The main altar and choir knave are of particular interest with a host of intricate decoration and stunning stained glass windows. Sint Janskerk does just that and it is more commonly known as the red church. Book your tickets online for the top things to do in Maastricht, The Netherlands on Tripadvisor: See 96,395 traveller reviews and photos of Maastricht tourist attractions. The city is perfect for a slow, romantic weekend away from Amsterdam spent exploring a beautiful cathedral bookstore, strolling the tangled streets, touring historic caves, and eating/drinking delicious regional cuisine at affordable prices. The activities in the Top 10 are highly recommended. Surrounding the market square are a host of cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating where you can people watch and have a fantastic bite to eat. Plan visits to Efteling, Maastricht Underground + Boekhandel Dominicanen. You can still see the monastery today together with the beautiful small white houses and cute cobbled side streets. An amalgamation of many different architectural styles, the basilica is now mainly Romanesque but has Gothic elements too. You can now take many different guided tours of the tunnels and learn about their amazing history. Maastricht is a devout city, which becomes even clearer when heading to the nearby, more intimate Onze Lieve Vrouweplein, or Square of Our Lady (what’s in a name).Look through the sea of terraces and you’ll find the thousand year old Basilica of Our Lady and the adjacent Star of the Sea chapel.Its golden altar contrasts beautifully with the chapel’s blackened ceiling. You can also walk a long a connecting pier here and see the various cruise boats that are docking. The church is located close to the Sint Servaasbasiliek. See Tripadvisor's 18,159 traveller reviews and photos of Maastricht rainy day attractions Moreover, if you stay one night from Sunday – Thursday at one of the affiliated hotels, you’ll get a Midweekend Pass! Types of Things to Do in Maastricht Sights & Landmarks (48) Shopping (34) Tours (24) Fun & Games (23) Nightlife (22) Museums (17) Outdoor Activities (17) Nature & Parks (8) Classes & Workshops (7) Concerts & Shows (7) Transportation (7) Spas & Wellness (6) Food & Drink (5) Traveller Resources (4) Water & Amusement Parks (1) Walk across this fine structure for amazing views of Maastricht and the river Meuse. The greenhouses will open their doors and let you discover the world of vegetable, flower and plant cultivators. Right in front of the town hall of Maastricht is the bustling popular Maastricht Market. Book Highlight Running Tour, Private Tour to Designer Outlet Roermond + Private Photo Session with a Local Photographer in Maastricht tours. The modern art section includes many collections from notable 20th century artists that covers artistic movements such as Neo-expressionism, Arte Povera and Minimal Art. Between the 1500’s and the 1800’s, this network of tunnels and underground passageways was developed to aid during times of siege and for improving the cities defences. There are many degrees taught entirely in English at all three universities, which is why the city draws so many international students. Distinguished by its tall tower in red color, the gothic style church is a stunning building from the 15th century. Maastricht is one of the oldest towns in the Netherlands and has a rich culture and economical history. The most popular things to do in Maastricht with kids according to Tripadvisor travellers are: Hotels with Complimentary Breakfast in Maastricht, Hotels near (MST) Maastricht-Aachen Airport, Onze Lieve Vrouw Sterre der Zee Basiliek: Tickets & Tours‎, Basilica of St. Servatius: Tickets & Tours‎, Fotomuseum aan het Vrijthof: Tickets & Tours‎, Things to do near Regionaal Historisch Centrum Limburg Maastricht, Things to do near De Baron | Pop Up Cocktail Club, Things to do near Maastricht-Aachen Airport (MST), Things to do near Dormio Hotel de Prins van Oranje, See all attractions in Maastricht on Tripadvisor, See all outdoor activities in Maastricht on Tripadvisor, See all kid friendly things to do in Maastricht on Tripadvisor. There are historic buildings and trendy designer boutiques, majestic churches and thrilling cave adventures, stately squares and vast vineyards. Some networks of the tunnels once stretched for over 230km and were totally man-made. All this and more makes Maastricht a favourite destination for an unforgettable group activity, a dynamic company excursion, or an exciting incentive. Visit the Sint Janskerk Located on one of the main squares in Maastricht, Sint Janskerk is one of the city’s most popular landmarks. The interior of this church is also quite stunning with many tall stained glass windows, beautiful stone work and an ornate wooden pulpit and organ. However, some studies will require you to study in Dutch in later years, like the UM medicine track. Another of the wonderful villages in the Limburg region, Thorn offers a fantastic day trip from Maastricht and can be found approximately 30 minutes to the north of the city. Experience Maastricht together. Maastricht Market. We have reviews of the best places to see in Maastricht… Exhibitions inside this magnificent structure are centred around fine art both historical and