aarau switzerland tourist information

Things to Do in Aarau, Switzerland (Museums, Castles & More)

The town of Aarau, Switzerland is not only the capital of Aargau but also makes for a fun day trip.

It is home to a preserved Medieval old town with a range of world-class museums and is renowned for the mind-blowing painted eaves that have to be seen to be believed.

Scroll down to read my travel guide for Aarau includes the top things to do, where to eat, where to stay, and how to get there.

Table of Contents

Stroll Around Aarau’s Old Town

Taking a stroll around the historic Old Town will be the first thing you want to do when you arrive in Aarau. And if you travel here by train, it’s within walking distance of the central station. The Old Town is one of the most charming in northern Switzerland and is like journeying back in time to the Middle Ages.

Not only is the old town filled with historic buildings and cobbled streets but it is a pleasure to walk through because it is car-free. Ok, the buses come through some of the bigger streets occasionally, but otherwise, you can’t beat a city center with no cars! So, you can stroll or relax anywhere in town and it has such a peaceful vibe that I always wonder why I never spend more time here.

There is one thing you need to watch out for in Aarau though, the water channels. There are a few of them scattered around the city and you have to be careful not to step into them. Sure, they are quite the unique feature of such a town, but I nearly took a plunge while I was admiring a stunning building while walking through the town, so watch out!

City of the Beautiful Gables

Yes, Aarau has the nickname “The City of the Beautiful Gables “. So, you may wonder why everyone seems to be looking up when wandering through the historic center. They’re just admiring the intricate and colorful paintings on the underside of the roofs of around 90 buildings. Called “Dachhimmel” in German, the paintings are leftovers from a tradition that started in the 16th century.

They are such an unusual feature and are truly stunning to look at and feature a variety of geometric, floral, and allegorical images. I have included quite a few photos of the Dachhimmel above so you can get an idea of how stunning they are

I wandered through the old town taking pictures and suggest you head to Rathausgasse to see the best Dachhimmel in Aarau .

The Medieval Gate Tower (Obertorturm)

There are other highlights of the old town which are also worth seeking out if you have more time to spare.

I particularly enjoyed the Gate Tower also known as the Obertorturm in German. It is actually the best preserved Medieval tower in all of Switzerland and dates from the 13th century. It features an iron-wheel clock from 1532 and was actually raised by 3 floors in the 16th century. It was once a prison and houses a gatehouse, all of which can be visited on a tour you can organise with Aarau Tourism .

Stadtkirche Church

The Stadtkirche church is part of the Evangelical-Reformed parish of Aarau and was between 1471-1478 on the foundations of an older church which is presumed to have been from the 11th century. It was more recently renovated between 1965-66 and put under protective status.

The church is predominantly built in the Gothic architectural style and features a three-aisled basilica with a simple exterior in the style of mendicant architecture from the Middle Ages. There are also a number of beautiful stained-glass windows from Felix Hoffmann and Roland Guignard which have only been added in the 20th century.

Below I have included the address which is on the edge of the old town and the opening times. It was not open when I visited, despite being in the times given below. So, don’t be disappointed if it is closed when you arrive.

• Address: Kirchgasse 19, Aarau ( Google Maps )
• Opening Times: 8 am – 6 pm

Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen/Fountain of Justice

Right across from the Stadtkirche is the rather unique Gerechtigkeitsbrunnen. Created in 1643 by the sculptor Hans Henz and then painted by Balthasar Fisch, the stunning centerpiece of the fountain is a sandstone statue of Lady Justice (aka justitia). She stands blindfolded on top of the column holding the scales of justice and a sword.

This is actually only a copy of the original, which is stored in the Schlössli City Museum. And more interestingly, the Fountain of Justice was not always located here. It was moved from its original location between Rathausgasse and Kronengasse in 1905 due to an increase in traffic in the city.

Naturama – Explore The Animal Kingdom

A live nature museum right across from the train station, Naturama first opened in 2002. Visitors can travel back in time to the land of prehistoric animals like dinosaurs and mammoths by exploring fossils found in nearby archeological sites. Several species and habitats are showcased with life-sized extinct mammals on display.

An interactive library is available for the curious. And there are lots of displays about Aarau-specific habitats, including a look into the future. After all, the planet is changing fast! The team at Naturama also holds a lot of theme-based discussions and excursions and has a range of special exhibitions every year. They are currently focused on insects and have a bat exhibition coming in October.

• Address : Feerstrasse 17, Aarau ( Google Maps )
• Website: Naturama
• Tuesday to Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
• Closed on Mondays
• Adults: CHF 12
• Students, IV, Pensioners: CHF 10
• Children (6-16): CHF 4
• Children (under 6): Free

Aargauer Kunsthaus

With its focus on local talents, the Aagauer Kunsthaus is destined to become a major destination to admire Swiss artworks. In addition to its small but diverse permanent collection, the museum regularly features works by lesser-known upcoming Swiss artists.

If you’re a fan of flowers and photography, you’ll adore the Flower of Art exhibition showcasing floral interpretations by Swiss master florists. The event takes place annually during the second week of March.

Note: The Aargauer Kunsthaus is currently closed from 30.5. – 1.9.2023 for renovation works.

• Address: Aargauerpl., 5001 Aarau ( Google Maps )
• Website: Aargauer Kunsthaus
• Tuesday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
• Thursday: 10 am – 8 pm
• Monday: Closed
• Adults: CHF 17
• Children (under 16): Free
• Students (Up to 26 years) & Pensioners: CHF 12

Stadtmuseum (City Museum) – History of Aarau

The Stadtmusem Aarau has a huge collection of Aarau’s history which includes an archive of over 60,000 objects. One of the main exhibitions “100xAarau” presents the unique history of 100 individuals over 700 years of Aarau. Another interesting exhibit takes you on a fact-filled stroll through Aarau from the 17th century to today.

Not only is the Stadtmuseum an interesting snapshot of the city’s history the building it is housed in is also worthy of a visit. It is a unique combination of a historic tower with a modern addition. The museum was designed by the architects Diener & Diener and the facade of the new section includes 134 life-size reliefs created by the renowned Swiss sculptor Josef Felix Müller .

• Address: Schlossplatz 23, Aarau ( Google Maps )
• Website: stadtmuseum.com
• Tuesday – Wednesday: 11 am – 6 pm
• Thursday: 11 am – 8 pm
• Friday: 11 am – 6 pm
• Saturday – Sunday: 11 am – 5 pm
• Adults: CHF 8
• Students and seniors: CHF 8
• Children under 16: free

Get Close to Nature at Roggenhausen Wildlife Park

Go for a relaxing walk through the countryside and observe animals such as rabbits, goats, ponies, sheep, wild boars, deer, ibex, and more up close in a stunning natural setting. The 15-hectare Roggenhausen Wildlife Park is out in the country west of the Aarau city limits and has been a popular regional destination for more than 100 years.

The park is open every day and entrance is always free. There’s an orchard, a playground for children, and a restaurant on the grounds. The park is huge so plan on spending the afternoon.

Marvel at the Castles Around Aarau

Everyone loves to visit a castle, and Aarau is within half an hour’s drive of several gorgeous and historically significant ones.

Hallwyl Castle

Dating back to the 11th century, the Hallwyl Castle is surrounded by water on three sides. It was named after the noble Hallwyl family and served as their official seat. The Hallwyls were one of Switzerland’s largest art collectors, and their collection has been on display here since 1925.

It is quite a small castle, by European standards, and is quite isolated from nearby towns. It actually sits at the end of its namesake Lake Hallwyl where I often go stand up paddling and I regularly passed the castle without ever really knowing it was there. The surrounding moat makes for a stunning reflection at sunset as you can see in the image above.

• Address : Schloss Hallwyl, Seengen ( Google Maps )
• Website : Hallwyl Castle
• 1 April to 29 October
• Adults: CHF 10
• Students: CHF 8
• Children (6-16): CHF 8
• Children (0-6): Free

Habsburg Castle

Habsburg Castle is a medieval fortress perched high on a hill above the Aare River near Aarau. It is actually the original seat of the House of Habsburg, one of Europe’s prominent royal dynasties. The castle was built in 1020 but unfortunately only part of the whole complex remains intact today.

As part of the exhibitions in the castle, you can do a VR tour of the castle to experience how large it was back in 1200. They also have a variety of historic displays showing a model of the castle, how life was when it was lived in, and much more. Surprisingly, the castle is free to enter.

