Things To Do
in Nijmegen
Nijmegen is a historic city in the Netherlands located on the banks of the River Waal. It is known for its rich history, with ancient Roman ruins and a well-preserved old town center. Nijmegen is home to Radboud University and attracts many students, giving the city a vibrant and youthful atmosphere.
The city also hosts the annual Four Days Marches, a famous walking event that brings thousands of participants from around the world.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Grote Markt, where you can admire the impressive St. Stevenskerk. Enjoy a coffee at a local café while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the Valkhof Museum to explore Roman history and contemporary art. Don't miss a leisurely walk through the Kronenburgerpark, perfect for relaxation.
Dine at a local restaurant to enjoy traditional Dutch cuisine. Consider a stroll along the Waal river to catch a beautiful sunset.
Head to the Ooijpolder for a refreshing walk in nature and beautiful views of the river. Keep an eye out for various bird species in this tranquil environment.
Enjoy a picnic in the Heumensoord nature reserve, surrounded by lush greenery. Take a bike ride to explore the nearby countryside.
Return to the city and enjoy a casual dinner in the charming streets of Nijmegen. Try out some local beer at a nearby brewery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance
- Beautiful green parks and riverside areas
- Strong sense of community and quality of life
- Vibrant student population due to its universities
- Excellent cycling infrastructure and walkability
- Diverse range of dining and entertainment options
- Higher living costs compared to some other Dutch cities
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries
- Weather can be quite variable and rainy
- Some areas may feel quieter or less vibrant than larger cities
- Public transport options may not be as extensive as in larger cities
Best Activities in Nijmegen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy picturesque natural surroundings and the stunning river views while hiking through Ooijpolder near Nijmegen.
Take a bike ride along the scenic Waal River, exploring the beautiful countryside and nearby villages.
Get on the water and enjoy a peaceful canoeing experience along the Waal River, taking in the beautiful landscape from a different perspective.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nijmegen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nijmegen
Visit one of these nice places.
Valkhof Park offers stunning views of the Waal River and the city of Nijmegen, with plenty of photo opportunities among its ruins and green spaces.
The St. Stevenskerk, or St. Steven's Church, provides a great vantage point to capture the medieval charm of Nijmegen from its tower, showcasing picturesque city views.
The Waalkade promenade along the Waal River offers panoramic views of the city's skyline and the opportunity to capture beautiful sunset shots.
Food in Nijmegen
Nijmegen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Dutch snack, these deep-fried crispy meatballs are served with mustard and are a must-try when visiting Nijmegen. Head to De Hemel or Café Jos for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
This comforting dish consists of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables, often accompanied by sausage and gravy. Sample the best Stamppot at Restaurant Smaakrijk, known for its rich flavors and traditional preparation.
These miniature, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar are a delightful Dutch treat. Enjoy them at the Nijmegen Street Food Festival or De Blonde Pater for a sweet experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nijmegen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market for an array of local produce, cheeses, and artisanal products. Don't miss the opportunity to savor delectable street food such as freshly made stroopwafels and gourmet Dutch fries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nijmegen, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially in public places.
Politeness is valued in Nijmegen, so using phrases like 'please' and 'thank you' in Dutch (such as 'alstublieft' and 'dank u wel') is appreciated.
Keeping noise levels down, especially in residential areas, is a sign of respect for neighbors and the community in Nijmegen.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nijmegen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nijmegen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nijmegen, it is common to leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants and cafes if the service was satisfactory. Tipping in bars and pubs is optional, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.
Most places in Nijmegen accept major credit and debit cards, but it's always good to have some cash on hand, especially in smaller establishments. Contactless payment options are also widely available, and mobile payment apps are becoming increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Nijmegen, Netherlands. The city is filled with blooming flowers and the weather is generally mild and pleasant. Many outdoor events and festivals take place during this time.
Another great time to visit Nijmegen. The city is alive with outdoor activities, open-air markets, and vibrant nightlife. The weather is warm and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.
The fall is a beautiful time to visit Nijmegen as the trees change color, creating picturesque scenery. The weather is cooler but still pleasant, and there are cultural events and harvest festivals to enjoy.
Winter in Nijmegen can be cold and damp, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holidays. There are Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and cozy cafes to enjoy during this time.
Nijmegen at Night
Hiking in Nijmegen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful forested area ideal for hiking, located just outside Nijmegen, offering a network of trails with varying difficulty levels.
A scenic hiking area near the Waal River, featuring picturesque views of nature and the city, suitable for both short and long walks.
A large forest area near Groesbeek, just a short drive from Nijmegen, providing numerous trails through diverse landscapes filled with wildlife.
Located on the Dutch-German border, this area offers hiking trails along the river with beautiful vistas and opportunities to explore nature.
A charming area with historical significance, featuring numerous hiking paths that take you through woodlands and past remnants of WWII.
Aiports
How to reach Nijmegen by plane.
The main international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 120 km northwest of Nijmegen. It is one of the busiest airports in Europe.
An international airport in Germany, located around 60 km southeast of Nijmegen. It serves as a major hub for several airlines and offers a wide range of international flights.
Located approximately 85 km southwest of Nijmegen, it is the second-largest airport in the Netherlands and serves numerous low-cost carriers.
Situated around 95 km southeast of Nijmegen, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and is a key airport in Germany.
The main international airport of Belgium, located about 150 km southwest of Nijmegen. It is a major hub for international travel in Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, comprising around 85% of the population.
A significant minority group, contributing to cultural diversity.
Another prominent minority, known for their vibrant community and cultural influence.
A notable group in Nijmegen, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
Part of the historical ties between the Netherlands and Indonesia, with a small community.
Includes various communities from countries like Poland, Romania, and others.
Comprising individuals from various countries seeking safety and stability.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Nijmegen, with several clubs and a strong local following.
Field hockey has a significant presence in Nijmegen, with various clubs offering programs for all ages.
Nijmegen is known for its running events, including the four-day walking event 'Vierdaagse' which attracts participants from all over the world.
Cycling is a popular sport in Nijmegen, bolstered by the city's extensive network of bike paths and cycling events.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Nijmegen, with several clubs and community events promoting the sport.
Basketball has a vibrant community in Nijmegen, with local teams competing in various leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nijmegen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Nijmegen embraces vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, with many eateries offering dedicated menus or clearly marking plant-based dishes. Look out for restaurants like Fresca and full vegan cafes such as Anneke Panneke.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can dine with ease in Nijmegen, as numerous establishments provide gluten-free alternatives. Notable places like Down Town and Bagels & Beans offer delectable gluten-free treats.