</a></span>"}'/> Nijmegen lays claims to the title of oldest city in the Netherlands , and has indeed a long history and still lots of interesting heritage to enjoy today. World-famous among hiking enthusiasts, the city annually hosts the International Four Days Marches Nijmegen . It's the largest multi-day walking event in the world and comes with a range of festivities. Attracting over 42,000 participants and over a million visitors, including many international ones, the event celebrated the 100th edition in 2016. Nijmegen is the largest city in the province of Gelderland and well known for its left-wing politics and its large student population.
With about 160,000 inhabitants, Nijmegen is a relatively large city in the southeast of the Netherlands . It's the main town in the Arnhem -Nijmegen metropolitan area (pop. 736,000 in 2011) and a major stronghold of the Dutch socialist and 'green' parties.
The town's written history goes back to the first century BC, when a Roman military settlement was established at this place. The local hill provide good views over the surrounding valleys and the rivers Rhine and Waal that pass by here. A village grew around the Roman stronghold. In the year 98 it gained Roman city rights. After the Roman Empire crumbled, the area became part of the Frankish lands. The town grew as its trade activities via the river Waal flourished.
In the 12th century, Henry VI, the later Holy Roman Emperor was born in Nijmegen but it was his son, Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, who granted city rights in 1230. Some 17 years later, the city and the surrounding lands were used as collateral for a loan from the Guelders, that would never be repaid. As a result, Nijmegen is part of the province of Gelderland still today.
As modern warfare rendered traditional fortifications as good as useless, the city walls were finally demolished. The city had already expanded massively by that time, with far too many souls living packed inside the city walls. And it kept developing further. A university was established in 1927 and in 1936 the reportedly largest bridge in Europe of that time was constructed for car passage over the river.
In 1944, the city centre sustained massive damage when it was bombed by the Americans by mistake, as pilots thought they were attacking the German city of Kleve . Shortly after, it was the scene of severe battle during Operation Market Garden. When the city was finally liberated, most of its historic heritage was gone or damaged. Rebuilding efforts and city planning in the following decades included further destruction of some of the remaining structures. The fine collection of monuments today is therefore only a small glimpse of Nijmegen's rich history.
Airport Weeze ( NRN IATA ) , located 45 km southeast of town just across the border with Germany, between the villages of Weeze ( Germany ) and Nieuw-Bergen ( Netherlands ) (the airport itself is in Germany). Although Ryanair (the sole airline serving the airport) and the airport advertise it as Düsseldorf-Weeze, Düsseldorf is not anywhere near the airport. The city of Düsseldorf is 100 km (60 miles) to the southeast of the airport, making Nijmegen the only major city close to the airport. Weeze serves about 30 destinations, most of them seasonal, across Europe and Northern Africa.
The only form of public transportation nonstop to Nijmegen is a taxivan you have to reserve in advance and will set you back €16 one-way. For timetabling see or call ☏ +49 28 37 66 55 55 . Quick tip: If your plane lands shortly before the bus is scheduled to leave give them a quick call on the tarmac and they will wait for you.
For the more adventurous traveller, it's possible to get to Nijmegen by city bus to the Weeze railway station, then take a train into Kleve , where you can get a bus into Nijmegen. This will take about 75 minutes and costs €5.90-7.60 (one-way).
Another option is to just hitch. There's a major freeway not far from the airport, connecting Düsseldorf with Nijmegen. This can take as little as 30–45 minutes if you're lucky, and 4–6 hours if you're not.
Eindhoven Airport ( EIN IATA ). 60 km (35 miles) to the southwest of Nijmegen. From the airport you take bus 401 to Eindhoven Central Station and then a train to 's Hertogenbosch (which is the same as Den Bosch). In 's Hertogenbosch, change trains and take the train to Nijmegen. This journey will take you approximately 90 minutes by public transportation. When driving yourself, take the A326 feeder motorway to the A50, (Zwolle-Eindhoven) which skirts the west of the metropolitan area to the Eindhoven ring road (A58/A2) Airport exit is exit 29 on the A2.
Flughafen Düsseldorf ( DUS IATA ). 110 km (65 miles) southeast. About one-third the size of Amsterdam-Schiphol, but with plenty of international connections, including to the USA, and gets served by all the major airlines in Europe. Although it doesn't get nearly as many flights as Amsterdam does, it's cheaper, doesn't have nearly as many congestion problems, and generally much less hassle at the airport itself. Major inconvenience here is the lack of a good public transportation link to the Nijmegen area; you either need to take bus 58 to Kleve , and change there for a regional train to Düsseldorf Hbf , where you can take S1 to Flughafen terminal or take the train to Venlo , and change there for Düsseldorf Hbf . Both options take about 2,5–3 hours one way, since it'll be taking commuter trains all the way. When driving there this airport should be the obvious choice though. A73 to Knooppunt Rijkevoort , then follow the signs to the A77 which changes to A57 when it passes the German line. By Kreuz Meerbusch take motorway A44 to exit 31 which is right by the terminal. Expect a 75-minute drive, although it can be done in 50–55 minutes if there's little traffic, because 2/3rds of the route is on the German Autobahn.