• Address: Schlossgasse 30, Habsburg ( Google Maps )
• Website: museumaargau.ch
• April – End of October
• Ticket Prices: Free

Lenzberg Castle

One of Switzerland’s oldest and most notable castles, the Lenzburg Castle is built around the legend that a dragon once lived on the hill the castle sits upon. Two German Knights slayed the dragon and earned the right to live on the hill. It’s also the site of a grave from the Neolithic era discovered by Swiss authorities.

The castle offers a mixture of museums along with events that are held inside its walls, especially during summer. You can also combine it with a visit to the city of Lenzberg which has a beautiful old town worth a stroll.

• Address : Schloss, Lenzburg ( Google Maps )
• Website : Lenzburg Castle
• March – End of October
• Students: CHF 10
• Children (4-16): CHF 8
• Children (0-4): Free

Aarau Festivals

Like any other Swiss city, Aarau likes to celebrate given any opportunity. There are a number of yearly festivals that are specific to Aarau that you should check out if you have the chance.

Take Part In The Bachfischet

Held every September on the second last Friday before the fall school break, Bachifischet is an endearing festival that dates back to medieval times. Known as the lantern parade, the celebration revolves around the tradition of draining the stream to clean the waterbeds.

While the cleaning chores were done by the adults, the children caught fish and crabs left over in the puddles by lighting their way with homemade lanterns. Today, both the young and the old participate by parading through the streets at dusk with lanterns.

Experience Rüeblimärt – Annual Carrot Market

This delightful annual event takes place on the first Wednesday of every November to honor the region’s favorite root vegetable. You’ll see carrots in all shapes and sizes, and gayly decorated stalls sell carrot cakes, breads, and other delicacies and products made with carrots. Beta carotene has never been more fun!

Hiking & Cycling

If you’re into hiking or cycling, you’ll want to explore the surrounding hills of the Aagau canton on its 1,650 kilometers of hiking trails or the 1,000 kilometers of bike paths.

Altogether, the Aarau area has 16 scenic trails with hand-curated trail maps to guide nature lovers along. You’ll find easy hiking trails, trails with historic sites, trails for outdoor enthusiasts at every skill level, and kid-friendly trails for families.

Where to Eat in Aarau

Aarau has a variety of trendy cafes and chic restaurants serving regional specialties and more from the Old Town to the banks of the River Aare.

For classic dishes like veal liver with rösti or Châteaubriand, try The Mürset , a meeting place for over 150 years. Or enjoy French bistro cuisine in the Brasserie and end your meal in the elegant wine bar. The Mürset is open 365 days a year. It’s located at Schachen 18 CH-5000 Aarau. Make reservations by calling +41 62 822 13 72.

The Restaurant EINSTEIN serves dishes inspired by the Southern Alps known as Mediterranean Alpine cuisine. The chef is passionate about freshly prepared foods and seasonal offers. The restaurant is open from lunch through dinner every day except Sunday and Monday. The address is Bahnhofstrasse 43, 5000 Aarau and the phone number is +41 (0)62 834 40 34.

For a variety of dishes including vegetarian plates, Restaurant Speck at Zollrain 10, 5000 Aarau is an excellent choice. International favorites like Pulled Pork and Crispy Fried Chicken are on the menu. And vegetarian or not, the Roasted Eggplant with white beans, marinated tomatoes, and buffalo mozzarella. Get more information by calling 062 824 39 74.

Where to Stay in Aarau

For the very best accommodations to extend your day trip with an overnight stay, the Hotel Kettenbrücke is the crème de la crème. It offers 26 trendy rooms and suites, a restaurant, lounge & bar, meeting rooms, and a roof terrace with magical views. It’s located at Chain Bridge Aarau, Zollrain 16, 5000 Aarau, and the phone number is +41 62 838 18 18.

If you can’t swing a stay at the Hotel Kettenbrücke, Aarau has many other options. For many travelers, the hotel of choice is the Hotel Baeren Suhr for comfort, convenience, and value. The amenities are designed with travelers in mind such as blackout curtains, free Wi-Fi, a desk, room service, luggage storage, and free parking. Check-in at Bernstrasse-West 56 CH-5034 Suhr or call +41 62 855 25 25 for reservations.

The Hotel Aarauerhof is ideally located next to the train station and 10 minutes away from the A1 motorway. The self-check-in policy lets you check in at any time. Choose from 75 spacious and comfortable rooms with amenities like a private bath, desk, and flat-screen TV with satellite. Hotel Aarauerhof is located at Bahnhofplatz 2, 5000, Aarau, and the phone number is +41 62 858 47 77.

Getting There

By Train : Get to Aarau from Zurich in 24 minutes at a distance of 37 km. On weekdays, the first train departs at 6:08 am and the last departure is 12:08 am. On Saturdays and Sundays, trains depart Zurich starting at 4:00 am and end at 11:38 pm. Trains leave about every half-hour.

By Car: Get to Aarau from Zurich by car by taking the A1 motorway. The trip takes around 46 minutes. If coming from abroad, Zurich Airport offers all major car rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is aarau known for.

Aarau, Switzerland is known for its 16th-century painted eaves called Dachimmel, its car-free Old Town, nearby castles, and unique museums. 

What castle is near Aarau?

Aarau Castle (Schlössli) is the city’s oldest building and has remained almost unchanged since the 13th century. Today it is the site of the city museum. 

Is Aarau a good place to live?

Aarau, Switzerland’s 43rd-largest city ranks 577th, or in the top 6 percent of the best places to live in the world, and the 28th best in Switzerland. 

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Things to Do in Aarau, Switzerland - Aarau Attractions

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Mt Pilatus Peak and Lake Lucerne Cruise Small Group from Lucerne

Top attractions in aarau.

Other Top Attractions around Aarau

What travelers are saying

• Wildpark Roggenhausen
• Aargauer Kunsthaus
• Naturama Aargau
• Stadtmuseum Aarau
• Obertorturm

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Aarau

Things to do in aarau, tours in and around aarau.

Aarau Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour

Zurich Highlights Tour With Cruise and Lindt Home of Chocolate

Zurich Walking Tour With Cruise and Aerial Cable Car

Jungfraujoch Day Trip from Zurich: Swiss Alps & Bernese Oberland

Mount Pilatus Summit from Lucerne With Lake Cruise

Mount Titlis and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich

Swiss Villages Grindelwald and Interlaken Day Trip from Zurich

Mt Pilatus and Lucerne Day Trip from Zurich With Lake Cruise

Best of Zurich Tour with Felsenegg Cable Car and Ferry Ride

Mt Pilatus Peak and Lake Lucerne Cruise Small Group from Lucerne

Top attractions in aarau.

Other Top Attractions around Aarau

What travellers are saying

• Wildpark Roggenhausen
• Aargauer Kunsthaus
• Naturama Aargau
• Stadtmuseum Aarau
• Obertorturm

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z

Aarau, Aargau: Wander Through Its Landmarks and Experience the Historical Charm

Discover the historical charm of Aarau, Aargau. Immerse yourself in its rich heritage as you wander through iconic landmarks and experience the captivating allure of this enchanting Swiss destination.

Aarau is a small city located in the Aargau canton of Switzerland. The city has a population of approximately 20,000 people and is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural scenery. Aarau is a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore the town's historic landmarks and museums and is also home to several outdoor recreational activities such as hiking and cycling.

Aarau has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the Roman era. The city played an important role in the region's economy and politics during the Middle Ages and was an important center of trade and commerce. Over the years, Aarau has been shaped by its rich cultural heritage and has been inhabited by various ethnic groups. Today, the city is a popular destination for tourists seeking to learn more about its fascinating history and culture.

Aarau is located in the rolling hills of the Aargau canton and is known for its stunning natural beauty. The city is surrounded by forests, lakes and rivers, including the famous River Aare, which is a popular destination for swimming, boating and fishing. Aarau is also home to several mountains, including the famous Lindenberg, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Demographics

The population of Aarau is approximately 20,000 people. The majority of the city's inhabitants are Swiss nationals, with a small number of foreigners residing in the area. The city is known for its vibrant and diverse community and is a popular destination for expats seeking a lively and cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Aarau has a moderate climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The city receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year and is known for its clear and sunny skies. The climate in Aarau is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

Landmarks and Tourist Attractions

Aarau is home to several historic landmarks and tourist attractions, including the Aarau Castle, which was built in the 13th century and is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture. The city is also home to several museums, including the Aargauer Kunsthaus, which houses a collection of exhibits related to the town's history and culture. Other popular tourist attractions in Aarau include the Lindenborg Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city and the Aarau Nature Reserve, which is a protected area of natural beauty.

