Krämerstraße (Kramer Street), Aachen

Kramer Street runs north to south just east of Katschhof Square. Its southern boundary is the cathedral, and the northern end is Market Square. The narrow walking street is lined with beautiful shops and boutiques of every description.

Along the route are several historic buildings. Many shops have residential buildings above, and many of the buildings are listed as architectural monuments within the city. A vast majority date from the early 19th century. The Postwagen and Eulenspiegel houses are notable, built near Town Hall around 1657.

Postwagen and Ratskeller are adjacent to the Town Hall and home to highly-regarded, upscale restaurants.

Another stately building worth looking for is Number 29. It's a three-story brick structure built along a curve in the street. It dates from 1656 originally, but was extensively rebuilt in 1950. The right half of the building houses a round staircase.

Along the way, you'll pass several art installations and fountains. Don't miss the Dolls' Fountain, and, near the north end of the street, the Chicken Thief Fountain. It was unveiled at the Christmas Market in 1913 and depicts a chicken thief who is sold out by the crowing rooster he inadvertently grabbed. The fountain is a recreation made in 1950 from the original molds. Unfortunately, the original statue was destroyed in World War II.