Amsterdam-Schiphol airport ( AMS IATA ). The largest airport in the Netherlands, and the fifth largest in Europe. 135 km (85 miles) to the northwest. Train takes about an hour and a half, and will cost €17.50 one way. You do not have to change trains for Nijmegen, there are direct trains to and from Schiphol twice an hour on weekdays, although if you miss one you can catch a train to Utrecht 15 minutes later and change there. Schiphol airport gets served by most major carriers, and has in excess of 100 flights to the United States alone per day. When driving; A73 to Knooppunt Ewijk , A50 to Knooppunt Valburg , A15 westbound to Knooppunt Deil , A2 northbound to Knooppunt Holendrecht , A9 westbound to Knooppunt Badhoevedorp , and finally A4 southbound to exit 2, Schiphol airport. Expect this to take anywhere from 75 minutes to over three hours, depending on traffic. the route will take you through both the Utrecht and the Amsterdam metropolitan areas, both infamous for their traffic jams.
The Dutch Railways , (Nederlandse Spoorwegen, NS) serve Nijmegen from all parts of the Netherlands non-stop. There are 4 trains an hour to Utrecht, 2 of which continue to Amsterdam and Den Helder. At Utrecht, you can change on trains to Schiphol Airport or Rotterdam and The Hague. 4 trains per hour depart for Zutphen of which 2 continue to Deventer and Zwolle (with connections to Leeuwarden and Groningen in Zwolle). Furthermore, 2 trains per hour connect to Tilburg-Breda-Roosendaal (with connections in Breda to Rotterdam/The Hague, and in Roosendaal to Antwerp/Brussels).
The neighboring cities of Arnhem and 's-Hertogenbosch are served by commuter trains: 4 trains per hour leave for 's-Hertogenbosch and 6 trains per hour for Arnhem. On this last connection, there are up to 10 trains per hour between Nijmegen and Arnhem during rush hour. The full adult fare on this line is €4.90 one way (March 2024).
Veolia Limburg runs 4 commuter trains an hour to Nijmegen Heyendaal, Molenhoek (nearby Malden), the town of Cuijk and further to Venray. Two of these trains continue all the way to Roermond.
51.843631 5.855258 2 Intercity bus stop Nijmegen . Flixbus serves the town.
Nijmegen is connected to the German cities (and railway stations) of Kleve and Emmerich by the regional bus line SB58. The Deutschlandticket is valid to and from Nijmegen on this bus line. When looking for a ride from anywhere in North Rhine-Westphalia/Germany to Nijmegen, use the DB app or website and select "local/regional transport only". And type in a stopover in "Landesgrenze, Kranenburg" (without any length of stay). That takes care, that no Dutch trains between Arnhem and Nijmegen are displayed, which you cannot use with the Deutschlandticket.
The A73 connects Nijmegen with Venlo, the A77/A57 leads to the German Rhineland. The A15 runs between Nijmegen and Rotterdam and the A50 (Eindhoven-Zwolle) skims the western edge of the metropolitan area. There are many feeder highways connecting these freeways to the city. From Amsterdam one would take the A2 southbound to intersection (knooppunt) Deil, and take the A15 eastbound to Nijmegen from there. Avoid visiting the city by car during the Four Days Walking March, as roads tend to be blocked and circulation is even worse than normal. Also, you may find almost no available parking anywhere near the centre of the city.
Nijmegen is probably one of the easiest places in the Netherlands to hitch from. The best spot is just south of the Waal Bridge, on the northbound lane leading to the bridge. You will see a sign saying 'liftershalte' here. This means it's an official hitching spot. Usually it takes anywhere up to 30 minutes to get a ride.
Nijmegen has exceptionally good cycle links. The RijnWaalpad is a cycle high way connecting Nijmegen and Arnhem. There are also two Dutch national cycle routes that come through Nijmegen: the LF12 and the LF3-3. In Millingen the LF3-3 connects with the Rhine Cycle Route (EuroVelo 15) , giving Nijmegen a good cycle connection with Germany, France and Switzerland.
The city bus company, Breng , connects every neighbourhood in Nijmegen to the city center. Breng runs buses into the suburbs as well as a few towns outside of the metropolitan area.
Forget about using your car unless you're absolutely sure of your driving skills: the city can get clogged up during rush-hour because 6 main roads end up at an infamous roundabout in the middle of the town. Beside this, parking is relatively expensive. Nijmegen is very bike-friendly, and the old downtown area is compact (every place in the downtown area can be reached within 20 minutes from the Central Station by foot) Commuter trains serve the neighbourhoods of Lent, Dukenburg and Heyendaal (the campus area), as well as the nearby town of Wijchen.
Nijmegen is widely considered to be the oldest city in the Netherlands, celebrating her 2000th birthday in 2005. Not a whole lot of very old buildings are left in town: first the Americans carpet-bombed it in February 1944, later the Germans shelled it for about 5 months after the liberation in September 1944, and finally there were a lot of very rigorous city planners in the 1950s, 60s and 70s who finished what the Americans and Germans started.