The economy of Aarau is largely based on industry and services. The city is home to several companies in the technology, healthcare and finance sectors and is known for its innovative and entrepreneurial spirit. Aarau is also a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore the city's historic landmarks and museums and has a thriving tourism industry.

Nearby Towns and Cities

List of Destinations which are nearby Aarau, Aargau

• 1.1 By train
• 2 Get around
• 3 See and do

Aarau is the German-speaking capital city of the northern Swiss canton of Aargau. It lies south of the German border, east of Berne and Basel , north of Lucerne , and west of Zurich .

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ].

The 47.39145 8.05129 1 station of Aarau lies on major train lines and is thus easily accessible. Direct trains connect to Zurich (25 minutes main station, 45 minutes airport), Basel (35 minutes) and Berne (40 minutes).

By car [ edit ]

Aarau lies on the A1 highway and is accessible from either exit Aarau Ost when coming from Zurich or Aarau West when coming from Berne or Basel.

Get around [ edit ]

The best way to get around is by bus and train. Get a zone dayfare to which is valid for all bus and trains in this zone.

See and do [ edit ]

The old town is nice to stroll around. A special feature are the around 70 painted roofs along the city centre.

• Meyersche Stollen ( IG Meyersche Stollen; Postfach 3367; 5001 Aarau ), [email protected] .  
• 47.38711 8.08786 2 Visitor centre Frey chocolate , Bresteneggstrasse 4, Buchs AG ( Bus 1 from Aarau station ), ☏ +41 62 836 24 25 , [email protected] . Tu-Su 10:00–17:00 . While Frey chocolate is not as known as other chocolate brands abroad, it is very popular in Switzerland, due to the fact that it is sold at the Migros supermarket chain. The exhibition at the factory shows how chocolate is made. There is also a chocolate tasting included in the visit. Fr. 12/6 . ( updated Jan 2017 )

Buy [ edit ]

Chocolate formed like Swiss army knives (Mercur).

Eat [ edit ]

• small rolls from Mayer bakery
• delicious chocolate, can be found everywhere.
• Try the Chinese restaurant near the tourist office (they come from Hong Kong)
• Mercur chocolate also sells small cups of good expensive ice cream (green tea ice cream, too)
• 47.3925 8.05323 1 Pizza Hüsli , Bahnhofstr. 92 , ☏ +41 628220064 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2016 )

Drink [ edit ]

• Try hot white chocolate from Caotina (for example at a café near the theatre) or the famous Swiss "Ovomaltine" (hot or cold, similar to cocoa).

Migros supermarkets do never sell alcohol, but you can get Beck's beer at coop markets (Igelwaid)

• Cardinal beer tastes light, there is also an Irish pub for Guinness lovers
• Boiler Club is a small under ground club in the middle of the Altstadt on Rathausgasse. The music is different every time you visit and is guaranteed to make you dance. Try the local Boxer Beir or the Tequilla shots with a slice of Orange and Cinnamon powder.

Sleep [ edit ]

• 47.35028 8.04851 1 Aarau-West , Muhenstrasse 58, Oberentfelden-Aarau , ☏ +41 62 737 01 01 , [email protected] . 3-star business hotel 3 km away from the train station Aarau. Very quiet area with on-site golf course and tennis courts. Fr. 131/198 single/double . ( updated Jan 2017 )
• 47.392 8.05 2 Aarauerhof , Bahnhofstrasse 68 , ☏ +41 62 837 83 00 , [email protected] . At the Aarau train station in the city centre. 3-star hotel with modern business and meeting facilities. Fr. 145 . ( updated Jan 2017 )

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Aarau, switzerland | expat city guide.

Passing through Aarau on your travels? Be sure to check out our city guide for lots of useful information, links and tips.

Guide to Aarau

Located on the banks of the river Aare, Aarau is the capital of the Canton of Aargau. The town is famous for being the first capital of Switzerland when the country was transformed into the Helvetic Republic by Napoleon. At this time, it was also home to the country’s first-ever parliamentary assembly.

Aarau is a picturesque town, known for its abundant art and culture. Expats and  citizens  can stop by numerous museums, churches and galleries around the town during their adventures. The town is also well known for the “ Dacchimmel ,” the name given to the beautifully decorated eaves that adorn the underside of Aarau’s roofs.

A short history of Aarau

The history of Aarau begins in 1240 AD with the counts of Kyburg. The Kyburg lands were sold by Agnes of Kyburg to King Rudolf I von Habsburg once the family line had ended. The king granted Aarau city rights in 1283.

Bernese invasion

In 1415, the city of Aarau was invaded by Bern and Aarau subsequently surrendered to the invaders after a brief resistance. In the 16th century, the rights of the lower classes in the city were abolished, Protestantism was introduced, and industry started to develop.

On August 11, 1712, the Peace of Aarau was signed, granting cantons the right to choose their own religion. This saw Protestantism overtake Catholicism as the predominant religion in the area. A textile industry began in the city around that time, driven by German immigrants who introduced cotton and silk factories.

Aarau as a two-time capital

In December 1797, the Federal Diet of the Old Swiss Confederacy met for the last time in Aarau. The city refused to help the Bernese defend their borders and the French, under Napoleon, invaded Switzerland in 1798, establishing the Helvetic Republic with Aarau as its capital, the first capital of Switzerland. However, its status as a capital city would be short-lived, as, in September, just 6 months later, the capital of the Helvetic Republic was moved to Lucerne .

After the fall of the Helvetic Republic in 1803, Napoleon ordered the cantons of Aargau, Baden and Fricktal to be combined into a new canton, still called Aargau. The textile industry in Aarau declined in 1850 due to tariff controls and other industries developed in the city, namely shoes, cement and mathematical appliances.

Other industries developed in the first half of the 20th century, however, the populace eventually moved into service-based jobs, or started working for local government organisations. Since then, many industries have left the city.

What to do in Aarau: Sightseeing and Activities

Aarau is a town steeped in art and culture. There are plenty of sights to see around the city, make sure you don’t miss out these ones during your travels.

Explore the castles

During your time in the city, make sure you check out the Schlössli , the oldest building in Aarau. The Schlössli served as a residence for noble families and wealthy middle-class families, a silk ribbon manufacturer and eventually, Colonel Emil Rothpletz. The city inherited the castle from Rothpletz’s inheritance, and it now houses the Aarau City Museum. 

There are other castles that can be found a short distance from Aarau too. Art fanatics can head to Hallwyl Castle, a picturesque castle surrounded by water on three sides. The castle was home to the noble Hallwyl family, who were prolific art collectors. Their collection is still displayed in the castle today.

The legendary Lenzburg Castle should not be missed either. Known as The Dragon Castle, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills. The castle was apparently built after two knights, Guntram and Wolfram, killed a dragon that was terrorising the local community. For their service, they were allowed to live on the hilltop.

Check out the famous Dachhimmel

The city of Aarau is mesmerisingly beautiful. The architecture and design of the city’s houses and buildings, as well as its dramatic landscape, makes it seem like you’re walking through a fairytale. One of the town’s unique features is the brightly coloured Dachhimmel , the elaborately decorated eaves. Several buildings around the old town sport this feature, so make sure you keep you keep an eye out every now and then.

Discover Aarau’s heritage

Aarau is a culturally important city, and this is reflected in the city’s numerous historical sites . The Reformed City Church is a particularly striking building, and well worth a visit while on your adventures. The cantonal Library is another important heritage site. The library started after the purchase of a manuscript collection in 1803 and now contains many important works and documents, including a bible annotated by Ulrich Zwingli.

The cantonal school is also a historically and culturally important building. The school was instituted in 1802 and was the first high school in Switzerland that was independent from a church parish. The school counts some of the world’s greatest minds among its alumni, including Nobel Price winners Albert Einstein and Werner Arber.

Museums and parks

Aarau is home to some internationally renowned museums. The Aargau Kunsthaus houses a collection of pieces from the 18th century to the modern day. The Naturama museum is a modern natural history museum, including interactive exhibitions on animals and environments throughout history.

