Visit Maastricht and explore the capital of Netherlands’ southern province, Limburg. This city is known as the site where the treaty for the European Union was signed. It has also been the host of some the biggest concerts of André Rieu, the world-famous violinist and conductor. Wander cobblestone streets dotted with old merchant houses, shop in the Stokstraat and experience the grandeur of the many churches and museums.
This relaxed city offers visitors the chance to really get to know locals. Go to coffee shops and bars to meet Maastricht residents who enjoy cozy get-togethers. These gatherings are known as “gezellig”.
The history of Maastricht dates back to a time of hunter-gatherer tribes, which roamed the area before Roman occupation in the first century B.C. Medieval defences, Spanish-style cathedrals and a love for fine cuisine, reminiscent of the French, show the region’s diverse influences.
Venture through the city on foot, by bus or bike. The city centre, west of the river, is marked by its main square, Vrijthof. Take a sightseeing tour and visit the grand Basilica of St. Servatius complete with a treasury, courtyard and garden. Walk southeast and find the 13th-century Helpoort, which remains the oldest standing gate in the Netherlands.
Wander Grote Straat (Big Street) to VVV Maastricht, the city’s tourist centre. Take a tour of the Fortifications Trail, a system of 20,000 subterranean tunnels that crisscross the St. Pietersberg Caves and pass under a fort in the city's south.
Maastricht is situated on the Maas River, 2.5 hours from Amsterdam by car. If you don’t have a vehicle, you can get a train or fly there. After exploring the city, take a tour of the castles and hills that surround the city. For a unique experience, venture southeast of the city and visit the point where Netherlands, Germany and Belgium meet.