There are still a few noteworthy sights, however. Valkhof hill downtown features a Carolingian chapel (eight, ninth century AD) and a small remainder of an imperial castle that was demolished in 1798. From Valkhof hill walk west through the Burchtstraat. Here you will see, on your left hand, the fifteenth century town hall. If you've finished admiring its exterior (there's nothing of note inside) continue walking west to the Grote Markt ( Great Market ). On the north side is a sixteenth-century weighing hall that now serves as a restaurant. To the left is the Blauwe Hand, the oldest bar in a town that boasts more pubs per square feet than any other town in the Netherlands. On the west side you will see the entrance to the St. Stevenskerk courtyard . Enter it. On the left is a fifteenth-century Latin school. On the right stands the thirteenth century St. Stevenskerk, the interior of which was destroyed during the Dutch revolution of the sixteenth century. To the north of the church is a series of small seventeenth-century houses that now serve as trinket shops.
Although the city centre was heavily bombed during the war, the old neighbourhoods around the centre were not, and are nice to stroll around. Most interesting are the neighbourhoods east and south of the centre. Bottendaal , a five-minute walk from the train station, has a nice vibe, a few good pubs (try De Kluizenaar and Maxim , listed below) and a park (Thiemen Park).
If you like a day of shopping, you'll surely enjoy this city. It's considered one of the top shopping destinations in the country, for its cosy old centre, many cafés, car-free shopping zone and of course the wide range of stores and boutiques. Over 400 shops are available in the city centre alone. The modernized Marikenstraat and Moenenstraat are full of large chain stores, including the usual department and fashion stores.
The smaller streets leading to the car-free centre are called the Ringstraten , and are packed with smaller boutiques, giftstores, speciality stores and independent home decoration shops. Good examples include the Hezelstraat (said to be the oldest shopping street in the country), the Van Welderenstraat and the Tweede Walstraat . For design boutiques, try the Houstraat .
Stores are usually open between 09:00 and 17:30, many also until 18:00. Thursday is so-called shopping evening, with most shops open till 21:00 and as in the rest of the country, most places close at 17:00 on Saturdays. Every first Sunday of the month, the city centre opens between 12:00 and 17:00.
There are general markets in the centre every Monday and Saturday.
If you love pizza, you'll find yourself well-catered for. Many pizza-restaurants are specialized in take-away/delivery, but there are several nice options if you'd like to sit down. Most of the establishments also offer other Italian dishes.
Being a student town (roughly 21,000 students in a population of 160,000) there are plenty of relatively cheap restaurants ("eetcafés") to be found. Look for them in the Van Welderenstraat and on Kelfkensbos . Fast Food is also widely available in the city center, with numerous snackbars often offering traditional Dutch snacks, but also Turkish dishes.
In the city centre, the supermarkets of Coop , Albert Heijn , Jumbo City , Plus and Spar City have fresh baked goods.
If your budget allows it, there's also plenty of opportunity for luxury dining. Het Lemke in the Lange Hezelstraat offers high quality French cuisine, though it might be a little bit too experimental for some. More up market dining can be found along the Waal river. From the casino, walk west past the terraces and into the old downtown. For up market dining near the university.
Finally, for more classic French style cuisine in a historic ambiance, try Belvedere – the tower. (Please note that for the moment, the Belvedere is only open to groups with a reservation, due to a lack of cooking staff.). If you're into that sort of thing, in 2008 the Michelin guide awarded a Bib Gourmand to Het Savarijn, Vesters (Groesbeeksedwarsweg 307a).
Downtown Nijmegen and the neighborhoods just next to it are positively swarming with pubs and cafés. Some notable ones:
Nijmegen has many hotels, although budget options are remarkably limited. The opposite is true for high-end lodging. Finding a place to sleep during the summer festival and the four day's marches is absolutely impossible. Everything will be booked full months in advance. To give you an idea; during these days the population of Nijmegen swells from 160,000 to 1,800,000. It goes to the extent of people needing accommodation because they're walking the marches being taken into private people's homes and sleeping in sporting arena's. However, during the festival many trains and buses run around the clock, giving the opportunity to find a place to stay outside the city.
As of July 2022, Nijmegen has 5G from all Dutch carriers.
The surrounding area of Nijmegen is unique in that it has to offer almost every landscape type available in the Netherlands. Rent a bicycle and start exploring the river landscape of the Ooijpolder to the northeast, the forested hills around Groesbeek to the east, the drier heath landscape to the south or, if you insist, the typically Dutch flat lowlands to the west.
There are many ready-made cycle routes you can try:
If you're interested in cities, pay a visit to Hertogenbosch or Zutphen (both between 30 min and 45 min by train) which have city centres far better preserved than that of Nijmegen.
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The oldest city in the Netherlands is bursting at the seams with ancient history, stunning architecture, gorgeous landscapes, and exciting things to do — it’s the marvellous Nijmegen !
Over 2,000 years ago, the Romans settled in a city that sits just on the German border and in what is today the serene Dutch province of Gelderland.
From then on, Nijmegen became a true gem and a forever icon that helped make Holland what it is today. With a perfect mix of culture, fascinating museums, and unique spots to visit, Nijmegen is a Dutch city you shouldn’t miss.
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It’s a fact that the humble bike is an indispensable part of everyday life in the Netherlands — but how much do you really know about its evolution and history?
