Official language: Dutch, Frisian
Time zone: UTC+2
(summer),
UTC+1
(winter)
Currency: Euro (EUR)
There's still an argument over whether Maastricht or Nijmegen should be considered the oldest city in the country. The research shows, however, that the former one was founded first and has been continuously inhabited since Roman times.
The city derives its name from the river of Meuse (Dutch: Maas). It translates as “crossing the Meuse” and refers to the bridge built in the time of Augustus Caesar.
When entering this amazing shop, you’ll feel like you’re in a fantasy movie. The range of goods includes everything from toys, through clothes, to clocks – all secondhand. The owner guarantees a great atmosphere.
Maastricht is a city in the south of the Netherlands, in the province of Limburg, on the Meuse River. It’s commonly associated with the Treaty on the European Union that was signed here. You can be sure, though, that the city has a lot to offer! Even the river itself is an important spot. Lots of restaurants and workplaces, as well as promenades and green spaces, are concentrated along it.
The cathedral, dedicated to Saint Servatius, is one of the city’s major historical objects. Also, the stone footbridge (open only to cyclists and pedestrians) was named after St. Servatius. It’s believed to be the oldest bridge not just in the city but in the whole country. The Romans built it as early as in AD 50!
In a lovely setting by the river, you’ll find the seat of government of the Limburg province. It was here that in 1992 the Maastricht Treaty was signed. Among the locations that draw many tourists is the Old Town with plenty of beautiful buildings. The highest number of them you’ll see around the Vrijthof Square and the market square. Town Hall sits here, and a street fair is held every Wednesday and Friday.
Maastricht is the city of students, so you won’t complain about the lack of bars and nightclubs. Most of them are situated in the city center. The recommended places are, e.g., Highlander Bar at 58 Hertogsingel and the club called Allebonneur at 5 Leliestraat.
Where to dine? There’re plenty of excellent eateries in Maastricht, and it should be noted that prices are much lower than, for example, in Amsterdam. You may like Cafe Sjiek at 13 Sint Pieterstraat – sometimes it’s not easy to find a table, but it’s worth waiting even an hour to get in! An alternative place is Chateau Neercanne at 800 Cannerweg. It’s worlds apart from the first one – thanks to the food and décor you’ll, indeed, feel here like you’re in another world.