Dusseldorf to Aachen: By Train, Taxi or Bus?

As I live near Cologne, friends visiting here often ask me about the most efficient and cost-effective way to travel to neighboring cities. One of the most common questions is "What's the best way to get from Düsseldorf to Aachen?"

Fortunately, there are plenty of options available from Düsseldorf, whether it is by train, bus, car rental and even flight! Each one has its pros and cons, which I'll outline below.

So keep reading to find out the best ways to get from Düsseldorf to Aachen!

Where is Aachen?

Aachen is a city located in western Germany. It is the westernmost city in Germany and borders Belgium and the Netherlands to the west, in the triborder area.

It is in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and is known for its historical significance, including its status as the residence of Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor.

As a modern city, Aachen is supported by an extensive transportation network. And I mean extensive. This includes highways and railways.

How far is Aachen from Düsseldorf?

The two cities are approximately 83 kilometers (51 miles) apart, and well-connected to each other.

The time taken varies depending on which mode of transport and which route you take.

Hopping on a train will whisk you from Düsseldorf to Aachen in about 75 min to 90 min! Taking a bus takes 2 hours 30 min.

Düsseldorf to Aachen by Train

Time: 4/5
Price: 4/5
Comfort: 4/5

 Convenience: 3/5

Ask anyone from here and they'll say getting from Düsseldorf to Aachen by train is the most convenient and efficient way to travel between these two cities. 

I don't wish to sound biased, but Germany has one of the best train systems globally. It's quick, on time, and reasonably priced—sometimes almost as budget-friendly as taking the bus.

1. Departure from Düsseldorf: Your journey typically begins at Düsseldorf Hauptbahnhof or Düsseldorf Central Station.

In the city center, this station is easily accessible from other parts of Düsseldorf, wherever you're coming from. It has domestic, international, as well as regional train services.

2. Ticket Purchase: You'll need to buy tickets if you want to take the train.

Your options are purchasing a ticket through one of the authorized online platforms, or from the ticket machines at the station or the manual ticket counters.

I always advise booking your tickets in advance. Especially during peak travel times, you may waste time queueing up to buy tickets at the station!

Whenever I have purchase train tickets, I like to use Omio. It's my favorite platform to check for the best train tickets in Europe:

3. Train Options: Most will suggest taking a high-speed train like ICE, when traveling between Düsseldorf and Aachen. [1] This is the fastest train, and you can get a ticket under a few euros if you book early. 

Thereafter, you can connect to a regional train within Aachen to get to your final destination.

4. Scenic Journey: The train ride between Dusseldorf and Aachen offers glimpses of the picturesque North Rhine-Westphalian countryside, with rolling hills, fields, and charming villages dotting the landscape.

As you pass through the Eifel region, you can also enjoy lush forests and natural beauty, making the journey a pleasant experience for travelers seeking a taste of Germany's rural charm.

I remember a family trip I took from Dusseldorf to Aachen, and my kids were absolutely delighted. They couldn't contain their excitement as the ICE train sped along, and they spent the entire journey with their faces pressed against the window.

So no matter what, I strongly suggest snagging a window seat if you have the chance!

5. Arrival in Dusseldorf: Your train will arrive at Aachen Hauptbahnhof, the central train station in Aachen.

Clear signs will guide you to the tram station or taxi stand, so don't worry about losing your way. The station also has a convenience store, which comes in handy for grabbing a snack for the road.

Düsseldorf to Aachen by Bus

Time: 2/5
Price: 5/5
 Comfort: 3/5

Convenience: 3/5

The bus offers you the most budget-friendly option, with fares starting at just €7. The journey takes around 2 hour 30 min.

1. Departure from Düsseldorf: Your journey typically begins at Düsseldorf Central Bus Station.

In the city center, this station is easily accessible from other parts of Düsseldorf by public transport, wherever you're coming from.

2. Purchase Your Ticket: You can easily buy your bus tickets from Düsseldorf to Aachen online here. It's advisable to book your ticket in advance, especially during peak travel periods, to secure your seat and potentially snag lower fares.

3. Bus Options: Several bus companies operate the Düsseldorf-Aachen route, offering varying levels of comfort and amenities. Some buses may provide Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating, so be sure to check the features of each bus service when making your reservation.

4. Enjoy the Scenic Route: While the bus journey may not match the speed of a train, it can still be an enjoyable experience. You'll get to admire the passing scenery, including picturesque countryside and charming towns along the way.

5. Arrive in Aachen: Your bus will drop you off at one of the bus terminals or stops in Aachen, depending on the bus company and route. Aachen boasts a well-connected public transportation system, giving you various options to reach your final destination within the city.

Düsseldorf to Aachen by Private Transfer

Time: 4/5
Price: 3/5
 Comfort: 5/5

Convenience: 5/5

While private transfers may cost a bit more than other options, I find them well worth it, especially when more flexibility and comfort is needed.

When we traveled with my elderly in-laws, with a fair amount of luggage, we always opted for private transfer. Our driver not only picked us up from home but also helped with our bags. We didn't have to worry about navigating our group to or from a train station or airport!

You can also choose a smaller or bigger vehicle depending on how many seats and luggage you have. There's a variety of choices, from SUVs and sedans to bigger minibuses and vans.

Sometimes, a private transfer can be faster than a train. Depending on traffic, it can take around 60 mins or more.

Düsseldorf to Aachen by Taxi

Time: 3/5
Price: 2/5
 Comfort: 5/5

 Convenience: 3/5

The benefits of taking a taxi are similar to those of a private transfer. However, there are some potential downsides.

One major concern is price. Taxi meter fares can rack up depending on the route and traffic, and I don't like worrying about what I'll end up paying.