From the earliest model of the bike to the latest, the national bicycle museum in Nijmegen, Velorama , tells all about the 600-year-long history of the fabulous two-wheeled transportation device.
READ MORE | How the Netherlands became a cycling country
Velorama boasts an incredibly large collection of bicycles, featuring a few that were even passed down by the Royal Family and the famous Dutch cyclist Wim van Est, well-known for his victories in the Tour de France.
💰 Price: €6 for adults, €4 for children, €5 for seniors (aged 65+), €15 for a family of four ⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM until 5 PM, Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 5 PM on Sunday 📍 Location: Waalkade 107, 6511 XR Nijmegen
Nijmegen is chock-full of key landmarks and hidden treasures, so what better way to explore these than through a sightseeing tour with a local?
Set off to see, feel, and learn all about this charming city through a simple expedition — and with the help of a true Nijmegener, steer clear of any tourist traps and get a real glimpse into the culture and history surrounding this place.
Nijmegen offers several exciting guided tours that start and end on different routes, each allowing you to experience the city from a new angle on foot, by bike, or with a scooter !
💰 Price: €40 for a group of four, €125 for a group of 20 people ⏰ Number of hours: Each tour typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours 📍 Location: Starting point varies per chosen tour
Have you ever wondered how a person who is blind experiences the world? If so, you can satisfy your curiosity by visiting MuZIEum in Nijmegen.
The museum offers two unique tours in complete darkness, each guided by a person who is visually impaired or partially sighted, where you’ll get a real glimpse into how they navigate the world.
READ MORE | The museum town of the Netherlands: 14 great museums to visit in Leiden
Rather than admiring objects on display, like most museums, you’ll play a vital role in the experience, where all your senses are magnified, from hearing to smell, as well as taste and touch.
💰 Price: €18.75 for adults and €13.75 for children (aged 8 to 12) on-site, €17.75 for adults and €12.75 for children online. ⏰ Opening hours: Monday from 12 PM until 5 PM; 9:30 AM until 5 PM, Tuesday to Sunday 📍 Location: Ziekerstraat 6B, 6511 LH Nijmegen
Any avid traveller knows that going off the beaten track is the best way to really get to know a new city — and one of Nijmegen’s secret nooks is the Honigcomplex : a hidden industrial building that houses 150 small businesses.
As a visitor, you can take a jaunt through the complex, admire its factory-like interior designs, and browse the many former office rooms taken up by creative entrepreneurs and artists.
The building also has a coffee bar with a ton of great options for that much-needed caffeine buzz and, what’s more — a rooftop terrace overlooking the Waal River! Grab a tasty bite to eat with a beautiful view.
💰 Price: Varies per business ⏰ Opening hours: Varies per business 📍 Location: Waalbandijk 20-22, 6541 AJ Nijmegen
There’s no better way to scout out the best brewskis than through a good ol’ beer tasting!
The Netherlands, in general, has an incredibly cool beer scene, but if you want a unique look into the oldest craft beer brewery in the country, Brouwerij de Hemel is the place to be.
Through a guided tour, you’ll find out all there is to know about beer, the people who make the beer, and their special techniques. The icing on the cake? A tasting session of the brewery’s homemade products!
💰 Price: €12 for the entrance fee, including a tasting of six beers ⏰ Opening hours: 1 PM until 5 PM, Saturday to Sunday 📍 Location: Franseplaats 1, 6511 VS Nijmegen
Nijmegen is known for its great swaths of nature — so you can imagine that the city is brimming with gezellige parks to promenade in.
One particularly wooded area is Valkhof Park. Featuring ancient Roman ruins, scenic river sights, and a chapel — this Nijmegen nature gem sits on top of a small hill, giving folks a gorgeous, photographic view of the city from above.
READ MORE | A guide to 11 beautiful national parks in the Netherlands
After spending an afternoon wandering around the city, you can retreat to the Valkhof park for a bit of peace and greenery and walk along centuries-worth of Roman history.
💰 Price: A breath of fresh air doesn’t cost a penny! ⏰ Opening hours: All day, every day 📍 Location: Kelfkensbos 59, 6511 TB Nijmegen
While you’re at Valkhof Park, make sure you take time to find and admire the ancient Barbarossa ruins surrounding the place.
Rumour has it that the history of the ruins goes way back to the 12th century when they used to stand as a castle built by Emperor Frederik Barbarossa (hence, the name).
READ MORE | A guide to 12 breathtaking castles and palaces in the Netherlands
After being badly damaged in the late 1700s, the city council decided to demolish the castle — which is why its leftover pieces can still be seen today in the park. Now, these ruins are classified as national monuments and jewels to the city of Nijmegen!
💰 Price: Just your attention 🙂 ⏰ Opening hours: All day, every day 📍 Location: Benedenstad, 6511 TB Nijmegen
The Netherlands is famously known for being one of the flattest countries in the world . In fact, this pancake land happens to have the lowest height of all its European neighbours.
Even so, there’s one special place that boasts a few slight summits, making it the perfect destination to try out an activity you otherwise couldn’t in other Dutch cities — mountain biking!
There are several mountain bike trails in and around Nijmegen that you can find, and since the city is loaded with natural beauty and wildlife, there’ll be no shortage of majestic views on your journey.
