Aachen

Due to its hot springs, the German town of Aachen was a favourite place for Charlemagne, (King of the Franks from 768 and Emperor of the Romans from 800 - 814) who also built a palace here. The town was the seat of emperors and kings and the scene of many coronations during the Middle Ages. Aachen Cathedral embodied the dreams of Charlemagne for a new Empire and a shrine dedicated to him can be seen in the church.

The town also comes alive during the festive period, with the Aachen Christmas Market said to be one of the most traditional yuletide events in Germany.

Every year, the town awards a "Medal for Combating Deadly Seriousness" to politicians, diplomats and lawyers across Europe who have shown a sense of humour.

We have many other German holidays available for those looking to spend some time in this country. Why not check out our Stuttgart city breaks or holidays in Bavaria if you are looking to stay somewhere a bit more lively?

• Flight time from London: 1hr 35min
• Maastricht Aachen Airport: 28km from the city centre; transfer time about 30min
• Nearest railway station: Hauptbahnhof
• Currency: Euro