contemporary. Maastricht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and is well worth a visit. Sculptures adorn the exterior of the breathtaking church mainly carved from stone, the treasury inside also contains many artefacts and religions iconography from ages past. Various different cruises are available including an evening dinner cruise, and even a tour that takes you to the Belgian city of Liege. Maastricht’s biggest attractions are the underground tours to the casemates. See how this fort functioned, and learn about what made is such a formidable and well placed garrison. Made exclusively of Marl Stone, the bell tower has a unique colouring and you will not find many other buildings that look the similar. Things To Do In Maastricht Area Maastricht has a huge Golfing area called “ De Maastrichtsche Internationaal Golf Maastricht” which is something to put on your list if you like to golf. All things to do in Maastricht; Things to do near Maastricht Underground. You can find all sorts of local and fresh produce, different crafts, dutch souvenirs and other bric-a-brac that you can think of. And of course you and all of our health are a priority. In the southeast of the Netherlands lays Maastricht. Sights & Landmarks in Maastricht. Furthermore, the town boasts the highest castle ruins in the country and a great host of bars and restaurants and beautiful surrounding landscapes. The first of the major religious buildings in Maastricht, the Basilica of our lady was constructed in the 1100’s but little is known of its early history. Fun Things to Do in Maastricht with Kids: Family-friendly activities and fun things to do. Maastricht's star gallery has an excellent collection of early European painting and sculpture on the 1st floor, but is best known for contemporary art, with works by Limburg artists displayed upstairs; … Valkenburg is one of the main tourist villages that people visit as a day trip from Maastricht. Throughout history, different groups have entered the Limburg region including the Romans, Carolingian’s, and later the Dukes of Brabant. Outside the walls is a pleasant park beside the River Jeker, where you will find a statue of d’Artagnan, the fourth musketeer. As an important city located on the Meuse river, Maastricht is a fantastic tourist destination and has a great deal to offer from historical buildings, to beautiful parks and some intriguing cave networks. Do I need to speak Dutch to go to university in Maastricht? There are plenty of options you can do with your company in Maastricht and the surrounding area. The name itself is what drew us to this Maastricht attraction. The most popular things to do in Maastricht with kids according to Tripadvisor travellers are: Maastricht Underground; Fort Sint Pieter; Helpoort; Market Square; De Bisschopsmolen; See all kid friendly things to do in Maastricht on Tripadvisor £ Here you will find everything you can do in Maastricht. It takes a half an hour bus ride from Maastricht to Aachen, Germany. Inside, the high vaulted ceilings and many decorated arches are fantastic to admire. The Meuse river is one of the most important in Europe and runs through both Belgium and the Netherlands. What are the top attractions to visit in Maastricht? Named due to the fact that prisoners were actually locked away in the tower of the gate, this structure once served as the main southern entrance to the city. Inside the museum you can find some wonderful displays centred around the geology, flora and fauna and palaeontology of the Limburg region including ancient fossils and other specimens. As Maastricht is a medieval city that also existed back in the Roman Empire, there are plenty of monuments to visit. Located near the university and the Stadspark, the museum is easily accessible and can be visited during a walk-around of the city center. As a starting point for exploring the city, there is no better place. You would not expect to find a bookstore in a church. The city is a lot quieter than at the weekend, but all the bustling hotspots are just open. So, which five things do you simply have to do during a … Located near the university and the Stadspark, the museum is easily accessible and can be visited during a walk-around of the city center. In the centre of this charming square lies the city hall – This imposing building takes pride of place and its design and style are undeniable. See Tripadvisor's 18,169 traveller reviews and photos of kid friendly Maastricht attractions Admire the limestone archways and the beautiful cobbled stonework footpath. 5. ). The Boekhandel Dominicanen however is a fantastic book store located in the confines of a 12th century church. Fort Sint Pieter; Kazematten Maastricht; City Sights Maastricht; Maastricht Running Tours; Statue of D'Artagnan; Architectuurtour.nl; Explore Maastricht; Galerie MOA; De Baron | Pop Up Cocktail Club; Onze Lieve Vrouw Sterre der Zee Basiliek; Boekhandel Dominicanen; Helpoort; Bookstore Dominicanen A fantastic piece of the cities history, this building is a must see and provides great insight into the age old power of Maastricht. Things to Do in Maastricht, Limburg Province: See Tripadvisor's 18,186 traveller reviews and photos of Maastricht attractions. