Top reasons to visit Aarau
- Outdoor Adventures: Aarau offers a variety of outdoor activities, perfect for those who enjoy scenic beauty and adventure.
- Cultural Experiences: Explore charming castles, historic churches, and the Stadtmuseum Aarau to immerse yourself in local heritage.
- Charming Altstadt: Stroll through the historic old town, discovering local shops and eateries in a friendly atmosphere.
- Relaxing Excursions: Enjoy relaxing trips into the surrounding countryside for a taste of the Swiss landscape.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of cosy bed and breakfasts to well-appointed hotels to suit every traveller's needs.
Find great hotels near Aarau
Aarau offers a delightful selection of accommodations, from cosy bed and breakfasts to well-appointed hotels, catering to a variety of travellers. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly option, a business-friendly environment, or a family-oriented experience, you'll find suitable choices. Explore the charming Hotel Aarauerhof and other popular establishments, complete with reviews to help guide your decision for a memorable stay in this picturesque Swiss town.
- Aparthotel Baden: Nestled 19.3km from Aarau, the 3-star Aparthotel Baden offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for those seeking a pet-friendly experience. Rated 8.6 out of 10 by guests, this establishment caters to travellers with furry companions, allowing dogs and cats on-site. The hotel features essential amenities, including a pet policy that waives fees for service animals. Ideal for visitors who appreciate the comforts of an apartment-style setting, it is perfect for those wishing to explore the scenic beauty of the Aargau region with their pets.
- ibis Baden Neuenhof: Located 20.9km from Aarau, the eco-certified ibis Baden Neuenhof is a 3-star hotel that combines sustainability with comfort, boasting a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This accommodation is particularly suited for eco-conscious travellers and is pet-friendly, allowing dogs and cats. Amenities include food and water bowls for pets and a flexible pet policy that includes waived fees for service animals. The hotel’s commitment to the environment ensures a conscientious stay without sacrificing comfort, making it an excellent choice for the modern traveller.
- Hotel Amaris: Just 11.3km from Aarau, the 4-star Hotel Amaris stands out with its family-oriented and golf-themed offerings. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, it provides a unique experience for families looking to enjoy the sport together. The hotel features a range of children’s amenities, including toys, games, and books, ensuring younger guests are entertained. For golf enthusiasts, the property offers easy access to nearby courses, making it a prime location for a family vacation that combines leisure and sport in the beautiful Swiss countryside.
Where to stay near Aarau
Discover the enchanting city of Aarau, where outdoor adventures and scenic beauty await. Just a stroll from the historic Altstadt, immerse yourself in the friendly atmosphere while exploring charming shops and local eateries. Venture nearby to experience the rich history of the region or take relaxing excursions into the surrounding countryside. Aarau offers a delightful blend of business and leisure, making it the perfect base for your Swiss getaway.
- Erlinsbach: Situated a mere 3.2km from Aarau, Erlinsbach is a charming city that beckons outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The travel experience here is punctuated by its scenic landscapes and numerous recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golfing and exploring the nearby cable car gondolas, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The peak season for travellers typically falls between January to February and September, making it an ideal spot for those keen on winter sports or autumn hikes. Don't miss the local lookouts that provide stunning vistas of the region.
- Kölliken: Located 6.4km from Aarau, Kölliken is another vibrant city with a strong appeal for sports and outdoor activities. The travel experience here is invigorating, particularly during the peak months of June to August when visitors flock to enjoy the area's golf courses and ski resorts. The city's commitment to adventure is evident through its well-maintained facilities that cater to both golfers and winter sports enthusiasts. Even in the quieter months of February and late autumn, Kölliken remains an inviting destination for those looking to engage in outdoor pursuits amidst beautiful scenery.
- Holziken: Just 8.0km away from Aarau, Holziken is a picturesque city that offers visitors a delightful blend of stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. The travel experience in Holziken is enhanced by its proximity to a national state park, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With peak visitor numbers in the summer months of June to August, this city is perfect for hiking and exploring the great outdoors. The quieter months of October to December still offer beautiful landscapes and a chance to enjoy the tranquillity of nature, making Holziken a fantastic getaway.
Things to do near Aarau
Shopping
Aarau offers a delightful shopping experience with charming local boutiques and markets. Visit the Aarau Farmers' Market for fresh produce and unique crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out the Aarau Shopping Centre, about 24.1km away, for a wider selection of retail stores and dining options.
Recreation
At the Hotel Kloster, indulge in serene spa treatments and unwind in the tranquil garden. The nearby Aare River offers scenic walking and cycling paths, perfect for leisurely exploration while enjoying the picturesque Swiss landscape.
Adventure
The Kuessnacht am Rigi Cable Car offers thrilling rides to stunning viewpoints, surrounded by outdoor adventure and family-friendly activities. Similarly, the Brunni Cable Car provides access to breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a blend of excitement and natural beauty, located 48.3km from Aarau.
Nightlife
Aarau offers a vibrant nightlife with venues like the stylish Club 4, known for its lively DJs and dance floor. For a relaxed evening, visit the historic Gasthof zum Löwen, where you can enjoy local wines and traditional Swiss dishes in a charming setting.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Aarau
To save money during your visit to Aarau, consider travelling in the off-peak months of January to February and November when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel around a month in advance, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest days to stay, while Sundays are pricier. Utilise Expedia's filters to find the best rates and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Lastly, take advantage of free local attractions and explore the city using public transport to keep costs down.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Aarau are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Aarau about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Aarau is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Aarau is Sunday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable rates and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Aarau with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Aarau
Aarau, located in the Canton of Aargau, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore charming castles, historic churches, and art museums, making it perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. The Stadtmuseum Aarau is a must-visit for those keen to delve deeper into the local heritage. Enjoy the stunning scenery and vibrant atmosphere that Aarau has to offer during your Swiss holiday.
- Habsburg Castle: Located 12.9km from Aarau, Habsburg Castle offers a unique glimpse into Switzerland’s medieval past. Its impressive structure and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape create a remarkable atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
- Aarau Church: Nestled within Aarau, this church features stunning architecture and rich cultural significance. Its serene interior and beautiful stained-glass windows provide a tranquil environment, perfect for contemplation and appreciation of local artistry.
- Naturama Aargau Museum: Situated in Aarau, this museum focuses on natural history and offers engaging exhibits for families. With interactive displays, it fosters a deeper understanding of the region’s biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Best time to go to Aarau
The best time to visit Aarau can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Aarau falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Aarau falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Aarau
Flying into Aarau is convenient with several nearby airports. Zürich Airport (ZRH) is located 40.2km away, with luxurious hotels like The Dolder Grand, Atlantis by Giardino, and Glockenhof Zürich offering various transport services, including 24-hour airport shuttles. Basel EuroAirport (BSL) is 45.1km from Aarau, featuring hotels such as ibis Styles Bâle-Mulhouse and Mercure Bale Mulhouse Aeroport, both just 1.6km away and easily accessible. Lastly, Strasbourg Airport (SXB) is 132.0km distant, with elegant accommodations like Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel&Spa providing shuttle services. These options ensure a smooth start to your Swiss adventure.