Aarau City Guide

Local specialties include carrot cake and Swiss dishes like fondue and raclette. International cuisine is present but limited. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Food closes by 10 PM mostly.

Nightlife is modest, centered on bars and pubs in the old town. Few clubs exist; overall a relaxed scene.

Good mix of traditional cafes and specialty coffee shops. Quality espresso common.

Tipping is not required as service is included. Rounding up or 5-10% for good service is common.

SIM cards are available at Swisscom, Sunrise, and Salt stores in the city center. eSIMs may be available depending on provider. ID registration is required.

Very clean city with excellent waste management and sanitation.

Limited 24/7 options. Some shops in train station open late. Pharmacies rotate emergency service.

Supermarkets like Migros, Coop, and Denner offer international products. Fresh markets run regularly in the old town. Shops usually open weekdays and Saturdays; closed Sundays.

Card payments work almost everywhere. Mobile apps like Twint are common. Cash is rarely needed but handy for small local markets.

ATMs are common near the city center and train stations. Major banks like UBS and Credit Suisse operate them. International withdrawal fees may apply.

Public schools teach mainly in German. For international schools with English instruction, commute to Zurich or Basel.

Small nomad community with informal networking. Few dedicated nomad events or co-living options.

Lots of green spaces with riverside paths and surrounding forests and hills.

Good running along the river and forests. Safe with local running groups.

Gyms offer equipment and classes; sports clubs are active locally.

Tennis clubs with courts and booking options available locally.

Padel is growing with some courts in the region.

Several yoga studios offer classes in various styles, some in English.

Dojos for Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, and some boxing or kickboxing classes.

Ski resorts are within 1-1.5 hours' drive. Runs for all levels; season runs December to April.

Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Aare River during warmer months. Sailing is on larger lakes further away.

Surfing is not available in Aarau.

No diving in town; lakes nearby like Lake Lucerne offer options with travel.

Kantonsspital Aarau offers modern healthcare with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies provide common meds and advice.

Tap water is safe and excellent in quality. Public fountains often provide drinkable water.

Aarau offers many playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, and attractions like the natural history museum. Baby supplies are easy to find.

Safe and accepting city. Few dedicated LGBTQ+ venues but legal protections exist.

Pet-friendly with parks, vets, and some pet-friendly venues. Check import rules before travel.