Switzerland

Aarau

Aarau

Aarau is a charming town located in the canton of Aargau, Switzerland. Situated on the banks of the Aare River, Aarau is known for its pict…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Historical sites travelers
  • Museums travelers
  • Visiting in Summer
Recommended stay
3-5 days
Best time
Summer
Walkability
Moderate
Guide depth
Solid guide
More about this guide

Aarau is a strong pick for historical sites & museums — plan about 3-5 days. Peak season: Summer.

Solid guide guide · about 3 min to read · depth score 69/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Moderate density — A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops. (≈8 km span)

10 Places to explore
3-5 Recommended days
Summer Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: Summer

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: March · April · October · November

Weather

Autumn

10°C - 20°C

Spring

10°C - 20°C

Summer

20°C - 30°C

Winter

-5°C - 5°C

How to get there

How to Reach Aarau, Switzerland

  • By Air: The nearest international airport to Aarau is the Zurich Airport which is about 48 km away. From the airport, you can take a train or a taxi to reach Aarau.
  • By Train: Aarau is well-connected by train. There are regular train services from Zurich, Basel, Bern, and other major cities in Switzerland. The Aarau train station is located in the center of the town.
  • By Road: Aarau is located on the A1 highway, which connects Zurich to Bern. You can take a car or a bus from Zurich, Basel, Bern, or other major cities in Switzerland to reach Aarau.

Getting to know Aarau

Aarau is a charming town located in the canton of Aargau, Switzerland. Situated on the banks of the Aare River, Aarau is known for its picturesque setting and rich history. The town features a well-preserved old town, characterized by narrow streets, cobblestone paths, and beautiful medieval buildings.

One of the main attractions in Aarau is the Aarau Castle, a striking landmark that dominates the town's skyline. The castle, also known as the Aargau Castle, dates back to the 13th century and offers visitors a fascinating insight into the region's history.

Aarau is also home to numerous museums and art galleries, showcasing both contemporary and traditional works. The Aargauer Kunsthaus is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, housing an impressive collection of Swiss art from the 18th century to the present day.

The town is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with festivals and events taking place throughout the year. The Aarau Summer Festival, held annually in July, attracts visitors from near and far with its diverse program of music, theater, and dance performances.

For nature lovers, Aarau offers plenty of outdoor activities. The nearby Jura Mountains provide ample opportunities for hiking and biking, while the Aare River is perfect for water sports such as kayaking and rafting.

With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Aarau is a delightful destination that offers something for everyone.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Don't forget to visit Aarau Castle
  • Try the local specialty dish 'Aargauer Rüeblitorte'
  • Explore the beautiful Aare River
  • Visit the Naturama museum for a unique experience

Places worth exploring

10 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 3-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Aarau located?

Aarau is located in Switzerland on the northeastern part of the country.

What is the population of Aarau?

As of 2021, the population of Aarau is approximately 21,000.

How can I get to Aarau?

Aarau can be reached by train, as it has a well-connected railway station. You can also drive or take a bus to the city.

What is the official language spoken in Aarau?

The official language of Aarau is Swiss German.

What is the currency used in Aarau?

The currency used in Aarau, as well as in the rest of Switzerland, is the Swiss Franc (CHF).

Is English widely spoken in Aarau?

While Swiss German is the main language, many people in Aarau can understand and communicate in English, especially in tourist areas.

What is the best time to visit Aarau?

The best time to visit Aarau is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild and pleasant.

What are some popular tourist attractions in Aarau?

Some popular tourist attractions in Aarau include Aarau Old Town, Aargau Art Museum, Aarau Castle, and Pfarrkirche St. Martin.

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Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Aarau → Rohr → Rupperswil · ≈5 km
  • Aarau → Schonenwerd · ≈5 km
  • Aarau → Rohr → Biberstein · ≈3 km

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