Aarau(Switzerland) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For a culturally immersive stay, Hotel Alte Schmiede is highly recommended. Housed in a former medieval blacksmith workshop, this boutique hotel blends historic charm with modern comfort. Located steps from Aarau Castle and the Town Hall Square, it offers easy access to key landmarks. Some rooms feature views of the Aargau canal, and the hotel hosts themed evenings like "Old Town Nights," where guests enjoy traditional Swiss music and storytelling. Perfect for history lovers seeking authenticity.

The Old Town (Altstadt) is the ideal district for lodging. It’s centrally located near Aarau Train Station, the Town Hall, and Cathedral St. John, all within walking distance. Cobblestone streets lined with well-preserved Renaissance buildings create a picturesque atmosphere, especially at dusk. Local gems like Café Zürcher serve authentic Swiss cuisine, while nearby Aarau River Promenade offers peaceful morning walks. Its compact size makes exploring on foot effortless and enjoyable.

Aarau shines with its Aarau Museum, housing extensive collections on regional history, Roman artifacts, and medieval manuscripts. Every summer, the Aarauer Musikfest transforms the Town Hall Square into a stage for classical and jazz performances. Visitors can also join hands-on woodcarving workshops led by local artisans, crafting miniature sculptures that reflect Swiss rural heritage. These experiences provide deep insight into the town’s artistic traditions and community spirit.

Must-try dishes include Rösti—a golden Swiss potato pancake served with melted cheese and fried egg—often enjoyed at breakfast or lunch. Züpfe, a traditional vanilla cream-filled pastry, is available at Bäckerei Hug. For savory delights, visit Altkirch Beer House, which serves house-brewed dark beer alongside sauerkraut stewed beef. During winter, don’t miss the seasonal Schoggi-Krapfen—chocolate-filled doughnuts sold at local markets, a sweet treat rooted in regional tradition.

Yes, Hotel Bären Aarau stands out as a top family choice. It features a dedicated kids’ playroom, family suites, and weekly activities like "Young Architect Workshops" where children build mini castles from blocks. The hotel is just a 5-minute walk from Aarau Zoo, where kids can meet rabbits, goats, and more. The restaurant offers child-friendly menus using organic ingredients sourced locally, ensuring healthy, safe meals for young travelers.

Aarau lies along the Aare River, offering excellent outdoor opportunities. Hike the Lägern foothill trails for panoramic views of the Aargau countryside and wildflower meadows. In spring, the Aarau Valley Meadows become popular for picnics and kite flying. Autumn brings guided forest walks with ecological experts explaining local flora and fauna. Additionally, the Aare River Boat Tour runs weekly, allowing visitors to glide past historic waterways and old bridges, enjoying a serene perspective of the city.

Though quiet, Aarau has charming night scenes. Café Münster hosts live jazz nights and serves craft beers. Theater Aarau occasionally holds post-performance gatherings after plays. Kleines Kino, a small independent cinema, screens indie films monthly with wine and snacks. For a tranquil evening, sit on the Aarau River benches and listen to the flowing water—a perfect way to experience the town’s peaceful rhythm under starlight.

Absolutely. Aarau Castle (Schloss Aarau), one of Switzerland’s most intact medieval castles, dates back to the 12th century and now houses a history museum with armor, manuscripts, and period furnishings. St. John’s Church boasts striking Gothic architecture and vibrant stained-glass windows. The Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) retains original stone walls and 16th-century coats of arms, telling stories of centuries-old civic life. Together, they form a living timeline of the region’s rich past.

Extremely convenient. Aarau Train Station connects directly to Zurich, Basel, and Bern via Swiss Federal Railways, with frequent services every 30 minutes. The city operates a free bus network (Aarau Bus) covering major attractions and shopping areas. Bike rental stations are widely available, enabling easy rides to nearby villages like Büren and Wüetwiler. Visitors can also buy the Aarau City Pass, which includes free public transit and discounts at museums and restaurants.

A 2- to 3-day itinerary is ideal. Day one: explore Aarau Castle, Town Hall Square, and stroll along the Aare River Promenade. Day two: visit the Aarau Zoo, Museum, and join a local cooking class. Day three: take a day trip to Lützelsee Lake or Baden Spa Town for nature and wellness. This balanced schedule allows deep immersion in culture, nature, and relaxation without feeling rushed.