Travel Guide to Maastricht, Netherlands

Though Maastricht is quite a small town (its population is 122.000 of people and its square is about 60 square meters), it has the atmosphere of an international capital: there one can hear Dutch, French, and German along with the dialects of the natives. This town has rich culture, history, architecture and traditions.

Every year Maastricht is visited by more than 2.6 million of tourists. Both the citizen of Maastricht and the Dutch describe Maastricht as a typical Burundian city, because its very warm and shiny climate. But what makes it so attractive? Why thousands of tourists come there to do some shopping, to have a walk, to go out or just to sit in the open-air? Not only the Dutch, but also the neighbors (the Belgian and the German) are fond of the unique atmosphere of the city. Maybe it's because of the Maas River, the ancient history and the historical center with more than 1500 monuments? Or maybe the reason are the squares, 400 cafes, fabulous restaurants and boutiques? Or maybe (and it seems to be the right answer) it's due to the combination of all these factors?

Maastricht doesn't lack epithets: it's called the oldest city of the Netherlands, the city of monuments (Maastricht takes the second place after Amsterdam in the number of monuments), the city of the first episcope, the oldest industrious city, the city of shopping, the city of students and the coziest city in the Netherlands. Life in Maastricht never stops. New shopping centers, modern hotels and posh restaurants, some of which have a number of stars – all this attracts those, who likes shopping or just wants to have a splendid time. Don't forget to visit Vrijthof Square and discover other sights of Maastricht. Try to feel this city as it is felt by the citizens of Maastricht.

The Basilica of St Servas. You should surely visit the basilica and its treasury. There takes place all the history of the city embodied in jewelry: the monstrance of St Sevas (the first episcope in the Netherlands), and also the Golden shrine, where his ash is kept. All the things there are connected with this person. In the basilica one can see the Cup of St Servas, the half-length portrait, episcope's key and crook. More than that, the unique collection of silk and a lot of paintings and pictures are located there. The basilica and the treasury are opened at the same time, but while the church services no admittance is allowed. You can visit the basilica on your own or from May to September you may use the help of a guide, whose service is free.

Vrijhof Square. 'Vrijhof' in Dutch means 'an enclosed place' or 'a court in front of the church'. For Vrijhof Square the second meaning is more suitable. It's situated in front of the Basilica of St Servas and is considered to be the heart of the city. There one can get acquainted with the province of Lamburg as it is. Around the square one can see comfortable restaurants and cafes that can offer various delicious meals and drinks. From Vrijhof Square the tram goes. It makes a 45-minute excursion to the historical center of the city and gives an opportunity to look at the main sights of Maastricht. The tram has the seating capacity for 35 people. By the way, it's the only tram in Maastricht. Besides that, at the square you'll find the theatre, where almost every day take place various performances: opera, cabaret, musicals and dancing shows.

The Church of St Jan. The church appeared on the place of the chapel of the 14th century in front of the Basilica of St Servas. Time passed and it changed its outlook. In 1632 it went to the Dutch Reformative Community. The greatest its element is a 70-meter tower, colored in red. Inside one should look at the choir, the pulpit, created by Pirkens and the organ.

The Dominican Church. The Dominican Church was built in the end of the 13th century. It has gothic architectural style, but one can also notice some romantic elements. In the north part of the church one can see the amazing arch, decorated with the frescos of the 14th century, some of them were created by Thomas Aquinas. They are the oldest frescos in the Netherlands and the oldest works by Thomas Aquinas. The latest 200 years the church is used for different reasons: starting with the concert hall and ending with the terrarium. Nowadays the church has been restored and there takes place the Selexyz Shop.

Market Square. Market Square, along with Vrijhof Square, is one of the most famous squares in the city. The famous Maastricht City Hall is situated there. The square appeared together with the city hall in the 17th century. At the present day at Market Square are situated plenty of cafes and restaurants. Every week on Wednesdays and Fridays market is organized at this place. On Fridays the offer is especially good.

Read more about Maastricht:
Restaurants and cuisine in Maastricht
Local traditions and lifestyle
'Must visit' places in Maastricht
Nightlife and attractions in Maastricht
Preparing for Maastricht: Advices
Maastricht photogallery