If museums aren’t exactly your thing, why not spend a day enjoying the fresh air in the city’s parks. The Roggenhausen Wildlife Park is a great place to spend an afternoon with the family . There is a playground for kids, an orchard for long romantic walks and plenty of wildlife to be seen along the park’s nature trails for all the nature watchers among us.

Travelling around Aarau

Public transport in Aarau is provided by Busbetrieb Aarau AG, who operate buses in the city and the surrounding areas. Busbetrieb Aarau is a member of the A-Welle tariff network, which includes rail services.

Annual events

These events are on every year in Aarau and are a must for anyone visiting the city.

The  Bachfischet

The Bachfischet is one of the oldest of Swiss customs. The city’s stream, the Stadbach has long been a source of drinking water for the local population. The Bachfischet is a ceremony honouring the stream’s history as a supply of water, in which the citizens of Aarau thoroughly clean the stream. The first stream of water is then taken by the city’s youths and carried to the Aare River. A vibrant procession is formed, where lanterns are flown and songs are sung. Children in Suhr send little boats with candles up the stream to Aarau.

Jazzaar Festival

Aarau hosts the Jazzaar Fesitval, which sees some of the most famous and celebrated jazz musicians perform every year.

The carrot market

Every year, on the first Wednesday of November, the old town of Aarau becomes the setting for the town’s traditional carrot market. The market has become a major cultural highlight and is highly popular, so popular in fact, that around 140 vendors register to take part in the market every year!

Jobs in Aarau

Aarau has long been a haven for small businesses and manufacturing, with the city being famous for the quality of their mathematical instruments and bells. Check out our listings for jobs .

Housing in Aarau

Aarau is a beautiful city and a desirable place to live, however, it can be hard to find accommodation in the city. Check out our list of rentals  and short-stay accommodation in the city.

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Day Trip to Aarau – Top 10 Things to Do in the Capital of Canton Aargau

Day trip to aarau – top 10 things to do in the capital of canton aargau.

The Canton of Aargau – An Overlooked Gem in Central Switzerland

For most travellers Canton Aargau probably rings a bell as an occasional pit stop on the A1 motorway when travelling between some better-known regions of Switzerland. If you have been living in Switzerland for some time, you can’t help but notice the somewhat tarnished reputation that surrounds the fourth most populous canton as even most of the Swiss themselves tend to think about Aargau as an industrial hinterland rather than an attractive travel destination. Even worse, the people from the canton are often poked fun at for showcasing their fast cars and glitzy fashion in Zurich during the weekends. However, there is a lot more to Aargau than first meet the eye …

Aargau Home To Some Picturesque Castles & Beautiful Hiking Trails

Behind the unjust mockery lies a surprisingly welcoming region that’s ready to smash the stereotypes and sweep the open-minded visitors off their feet. Diverse Aargau is in fact home to some of Switzerland’s most picturesque castles and well-renowned thermal baths. 1,650 kilometres of hiking trails and 1,000 kilometres of cycling paths crisscrossing the lush, rolling hills of Aargau are begging to be discovered on foot, bicycle or even on skis. Shun the queues of the airport and forget about the nerve wrecking traffic jams at the Gotthard tunnel – the best thing about this often-overlooked canton is its perfect location: even its remotest corner of Aargau can be easily reached from Zurich in less than an hour.

Photo credit Sebastian Andrei

Day Trip to Aarau – Small-town charm just a short train ride from Zurich

If you are looking for a day trip to unwind and soak up the slow living of small-town Switzerland, look no further. With its idyllic setting on the River Aare at the southern foothills of the Jura mountains, Aarau makes for a perfect day trip or even for a weekend getaway from Zurich in any season.

Here is our list of Top 10 things to see and do when visiting Aarau:

Historical centre.

Aarau’s historical centre, one of the loveliest in Central Switzerland, offers a leisurely journey back to the Middle Ages. Strolling through the cobbled streets and alleys, it’s hard not to fall in love with Aarau’s picturesque pastel-coloured houses. Highlights of the old town include the Catholic-turned-Reformist city church with its glazing white walls and contrasting red clock, the medieval Gate Tower that once served as the main entrance to the town and the elegant façade of the City Hall. Aarau’s pedestrianised center is a joy to discover on foot as the main sights are all located just a leisurely walk from the central train and bus station. If you are interested in immersing yourself in the fascinating history of Aarau, the local tourist board aarau info offers a range of guided tours in several languages throughout the year.

Painted Gables – Dachhimmel

Keeping your heads in the clouds is not a fanciful eccentricity in Aarau – it’s a must! The houses of the old town boast more than 87 beautifully painted gables, so called ‘Dachhimmel’. The tradition of embellishing the wooden eaves of the houses with colourful and intricate paintings started in the 16 th century and still lives on to this day with the recently renovated buildings showcasing creative, modern interpretations of the century old designs.

Shopping in the Historic Centre

Surprising as it may sound, Aarau is fast becoming an attractive shopping destination thanks to the town’s forward-looking strategy of banning most big-brand chain stores from its historic centre and allowing independent, locally owned shops to thrive. The impossibly cute shops offer everything from designer clothes and jewellery to organic spices and artisanal chocolates.

Carrot Festival in November – Rüeblimärt

Every first Wednesday of November, Aarau celebrates the Canton’s most iconic produce with the great spectacle of the Carrot Festival. Replenishing your beta carotene level has never been this much fun! At Aarau’s Rüeblimärt, carrots come in all shapes and sizes. Vividly decorated stalls sell delicious cakes, breads, delicacies and many other products, all made of the region’s favorite root vegetable. Check out our earlier article about the Carrot Festival here .

Lantern Parade – Bachfischet

The origins of Aarau’s extremely instagramable lantern parade, the Bachfischet, goes back to medieval times when the town’s water stream had to be cleaned after the summer season. While the adults were busy draining the stream and cleaning the empty waterbeds, the children had the jollier task of fishing and catching crabs in the remaining puddles illuminating their ways with self-made lanterns.

Nowadays the chores of cleaning the sewers are thankfully left to the professionals while the young and the not-so-young parade across streets of the town in the evening dusk with 1,500 or so lanterns. Bachfischet usually takes place in September on the second last Friday before the autumn school break. Check aarau info ’s website for the exact dates.

Aargauer Arts Museum – Aargauer Kunsthaus

With its particular focus on home-grown talents the Aargauer Kunsthaus aspires to become the country’s top destination for Swiss art. Besides the small but diverse permanent collection the museum regularly showcases artworks by lesser-known, alternative Swiss artists. Flower fans and photo enthusiasts should not miss the Flower for Art exhibition where Swiss master florists exhibit their floral interpretations of key artworks from the museum’s collection every second week of March. For opening hours and ticket prices head to the museum’s website .

Photo courtesy of Naturama

Aarau’s Naturama is a modern museum focusing on the natural history and ecology of the canton. To the delight of dinosaur aficionados, the museum exhibits some of the finest fossils found at the nearby archeological sites of Frick. Kids will especially love the life-sized mammoth installations as well as the virtual flight over the canton in the museum’s movie room. Head to the museum’s website for information about opening hours, ticket prices and special offers. Families can benefit from free entry for kids below the age of 5 and reduced ticket prices up to the age of 16.

Modern architecture in Aarau

Travellers with an eye for modern architecture will stumble upon some rare gems in Aarau. The modernist airy expansion of the Aargauer Kunsthaus is the work of the Basel-based star architect studio Herzog & de Meuron. The impressive glass hall makes for a perfect stop for a mid-day coffee and some people watching.

The remarkable all-timber structure of the new Market Hall, inaugurated in 2003, hosts Aarau’s beloved flea market on every first Saturday of the month between March and November.

As part of the renovation of the town’s train station and its surroundings in 2014, Zurich-based studio of vehovar & jauslin dreamed up Aarau’s new favorite landmark, an amoeba-shaped canopy covering the bus station – better known as the ‘Wolke’ (Cloud). The semi-translucent structure is a stellar example of a new, cutting-edge construction technique using compressed air as its key building element.

Trying the Brändli Bombe

Photo courtesy of Confiserie & Tea Room Brändli

No trip to Aarau would be complete without indulging in the sweet delights of the Brändli Bombe. Created by the city’s leading confectionary Brändli, the Brändli Bombe is Aarau’s signature sweet – a smooth marzipan paste coated with velvety dark chocolate and sprinkled with almond flakes. The bomb didn’t just conquer the hearts and stomachs of the locals. If British royal rumors are to be believed, the Brändli Bombe was a staple at Queen Elizabeth’s, the Queen Mother’s, afternoon teas.