💰 Price: It costs anywhere from €20 for 4 hours to €30 for 8 hours to rent a mountain bike ⏰ Opening hours: You determine your hours! 📍 Some routes: Route Heyendaal , Route Shimano Groesbeek , Route Giant Mook , Route TREK Nijmegen (Red pipe)
Are you visiting Nijmegen with a few younguns by your side? Or perhaps you just really like four-legged friends? Then consider visiting Kinderboerderij de Goffert — a small petting zoo that lets you play with farm animals!
It’s perfect if you’re looking to kill an afternoon in nature, fondling some furry friends, whilst also giving your kids (or yourself) the chance to actively learn how the farmers properly care for them.
💰 Price: Free of charge ⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday. 11 AM to 5 PM, Saturday & Sunday 📍 Location: Slotemaker de Bruïneweg 268, 6532 AD Nijmegen
This wide area of grass is one of the largest parks in Nijmegen — and it has a reputation for holding pop concerts by some of the greatest artists in the world, from Bon Jovi to Coldplay.
At Goffert Park , you can enjoy the great outdoors with a good dose of music thrown into the mix. Nevertheless, you don’t need a rockstar to make this one of the many fun things to do in Nijmegen.
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Grab a basket, a blanket, some bitterballen , and a few glasses of Jenever for that much-needed picnic — and admire the great outdoors, perhaps even while hearing some sweet guitar melodies.
💰 Price: Gratis, unless you plan to attend a concert at the park! ⏰ Opening hours: All day, every day 📍 Location: Muntweg 442, 6532 TP Nijmegen
For those who seek a break from the bustling city centre and want to lay amongst the chirping birds and tall trees for a while, Kronenburgerpark is an ideal choice.
If you follow the park’s many paths, you’ll come across various stunning historic buildings, of which the kruittoren (powder tower) is the most eye-catching.
Since the park is located just around the corner from Nijmegen Centraal Station, you don’t have to worry about travelling far. Just hop off the train, grab a bike or walk, and get ready to enjoy the tranquil vibes this park brings.
💰 Price: Gratis! ⏰ Opening hours: All day, every day 📍 Location: Kronenburgerplaats 6511, 6511 AW Nijmegen
The majority of Dutchies might not carry such a religious outlook anymore. However, their churches still stand as some of the most beautiful in all of Europe.
In fact, the Stevenskerk in Nijmegen is downright breathtaking, located right in the historical centre of the city. It’s old but well-maintained, with colourful stained glass windows and lit candles burning inside for that extra ✨.
It’s well worth a visit if you’re looking to connect with Nijmegen’s past, and if your timing is right, you can also catch a special organ concert inside the church!
💰 Price: Entrance is free of charge ⏰ Opening hours: 10:30 AM to 5 PM, Saturday. 12 AM to 5 PM, Sunday 📍 Location: Sint Stevenskerkhof 62, 6511 VZ Nijmegen
If you prefer to navigate the city and discover local gems on your own, you can also take a self-guided tour through Nijmegen!
Embarking on your own tour comes with tons of advantages. You can travel at your own pace and spend more time somewhere without having to worry about keeping up with a tour group or guide.
Just walk into any tourist agency in the city, pick up a map and a few brochures of interesting attractions, and get ready to sight-see!
💰 Price : Sight-seeing at your leisure comes at no expense ⏰ Number of hours: It’s all up to you 😉 📍 Location: Wherever you’d like to begin your tour
Taking a tour through Nijmegen means you’ll eventually come across the Grote Markt — a picturesque stop that’s dominated by outdoor cafes, medieval buildings, and diverse restaurants.
A cosy, centrally-located large square, the Grote Markt is the absolute highlight of Nijmegen. Grab a koffie or thee, sit back on a terrace and discover that there’s truly never a dull moment here.
On Saturdays, the Grote Markt hosts a lively market filled with delectables, and when the sun goes down, watch out — Nijmegen’s active nightlife scene comes alive.
💰 Price: Costs vary depending on how many latte macchiatos you buy ☕ ⏰ Opening hours: Saturday market lasts from 8 AM until 2 PM 📍 Location: 6511 KA Nijmegen
While good eats and cool attractions are key to deciding where to venture next, any trip to Nijmegen isn’t complete without a stellar shopping hit — especially for any fashion fan.
Existing for over 2,000 years, the Lange Hezelstraat is the oldest shopping street in the Netherlands, offering a wide range of trendy stores that any serious shopper won’t want to miss out on.
However, its large collection of shops isn’t the only thing that this cosy street excels in. You can also find plenty of eateries to indulge in some food treasures!
💰 Price: Depends on how much cash you’re willing to splurge. 💸 ⏰ Opening hours: Stores usually open from 9 AM until 5:30 PM, every day 📍 Location: Lange Hezelstraat 20, 6511 CJ Nijmegen
Bridges aren’t usually the first thing you think of when choosing where to go on vacation. Still, these utilitarian structures can often be beautiful works of art.
One, in particular that captures Nijmegen in a unique view is the Waalbrug! Built in the 1930s, this bridge is over 600 metres long and even used to be the largest bridge in all of Europe.
