Things To Do
in Maastricht
Maastricht is a charming city in the southern part of the Netherlands, known for its picturesque cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. The city is situated along the Meuse River, offering scenic waterfront views and outdoor activities. Maastricht is a historic city with many cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and beautiful churches.
The city is also famous for its vibrant culinary scene, with a variety of cafes, restaurants, and local delicacies to enjoy.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Maastricht's historic center. Don't forget to admire the architecture of the Onze Lieve Vrouwe Basilica.
Visit the beautiful Vrijthof Square, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the outdoor cafes. Afterward, explore the nearby St. Servaas Church to soak in its rich history.
End your day with a relaxing dinner along the Meuse River. Treat yourself to some local cusine and enjoy the enchanting views of the water.
Visit the Bonnefanten Museum to appreciate its contemporary and classical art collections. Take your time to explore the exhibits and enjoy the beautiful building itself.
Head to the local bookshops and galleries around the city to discover unique finds. Take a coffee break in one of the many cozy cafes in the Wyck district.
Find a local theater for an evening performance or enjoy live music at a pub. Maastricht has a vibrant arts scene, so you’re sure to find something special.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture, with well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Vibrant international community, thanks to its location near the borders of Belgium and Germany.
- Home to Maastricht University, known for its international programs and research.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the nearby hills and rivers.
- A strong focus on sustainability and innovative urban development.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other Dutch cities.
- Limited public transport options compared to larger cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam.
- Possibility of feeling less Dutch due to its close proximity to other countries and diverse population.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours due to its status as a regional hub.
- Weather can be quite variable, with rainy days prevalent throughout the year.
Best Activities in Maastricht
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic walk along the river, taking in the picturesque views and stopping at cafes and restaurants along the way.
Take a guided tour of the intriguing cave system, which offers a unique underground adventure with stunning formations and historical significance.
Discover the beautiful green spaces, ponds, and walking paths perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor relaxation.
Embark on a cycling adventure through the picturesque Limburg countryside, passing by charming villages, vineyards, and scenic landscapes.
Experience the city from a different perspective by enjoying a boat tour along the river, with options for guided tours and even dinner cruises.
Tours
Uncover the best of Maastricht with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Maastricht
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of Maastricht and its surroundings. Perfect for photos and enjoying the cityscape.
A historic bridge with picturesque views of the Maas River and the city skyline. Great for capturing classic Maastricht scenes.
Charming square with beautiful architecture and cozy cafes, ideal for capturing the essence of Maastricht.
Food in Maastricht
Maastricht Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional sweet and sour stew made with slowly braised beef or pork, typically served with a side of fluffy, buttery potatoes. Sample this hearty dish at Cafe Sjiek, renowned for its classic Maastricht cuisine.
Must-Try!
This pungent, soft cheese hails from the region and is a must-try for cheese enthusiasts. Pair it with a crusty baguette from one of the local bakeries for an authentic Limburg experience.
Indulge in this traditional pie, featuring a flaky crust and delicious fillings such as cherries, apricots, or rice pudding. Visit the Bisschopsmolen, the oldest working watermill in the Netherlands, for a slice of this Maastricht speciality.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Maastricht better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a fantastic array of local produce, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked goods. Don't miss the opportunity to try regional snacks like frikandel, a Dutch fast food snack, or pick up some warm stroopwafels for a satisfying treat while exploring the market.
Wander through this charming street for a variety of street food options, from freshly prepared fish dishes to delectable artisanal chocolates. Stop by a stroopwafel stand for a delightful sweet snack to enjoy as you explore.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Maastricht, it's important to respect others' personal space and avoid standing too close when communicating.
It's customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact as a sign of respect.
Being punctual is valued in Maastricht, so it's important to arrive on time for appointments or social gatherings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Maastricht with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Maastricht
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping culture in the Netherlands, including Maastricht, is not as prevalent as it is in some other countries. In restaurants, it is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation, but it is not expected to leave a large tip.
In Maastricht, as in the rest of the Netherlands, electronic payments are widely used and preferred. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most establishments, and contactless payment methods are also popular. Cash is also accepted, but it is becoming less common as the use of electronic payments increases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Maastricht.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Maastricht, with blooming flowers and pleasant weather. You can expect to see the city come alive with outdoor activities and festivals.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Maastricht. The weather is warm, and there are numerous outdoor events and activities, along with bustling street cafes and vibrant nightlife.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures to Maastricht. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and gardens and enjoy the local cuisine at harvest festivals.
Winter in Maastricht is festive, with Christmas markets and decorations lighting up the city. While the weather is cold, the cozy atmosphere and seasonal events make it a charming time to visit.
Maastricht at Night
Hiking in Maastricht
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A natural area located just south of Maastricht, known for its beautiful hills, caves, and scenic views of the Meuse River.
An old limestone quarry that has been transformed into a natural park with hiking trails offering unique geological sights and views over the area.
Although primarily known for indoor skiing, the surrounding area offers hiking trails that provide panoramic views of the landscape.
A scenic hiking route that runs through the hilly countryside south of Maastricht, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
A long-distance hiking trail that can be accessed from Maastricht, it offers a mix of cultural and natural experiences along the way.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Maastricht through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Maastricht by plane.
The closest international airport to Maastricht, located approximately 10 km northeast of the city, offering mainly low-cost flights.
Located about 30 km southeast of Maastricht, this airport serves as a major cargo hub and has some international passenger flights.
Roughly 90 km northwest of Maastricht, this airport provides a wide range of low-cost flights to various European destinations.
Located about 120 km southwest of Maastricht, this is Belgium's largest airport, offering extensive international flight options.
Approximately 105 km northeast of Maastricht, it's one of the largest and busiest airports in Germany, with numerous international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Maastricht, consisting of native Dutch citizens.
A significant population of residents hailing from Germany, reflecting the city's proximity to the German border.
Residents from Belgium, particularly from nearby regions, contribute to the multicultural aspect of the city.
A considerable Turkish community in Maastricht, which adds to the city's diverse cultural landscape.
A notable population of Moroccan descent, reflecting the historical migration trends to the Netherlands.
Includes residents from various other European countries, enhancing the multicultural demographic of Maastricht.
A diverse group encompassing residents from various non-European countries, contributing to the city's multiculturalism.
The Soul of Maastricht
Discover the essence of Maastricht through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Maastricht, with several local clubs and a strong community following.
Field hockey is widely played in Maastricht, with clubs offering training and competitive opportunities for all ages.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity and sport in Maastricht, given its location and bike-friendly infrastructure.
Tennis has a solid presence in Maastricht with various clubs and facilities catering to players of all skill levels.
Running is popular in Maastricht, with numerous parks and events, including local marathons and fun runs.
Basketball has a growing community in Maastricht, supported by local clubs and youth programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maastricht.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Maastricht's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. Check out the 't Wycker Cabinet for a variety of vegetarian and vegan options in a charming setting.
Several restaurants in Maastricht cater to gluten-free diets, ensuring that those with dietary restrictions can still indulge in delicious meals. Visit Livin'Room for a selection of scrumptious gluten-free dishes, including their famous gluten-free pancakes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Maastricht with these cultural adventures.