Haus zum Schlossgarten

The graceful neoclassical building of the Haus zum Schlossgarten has a special place in the heart of Aarau’s citizens. During the French occupation of 1798 it served as the seat of the Swiss government making Aarau the first capital of the unified Switzerland. However, the city’s political fame didn’t last long – only 6 months later the capital was moved to Lucerne. Check the opening hours and the list of upcoming programmes at the Haus zum Schlossgarten here .

Where to Eat

Restaurant Mürset

With its attractive location a stone’s-throw away from the banks of the River Aare – or as the locals like to call it the Aarauer Riviera – Restaurant Mürset is pretty much an Aarau institution. In fact, Mürset’s historic building is home to three different gastronomy concepts: a bohemian brasserie with French flair, a more traditional restaurant serving up perfectly executed Swiss classics and a wine bar.

Restaurant at Hotel Kettenbrücke

One can hardly imagine a better reward after a busy day spent with sightseeing than sipping on a bubbly on the elegant terrace of Hotel Kettenbrücke overlooking the river. The sophisticated, internationally-minded menu earned not less than 13 Gault Millau points for the restaurants already – and they’re counting.

Where to Stay

Zum graf bed & breakfast.

Spending a night at Zum Graf Bed & Breakfast is like going to bed with history. The charming 14 th century building located right at the hearth of the historical old town served as a hair comb manufacture, a bookbinding shop, a butchery, and is now a fabulously renovated guest house.

Hotel Kettenbrücke

Those looking for the comfort and pampering of a 4-star hotel will love Hotel Kettenbrücke offering elegantly furnished rooms, impeccable gastronomy and a sunny terrace perfect for an afternoon apèro.

How to Get There

Aarau’s main parking lots are conveniently located at the periphery of the old town just a short walk from the main sights. Trains between Zurich’s Main Station and Aarau run every 15–20 minutes for CHF 12.90 with a half-fare card.

Travelers of two can benefit from aarau info ’s attractive weekend package including accommodation for one night in a 3-star hotel, a CHF 20.00 voucher to be spent at local cafés and restaurants and free public transport to and from Aarau within the A-Welle tariff zone (Zurich included). Head to A rau info ’s website for more information.

Other Places To Explore in Aarau

Interested in learning more about canton Aargau? Check out our earlier articles below for more travel inspiration in the region:

Aarburg Castle

Cherry blossom trail in frick, top things to see and do in baden, lenzburg castle, article written by peter toller.

An IT Manager by profession, Peter loves the great outdoors and is an avid explorer of Switzerland and enjoys hiking and discovering new places in his free time.

Peter’s Instagram account is @ptoller

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9 Delightful Things to Do in Aarau, Switzerland

Aarau—the town of beautiful gables. Why is it known for the gables, you might think? Well, for the very reason that the city is full of buildings whose walls have beautifully painted eaves. Locals know them as Dachhimmel , and they date back to the 16th century. The town of Aarau is located in the northern part of Switzerland, and it’s the capital of the Aargau Canton. It’s a medium-size town with a surface area of 12.3 km and about 21.000 residents .

Aarau, as a municipality, is surrounded by natural wonders. Situated on the right side of the Aare river and at the foot of the Jura Mountains, the city will give you the best view nature has to offer. Not to mention the fact that Aarau is exceptionally close to Zurich, Basel, and Lucerne . The proximity to some of the most popular Swiss cities adds to it being a popular destination as you can easily travel between some of Switzerland’s main attractions.

The city of Aarau has plenty to offer both to the locals and the tourists. That’s why we’ve listed nine things to do in Aarau together with the reasons we believe shouldn’t be missed.

1. Look Up Around The Old Town

We were pretty serious when we proposed you look up when strolling around the town. The remarkable view of the Aarau’s gables will surely mesmerize you. Even though the gables are the triangular part of the roof, what we’re talking about is found in the roof’s underside. It’s very easy to spot them as they are painted with colorful, intricate designs.

The gables are unique to the city of Aarau. Around the Old Town are scattered around 70 buildings with these kinds of paintings. That’s why you should make sure you’re looking up from time to time while strolling so that you don’t miss this extraordinary and unique sight.

2. Castle Sightseeing 

Aarau is home to three of the gorgeous castles in Switzerland . Not to mention some of the most important monuments, historically speaking.

Hallwyl Water Castle

Hallwyl Water Castle was built in the 11th century. What makes this castle unique is that it’s surrounded by water on three sides. It got its name from the Hallwyl noble family since the castle served as the official seat for them. The Hallwyls would become the largest art collectors in Switzerland, and their collection continues to be displayed in the museum. In 1925 it was opened to the public, and ever since, many sightseeing tours have been organized. So, if you happen to be an art enthusiast, this is a place for you to satisfy your art curiosity.

Lenzburg Castle – The Dragon Castle

According to legend, a dragon lived on the hill that the Lenzburg Castle is built upon. Two knights, Guntram and Wolfram , defeated the dragon, and in this way, they earned the right to live on the hill. That’s how the castle came to exist today.

The Dragon Castle is one of the oldest and most important castles in Switzerland since it’s also the site where the Swiss authorities found a gravesite from the Neolithic era. Don’t miss out on this one as the beautiful sight you get from the hilltop is unparalleled, plus who knows, you might get a sight of a dragon.

Habsburg Castle

Habsburg Castle was built around 1020 , and it has served as home to one of the most influential imperial dynasties in Europe, the Habsburgs . While nowadays, the castle is only partially preserved, it still attracts visitors from all over the world and illuminates the glory that the Habsburg dynasty had. You’ll get a gorgeous view of the greenery surrounding the castle. And with the history exhibition, you’ll also be learning some important historical facts.

4. Don’t Miss Out on Naturama

Naturama is one of the most modern natural history museums you can found in Switzerland. It showcases collections of all kinds of species and habitats. Upon your visit, you’ll have a view of some of the extinct animals like mammoths and dinosaurs as well as choose to be part of several exhibitions. And when you’re tired of walking around, you can sit down in the museum’s coffee shop and enjoy a nice cup of coffee.

The entrance fee for adults is 11 CHF , for students 9 CHF , and for children up to 5 years, it’s free.

5. Walk Around The Roggenhausen Wildlife Park

If you’re not up to seeing an exhibition of extinct animals and fossils, there are always other options for you to spend your day in Aarau. You can always go for a walk around in nature. And we have a perfect park for you to walk through. The Roggenhausen Wildlife Park is about 15 hectares , and we’re sure that even if you tried to walk around it in one day, you wouldn’t make it.

There’s even a playground, an orchard, and a restaurant if you or your companions get hungry. On your walk, you’ll see all kinds of animals, from rabbits to deer, wild boars, sheep, chickens, and mini pigs! The best part; entrance is free.

6. Vist The Lime Tree of Linn

Let us start by telling you that Linn’s Lime Tree isn’t exactly in the city center, but it’s definitely a fantastic sight that you don’t want to miss. The lime tree of Linn is the oldest and biggest tree in Switzerland; to be exact, it’s 25m high . The tree was planted by the survivors of the black death in 1349. The black death was the deadliest pandemic in human history, and now this tree remains a symbol of hope and strength, something the people need most during these difficult times that we’re currently living.

The place where the tree resides is about a 24-minute drive. This means that you’ll need to get out of Aarau, and you’ll go to Linn. This location and what it has to offer is certainly a sight for sore eyes.

7. Make Chocolate in The Chocolate Frey

The Chocolate Frey was founded by two brothers, Robert and Max, in 1887. So, it has a long history of excellence. The two brothers brought their chocolate-making expertise over from France. Nowadays, the company offers all kinds of delicious chocolate for import and export. You’ll find an amazing assortment of products to choose from. What’s best is that you can actually make and decorate your own chocolate in their visitor center. You’ll get your own personalized bit of heaven for your taste buds.

8. Eat Delicious Food 

After all that walking and exploring, you might get hungry and want to eat some comfort food. Luckily for you, there are two places in Aarau that bring you a modern outlook on two of the most famous cuisines in the world.