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Overlooking the gorgeous Waal River , the bridge gives off an aesthetic vibe — perfect for whipping out your camera and capturing the perfect jumping selfie.
💰 Price: No money? No problem! ⏰ Opening hours: All day, every day 📍 Location: Waalbrug, Nijmegen
Speaking of architectural wonders, the Petrus Canisiuskerk is a sacred Roman Catholic church in Nijmegen, where people from across the world come to light a candle, enjoy the silence, and pray.
It’s conveniently located in the middle of a vibrant shopping street in the city — so you can decide to spontaneously stop by the church while on your spending spree.
And if you’re not the religious type, you can also visit for the sole purpose of admiring the beautiful structure of the church and the objects it boasts inside, from the altar to statues and historical paintings.
💰 Price: Entrance is free of charge ⏰ Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:30 AM until 5 PM 📍 Location: Molenstraat 37, 6511 HA Nijmegen
Whether you’re wandering through the streets or checking out the fascinating architecture from inside top gems, Nijmegen, in itself, is a sight to behold. Sometimes, though, you need to get above it all to capture a perfect view of the city.
Situated on a hill in the eastern part of the city, the Belvédère is an impressive tower that offers a wonderful panorama of Nijmegen.
Also a restaurant, this place makes for the perfect afternoon getaway to wine and dine with a few friends amidst a natural backdrop like no other.
💰 Price: €37.50 per person for a three-course dinner at the restaurant, €42.50 for a 4-course dinner, €47.50 for a 5-course meal ⏰ Opening hours: 9 AM until 5 PM, Monday to Friday 📍 Location: Kelfkensbos 60, 6511 TB Nijmegen
A great time to experience Nijmegen when it’s full of vim and vigour is in the third week of July. Why? Because that’s when the annual Vierdaagse (Four Days Marches) occur!
During this time, the city is buzzing with energy while over 45,000 people from across the world come together to participate in the world’s largest walking achievement event.
If you participate in the march, you’ll get the chance to explore Nijmegen in a unique way, and trek next to the elegant Waal river with its beautiful, wooded surroundings.
💰 Price: €109 for the registration fee ⏰ Opening hours: The next march will commence in the third week of July 2024. 📍 Location: Nijmegen and its surroundings
Got an interest in the African way of life? Or do you simply yearn to learn about other cultures? A unique gem that you certainly would not think to find in Nijmegen is the Afrika Museum .
Through exhibitions that display contemporary African art, stories of religion, and traditional objects, you’ll discover that Africa’s rich history intertwines with the Dutch in more ways than one.
Outside the museum, you’ll find a playful forest filled with mythical African animals designed for children to enjoy climbing in.
💰 Price: €15 for adults, €10 for students, €6 for those aged 6-18, free for infants ⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM until 5 PM, Tuesday to Friday, 11 AM to 5 PM, Saturday & Sunday 📍 Location: Postweg 6, 6571 CS Berg en Dal
Gezellige terraces, scrumptious eateries, friendly vibes, and a cosy atmosphere — the Waalkade in Nijmegen has it all.
Aan de Waalkade in Nijmegen pic.twitter.com/UplXEPAq8E — geert geenen (@geertgeenen) September 7, 2022
You can take a stroll along the boardwalk for a breath of fresh air, grab a spot on one of the street’s lawns, or treat yourself to an ice-cold biertje at a terrasje with a view of a busy quay on the Waal River.
Though, if you prefer to wolf down some good ol’ bitterballen or classic croquettes at a restaurant, the street also has a number of top-quality food hotspots to choose from.
💰 Price: It all depends on how you choose to spend your leisure time at the Waalkade! ⏰ Opening hours: 12 PM to 8 PM, Tuesday to Sunday 📍 Location: Waalkade, 6511 WT Nijmegen
Perhaps all that adventuring in bustling Nijmegen has worn you out. We don’t blame you! Trying to experience as much of the city as you can while you’re there can be tiring.
Fortunately, there is a way to end your vacation with a quiet bang. The week-long Walk of Wisdom is a nature-inspired pilgrimage route that takes you away from the clump of tourists in the centre and into the outskirts of the city.
READ MORE | Hiking in the Netherlands: 4 myths, busted
Spend some time to focus solely on yourself, and attempt to rest, rejuvenate, and recoup in nature before making your way back home and resuming your daily routine life.
💰 Price: €33 for the registration fee ⏰ Opening hours: 9 AM until 5 PM, Monday to Saturday 📍 Starting point: Stevenskerk
Nijmegen might not be the most popular city in the Netherlands, but if you ask any local, they’ll tell you that this millennia-old treasure is well worth a visit. 🤩
With a perfect blend of history, culture, and incredible architecture, there are plenty of things to do in Nijmegen!
Have you visited any of these attractions in Nijmegen? If so, what was your favourite? Tell us in the comments below! 👇
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In the province of Gelderland we find the beautiful and historically rich city of Nijmegen . With over 165,000 inhabitants it is the largest city in the province and the tenth largest city of the Netherlands . Though the citizens of Groningen would disagree, the city of Nijmegen claims to being the oldest city in the Netherlands. The city recently celebrated its two thousand year anniversary, so if not the oldest, it is certainly up there in the running. With a large and growing population, Nijmegen is located in the east of the Netherlands near the German border. A large percentage of the inhabitants of the city are in their 20’s due to the number of schools and universities located there.
