I visited Germany twice, first in February 2024 and then in April 2025. I visited Aachen City and Singen City during these two visits. During my visit to Belgium in February 2024 to attend a hackathon in Leuven, I took a short but memorable detour to Aachen, Germany — a historic city that sits right near the border of Belgium and the Netherlands. Traveling by train, I crossed into Aachen for a one-night stay, experiencing yet another layer of European culture and history.
Aachen is a city rich in heritage and deeply rooted in European history. Known as the imperial residence of Charlemagne, Aachen was once the political centre of Western Europe and the site of coronation for many German kings. The city’s most iconic landmark, the Aachen Cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), is an architectural masterpiece that spans centuries of history and spiritual significance. Walking through its old town, with cobbled streets and traditional buildings, felt like stepping back in time.
Despite my brief stay, Aachen’s quiet charm and historical depth offered a peaceful pause after the energy of the hackathon. I spent the evening enjoying the local atmosphere, sampling some regional cuisine, and reflecting on the blend of cultures that make border cities like Aachen so unique.
After my night in Aachen, I took the train back to Brussels Charleroi Airport, from where I returned to Hungary, bringing back not only memories of the event in Leuven but also the warmth and quiet elegance of Aachen.
I celebrated Ramadan Eid 2025 there in Switzerland. I went to see the Schaffhausen Rhine Falls from Zurich. After visiting Schaffhausen Rheinfall, I went to Singen, Germany, which is the nearest city or bordering city of Germany with Switzerland. It is an industrial city.
Both times I went to Germany by train from Belgium and Switzerland. These journeys across borders reminded me how interconnected Europe is — and how even a brief visit to a new city can leave a lasting impression.
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