Pizzeria la Caverna

Even though you’re in a country known for its particular cuisine, it’s completely fine to be craving something else entirely. If you happen to be itching for some authentic Italian pizza by chance, Pizzeria la Caverna is the perfect place.

This pizza place is right at the center of the city, and you have no limits when it comes to the types of pizza, from the traditional south Italian dishes to rusticone, focaccia, and calzone. Not to mention the fact that you can order a one-meter pizza! You can put any types of toppings in your one-meter pizza, so make sure to bring some friends with you and enjoy it together.

La Creperie

The french owners bring you some of the most delicious crepes around. This quaint and quiet place is perfect for some relaxation and a fantastic meal. You can either choose from all kinds of sweet combinations to savory ones. This makes it ideal for all moments of the day, either morning, lunch, or dinner. So, no matter what you’re craving, you’ll find it here.

9. Experience Der Bachfischet 

The Bachfischet is an annual ceremony in Aarau and is one of the oldest Swiss customs. It happens on the penultimate Friday before the Autumn break in September. For years, the city’s stream has been the lifeline for the population since it was a drinking water source. The tradition continues to this day.

Once a year, townspeople get together to clean it and are processioned by a group of school children with lanterns in their hands. After a hard workday, they get together to celebrate with food and drinks.

It was custom for children to pick up the first stream of water in the cleaned bed with leafy branches and lights and carry it from the city up until to the Aare. Back then, the lights used to be self-made candles or hollowed-out pumpkins. Nowadays, paper lanterns are used. And as the children walk around, they sing a special song for the occasion. The lights beautifully illuminate the city, and if you’re visiting Aarau during this time, then your participation in this ritual is a must to get in the spirit of Aarau.

We believe that it’s almost impossible to find a Swiss city that doesn’t have something unique to offer to its visitors. On the other hand, Aarau offers a dozen delightful sightseeings turning your visit into a memorable one. We hope you get to visit all the places we suggested and more. Auf Wiedersehen until next time!

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10 Best Things to Do in Aarau, Switzerland (2023)

In this guide, we’ve found the 10 best things you can do in Aarau , when visiting the old, but beautiful Swiss town in the heart of the canton of Aargau.

Aarau is located just between the major cities of Zürich and Basel in the northern part of Switzerland and as you’ll see, the landscape is flatter than in the usual postcards from the alpine country.

Mostly known for its production of bells, the town was founded almost 1,000 years ago at the Aare river (hence its name), thus keeping a lot of history worth discovering.

We’ve researched tourist reviews, forums, and ratings, and according to tourists, these 10 attractions are worth visiting when in Aarau:

10. Kettenbrücke Aarau

The river Aare was always a dangerous beast. Being the longest river in Switzerland, it boasts a length of 288kms. To tame it, the townsmen needed to build an equally impressive force. So in 1850, the town of Aarau built the chain bridge, or as the Swiss call it, the Kettenbrücke Aarau.

From the old town to the Scheibenschachen district, this bridge connects the south to the north .

Between 1948-1949 the old chain-bridge was reworked into a concrete structure. Despite this, locals continue to call it the Chain bridge. It seems they grew a liking to the name. Either way, the Chain bridge is a cool place worth checking out.

9. Meyersche Stollen

Tucked away underneath the world, this series of tunnels has been a curiosity for many historians. The Meyersche Stollen was built around 1798-1810 by the revolutionary Johann Rudolf Meyer. Possessing a mastery over a belt of talents, Meyer was a silk ribbon manufacturer and natural scientist, amongst other things.

The tunnels were built for two purposes:

• To drain marshy land.
• To generate power for various industries.

The tunnel would collect water for dye works and generate hydropower for a factory. A section of the tunnel is open for tourism; although you’d probably want to bring a handkerchief, it can get a little dusty in here.

Official website: meyerschestollen.ch

8. Biberstein Castle

There is, without a doubt, an abundance of medieval structures in Aarau. History lovers will love this city, mainly because of Biberstein Castle. As the name suggests, Bieberstein Castle is a medieval castle situated above the steep banks of the River Aare. Although the property can be dated back to the 13th century, most original structures have been renovated.

Only the outer walls and the well-preserved masonry of the former donjon inside the building can be regarded as medieval buildings. A hybrid mixture of medieval and modern, the castle can provide a unique experience during your visit. We do hope you check this place out if you’re in Aarau.

Official website: www.schlossbiberstein.ch

7. Rolling Rock Skate & Sports Centre

You might have been interested in adventure sports or skateboarding but never got the chance to participate. Well, we’re sorry about that. We can’t change the past, but we can provide your kids with the opportunity to enjoy their heart’s content! The Rolling Rock Skate & Sports Centre has all the facilities a kid could dream of.

It’s the only adventure sports facility available in Switzerland. Although there’s no doubt that your kids will enjoy this place, it’s not all about the fun and games. So if you’re in Aarau, your kids deserve an opportunity to enjoy discovering a newfound interest in adventure sports! Official website: www.rollingrock.ch

6. Hallenbad Telli

A lot of people like to go for a swim. If you’re one of those people touring Switzerland, you might be missing that experience. Well, worry no more! We want to suggest to you a swimming pool complex called Hellenbad Telli. Although it is meant to be a swimming school, there are no restrictions on visitors.

You can visit when you please with the option of choosing between an indoor and outdoor pool. There’s even a kids pool for you kids to enjoy and a restaurant that can cater to your vacation needs! However, we would suggest you go during lunchtime (11:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.) Or, you could go in the evening after 5 p.m.

5. Obertorturm

If you’ve visited the museums in Aarau, then you’ll probably develop an interest in medieval history. In that case, the Obertorturm or the Upper Tower is something you can’t miss. Well, you can’t miss it anyway, since it’s visible from every second street in Aarau. Although the tower’s history is shrouded in mystery, it is the oldest structure in the city.

You might also know it as the clocktower. If you’re interested in visiting the Obertorturm, you can do so with the help of a tour guide. The view from the top is spectacular! Visit this place and catch the vibe of a bygone era.

4. Stadtmuseum Aarau

The museum of Aarau or the Stadtmuseum Aarau is hard to miss if you’re passing by. The building is a renovated, 750-year-old medieval tower house. Stadtmuseum Aarau is considered the memory of Aarau as it contains more than 60000 items from the past. All of Aarau’s history is exhibited here in this museum, even covering socio-political aspects of life through the pages of history. The distinct look of the building with a medieval tower on one side and a modern building on the other is an eye-catcher.

So in case you’re curious about the city’s history, you know where to go now.

Official website: www.stadtmuseum.ch

3. Aargauer Kunsthaus

After the live museum, you might be looking for a quiet place that can still fascinate you just as much. If you’re interested in such a thing, you can head towards Aargauer Kunsthaus. The museum was founded in 1959 and is now one of the leading art museums in Switzerland.

You can witness the most crucial collection of Swiss art from the 18th century till date, which is showcased in special exhibitions. There are about ten large and small-scale exhibitions each year that specifically focus on new artists. That’s a lot of displays! The new generation is given their due importance and place in the realm of art.

Official website: www.aargauerkunsthaus.ch

2. Naturama Aargau

Naturama Aargau is a live nature museum situated east of Schachen and was opened in the year 2002. If you aren’t able to find your way, look for Cafe Friedrich. The museum is close by.

Since it’s a nature museum, Naturama Aargau gives a real-life experience of a journey through time with dinosaurs, mammoths, and more. It sounds like the perfect place to bring your kids! There are regular exhibitions on current events as well. You don’t need to be a kid to be interested in pre-historic wildlife, though. And besides, the museum offers knowledge in a variety of areas. This place is an interactive library for people with curious minds.

Official website: www.naturama.ch

1. Wildpark Roggenhausen

If you’re an animal or nature lover, the Roggenhausen Wildlife Park might be an excellent place to start your trip. The wildlife park was founded in 1903 and is located west of Aarau city. With an area of 15 hectares, the park offers more than enough space for your leisure. Many native animals, such as the ibex, wild boar, marmots, and deer, call this place their home.

Keep in mind that you can only feed the animals a special kind of animal food sold inside the park. Roggenhausen has a lot to offer, and the free entry makes it all the more worthy of a visit.

Official website: www.roggenhausen.ch

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Aarau, historic city of the “skies”

The lovely town of Aarau is the capital of the Aargau canton in the Swiss Plateau. It owes its name to the river Aare, which lies just north of the city. The beautiful old town is known for its so-called “skies”. The beautifully painted undersides of the roof overhangs are true works of art. Moreover the city offers even more highlights so we would like to list them for you.