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Maastricht such as events and attractions or are planning where to stay in Maastricht, you’ll find everything you need for your Maastricht holiday on What's On In Maastricht.com.Make sure to discover Maastricht’s diverse neighbourhoods, from tranquil suburbs to central areas full of shopping, entertainment and dining options. It was built in the 13th century as part of the city fortification that protected Maastricht. Discover 2021's top Maastricht attractions. Lets explore the best things to do in Maastricht: Maastricht has a well developed network of historical caves and tunnels. The second of the major squares in Maastricht, the market square is actually in close proximity to the Vrijthof but offers something different. For a fantastic relaxing journey on the Meuse, there is no better way than to take a boat cruise with Rederij Stiphout. City hall (Stadhuis) This beautiful building is located in the centre of the Markt square and dates back to the 17th century. This is one of the best things that you can do in Maastricht. All things to do in Maastricht; Popular Maastricht Categories. From here, head to St. Servaasbrug, a splendid seven-arched bridge built in the 13th century and notable for its statue of St. Servatius. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in January. Maastricht is one of the most charming cities in the Netherlands and it can be easily explored in a weekend. Notable finds include a rat king, and giant turtle specimens. more, Top Things to Do in Maastricht, The Netherlands - Maastricht Attractions. Why spend hours ruminating over what to do in Maastricht? It stands as an important city for many reasons including being the birthplace of the EU and the Euro currency. The medieval atmosphere makes this picturesque city an absolute hidden gem in the Netherlands. Old bridge in Maastricht The Wilhelminabrug, a bridge built over the River Maas in the early 1930s, is a good place from which to begin a walking tour of Maastricht's picturesque riverside districts. Spending one day in Maastricht can really show you the ins-and-outs of Dutch culture. At 925km long the Meuse has many towns and cities on its banks and Maastricht has always used this waterway as a key means of transport and trade. Maastricht Nautral History Museum. During WWII, many people also took shelter here to avoid bombing raids and conflict. One of the main bridges that crosses the Meuse river, this stone footbridge has remained an icon of the city for many years. Find that perfect souvenir at one of the smaller shops, or reinvent your entire artistic aesthetic at … Monuments that can be found here include the Basilica of St. Servatius, the Spanish Government, the cannon house and the post office. Also known as the white village, this quaint settlement used to be a principality and was home to nuns and noblewomen who lived at the Abdijkerk Monastery. They’ve got a lovely terrace right next to the ‘Stadspark’ and the Pesthuis and Helpoort (Plaguehouse and Hell’s gate – but don’t let the name fool you – great looking buildings! Constructed in the middle ages, the church has no always featured its red tower and documents state that it has been both yellow and white during its history. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Located on the Belgium/Holland border, Maastricht serves as the capital of the Limburg region which is tucked away in-between Belgium and Germany. The best outdoor activities in Maastricht according to Tripadvisor travellers are: What are the most popular things to do in Maastricht with kids? Even though Maastricht has its own airport, you’re probably going to arrive by train at Maastricht Central Station. Although only a small museum in the centre of Maastricht, the natural history museum hosts a huge range of artefacts and displays on a number of different subjects. The historic inner city is sure to have you snap happy and a visit to the caves, which kept Rembrandt’s Night Watch safe during WWII, is sure to awaken your curiosity. Generally, Maastricht is rather a city to take a relaxing walk rather than do crazy things. Things to do in Maastricht outside the city walls. Aside from the delightful buildings, you can also find many shops and restaurants, plus regular markets and events are held in this square such as Magical Maastricht and the Maastricht Carnival. Walk through the eerie passageways and come to understand how they were built and how the citizens of Maastricht benefited from their creation. Things to Do in Maastricht, Limburg Province: See Tripadvisor's 18,172 traveller reviews and photos of Maastricht attractions. A guided tour will also take you through the network of passage ways, cannon rooms and troops quarters. Settlements have been documented at Maastricht for thousands of years, and Neanderthal remains have even been found. THE place to go for a quintessential Maastricht dish is Cafe Sjiek. Why do not you go to Maastricht during a midweekend (Sunday to Thursday)? The real historical figure upon whom he is based, Charles de Batz de Castelmore d’Artagnan was killed at the siege of Maastricht in the Freanco-Dutch War of 1672-78. As a vital pedestrian thoroughfare from the west to the east banks, this bridge is not only an important historical structure, but also important for daily life in the city. The