Quick ride by bicycle from Aachen to Vaals

This short but rewarding ride takes you from the lively heart of Aachen in Germany over to the charming Dutch town of Vaals. Starting in Aachen—a city famous for its historic cathedral and university—you’ll head west, weaving through quiet roads and shady paths.

The journey’s just over 5 kilometers, mostly on smooth, paved surfaces (so you can leave your mountain bike at home). Expect some gentle climbing—about 59 meters uphill—but nothing too intense, especially with nice breaks of descent. The route is peaceful, with over half on quiet roads and a good chunk on paths, making it ideal for a leisurely pedal.

As you arrive in Vaals, you’ll notice the vibe shift from German to Dutch. Vaals is known for its proximity to the Dreiländereck, where Germany, The Netherlands, and Belgium all meet at one point. So, in less than an hour’s ride, you’ll cross a border and a culture! Perfect for a mellow afternoon spin with a coffee reward at the end.