Nearby destinations: Baden-Baden
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A historic city with a summer atmosphere
Baden-Baden is located in south-west Germany, nestled between the rolling hills of the Black Forest and the picturesque vineyards of the Baden-Württemberg region. Thanks to its privileged location at the crossroads of three countries and its many cultural and natural treasures, this elegant spa town is also very popular with Luxembourgers.
The beautiful city has retained much of its architectural structure throughout its eventful history. Baden-Baden has a distinguished and relaxed atmosphere. The elegant spa with casino was built at the beginning of the 19th century and was frequented by the rich and famous. Right next to the spa is an impressive 19th-century historical refreshment bar and a magnificent Belle Époque theatre surrounded by beautiful gardens.
A historic city with a summery atmosphere
If my student days were not already far behind me, I would certainly have gone to Maastricht. This university city has everything to please: a beautiful setting, a multilingual population, a European atmosphere, a vibe that is both urban and friendly, good food, a rich cultural offering, a brewing tradition and a high quality of life.
‘Dutchness’ and Mediterranean flair
Maastricht is located in the southernmost part of the Netherlands, in the province of Limburg, very close to the borders with Germany and Belgium. As the province of Limburg has been governed throughout history by the French, Spanish, Prussians and Austrians, it has a completely different character to the provinces of North Holland. The provincial capital seems to be the perfect blend of classic ‘Dutchness’ and Southern European charm.
Maastricht is a city where everything is within easy reach, with magnificent medieval architecture that is best discovered on foot or by bike. In this almost car-free city, past and present blend harmoniously, from centuries-old churches and historic town houses to modern, bustling squares and contemporary buildings.
Market life and brewing tradition
The heart of Maastricht is formed by the market square with the town hall and the nearby Vrijthof, where there is always something going on and where all the major events take place. This is also where the most central car parks are located. But beware: with an hourly rate of 6 euros, the best place in town is anything but free!
Take a break in the popular ‘Stadsbrouwerij’, a small, friendly brewery on the riverbank, which serves excellent beer. The homemade chicken wings are the perfect accompaniment to the beer… my favourite dish!
On the banks of the Meuse, don’t miss the chance to visit the oldest building in the city, the imposing Notre-Dame basilica, rather austere on the outside but beautifully decorated on the inside.
Maastricht Treaty and Bonnefanten Museum
In the newest part of the city, very close to where the Maastricht Treaty was signed in 1992, you will find the Bonnefanten Museum. It exhibits traditional and contemporary art and is worth a visit if only for the exceptional building by Aldo Rossi. You will recognise it by its impressive rocket-shaped tower. At the very top is a trendy bar, from where there is a beautiful view of the city.
If you are interested in recent history, you can visit the historic Maastricht Treaty at the provincial parliament, which laid the foundations for the current EU and the euro in 1992.
Rijstevlaai, Zoervleis and the trendy Wyck district
Wyck, which is linked to the old town by the magnificent Saint Servatius Bridge, is a rapidly developing neighbourhood with independent shops, good restaurants, trendy cafés and elegant hotels. The many creative businesses that have set up there in recent years blend in perfectly with the traditional shops and houses. If you haven’t visited Wyck, you haven’t seen Maastricht!
Are you familiar with Limburgse vlaai, the delicious local pastry speciality? The best Rijstevlaai can be found at the Paulissen bakery in the Wyck district. For me, it’s a must-visit address on every trip to Maastricht, so that I don’t go home without this much-loved treat.
Speaking of food, try the Limburg speciality, zoervleis. The meat is marinated in vinegar, then the acidity is offset by onions, fruit and Dutch gingerbread. An unusual combination, but extremely tasty!
Helpoort, d’Artagnan and Kazematten
To the south of the city centre are the remains of the old city wall, the oldest surviving city gate in the Netherlands (Helpoort) and the beautiful Monseigneur Nolens Park. Nearby, you can also admire the statues of d’Artagnan. The famous count was shot in Maastricht in 1673, during the French siege.
Before returning to your home or hotel, you should immerse yourself in the history of the city! Start by climbing up to Fort St. Pieter, which is directly connected to the underground caves of Mount St. Pietersberg. From there, you can go to the ‘Kazematten’, a unique historical defence system. It is one of the most fascinating sites in Maastricht… and further proof of the beauty and diversity of this city!