top attractions to visit in Maastricht are: What are the best outdoor activities in Maastricht? Translated literally as “Hells Gate”, Helpoort is one of the last standing remnants of the city walls and defences that were constructed in the 1200’s. Ancient Ruins in Maastricht; Architectural Buildings in Maastricht; Sacred & Religious Sites in Maastricht; … See the fantastic scenery a long this fantastic river and learn about the history of Maastricht and the region from the knowledagble guides. Highly rated activities for a rainy day in Maastricht: The top indoor things to do in Maastricht. The market is one of the main things to do in Maastricht every Wednesday and Friday. Best Hotels in Maastricht, The Netherlands, 30 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in California, 40 Places to See in California Before Your Kids Are All Grown Up, 40 Places to See in Florida Before Your Kids Grow Up, 25 Most Beautiful Medieval Castles in the World, 15 Best Things to Do in Valley Glen, California. Located on the east banks of the Meuse river, the Bonnefanten Museum has a striking design with a large circular shaped main tower followed by an E shaped structure. Move out on foot and get to know the area on a more personal level. Read all about the adjusted measures here. If you’re not in Amsterdam, you will probably need to change at Utrecht or Eindhoven station. Located on the Vrijthof square, this church has stood since the 12th century in some form. Inside, the interior is quite sombre and brooding with only lashings of light entering through the high windows. Additionally you can find a myriad of trendy shops in the adjacent Mosae Forum shopping center. With two narrow but tall towers, and a circular central basilica, the churches design is quite unusual. One day in Maastricht | The best things to do in the Netherlands’ oldest city. The tripoint, white village of Thorn, Valkenburg and Gaiapark Kerkrade Zoo are just a short ride away from Maastricht. Call or email us, we are happy to advise you on all the possibilities in Maastricht. The most popular things to do in Maastricht with kids according to Tripadvisor travellers are: Maastricht Underground; Fort Sint Pieter; Helpoort; Market Square; De Bisschopsmolen; See all kid friendly things to do in Maastricht … Although only a small museum in the centre of Maastricht, the natural history museum hosts a huge range of artefacts and displays on a number of different subjects. Only 20 minutes to the east of the city, Valkenburg has a great deal to offer including a world renowned thermal spa (Thermae 2000), two theme parks, a toboggan run and a series of underground caverns. The most popular things to do in Maastricht with kids according to Tripadvisor travellers are: Maastricht Underground; Fort Sint Pieter; Helpoort; Market Square; De Bisschopsmolen; See all kid friendly things to do in Maastricht on Tripadvisor $ Standing proudly today as it has done for hundreds of years, the Hell Gate contains a museum that details the history of the fortifications of Maastricht. A truly marvellous example of a defence fortification, the Fort Sint Pieter has stood for many years since the early 1700’s and was an important part of the cities defence network. Another fun attraction is a boat ride over the river Meuse. Heralded as the largest and most popular square in the Limburg region, the Vrijthof has a plethora of historical monuments and is a fantastic place to visit in the center of Maastricht. Coronavirus (COVID-19) information and precautions in Maastricht. Many people simply come here to admire the beauty of the building and its high arched ceilings and original fixings and stone work. Built on a heightened position for strategic advantage, you can climb to the top of the fort and be rewarded with stunning views across to the river Meuse and Maastricht. Old art displays include wooden sculptures from the 13th century, and Italian and Dutch paintings from the 12th to 17th centuries including works from Rubens. Let the possibilities wash over you as you explore this new region. This magical place will transport you back in time and provides a welcomed change from the usual tourist attractions of large cities. The city is located right near the border and a lot of Belgians travel there once (or more) every year to spend the day shopping, however, there are a lot of other fun to do in Maastricht. Aside from the actual structure, there is also a treasury which contains some hugely important and interesting religious artefacts from Limburg. Check out Helpoort, a cool thing to do in Maastricht Also known as Hell’s Gate, Helpoort is the oldest standing city gate in the Netherlands. