Maastricht Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, eat, and drink, and much more with this comprehensive travel guide to Maastricht, Netherlands.


Introduction to Maastricht

Located in the southern part of the Netherlands, Maastricht is a charming city with rich history and stunning architecture. The city dates back to the Roman times and over the centuries, it has been a center for commerce, art, and culture. Today, Maastricht is a thriving city with a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.

This comprehensive travel guide to Maastricht will help you explore the city like a local. From must-see attractions to hidden gems, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started.

List of Places to Visit in Maastricht

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Maastricht is a city of culture and history. Some of the most important cultural landmarks include:

  • Basilica of Our Lady: This stunning Gothic church is one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in the city.
  • Maastricht City Hall: An impressive building with a rich history dating back to the 1600s. It’s located in the heart of the city and is a must-visit for history buffs.
  • The Bonnefanten Museum: This museum is located on the banks of the river Maas and contains an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • The Natural History Museum: This museum is dedicated to showcasing the natural history of the region. It’s a great place to learn about the different species of flora and fauna that inhabit the area.
  • The St. Servatius Basilica: This Romanesque church is one of the oldest churches in the country and dates back to the 4th century AD.

Natural Attractions of Maastricht: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Maastricht is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes that are waiting to be explored. Here are some of the best outdoor experiences in the city:

  • St. Pietersberg Caves: These caves run underneath the city and are a unique experience for visitors. The caves are rich in history and have been used as a shelter during wars and conflicts.
  • The Hoge Kempen National Park: This park is located just a short drive away from the city center and is a great place to spend a day hiking or biking. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and wild boars.
  • Jekerdal: This scenic valley is located on the outskirts of the city and is home to rolling hills, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature.
  • The Sint-Pietersberg Caves: These caves are an underground labyrinth that’s open to visitors. You’ll see stunning stalactites and stalagmites, as well as underground rivers and lakes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Maastricht

Maastricht is a great city for outdoor enthusiasts and there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of our favorites:

  • The Pieterpad: This is the longest hiking trail in the Netherlands and runs from Pieterburen in the north to Maastricht in the south.
  • The Maas Valley Trail: This trail runs along the banks of the Maas river and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
  • The Jekerdal Trail: This trail runs through the scenic Jekerdal Valley and offers stunning views of the city and the countryside.

Best Things to Do in Maastricht: Activities and Tours

Maastricht offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in the city:

  • The Maastricht Underground Tour: This tour takes visitors deep into the underground tunnels and caves where you can learn about the history of the city and its role during wars and conflicts.
  • The Maastricht Boat Tour: This tour takes visitors on a leisurely boat ride down the Maas River. You’ll see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks from the water.
  • The Maastricht Bike Tour: This bike tour takes visitors on a scenic ride through the city and its surrounding countryside. You’ll see historic landmarks, stunning landscapes, and hidden gems.
  • The Maastricht Food Tour: This food tour takes visitors on a culinary journey through the city. You’ll sample some of the local delicacies and learn about the city’s rich culinary history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Maastricht

If you’re planning on spending a week in Maastricht, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

  • Day 1: Start your trip by exploring the historic city center. Visit the Basilica of Our Lady, the St. Servatius Basilica, and the Maastricht City Hall.
  • Day 2: Spend a day hiking or biking in the Hoge Kempen National Park.
  • Day 3: Take a boat tour down the Maas River and explore the city from the water.
  • Day 4: Visit the Bonnefanten Museum and the Natural History Museum.
  • Day 5: Spend the day exploring the underground tunnels and caves on the Maastricht Underground Tour.
  • Day 6: Go on a food tour and sample some of the local delicacies.
  • Day 7: Explore the scenic Jekerdal Valley and go for a leisurely bike ride.

Food and Drink Scene of Maastricht

Maastricht is known for its delicious cuisine and local delicacies. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Limburgse Vlaai: A traditional sweet pie that’s made with a yeast-based dough and filled with fruit.
  • Bitterballen: A delicious snack that’s made with meat ragout and served with mustard.
  • Stoofvlees: A hearty beef stew that’s made with beer and served with fries.
  • Pan Haring: A delicious dish that’s made with pickled herring and served on rye bread.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever: A traditional Dutch gin that’s often served with a slice of lemon or orange.
  • Lambic beer: A type of beer that’s fermented with wild yeasts and bacteria.
  • Koffie Verkeerd: A popular coffee drink that’s made with half coffee and half milk.

Where to Stay in Maastricht: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Maastricht offers plenty of accommodation options for visitors of all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

  • Hotel Derlon: Located in the heart of the city, this hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with modern amenities.
  • Stayokay Maastricht: This affordable hostel is located just a short walk from the city center. It’s a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Hotel Monastère Maastricht: This luxurious hotel is housed in a former monastery and offers stylish rooms and suites with beautiful views of the city.

