2 Best Places to Shop in The Rhineland, Germany

A bit of a cult destination for German foodies, Pfeffersack und Söhne create their own dried herb and spice blends from regionally grown plants where possible, as well as dried produce from farther afield. You can buy the gorgeous ceramic pots the spices are sold separately; also on offer are various gourmet specialties such as mustard, oil, and tea. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and very happy to advise you on your spice purchases.

Some of the best Aachener Printen can be found here, at one of Aachen's most beloved cafés, as can another tasty Aachen specialty, Reisfladen (a sort of tart filled with milk rice and often topped with fruit—pears, apricots, or cherries). Set in a 17th-century building, the café is worth a visit if for nothing more than its atmosphere and tempting aromas.