Early History
One of the earliest mentions of the city is around the 1st Century BC. At that time the Romans built a camp on the spot where the city would later be built. They chose the location because of the strategic defense offered by the surrounding hills. By 98 AD Nijmegen was granted city rights by the Romans.
During the 4th Century, as Roman rule in the region was diminishing, the city became part of the Frankish Kingdom, and by the time of the Dutch Revolt in 1585, Nijmegen became part of the Republic of United Provinces.
Due to its geographic location, the city was fortified heavily for a number of years, and endured numerous sieges over the centuries. As the population increased, many in the city wanted the fortification torn down to accommodate growth. However, it wasn’t until 1874 that the defenses were actually dismantled.
Difficulties of War
Though at peace today, Nijmegen has experienced centuries of war related violence. Even as recently as WWII the city was the focal point of aggression. In 1940 it was the first Dutch city to be captured by the Germans. In an extremely unfortunate miscommunication, American bombers actually bombed the city, while mistakenly thinking they were bombing the German city of Kleve. The death toll was over 750 people.
Throughout the difficulties of war and aggression, the city of Nijmegen has remained firm, and is today a jewel of history and architecture.
Contributions to Science and Education
There are a number of universities and school of higher learning in Nijmegen. The Radboud University Nijmegen was founded in 1923, and was the first Catholic school in the Netherlands. There are also vocational, intermediate and secondary schools located here.
Of special distinction is the Nobel Prize in physics that was awarded to Andre Geim and Konstantin Novoselov while students at Radbound University.
Whether or not Nijmegen is the oldest city in the Netherlands or not: it is definitely worthy of attention. Few cities in this region of the world have gone through as much turmoil, and had as much to overcome as this city has. Today, it is a vibrant, cultural landmark full of marvelous museums, educational institutions, and upscale shopping opportunities. Its buildings and architecture will transport you back in time and the beauty of the surrounding country will help you to understand why the people, who live there, love to call it home.
Transportation in Nijmegen
Nijmegen By Plane, Train And Car
If you are flying into Holland then you are likely to be arriving at Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport . The airport is some way from Nijmegen, at a distance of around 135 km, but it is served by a very good and quick train connection. There is a train statiion in the airport itself where you can board for your journey. The trip should only take you about one and a half hours and there are usually 2 direct trains per hour.
If you are driving from Amsterdam to Nijmegen you need to drive south on the A2 until you reach the junction with the A15. Then you travel eastbound on the A15 until you reach Nijmegen. If you are not used to it, and you do not need your car, It is far better to leave it parked and travel around the city by other means. The city has a problem with congestion which is especially bad when commuters are traveling to work. This is also not helped by the fact that 6 of the major roads in the city all end up at the same roundabout. If you need help with finding out fares or times of trains and buses you can ring the central number at, 0900 9292, but be aware that this service costs 70 cents a minute with a maximum of 14 Euros!
Travel around Nijmegen
As mentioned before unless absolutely essential it is not a good idea to drive around Nijmegen. There are plenty of easily accessible buses in the city. The bus station is right next to the train station in the center of town and you are able to reach most destinations from there. There are many taxi services available. You can find them at taxi stands at the train station and other large venues, or you can book by phone:
As with most Dutch cities the best and easiest way to get around is by bicycle. There are many useful cycle lanes and you could save yourself a lot of time sitting in the traffic. It is possible to rent bikes at the underground are of the train station.
Nijmegen Tourism
Nijmegen is a large city in the east of Holland, near the border with Germany. It is also part of the metropolitan area of Arnhem. It is well known for being the oldest city in the Netherlands at just over 2,000 years. Much of Nijmegen is made up of fairly recent buildings due to the WW2 bombing, first by the Americans and then by the Germans had flattened large areas of the city. Nijmegen is also reputed to be one of the warmest cities in the Netherlands.
Buildings And Museums and Events
The Museumpark Orientalis, is a fascinating museum for those that have an interest in world and European religions. It houses artefacts and exhibitions of all things concerning the 3 religions (Judaism, Christianity and Islam), that have helped to shape the Europe of today. House of the History of Nijmegen, is an interesting museum that houses exhibits to do with the city and history of Nijmegen and has some very interesting interactive exhibitions. The museum is housed in de Mariënburgkapel, a medieval chapel.
The International Four Day March Nijmegen takes place every year on the 3rd Tuesday in July. The event consists of a series of walks in the local area at anywhere between 30 to 50km. There are also other events and festivals at the same time and it can bring in the largest crowd of any event in Holland.
Eating And Drinking
Restaurant de Hemel is a great place to eat in an historic setting. They serve a wide variety of well cooked meals and high tea. It is a great eating experience in a beautiful and quiet setting. Etcafe De Plak is a great cafe for those with a more alternative view, where the waiters and waitresses dress in an accordingly alternative way. But the food is good and reasonably priced. Van Buren of the Molenstraat is a slightly more upmarket affair. Serving fine French Cuisine, you will eat well here,but not cheaply.