What to Buy in Maastricht: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Maastricht is known for its beautiful pottery, delicious chocolates, and locally produced wines. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Maastricht Pottery: Handmade pottery that’s been crafted in the city for centuries.
  • Limburgse Vlaai: The famous sweet pie that’s a popular souvenir among visitors.
  • Maastricht Wine: The city is known for producing high-quality wines that are made with locally grown grapes.

Local Culture and Customs of Maastricht

Maastricht has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its festivals, fairs, and events. Here are some of the most important festivals and events in the city:

  • TEFAF Maastricht: This is one of the most prestigious art fairs in the world, and takes place in March each year.
  • The Preuvenemint: This is a food and drink festival that takes place in August. Visitors can sample some of the city’s best cuisine and local delicacies.
  • The Maastricht Carnival: This is a lively street carnival that takes place in February. The city comes alive with music, dancing, and parades.

Best Time to Visit Maastricht

The best time to visit Maastricht is during the spring and summer months, from March to September. The weather is mild, and the city is buzzing with activity. If you’re planning on visiting during the winter months, be prepared for cold temperatures and snow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maastricht

Do:

  • Do bring comfortable shoes: Maastricht is a city that’s best explored on foot, so bring comfortable shoes for walking.
  • Do try the local cuisine: Maastricht is known for its delicious food and drink, so make sure to sample the local delicacies.
  • Do explore the city by bike: Maastricht is a great city for biking, so rent a bike and explore the city like a local.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack for the weather: The weather in Maastricht can be unpredictable, so make sure to bring clothes for all types of weather.
  • Don’t be late: The people of Maastricht take punctuality seriously, so make sure to be on time for appointments and meetings.
  • Don’t be disrespectful: The people of Maastricht are friendly and welcoming, so be sure to show respect and courtesy during your visit.

Safety and Health

Safety in Maastricht

Maastricht is a safe city for visitors, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Here are some tips for staying safe during your visit:

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Keep your belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  • Use common sense: Don’t walk alone at night and avoid isolated areas.
  • Be careful when using ATMs: Use ATMs that are located in well-lit areas and avoid using them at night.

Health in Maastricht

Maastricht has a good healthcare system and visitors can access medical care if needed. Here are some tips for staying healthy during your visit:

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
  • Wear sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen.
  • Stay warm: Stay warm during the winter months by wearing warm clothes and dressing in layers.

Getting to Maastricht: Transportation Options and Logistics

Maastricht is easy to reach by car, train, or plane. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Maastricht

  • Maastricht Aachen Airport: This is the closest airport to the city and is located just a short drive away.
  • Eindhoven Airport: This airport is located about 1.5 hours away from Maastricht and is one of the busiest airports in the Netherlands.

Bus Stations Near Maastricht

  • Maastricht Station: This is the main bus station in the city and is served by buses from all over the country.
  • MECC Bus Stop: This bus stop is located near the Maastricht Exhibition and Congress Centre and is served by local buses.

Other Options

  • Train: Maastricht is well-connected by train, with direct connections to cities all over Europe.
  • Car: Maastricht is easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking options available.

How to Get Around in Maastricht

Maastricht is a compact city that’s easy to navigate on foot or by bike. If you prefer to use public transportation, the city’s bus network is easy to use and affordable. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Maastricht: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Maastricht is located in a beautiful part of the Netherlands, and there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some ideas:

  • The Ardennes: This beautiful region is located just across the border in Belgium and is a great place to go hiking and explore the outdoors.
  • Aachen: This historic city is located just a short drive away from Maastricht and is known for its beautiful cathedral and historic landmarks.
  • Liège: This charming Belgian city is located about an hour away from Maastricht and is known for its vibrant cultural scene and stunning architecture.

Conclusion

Maastricht is a charming city that’s full of surprises. From historic landmarks to scenic bike trails, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of the Netherlands. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to visit Maastricht and experience all that this wonderful city has to offer.

Streets of Maastricht Streets of Maastricht Maastricht Aachen Airport Maastricht Aachen Airport City gate 'Helpoort' (1229) City gate 'Helpoort' (1229) The Vrijthof and Basilica of St. Servatius The Vrijthof and Basilica of St. Servatius Onze Lieve Vrouwebasiliek Onze Lieve Vrouwebasiliek The Town Hall of Maastricht The Town Hall of Maastricht River Maas and Saint Servatius Bridge from the Hoeg Brogk River Maas and Saint Servatius Bridge from the Hoeg Brogk Bonnefantenmuseum Bonnefantenmuseum Centre Ceramique on the Plein Centre Ceramique on the Plein Maastricht's carnaval is known for its costumes, which might be the most colourful ones in the country Maastricht's carnaval is known for its costumes, which might be the most colourful ones in the country Saturday Flea Market in Maastricht Saturday Flea Market in Maastricht The terraced Chateau Neercanne is located just outside Maastricht, before the Belgian border The terraced Chateau Neercanne is located just outside Maastricht, before the Belgian border