Between the Gothic towers of the Basilica of St. Servatius and St. John's Church, surrounded by historic buildings, a lively hustle and bustle unfolds. At this square you will find an abundance of cafes and restaurants where you can watch the hustle and bustle over a coffee. Particularly recommended is the café In Den Ouden Vogelstryus, an institution since 1730, known for its cozy atmosphere.

A kaleidoscope of flavours unfolds at the Vredenburg market: fresh stroopwafels that are still warm in your hands, crunchy kibbeling that melts in your mouth, and the exotic variety of flavours of a crispy South Indian dosa, accompanied by spicy lentil curry and thick coconut chutney. It's a culinary journey through the Netherlands and beyond, wrapped up in the lively atmosphere of a traditional market.

From the top of Sint Pietersberg, impressive panoramas of Maastricht and the Limburg region reveal themselves to you. Beneath your feet stretches a network of historic tunnels and caves, witnesses to the region's turbulent past. The combination of breathtaking nature, rich history, and the opportunity to explore both above-ground and subterranean worlds makes this place unique.

A ringing opens the door to a world where time seems to stand still. In the dark catacombs of a historic building, you'll be greeted by the sounds of jazz, while at the bar, you'll be treated to artful cocktails by expert mixologists. Pieter Van Veldhoven's gin and tonic is a must, and the atmosphere is reminiscent of the elegance of the Roaring Twenties.

Wander through the Sphinx Passage, a 120-meter-long covered tile that includes nearly 30,000 tiles and depicts Maastricht's rich ceramic history. In this historical context, discover modern art studios, galleries, and workshops that reflect the creative soul of the city. On the roof of the Eiffel Building, the BOLD Rooftop Bar offers breathtaking views of the city.

You will stroll along the canal, past the most magnificent Herenhuizen in the Netherlands. Rich merchants and famous professors once lived here. Museums such as the Academiegebouw and the National Museum of Antiquities line your path. The connection of the Dutch royal family and important film locations cross your path as you wander through the most beautiful street in Leiden.

Surrounded by medieval charm, a haven of peace surrounds you, where you will find a moment of silence between carefully tended flower beds, vibrant flowers and babbling fountains. Strolling along historic paths, this garden allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and stay surrounded by nature.

Enjoy international cuisine in a cozy restaurant with a bohemian flair, located in the old headquarters of a steamship company. Whether on the sunny terrace with a view of the harbour or in the atmospheric interiors - here the ambience is suitable at any time of the day. Vegan bounty cake or a refreshing iced chai latte complete the experience. A perfect place for romantic drinks or an extensive menu with every meal.

Enjoy fresh salads, delicious sandwiches, and soups under the historic bridge of Leiden next to the old river Rijn. Watch the boats go by from the deck on a sunny day. For lovers of Dutch cuisine, the menu also offers Dutch croquettes. A good selection of beers completes the dining experience.

In a café-restaurant, furnished with vintage furniture, you can relax in grandmotherly armchairs. You can expect a variety of craft beers and a colorful mix of cultural evenings with changing programming. An ideal place for relaxing hours and cultural discoveries.

Imagine sitting in one of Leiden's oldest breweries, where Heineken once bought its iconic red star logo for the equivalent of around €400. Enjoy traditional Dutch Borrels in an ambience that combines classic cosiness with historic charm. A must-see for beer lovers and history buffs alike.

While strolling through winding alleys, you will discover Muchachas, a treasure chest full of extraordinary pieces of decoration and furniture. Each piece tells its own story, ready to start a new chapter in your home. From handcrafted accessories to one-of-a-kind furniture, you'll find everything you need to fill your living space with personality.

Enjoy authentic local cuisine from breakfast to dinner at Bistrot-Bar 't Wycker Cabinet. The tarte kitchens are recommended for sharing or lunch. The combination of warm staff, cozy décor and the use of local ingredients creates a welcoming atmosphere. Don't miss: the Cabinet Burger, ideal with a local craft beer or homemade lemonade.

Enjoy delicious food with a Greek twist in an ambience reminiscent of a cozy living room. From pita pockets to dako salad accompanied by a velvety chai latte, this place offers you a culinary journey to Greece without leaving the city. The choice of vegan and vegetarian options enriches the experience.

Immerse yourself in the world of exquisite coffee and tea specialties, freshly roasted in a roastery that is over 140 years old. Learn first-hand how the perfect coffee is brewed, taste on-site roasted coffees and teas, and indulge in freshly roasted peanuts every day. An authentic taste experience, supported by friendly staff who live the art of coffee roasting.

Discover a handcrafted masterpiece from the 1960s, a dollhouse full of mouse-sized rooms, hallways, and workshops. You can see how a mouse house is made, ask questions of the creators, and find everything you need for your own miniature house in the attached shop. For children, there are also special decorations for circus and theatre to marvel at.

Armed with a flashlight, you'll wander through underground vaults, discover archaeological treasures, and hear exciting stories. From medieval relics to Roman finds, you'll get up close and personal with Utrecht's hidden history. Each artifact, each narrative takes you deeper into the city's past and makes you feel the weight of the centuries.

Enjoy traditional Dutch beers in the cozy atmosphere of De Gouverneur. With over 50 years of experience in traditional cuisine, this restaurant offers a unique selection of local and regional beers, perfectly paired with hearty dishes such as stamppot, erwtensoep, bitterballen and croquettes. An authentic experience for lovers of Dutch culture and cuisine.

Enjoy an urban beach feel with the option to relax by the water, dine or host a BBQ. An ideal retreat to spend a sunny afternoon with friends, supported by free public toilets and the option to settle down on grass or sand.

In the morning, fresh Bocca coffee beckons, during the day flex workstations and studios offer inspiring space for creativity. In the evening, the former fire station is transformed into a culinary meeting place, where seasonal vegetable dishes and local delicacies invite you to share dining. A potje ping-pong offers the perfect end to a relaxing evening in a nostalgic-modern ambience.

At the time of the Reformation, Catholics had to hide their churches and hold services in secret. De Papegaai, also known as 'The Parrot', is a direct testimony to this era. Hidden between the shops of the bustling Kalverstraat shopping street, a world of faith and history is revealed behind nondescript doors.

Once a month, the IJ halls are transformed into a huge marketplace divided into two sections: a gigantic open-air area and an extensive industrial space that used to serve as a shipyard. Here you can browse the variety of stalls, make unique finds, and experience the atmosphere of a historic place.

Once a medieval monastery, today a green oasis of peace. Surrounded by Gothic monastery walls and the imposing cathedral church, this garden offers a perfect retreat with its fragrant herbs, flowering plants and the splashing of a medieval fountain. Here you can relax and unwind in the midst of the city's history.

After dark, the city is transformed into a stage for light art. Colorful installations illuminate bridges, churches, and canals as you walk in the footsteps of history. With a map or guide, you'll follow a path of light that wraps the architectural treasures and hidden corners in a new, shimmering guise.