Skip to content
Illustrative header image for Extended Aargau Experience
AI-generated illustration

3-day itinerary

Extended Aargau Experience

3-day general exploration of Aargau, Switzerland

Length
3 days · 10 sights
Pace
Moderate
Estimated cost
CHF 270 per person
Based in
Aargau

Day by day

  1. Day 1: Aarau's Historic Heart and River Walks

    Explore the capital of Aargau, focusing on its unique painted gables, medieval old town, and scenic riverside paths along the Aare.

    • 09:00

      Strolling Through Aarau's Medieval Old Town

      Begin your day in the car-free medieval streets of Aarau, admiring the colorful gables and historic architecture.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 10:30

      Exploring Aarau's Painted Gables

      Focus specifically on the famous 16th-century painted eaves and gables that adorn the old town buildings.

      About 60 min

    • 12:00

      Lunch in Old Town

      Enjoy a traditional Swiss lunch at a café in the old town square.

      About 60 min

    • 13:30

      River Aare Banks Walk

      Take a relaxing walk along the scenic riverside paths along the Aare in Aarau, enjoying the natural beauty.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 15:30

      Aargauer Kunsthaus Visit

      Visit the Aargau Art Museum to see Swiss art from the 18th century to today.

      About 2 hours

    Meals:
    Lunch at Aarau Old Town Center; Dinner at Aarau City Center
    Where to stay:
    Stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Aarau city center for easy access to attractions.
    Getting around:
    Walking is sufficient for all activities in Aarau.

  2. Day 2: Medieval Bremgarten and Thermal Relaxation

    Travel to Bremgarten to explore its medieval old town encircled by the Reuss River, followed by relaxation at a local thermal spa.

    • 09:00

      Train to Bremgarten

      Take a short regional train from Aarau to Bremgarten (approx. 15-20 mins).

      About 30 min

    • 09:30

      Bremgarten Medieval Old Town

      Explore the medieval town on the Reuss River, walking along the historic walls and narrow streets.

      About 2 hours

    • 11:30

      Reuss River Views

      Enjoy the scenic views of the Reuss River encircling Bremgarten’s old town.

      About 60 min

    • 12:30

      Lunch in Bremgarten

      Have lunch at a riverside restaurant in Bremgarten.

      About 60 min

    • 14:00

      Thermal Spa Experience

      Relax in one of Aargau's thermal springs and wellness baths, such as those in Bad Zurzach or nearby facilities.

      About 3 hours

    Meals:
    Lunch at Bremgarten Riverside; Dinner at Bremgarten or back to Aarau
    Where to stay:
    Continue staying in Aarau or move to a hotel near the thermal spa area if preferred.
    Getting around:
    Use regional trains between Aarau and Bremgarten. Walking within Bremgarten.

  3. Day 3: Hilltop Castles and Outdoor Adventures

    Spend the final day exploring Aargau's hilltop castles with panoramic views and enjoying outdoor activities in the surrounding nature.

    • 09:00

      Travel to Lenzburg or Linn

      Take a train or drive to Lenzburg to visit the famous hilltop castle.

      About 60 min

    • 10:00

      Lenzburg Castle Visit

      Explore one of Aargau's most iconic medieval hilltop castles with panoramic views of the region.

      About 2 hours

    • 12:00

      Lunch near Castle

      Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near Lenzburg.

      About 60 min

    • 13:30

      Aargau's Historical Sites

      Visit nearby Roman ruins or other medieval abbeys in the Aargau region.

      About 2 hours

    • 15:30

      Outdoor Activities in Aargau

      Engage in diverse year-round outdoor adventures, such as hiking or cycling in the surrounding hills.

      About 2 hours

    Meals:
    Lunch at Lenzburg Area; Dinner at Return to Aarau
    Where to stay:
    Final night in Aarau or departure.
    Getting around:
    Train or car recommended for reaching Lenzburg and other scattered historical sites.

Practical information

The Aargau region offers a distinct alternative to Switzerland’s mountainous tourist hubs, characterized by rolling hills, the Aare River, and historic towns. The best time to visit is from late spring (May) to early autumn (September), when temperatures are mild and suitable for cycling and hiking. While summer can be warm, it is ideal for river activities. Winter visits are possible but require preparation for cold, damp weather, as the lowlands can feel chillier than the Alps due to lack of direct sunlight. Transportation in Aargau is efficient and relies heavily on the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). The region is well-connected to Zurich Airport and Zurich Hauptbahnhof, making it easy to reach via short train rides. Once in Aargau, the local S-Bahn network and regional trains connect major towns like Aarau, Baden, and Brugg. For exploring the countryside, renting a bicycle is highly recommended, as the region has an extensive network of flat, well-marked cycling paths. Public buses fill gaps in rural areas, but trains remain the most reliable primary mode of transport. Accommodation options vary from budget-friendly hotels in transit hubs like Brugg to boutique stays in historic towns like Baden, known for its thermal baths. Staying in Aarau provides central access to the canton’s attractions. For a quieter experience, consider lodging in smaller villages along the Aare River. Booking in advance is advisable during peak summer months and local festivals. Budget considerations should account for Switzerland’s high cost of living. While Aargau is generally slightly less expensive than major tourist centers like Zurich or Lucerne, prices for dining and accommodation remain premium. The Swiss Travel Pass covers most train and bus travel within the canton and offers free entry to many museums, which can help offset costs. However, meals, private tours, and entrance fees to specific attractions like thermal spas are typically excluded. Pack layers suitable for variable weather, including a waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes. If cycling, bring appropriate gear or plan to rent locally. A reusable water bottle is essential, as tap water is safe and widely available. Finally, carry some cash, as while credit cards are accepted in most establishments, smaller shops or rural markets may prefer Swiss Francs. Always check train schedules in advance, as service frequency decreases on weekends and holidays.

Questions people ask

Book your stay

More itineraries

All itineraries