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Places to visit in Aarau, Switzerland

In this article, we will see the best Places to visit in Aarau, Canton of Aargau in Switzerland. Lively alleys, buildings steeped in history, and shopping pearls await you from the train station to the old town. The intact Aare landscape is in the immediate vicinity and invites you to take a walk.

The old town of Aarau attracts numerous sights. As in no other small town, the impressive architecture of different epochs can be viewed in a small space.

Aarau owes its nickname “City of Beautiful Gables” to them. You will also find many shops and bars in the old town for extensive shopping and relaxing. Below we are listing top 11 Places to visit in Aarau Switzerland.

1. Old town of Aarau

With its pedestrian zone, the old town is a fantastic place to shop. Shops, restaurants, and bars do a flourishing trade, with visitors also being attracted by the town’s diverse range of markets and concerts. Annual highlights include the Maienzug children’s and youth festival, the Bachfischet lantern procession, and the Aargau Rüeblimart carrot market.

2. Look Up Around The Old Town

On the way to the picturesque old town streets, you should definitely look up from time to time: The more than 70 richly painted roof soffits of the old townhouses are a specialty. The remarkable view of the Aarau’s gables will surely mesmerize you. Even though the gables are the triangular part of the roof, what we’re talking about is found in the roof’s underside. It’s very easy to spot them as they are painted with colorful, intricate designs.

3. Shopping in the old town

The beautiful ambiance in the oldest and most charming part of the city makes shopping a special experience. Numerous smaller and larger specialist shops, boutiques, specialty shops, and shops for sports and leisure are located in the picturesque alleys of the historic old town. There are public parking spaces and multi-story car parks around the pedestrianized old town, from which the shopping streets can be reached on foot in a few minutes.

4.City Hall

The oldest part of the town hall is the 13th-century tower Rore, the «castle in the city». The tower Rore was originally a fiefdom of the Counts of Kyburg. From 1515 the small castle was continuously converted into the town hall and since then it has been expanded many times over. It is still the seat of the city administration today. The bronze sculpture “Fährmann” (1955) by Alexander Zschokke is located on the corner of the Zollrain.

5. City Church (That’s one of the best places to visit in Aarau)

Between 1471 and 1477, today’s church was built in place of a smaller previous building. Most of the stones come from the demolished Obergösgen Castle and were brought here on the Aare. Foreman Gisel took over the scheme of the monastery church of Königsfelden for the new building. After the Reformation in 1528, the twelve altars were removed and the pictures burned. In 1965/66 the church was restored to its original simplicity and placed under monument protection.

6.Obertorturm

The Obertorturm dates from the 13th century and is the best-preserved medieval tower in Switzerland. In the 15./16. In the 19th century, it was increased to the high watch. Inside the Obertorturm there was a prison and the tower house. The iron clock from 1532 can still be admired on the 9th floor, and a carillon on the top floor. The upper gate consists of a gatehouse that is attached to the tower and protrudes to the original wall.

7. Well of Justice (That’s one of the best places to visit in Aarau)

The fountain of justice on the church square originally stood at the wayside intersection of Rathausgasse – Kronengasse / Kirchgasse. In 1905 he was relocated because of the increasing traffic. The fountain is dominated by a sandstone Justitia statue, the original of which from 1643 can be viewed in the Aarau City Museum. The column is made of French limestone, the fountain trough is made of Mägenwil shell limestone and the base is made of granite.

8.Roggenhausen Wildlife Park

At the Roggenhausen Wildlife Park, you can observe rabbits, ponies, goats, sheep, wild boar, deer, ibex, and many other animals from up close. The park is nestled in the countryside to the west of the city and is open every day throughout the year. The Wildlife Park has been one of the region’s most popular excursion destinations for over 100 years. It also has a large playground, a scooter track, and a restaurant with garden seating, which makes it ideal for family outings.

9. Hallwyl Water Castle (That’s one of the best places to visit in Aarau)

The romantic moated castle Hallwyl is located at the outflow of the Hallwilersee in the Aargauer Seetal. It was built in the 12th century and was owned by the von Hallwyl family until the 20th century. Today the Hallwyl moated castle houses a museum. The diverse exhibition is divided into 11 topics and ranges from the Middle Ages to the modern age. A selected member of the von Hallwyl family will be featured on each exhibition theme. In the Kornhaus you will learn exciting facts about the customs and trade in the Seetal and on the Mühleinsel you can marvel at the castle mill with the water wheel.

10. The Dragon Castle

Lenzburg Castle is one of the oldest and most important hilltop castles in Switzerland. Over 1,000 years of history are waiting behind thick walls to be explored and experienced. This tourist attraction is one of the Best Places to visit in Aarau. The exhibitions in the castle show the life of knights and nobles in the Middle Ages, the residential museum introduces the former castle residents and their way of life in the court, and in the prison, visitors can experience the conditions in the penitentiary system of the 17th century up close. On the roof, there is a children’s museum, where young visitors to the castle can dress up as they please and meet Fauchi in the dragon research station.

11. Aarau City Museum – Stadtmuseum Aarau

The collection of 60,000 objects is the memory of Aarau. Building culture and city history are exposed through exhibition and mediation in the old building. With the extension and the reopening, the Aarau City Museum is starting an important repositioning: The former residential museum has been cleared out, over 1200 objects have been re-staged and the key media of the 20th century, photography and film, are the focus of exhibitions, events and collaborations.

Best Places to Visit in Aarau

• Old town of Aarau
• Look Up Around The Old Town
• Shopping in the Old Town
• City Church
• Obertorturm
• Well of Justice
• Roggenhausen Wildlife Park
• Hallwyl Water Castle
• The Dragon Castle
• Aarau City Museum

Aarau Tourism

• Things To Do in Aarau
• Aarau Itineraries
• Aarau Hotels

Exclusive Aarau Travel Guide, Switzerland

• Switzerland

Aarau (German pronunciation: [ˈaːraʊ], locally [ˈɑːræʊ]) is the capital of the northern Swiss canton of Aargau. The town is also the capital of the district of Aarau. It is German-speaking and predominantly Protestant. Aarau is situated on the Swiss plateau, in the valley of the Aare, on the river's right bank, and at the southern foot of the Jura mountains, and is west of Zürich, and 65 kilometres (40 mi) northeast of Bern. The municipality borders directly on the canton of Solothurn to the west. It is the second-largest town in Aargau after Wettingen. At the beginning of 2010 Rohr became a suburb of Aarau. The official language of Aarau is (the Swiss variety of Standard) German, but the main spoken language is the local variant of the Alemannic Swiss German dialect.

This warm abode of Aarau is a delightful place to visit in Switzerland. Aarau is located at a short trip away from Zurich a major city in Switzerland. Take a short trip from Aarau and set some time aside to explore the Zurich . Dotted with places like Lindenhof , Old Town , Lake Promenade ; it will definitely be a good idea. Most online packages to this city are of 1-2 days.

Aarau is an affair to remember, follow this apt itinerary of the place and return home with a bunch of memories.

Aarau Trip Planner

Plan your customized day by day trip plan for Aarau. Choose from various experinces categories as adventure, romantic and family and kids friendly for your trip using using Aarau trip planner.

• THINGS TO DO
• HOW TO REACH
• TOP RESTAURANTS

• Zurich Trip Planner
• Lucerne Trip Planner
• Interlaken Trip Planner
• Bern Trip Planner
• Vevey Trip Planner
• Brienz Trip Planner

This blog shows places that are often a side note or not found in most guide books. Let me show you my favourite spots - places that are just a bit off the beaten track in this beautiful country.