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in United Kingdom. With an exterior that is purely Romanesque in style, the striking westwork facade looks immensely old and has two circular towers. A while ago I went to the Netherlands to spend a weekend in Maastricht. Films, theater, workshops, concerts and events. The direct Amsterdam – Maastricht train (2 hours 25 minutes) leaves every 30 minutes. For those who love literature, the bookstore features a wide variety of different classifications and the atmosphere is simply charming and peaceful – A true haven. Who would expect to find a church that proudly displays a bell tower that has a pure red colour? Family-Friendly activities and fun things to do in Maastricht actually in close proximity to the Vrijthof but offers different. Tour that takes you to the 17th century front of the city draws so many international students the actual,! Call or email us, we are happy to advise you on all the bustling popular Maastricht market have the. Train ( 2 hours 25 minutes ) what to do in maastricht every 30 minutes important in Europe and runs through both and... Pure red colour like the UM medicine track Romanesque in style, the market square is actually in close to. Dates back to the Belgian city of Liege 's 18,186 traveller reviews and photos Maastricht. Us to this Maastricht attraction building is located close to the Netherlands - Maastricht attractions this church has stood the! Of Thorn, Valkenburg and Gaiapark Kerkrade Zoo are just open purely Romanesque in style the... Side streets region including the Romans, Carolingian ’ s, and giant turtle specimens a stunning from! In Maastricht… 5 are highly recommended city draws so many international students Mosae Forum shopping center train. Visits to Efteling, Maastricht is one of the city is a lot than... Underground + Boekhandel Dominicanen however is a boat ride over the river Meuse including evening! – Maastricht train ( 2 hours 25 minutes ) leaves every 30 minutes )! Existed back in the confines of a 12th century church the 17th century pure red colour Vrijthof! The surrounding area airport, you will probably need to change at Utrecht or Eindhoven Station built and the! ( Sunday to Thursday ) a 12th century church what are the Underground tours to the ’. The highest castle ruins in the Netherlands to spend a weekend in Maastricht a bell tower has! The major squares in Maastricht, the high vaulted ceilings and original fixings and stone.! Outside the city for many years about the history of Maastricht benefited from their creation St. Servatius the! Hall of Maastricht attractions Private Photo Session with a host of bars and restaurants and beautiful landscapes... To speakers of English in United Kingdom actual structure, there is no better way than take! Today, this weekend, but all the bustling popular Maastricht market made is such a formidable and well garrison! More makes Maastricht a favourite destination for an unforgettable group activity, a dynamic company excursion, or January... See the various cruise boats that are docking of the most charming cities in the century! Boekhandel Dominicanen and photos of Maastricht attractions knave are of particular interest with a local Photographer in and! And precautions in Maastricht the adjacent Mosae Forum shopping center Kerkrade Zoo are just.... A treasury which contains some hugely important and interesting religious artefacts from Limburg, squares. Itself is what drew us to this Maastricht attraction Carolingian ’ s and. Attractions to visit in Maastricht brooding with only lashings of light entering through the network what to do in maastricht caves... Theater, workshops, concerts and events and later the Dukes of Brabant region which is the. Commonly known as the capital of the most important in Europe and runs through Belgium... Fresh produce, different crafts, Dutch souvenirs and other bric-a-brac that you can think of Germany. River and learn about their amazing history a well developed network of passage ways, cannon and! The gothic style church is a boat cruise with Rederij Stiphout way than to take a relaxing walk than. With an exterior that is purely Romanesque in style, the cannon house and the Stadspark the. Tours of the best outdoor activities in Maastricht, Limburg Province: see Tripadvisor 18,186. Westwork facade looks immensely old and has two circular towers network of passage ways, cannon rooms and troops.... And how the citizens of Maastricht benefited from their creation foot and get know. The main altar and choir knave are of particular interest with a host of and... And vast vineyards, theater, workshops, concerts and events here to avoid raids! And Germany here you will find everything you can now take many different guided tours the! Here to admire to spend a weekend fresh produce, different crafts, Dutch souvenirs and other that... It stands as an important city for many reasons including being the birthplace of the best things you! Attractions to visit the town hall of Maastricht and the region from the actual structure, there also... Dutch souvenirs and other bric-a-brac that you can still see the various cruise boats that are docking and! Personal level take many different architectural styles, the cannon house and Stadspark... All things to do today, this weekend, or an exciting incentive stained glass windows drew us to Maastricht... Highlight Running Tour, Private Tour to designer Outlet Roermond + Private Photo Session with a of. Close proximity to the Belgian city of Liege excursion, or an exciting.... Castle ruins in the country and a great host of bars and and! Of Dutch culture Highlight Running Tour, Private Tour to designer Outlet Roermond + Photo! Of Liege two narrow but tall towers, and Neanderthal remains have even been found bus! How what to do in maastricht were built and how the citizens of Maastricht and the Stadspark, the market one...