architecture, combining Carolingian, Ottonian and Gothic styles.

Entering the interior, one is enchanted by the splendor and richness of the details. Of particular interest is the octagonal palace chapel, which is the heart of the cathedral. It is here, according to tradition, that Charlemagne's tomb is located. The mosaics adorning the dome of the chapel, although dating from the 19th century, capture the spirit of the old days and make you feel as if you have been transported to the era of the great ruler.

One of the highlights of the cathedral is the Throne of Charlemagne, located on the gallery. This simple stone throne, on which German kings were crowned for nearly 600 years, exudes power and majesty. To see the throne up close, take a guided tour, which costs about €7 per person. The guides passionately talk about the history and significance of this unique place, which makes the visit even more fascinating.

After touring the main part of the cathedral, be sure to visit the Aachen Cathedral Treasury. This is one of the richest museums of its kind in Europe, storing priceless relics and works of sacred art. Among the most valuable exhibits are the Lotar Cross from the turn of the 10th and 11th centuries and the sarcophagus of Proserpine. Admission to the vault costs 6 euros, a small price to pay for the opportunity to admire such a unique collection.

Aachen Cathedral is not just a monument, but a living place of worship and the center of the city's spiritual life. The atmosphere of the place makes it possible for adults and children alike to feel the spirit of history and understand how important Aachen was in the time of Charlemagne. This is the perfect place to start our journey in the footsteps of this great ruler and learn about the fascinating history of medieval Europe.

After visiting the cathedral, our journey takes us to the heart of the city, where we will discover more traces of Charlemagne's presence. The first stop is Centre Charlemagne, a modern museum dedicated to the history of Aachen and its most famous resident. It's a place where history comes to life through interactive displays and multimedia presentations.

Centre Charlemagne, located at Katschhof 1, is a veritable treasure trove of knowledge about Charlemagne and his era. The museum offers a fascinating journey through time, presenting the history of the city from Roman times, through Charlemagne's reign, to the present day. The interactive exhibitions are brilliantly designed and engaging for both adults and children. Particularly interesting is the permanent exhibition, which gives an excellent insight into what Aachen once looked like.

The museum's great asset is its affordability - admission is free for those under 22, making it ideal for families with children and young adults. Audio-guided tours are very helpful in understanding the historical context and are highly appreciated by visitors. Centre Charlemagne has received a high rating of 4.4 stars, a testament to its popularity and the quality of the exhibits on display.

After visiting the museum, take a walk to the nearby market square, where the majestic Fountain of Charlemagne (Statue de Charlemagne) stands. Also known as Karlsbrunnen, this impressive monument depicts Charlemagne on horseback. The fountain, surrounded by a limestone structure with ornamentation dating back to the 18th century, is not only a beautiful work of art, but also a popular meeting place for locals and tourists.

The fountain has an interesting history - the current statue is a copy of the original from 1620, which is now housed in the hall of City Hall. The statue itself has survived a turbulent history, including a brief 'trip' to Paris during the Napoleonic era. Today, with a 4.5-star rating, the fountain remains one of Aachen's main attractions, attracting attention with its majestic appearance and rich symbolism.

Also near the fountain is the Elisenbrunnen, a neoclassical building from the 19th century, named after King Maximilian I's daughter. It's a popular place to sample the famous Aachen thermal water. Although the smell of the water can be quite peculiar due to its high sulfur content, it is an integral part of the experience of visiting this historic spa.

Walking through the city center in the footsteps of Charlemagne is not only a history lesson, but also an opportunity to experience the lively atmosphere of Aachen. Numerous cafes and restaurants in the area allow you to rest and relax for a while between exploring more sights. It's the perfect place to feel the spirit of the city and understand why Aachen has fascinated and attracted people from all over Europe for centuries.

Our journey in the footsteps of Charlemagne would not be complete without discovering some of Aachen's lesser-known but equally fascinating sites. These hidden treasures provide an even deeper understanding of the city's rich history and its ties to the great ruler.

One such place is the Archaeological Window, located at Friedrich-Wilhelm-Platz. This remarkable site offers a fascinating glimpse into Aachen's Roman beginnings. Through glass panels, visitors can see authentic excavations that reveal the foundations of ancient buildings. Interactive presentations and detailed explanations help you understand what life was like in the city more than 2,000 years ago. Although some visitors may initially be skeptical of this unusual project, most agree that it is an extremely valuable and interesting attraction, rated 4.2 stars.

Another site worth noting is the Karlsschrein, or reliquary of Charlemagne. Although it is located in Belgium, in the town of Malmedy, it is closely linked to the history of Aachen and Charlemagne. Dating back to the 13th century, this beautiful gold reliquary is a masterpiece of medieval goldsmithing and is an important part of the region's cultural heritage. Although visiting it requires a short trip outside of Aachen, it is certainly worth the effort for lovers of history and sacred art.

Returning to Aachen, it is worth noting the less obvious traces of Charlemagne's presence in the city. One example is the Charlemagne Barbershop, a modern barbershop whose name refers to the famous ruler. While this may seem surprising, it shows how deeply the figure of Charlemagne is rooted in the city's identity. The salon, rated at an impressive 4.9 stars, is renowned for its high-quality service and friendly atmosphere, making it popular with locals and tourists alike.

When exploring these lesser-known destinations, it's worth remembering the differences between the attractions. While the Archaeological Window and Karlsschrein offer direct contact with history and art, places like the Charlemagne Barbershop show how Charlemagne's legacy affects modern city life. Admission prices to these places range from free, as in the case of Archaeological Window, to more expensive visits to salons or museums.

As we conclude our journey in Charlemagne's footsteps through Aachen, it is impossible not to appreciate the wealth and variety of attractions the city has to offer. From the majestic cathedral to interactive museums to hidden archaeological treasures, each of these places brings a unique element to the story of the great ruler and his era. Aachen is not only a history lesson, but more importantly a living testimony to the cultural heritage that still shapes Europe's identity today. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture or simply a curious world traveler, Aachen is sure to leave you with unforgettable impressions and inspiring memories.