Aarau between the Old Town, the Aare and Swiss art

Aarau lies on the Swiss Plateau, on the right bank of the Aare, in the Aare Valley and at the southern foot of the Jura. The Old Town stands on a limestone outcrop, whose two sides slope steeply down to the river plain. As a result, the city’s history and streetscape bring together river scenery and historic lanes. From Aarau railway station, you can reach the Old Town in a five-minute walk. A city map with a suggested route guides you through the lanes and past the sights on a self-guided tour.

Old Town lanes, towers and architectural history

Artfully painted gables and medieval lanes define the Old Town. Halde is a particularly well-preserved street lined mainly with late Gothic townhouses. Among its striking landmarks is Obertorturm, also known as Oberturm or Oberer Turm: it is considered Aarau’s landmark and the tallest city tower in Switzerland. It is open to visitors only as part of a guided tour, so check whether a suitable tour is available before your visit.

The town hall also tells the story of several building phases. Its oldest part is Rore Tower, dating from the 13th century. Originally a fief of the Counts of Kyburg, the small castle was gradually converted into the town hall from 1515 onwards and later extended several times. Schlössli, a medieval residential tower dating from the 13th century, now houses the City Museum.

The late Gothic town church was built between 1471 and 1478. Its stained-glass windows were created by Felix Hoffmann and Roland Guignard. Most of the stones used to build it were brought from Obergösgen Castle on the Aare, which had been demolished. In 1965/66, the church was restored to its original simplicity and placed under heritage protection. Its excellent acoustics make it a popular venue for concerts.

Art, museums and cultural events

The Aargau Art Museum holds more than 21,000 works and the most comprehensive public collection of Swiss art from the 18th century to the present day. One of its strengths is 19th-century landscape painting. Older holdings and new acquisitions are continually brought together in changing displays. Visitors wishing to discover Swiss art across different eras can explore both historical works and more recent acquisitions here.

For around five months in 1798, Haus zum Schlossgarten served as Switzerland’s first seat of government, making it the country’s first federal building. Today, it houses Forum Schlossplatz, whose programme includes exhibitions and accompanying events exploring contemporary cultural, artistic and social issues. The Naturama focuses on the natural history of the Canton of Aargau. Its permanent exhibition begins with dinosaurs and mammoths, while interactive films, games and listening stations share insights into a constantly changing environment.

Alte Reithalle is a major cultural venue for the performing arts. This professionally run, multi-genre venue presents drama, dance, puppetry and object theatre, contemporary circus, cabaret, comedy, music theatre, and theatre for children and young people. The argovia philharmonic stages its own symphony, chamber and family concerts there, as well as guest concerts. Alte Reithalle opens for public events; check the current programme before your visit.

Natural surroundings and trails in Roggenhausen

The Roggenhausen Wildlife Park is home to wild animals and rare domestic animal breeds. The park also has a nature trail with six stops explaining the connections between geology, vegetation and wildlife. Located in the transition zone between the Jura and the Swiss Plateau, the trail links nature topics with the region’s distinctive landscape setting. The orchard contains around 50 standard fruit trees, including apple, pear, plum, damson and cherry trees.

Markets and local traditions

Rüeblimärt offers a wide selection of regional products and culinary specialities. Sustainability and environmental awareness are at its heart, and the event also features various activities, special guided tours and events. Individual vendors and programme items may vary. During Bachfischet, schoolchildren’s lanterns illuminate the darkened Old Town; traditionally, a fireworks display with the “Mordschlapf” marks the end. Specific programme details may vary, so it is helpful to check the event dates before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Suhr, Aarau, Rohr, Küttigen, Muhen, Gränichen, Oberentfelden, Bremgarten.

See the overview of destinations in the wider region: Aargau.