Universiteitscafe Piecken, Studentencomplex Hoogeveldt is a great student bar where you will be drinking with, not only students from the local area, but also international students. With party nights as well as reasonable prices you will be sure to have a good night out here. Cafe van Ouds, Augustijnenstraat 33, is a great bar with a huge selection of beers.
Although not a obvious choice for a holiday, Nijmegen with its active social scene and beautiful surrounding countryside it is well worth the effort.
Come and discover history and culture in the region - the ancient Roman remains, the castles, the traces of World War II. But did you know that the region is also famous for the beautiful nature areas? There's a lot to discover for the whole family, also for the little ones! And when you come to visit in July, you can be part of the world famous Four Days Marches. Your journey begins here!
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A day of Nijmegen on the agenda? VVV Nijmegen is the place for all your tourist information on what to see, do, and experience in the city. You'll receive a warm welcome at VVV Nijmegen and their professional employees will, among other things, inform you on where to relax, stay overnight without care, have great food and drink, find attractions & sights, daytrips by car, bicycle or on foot. They'll also tell you about shopping, going out, and about the easiest and quickest way to get to your destination using public transportation.
VVV will also enthusiastically provide you with information on nature, culture, and history of the area, because the VVV employees all have local roots and are experts on local worthwhile facts. They'll be able to tell you about those secret and special places that can't be found on the internet. Find out about it yourself by doing a city walk under the supervision of an experienced VVV guide.
VVV Nijmegen Keizer Karelplein 32H, Nijmegen
Opening hours:
Monday Closed Tuesday 9.30 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. Wednesday 9.30 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. Thursday 9.30 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. Friday 9.30 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. Saturday 10.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. Sunday Closed
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Discover Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands. Check out the main highlights, things to do, nightlife, shopping and much more.
Nijmegen lays claims to the title of oldest city in the Netherlands, and has indeed a long history and still lots of interesting heritage to enjoy today.
See 17 top attractions and places to visit, 10 best restaurants, and more on our interactive tourist map of Nijmegen
Discover what are the best things to see and do in Nijmegen so that you fall in love with this beautiful Dutch city!
Detailed and high-resolution maps of Nijmegen, Netherlands for free download. Travel guide to touristic destinations, museums and architecture in Nijmegen.
Discover Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands, with its rich history, museums, and attractions like Hernen Castle and WW2 landmarks.
Nijmegen is a Dutch city located along the banks of the river Waal. The river Waal originates from Germany and enters the Netherlands near the Dutch-German border. It flows through several Dutch provinces before reaching Nijmegen. As you enter the city, you will be greeted by the beautiful views of the river and the surrounding hills.
The tourist information office (VVV) works closely together with that of the city of Arnhem and all the smaller destinations around. The Nijmegen office is located in the centre of town and has a wide collection of maps and brochures, can assist in any bookings you want to make and is generally very helpful. edit
Nijmegen city center map Click to see large Description: This map shows streets, parking lots, museums, points of interest, tourist attractions and sightseeings in Nijmegen.
Discover the oldest city in the Netherlands and its beautiful surroundings. A lively history, surrounded by rolling countryside. Discover Nijmegen! View our tips here.
From cosy parks to historical museums, there are tons of things to do in Nijmegen, and it's a true example of a serene, vibrant society.
The MICHELIN Nijmegen map: Nijmegen town maps, road map and tourist map, with MICHELIN hotels, tourist sites and restaurants for Nijmegen
Tourist Information. The best place to start your visit in Nijmegen is the Citystore! The staff will give you a warm welcome and will help you with any questions you may have regarding your visit. Get inspired and get to know the hidden gems in the city, but also in its beautiful surroundings.
Nijmegen Tourism: Tripadvisor has 26,014 reviews of Nijmegen Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Nijmegen resource.
Things to Do in Nijmegen, The Netherlands: See Tripadvisor's 26,004 traveller reviews and photos of Nijmegen tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in August. We have reviews of the best places to see in Nijmegen. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.
TO SEE & DO. Fancy being active or ready to relax? In Rijk van Nijmegen, you choose what suits you by the day. Discover one of the Netherlands' oldest city with its cheerful festivals, pop-up shops and unusual boutiques. Unwind in a luxurious spa, admire the treasures of the Romans or walk from the city straight into the floodplains.
Weekend trip. Weekend trip. Nijmegen breathes culture, history and Burgundian pleasure! In the oldest city in the Netherlands, you will walk along historical locations, admire classical and contemporary art in museums, and experience various sorts of stage arts.
Interactive map of Nijmegen with all popular attractions - Kronenburgerpark, Berendonck, Hatertse en Overasseltse Vennen and more. Take a look at our detailed itineraries, guides and maps to help you plan your trip to Nijmegen.
Nijmegen Tourism Nijmegen is a large city in the east of Holland, near the border with Germany. It is also part of the metropolitan area of Arnhem. It is well known for being the oldest city in the Netherlands at just over 2,000 years.
TO DISCOVER. Come and discover history and culture in the region - the ancient Roman remains, the castles, the traces of World War II. But did you know that the region is also famous for the beautiful nature areas? There's a lot to discover for the whole family, also for the little ones!
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A day or weekend in Nijmegen? VVV Nijmegen is the place for all your tourist information on what to see, do, and experience in the city.