Only about 45 minutes apart from one another by bus, Maastricht and Aachen, are on the surface, two very different cities. Maastricht is full of students and these days probably best known for its super exclusive, ridiculously expensive annual contemporary art fair. Aachen is world renowned for its majestic, centuries old cathedral and medieval art work. But poke around a bit and you’ll find a wealth of history in the former and a trendy, modern art scene and lively vibe in latter. They contrast and compliment each other and make for a great pair.