A couple of times, I've even found myself struggling to even get a cab, which is frustrating when we're traveling on a schedule.

So if I had to choose, I'd still choose private transfer. Every thing is pre-arranged. There's usually better rates, and you don't have to worry about flagging down a taxi or deal with climbing fares.

Rent A Car: Driving from Düsseldorf to Aachen

Time: 3/5
Price: 3/5
 Comfort: 5/5

 Convenience: 5/5

If your goal is simply to get from Düsseldorf to Aachen, you might want to skip the car rental. However, the most enjoyable part of renting a car is the freedom to make spontaneous stops!

Pop by traditional German towns like Jülich and Monschau, visit Eifel National Park or make a detour to visit the beautiful Burg Eltz... there are countless worthy spots to stop by before landing in Aachen.

When choosing a car rental company, I suggest finding a trusted website that helps you compare rental options from various companies.

I remember a road trip that quickly turned into a nightmare due to a really bad car rental experience. Basically, the agent informed me that they had overbooked their cars and didn't have the one I had reserved. I was offered a much smaller car, which wasn't big enough for my luggage...

So these days, I only use Discover Cars. They source from highly-rated car rental companies (so you avoid those with a bad reputation) and give you a breakdown of their rental rates and vehicle types. 

And applying for German car insurance through Discover Cars during your booking can save you half of what typical rental companies charge.

How much are Düsseldorf car rentals?

Renting a car in Düsseldorf comes with varying costs, depending on factors like the rental company, car type, and the time of year.

For an economy car with full coverage insurance, budget around €28 per day.

While online prices may seem as low as €4, it's essential to note that these rates only account for the car rental itself.

Additional expenses such as insurance, taxes, and fees are not included, and they can accumulate. To be on the safe side, anticipate the total daily cost to be at least €28 or potentially higher.

Do I need a Germany car insurance?

Yes, when renting a car, having third-party liability insurance is a must as per the law. This insurance safeguards you from any responsibility arising from damage to property, injuries, or fatalities caused to individuals or objects outside of your rented car in Germany.

Additionally, certain rental car companies include fire insurance in the rental rate when you make a booking.

This is also why I always choose Discover Cars for my car rentals because they provide full coverage for around €6.50 per day. For me, it's an easy decision because it gives me peace of mind.

Is it safe to drive from Düsseldorf to Aachen?

Driving from Düsseldorf to Aachen is a safe and convenient option for travel.

The drive from Düsseldorf to Aachen offers travelers a pleasant journey through the picturesque landscape of North Rhine-Westphalia, with rolling hills, fields, and charming villages dotting the landscape.

There are a few local cafes and restaurants along the way where you can stop for lunch or enjoy a cup of coffee.

By the way, both cities have low emission zones, so it's important to have an environmental badge if you plan on driving in the inner parts of Düsseldorf or Aachen. [2]

Lastly, make sure to obey traffic rules and drive responsibly!

Tips for Traveling from Düsseldorf to Aachen

Plan ahead and book tickets in advance

Whether you're buying a train ticket or reserving a rental car in Germany, take advantage of the "early bird" deals and discounts that are frequently available. If you want to cut costs, don't delay; make your travel arrangements in advance!

Booking ahead not only puts money back in your pocket but also saves you from the frustration of navigating through busy ticket vending machines at the station.

The idea of standing in line behind fellow travelers, some struggling with the machines, sends shivers down my spine.

Purchase a transportation pass for convenience

With a zone ticket or tourist pass, you can jump on and off trains whenever you want, no need to deal with separate tickets each time. The best part is it lets you be spontaneous and explore different places along the way.

If you're planning to travel from Düsseldorf to Aachen, as well as other countries in Europe, consider getting a transportation pass like the Eurail Pass. This can save you both time and money by providing unlimited access to trains rides.

Allow extra time for unexpected delays

While German punctuality is impressive... it's always a smart move to build some wiggle room into your schedule, just in case life decides to throw you a curveball.

I used to plan my trips down to the minute, but unexpected train track maintenance or flight delays still managed to throw a wrench into my plans.

As an "experienced" traveler, these days I've learned to allow for some extra time in my itinerary.

Conclusion: Düsseldorf to Aachen

In conclusion, getting from Aachen to Düsseldorf is quick and convenient with multiple ways to do it!

If you want the fastest route - book tickets to take an InterCity Express train.

For the cheapest option (but longest), book tickets for a bus ride.

If you want a more comfortable ride and are carrying lots of luggage - maybe a private transfer suits you more.

If you're planning to make a day trips or a few pitstops along the way - renting a car is your best bet.

No matter what you pick – train, taxi, or renting a car – the trip won't eat up more than an hour. So, there's really no excuse not to go for it. I'd say go ahead and start prepping now!

Related:

• Dusseldorf to Essen: By Train, Taxi or Bus?
• Dusseldorf to Munster: Is Taking the Train the Best Way?
• Dusseldorf to Duisburg: By Train, Tram or Bus?

FAQs

1. What are the transportation options for getting from Düsseldorf to Aachen?

You can travel by train, bus or car to get from Düsseldorf to Aachen.

2. How long does it take to travel from Düsseldorf to Aachen by train?

The travel time from Düsseldorf to Aachen is approximately 75-90 minutes.

3. Are there direct trains available between Düsseldorf and Aachen?

Yes, there are direct trains available that connect Düsseldorf and Aachen.

4. How much does it cost to travel from Düsseldorf to Aachen by train?

The ticket prices for a one-way journey from Düsseldorf to Aachen vary depending on the type of train and class you choose. It typically ranges between $18-25.

5. Can I use public transportation like buses within Aachen after arriving?

Yes, there is an extensive network of buses and trams in Aachen that you can use for local transportation once you arrive in the city.