Explore Aachen & Cologne on a Private Day Tour from Brussels

This day tour offers an efficient way to experience two historic German cities in just 12 hours. For $556 per person, travelers enjoy private transportation, guided tours, and free time to explore at their own pace. The tour departs from Brussels, with pick-up at your hotel, making it a seamless day trip with a personalized touch.

The itinerary includes visits to Aachen, known for its Royal Church of San Lorenzo, and Cologne, home to the Cologne Cathedral and the famous Eau de Cologne factory. Throughout the day, guests learn about each city’s cultural and architectural heritage from a knowledgeable guide. The tour is suitable for those seeking an intimate experience with flexible options, thanks to the private group setup and customizable start times.

While the 12-hour duration packs in a lot, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a busy schedule and eager to maximize their sightseeing. The price includes all logistics and guide services, but does not specify details about meals beyond a traditional German lunch. This tour promises a rundown of Aachen and Cologne with the convenience of private transport and a flexible itinerary.

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Key Points

Private guided tour from Brussels with pick-up at your hotel
Visit Aachen’s Royal Church of San Lorenzo and explore the city’s history
See Cologne Cathedral and stroll through the charming Old Town
Tour includes a traditional German lunch and a visit to the Eau de Cologne factory
Total duration of 12 hours, with departure and return from Brussels
Multiple language guides available: Spanish, English, Russian, French, Italian, German

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Departure from Brussels and Early Start

The tour begins early at 8:00 AM with a hotel pick-up in Brussels, ensuring a smooth start to the day. Leaving Brussels in the morning allows plenty of time to explore both cities thoroughly and avoid afternoon crowds. The private transportation means comfort and efficiency, as the group is not limited by public transit schedules.

The drive to Aachen takes about two hours, setting the tone for a relaxed yet productive day. The quick start benefits travelers eager to fit both cities into one day, making it ideal for those with busy schedules or limited time.

Discovering Aachen’s Architectural Heritage

Upon arrival in Aachen at 10:00 AM, guests benefit from a guided tour that highlights the city’s key attractions. Aachen’s Royal Church of San Lorenzo remains a major highlight, showcasing its historic significance and impressive architecture.

Guests have free time after the guided portion to further explore Aachen at their own pace. The tour also offers a traditional German lunch at 12:30 PM, providing a taste of local cuisine, which is a welcome break during the busy day. The lunch complements the historical visits by giving travelers a genuine culinary experience.

The timing allows ample opportunity to appreciate Aachen’s cultural heritage before departing for Cologne in the early afternoon.

Traveling to Cologne for Iconic Sights

Departing Aachen at 2:00 PM, the group heads toward Cologne, arriving around 3:30 PM. Here, the focus shifts to the famous Cologne Cathedral, which dominates the city’s skyline and offers stunning views and intricate details.

Guests also get free time in the Old Town, with its quaint streets and lively atmosphere, perfect for photos and relaxed strolling. A special visit to the Eau de Cologne factory adds a unique element, offering insight into the famous fragrance’s origins. This factory visit provides a glimpse into Cologne’s commercial history tied to the city’s name.

The guided tour in Cologne is concise but packed with highlights, balancing sightseeing with free time to soak in the atmosphere.

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Flexibility and Customization of the Tour

The start time and tour content can be customized to better suit individual preferences, a feature that makes this experience adaptable. For example, travelers with specific interests might choose to spend more time in one city or skip certain activities.

The private group setup ensures a personalized experience, with live guides speaking multiple languages, including Spanish, English, Russian, French, Italian, and German. This multilingual ability helps cater to a diverse range of travelers, making the tour accessible and inclusive.

Return to Brussels in the Evening

The tour concludes with a relaxing drive back to Brussels, departing at 5:30 PM and arriving around 8:00 PM. The return trip allows for reflection on the day’s experiences while enjoying the comfort of private transportation. The hotel drop-off in Brussels completes the seamless day trip.

This schedule is ideal for those who want a comprehensive tour without feeling rushed, balancing sightseeing, meals, and travel comfortably.

Practicalities and Inclusions

The tour includes a professional tour guide and private transportation, ensuring a smooth journey. Wheelchair accessibility is available, making this tour inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

Cancellation is flexible, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Payment is reserve now, pay later, providing flexibility in planning.

While the price is $556 per person, it covers all logistics, guided visits, and the included German lunch. Additional expenses, such as personal souvenirs or extra meals, are not included.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for travelers wanting to see two major German cities in one day with the convenience of private transport and a personal guide. It suits those who appreciate flexible itineraries, cultural insights, and local cuisine.

The multi-language guides make it accessible for international visitors. However, those seeking a leisurely pace or in-depth exploration might find the packed schedule challenging. Still, the balance of guided tours and free time strikes a good compromise.

Final Thoughts on the Aachen & Cologne Day Tour

This 12-hour private tour from Brussels offers a well-rounded experience of Aachen’s historic sites and Cologne’s iconic landmarks. The inclusion of local cuisine and visits to notable factories adds authenticity and interest.

While the price reflects the personalized service and private transport, the tour’s timing and flexibility make it an appealing choice for those eager to explore efficiently. It’s best suited for active travelers who want to maximize their day without sacrificing comfort.

This tour provides a convenient, informative, and personalized way to discover two German cities in one memorable day.

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