• Basel Stadt & Landschaft
• Historical villages of Parc Ela
• Historical Villages of Naturpark Beverin and the Averser Rhein
• Historical villages of the Lower Engadine valley
• Graubunden’s historical buildings
• Val bregaglia and the village of soglio
• Graubünden’s Hidden Lakes, Rivers and Gorges
• Walks in Graubünden
• Lake Lucerne & Canton Uri
• Nidwalden & Obwalden
• Schaffhausen & Thurgau
• Naturpark Thal
• Vaud, Neuchâtel, Fribourg and Drei-See-Land (Three-Lake-Region)
• Zurich canton’s lakes
• Appenzell – Hiking to the Mountain Inns
• Hiking the Gemmipass – A Must-Do Swiss Classic
• Walks and more in Nidwalden & Obwalden
• Walks and more in canton St. Gallen
• Walks in Zürich canton
• My Posts – special places and Experiences
• What Switzerland offers and when to go
• The Castles of Aargau
• Culture and Traditions of Swiss Cheese
• Museums Big and Small
• World-Class Art
• What to do on Bad Weather Days

Canton Aargau

Aargau is rich in history with hilltop and lakeside castles that tell the story of Switzerland and the conquerors of Europe who passed through. These landmarks are within a few kilometres of each other so can easily be visited in one or two days. Some of the castles offer pretty garden terraces and vineyards, while others are close to historical town centres or on idyllic lakes.

Below is more information about the castles, their surroundings, and where to go if you want to check out at a Roman Legion’s camp .

Where to find culture and nature in Canton Aargau

Vindonissa Roman legion‘s dwellings

Around 2,000 years ago Vindonissa Park was once the site of a Roman Legion‘s camp. This was developed from a military post under Emperor Tiberius (14-37AD) and housed around 6,000 legionnaires. The park has been specially set up for the visitor to experience what everyday life was like here. The main attraction is the Legionnaires’ discovery trail which shows the day to day routine of the soldiers by using different sights, smells and sounds.

On this trail you will find:

• The Officer’s Kitchen
• Ruins of the Roman Thermal Baths
• The only Roman Aquaduct north of the Alps that is functioning today.
• The Garrison‘s dwellings . These have been authentically reconstructed. The only one of its kind in Europe. The builders used exactly the same building methods with wood, clay and limestone, as was used originally with the reconstruction based on archaeological findings. You can still see the remains of the original foundations and east gate.  

The most important artifacts can be found at the Vindonissa Museum which is in a completely separate building on the west side of the Brugg train station.

Getting There: It is a 15-minute walk from Brugg Train Station. There are signposts showing the way. Buses 361/2/3 go to the Legionary Trail Visitors Centre bus stop and take about 2-3 mins. By Car: Go on the A3 Motorway, Brugg exit, the take the expressway to Windisch (about 10 minutes). Paid parking spaces are available at the Campus car park near Bahnhofstrasse. From there it is about 10 minutes walk. Food & Drink: There is a bistro on-site as well as several possibilities for picnickers. Vindonissa Museum is in a different building on the other side of the train tracks with parking right next door in Eisi Parkhaus.

More Information: Go to this link: Museum Aargau

schloss habsburg

Photo 75339835©Lightpoet: Dreamstime.com

Habsburg Castle was built between 1020 to 1030 by the founders of the Habsburg Dynasty – one of Europe’s greatest Dynasties.

The castle houses an exhibition complete with an audio tour and, while here you can really dive into the Middle Ages by using virtual reality . Just put on the VR glasses and experience something that could never be done in reality – a 360-degree flight over the castle in around the year 1200.

For more information se e the Habsburg Castle page on Museum Aargau’s website

Schloss wildegg

Schloss Wildegg: Image by Mintmount from Pixabay

On a hilltop , about 8km down the road from Schloss Habsburg is the pretty Schloss Wildegg. It is surrounded by a baroque garden and rose gardens, orchards and vineyards. Within the castle itself, you will find a treasure trove of antiquities. Spring and summer are magical times to experience this castle.

For more information on the history of this castle with a detailed timeline go here .

schloss lenzburg

A further 6km south on route 26 you will find an extravagant castle that looks like it has exploded from the massive rock face that it is perched on.

This impressive place has a well-constructed exhibition showing the exciting history of the castle and surrounding land, including the rise and fall of the Habsburg Dynasty. Another part of the exhibition gives you an idea of the day-to-day life of the princes and princesses that lived here.

Food & drink possibilities :

Within the castle walls : Cafe with patio seating. Around the castle: When walking directly below the castle’s walls there are grills spots and benches as well as a path that leads down to the pretty historical town centre of Lenzburg.

Further information can be found on the Schloss Lenzburg page on Museum Aargau’s website .

WasserSchloss Hallwyl

The lovely Wasserschloss Hallwyl (Water-Castle Hallwil) is very photogenic. It is in reality, two small castles, surrounded by the Aabach river, joined by a bridge. The solid walls and turrets of these compact castles reflect beautifully in the waters of the surrounding moat. You won’t be able to resist a few photos before entering via the drawbridge. It’s in a lovely position within walking distance to the idyllic Lake Hallwyl. To travel from here by car to Aarau is 19km and 30km to Baden.

Further information can be found on the Hallwyl Castle page on Museum Aargau’s website .

Lake Hallwyl

There are restrictions in place that mean the banks of Lake Hallwyl are largely undeveloped, giving this lake a natural beauty and giving the natural environment a chance to thrive. The elegant wooden boathouses here and there, along with the Hallwyl Castle just up the Aabach River, give this area a nostalgic and very charming feel.

A walking path follows the river between the castle & the lake, then along the lake’s banks, alongside fields, through trees and past vineyards. There are several simple bathing areas, some with wooden slats terraces for sunbathing and others with BBQ possibilities. Tennwil bathing area with camping and a restaurant is about 3.5 km from the Castle. Another option to stock up on food supplies in Tennwil is to pop across the field to Fischer’s Hoflädeli (farm shop) . Here you will find fresh bread, fruit and veggies plus other locally sourced produce. For opening times go to the Hoflädli website (in german).

Hike around Lake

If you are feeling energetic there is a circular hike around the lake. You can either start south of the Lake at Mosen where there are parking possibilities or the northern end at the Castle – parking is across the road. As per normal, the parking is metered. The circular walk takes about five hours, with most of the path directly on the lakeshore. Various ports for the lake ferry offer the possibility of shortening the hike.

The path is marked as «Seeuferweg» (lakeshore path) – at the north end of the lake.

Worth a look: There is a reconstruction of a lake-dwelling on stilts in Meisterschwanden.

Opening Hours And How to get There

Opening to the public: 01 April to 31 October. Opening hours for – Lenzburg, Wildegg, Habsburg and Hallwyl are: 10 am – 5 pm – Tuesday to Sunday and public holidays.

Admission: For entry costs and options as well as any special opening times, see links under the relevant castle above. Save money by purchasing the Schlösserpass (Castle Pass) that combines three of the four castles – Lenzburg, Hallwyl and Wildegg which can be purchased from Aarau info and Baden tourist information.

Photo by Vlad Bagacian on Pexels.com

Public Transport

As always check sbb.ch (swiss public transport website)for up-to-date info.

From Zürich to Brugg (connections to certain castles):

• IR express trains 24-30 mins, no change.

From Zürich to Lenzburg & Aarau :

• Intercity express train – not stopping at Lenzburg (see timetable) – takes about 25-30 mins.
• IR & RE – Regional Train – express train stopping at Lenzburg – takes around 30 mins.
• S11 Slow Train – takes approx. 45 mins

From Zürich main station to Vindonissa (Brugg) :

• IR trains leave regularly, taking about 25-30 mins or there is the S12 slow train.

From Geneva to Aarau:

• Journey time approx. 2 hrs 15 mins (stops incl. Morges, Yverdon-les-Bains, Neuchatel & Solothurn).

From Lucerne main station to Lenzburg Castle, via Boniswil (stop for Hallwyl Castle then 12 min walk).

• S9 train leaves every half hour during day. Journey time is approx. 1 hr 20-1 hr 25 mins to Lenzburg with no changes. (Approx. 1 hr to Boniswil).
• InterCity Express Trains – with changes take about 1 hr to get to Lenzburg.

From St Gallen to Aarau

• Journey time approx. 1 hr 30 mins.

Driving Times – outside of rush hour

Basel to Aarau – 45 mins to 1 hr; 55km

Bern to Aarau – 55 mins – 1 hr 15 mins; 81 km

Zurich to Aarau – 50 mins – 1 hr; 50 km

Zürich to Hallwyl – 40-55 mins; 37 km

Lucerne to Aarau via Hallwyl – 1 hr; 57 km. Lucerne to Hallwyl – 40-55mins; 42 km (via A2 & Route 26)

Geneva to Aarau via Lausanne, Bern & Solothurn 240km

Castle tour – north to south – from castles Habsburg to Wildegg to Lenzburg and finishing off at Hallwyl. Driving time is approx. 40 mins, distance 24 km

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