Things To Do
in Venlo

Venlo is a charming city located in the southeastern part of the Netherlands, near the German border. Known for its historical architecture and vibrant culture, it offers visitors a delightful blend of Dutch and German influences. The city is surrounded by lush nature, making it a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts.

Venlo also boasts a rich culinary scene, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Venlo's History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Limburgs Museum, where you can learn about the region's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll through the historic city center, visiting the St. Martinus Church and the beautiful Market Square.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant such as 'De Zwarte Ruiter' and then explore the quaint cafes along the Maas River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a bike ride along the Maas River, taking in the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the picturesque Kasteeltuinen Arcen, a stunning castle garden that's perfect for a leisurely walk.

evening
:

Wind down at a local pub with live music, such as 'Café de Vrolijke Noot', to experience Venlo's vibrant nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural surroundings
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Can be quiet during the weekdays
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de toiletten?" - Where are the restrooms?
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Tot ziens" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Venlo

Visit one of these nice places.

Maas River

Capture stunning sunset views along the river, where the reflections create a picturesque scene.

Market Square

The vibrant atmosphere and historical buildings offer great opportunities for street photography.

Kasteeltuinen Arcen

The beautifully landscaped gardens and castle provide a fairytale backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Venlo

Venlo offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing both traditional Dutch and regional German dishes that reflect its unique location.

Venlo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Zuurkoolschotel

A hearty dish made with sauerkraut, potatoes, and smoked sausage, often enjoyed in colder months.

Must-Try!

Venloer Poffertjes

Delicious mini pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter, a popular street food treat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Weekly Market

Held every Thursday, this market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Venlo experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rain is common throughout the year, so packing an umbrella is advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is the standard greeting, and it is polite to greet everyone in a group.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued, especially for business meetings or social gatherings.

Personal Space

Respect for personal space is important; avoid standing too close when conversing.

Safety Guide

Safety

Venlo is generally safe for visitors, with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to stay vigilant in crowded areas and safeguard personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Venlo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip in restaurants, but service charge is often included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payment options are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather attracts many tourists, and outdoor festivals are common, perfect for enjoying the local culture.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage create a picturesque setting, ideal for hiking and exploring the parks.

Winter

Cold weather can bring snow, and the city is beautifully decorated for the holidays, perfect for festive photography.

Nightlife Guide

Venlo at Night

Venlo's nightlife is vibrant with a mix of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to diverse tastes. The city comes alive in the evenings, especially on weekends, with live music performances and themed events. Popular areas include the streets around the Market Square, where you can find lively outdoor terraces and local nightlife hotspots.

Hiking in Venlo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail at Kasteeltuinen Arcen

A scenic hiking trail that winds through the beautifully landscaped gardens and surrounding woods.

De Maasduinen National Park

This national park offers various trails with diverse landscapes, including heathlands, forests, and sand dunes.

Airports

How to reach Venlo by plane.

Weeze Airport

Located about 30 kilometers from Venlo, Weeze Airport serves as a convenient option for international travelers with several low-cost airlines.

Getting Around

Walkability

Venlo is quite walkable, with a compact city center that makes it easy to explore on foot. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance, making it a pleasant experience for pedestrians. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the city is generally flat.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Venlo, often attracted by job opportunities and the vibrant cultural scene.

Retirees

Many retirees enjoy the peaceful lifestyle and natural beauty of Venlo, contributing to the city's community atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a popular sport in Venlo, with local teams like VVV-Venlo attracting passionate fans.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime in the region due to the extensive network of bike paths and scenic routes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Venlo is manageable, with peak hours typically occurring during weekdays. Public transportation is well-developed, with buses connecting various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Biking and walking are popular options, contributing to a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Venlo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Venlo offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu beforehand.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are available in some eateries, especially in larger restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Venlo is of high quality, with access to several hospitals and clinics. Emergency services are available, and many healthcare professionals speak English. Visitors should have travel insurance to cover any potential medical costs.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide