The historical city of Aachen, close to the border to Belgium and the Netherlands is also called Aix-la-Chapelle in French. It developed from a Roman settlement to the preferred medieval imperial residence of Charlemagne, and, from 936 to 1531, it was the place where 31 Holy Roman Emperors were crowned as Kings of the Germans. During the Middle Ages, Aachen was one of Christendom’s most important venues for pilgrimage. Really a place worth visiting when around.
Egmont Café is in the central heart of Aachen and offers a broad selection of drinks as well as yummy cakes and small dishes. In the evenings, they sometimes offer live music.
Aachen Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church and the see of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Aachen. It is one of the oldest cathedrals in Europe and was constructed by order of the emperor Charlemagne, who was buried there after his death in 814. For 595 years, from 936 to 1531, the Palatine Chapel, heart of the cathedral, was the church of coronation for 31 German Kings and 12 Queens.
Ghent is located in the Flemish part of Belgium, with a medieval architecture that is remarkably well preserved and restored. The historical city features beautiful riversides to stroll along.
Bruges is one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in Europe featuring notable architecture. The historic centre of the Belgian city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.
Canterbury is UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kent city lies on the River Stour and is home to a beautiful cathedral. Still today, the impressive building is focus of pilgrimage and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury who is primate of the Church of England.
The city of Oxford is globally known as home of the University of Oxford, which is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. Numerous historical university and college buildings boast with marvellous architecture. Everything surrounded by green parks and lush nature walks.
Birmingham is not only birthplace of once entirely new music genres such as Heavy Metal or New Romantic, but also home for globally renowned bands like Black Sabbath or Duran Duran. Brum also offers a really vibrant live music scene.
Stratford-upon-Avon situated on the River Avon is a welcoming market town with more than 800 years of history. It is worldwide known as the birthplace of English playwright and poet William Shakespeare.
Cologne is not only worth a visit due to its famous Cologne Cathedral. Moreover, it is a major cultural centre for the region, with numerous museums and galleries as well as art exhibitions and live music venues.
Aachen (Photo by Google Streetview)
