Nijmegen

With about 160,000 inhabitants, Nijmegen is a relatively large city in the southeast of the

By Train

Nijmegen is connected to the Dutch railway network, with regular train services from major cities including Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam. The station is typically within cycling distance or a short walk from the town center.

By Car / Road

Intercity bus stop Nijmegen Flixbus serves the town. Nijmegen is connected to the German cities (and railway stations) of

The city bus company,

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

• • Cycling through the scenic Dutch landscape, along canals and past historic farms
• • Boating or canal tours (where waterways are present)
• • Attending local festivals and cultural events
• • Shopping at weekly markets for fresh produce, cheese, and flowers
• • Day trips to nearby cities and attractions

Nijmegen offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Dutch brown cafés serving hearty pub fare to international restaurants. Local specialties may include fresh seafood (particularly in coastal areas), Dutch cheeses, and regional dishes. Most restaurants offer gezelligheid (a cozy, convivial atmosphere) and outdoor terraces in good weather.

Dutch café culture thrives in Nijmegen. Brown cafés (bruin cafés) — traditional Dutch pubs with a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere — serve local beers, wines, and strong spirits. Specialty coffee shops offer artisanal brews and pastries. In summer, outdoor terraces are popular for enjoying a drink while people-watching. Local breweries may offer regional beer varieties.

Budget: Hostels and budget-friendly guesthouses offer basic accommodation from around €30–60 per night.

Mid-range: Comfortable hotels and bed & breakfasts are available from €70–130 per night, typically within walking distance of the town center.

Upscale: Boutique hotels and higher-end properties offer premium amenities and superior comfort from €140 per night.

The town center features a selection of Dutch high-street retailers and independent boutiques. A weekly market is typically held in the central square, offering fresh produce, cheese, flowers, and regional specialties. Look for local delicacies such as artisan cheese, stroopwafels, and traditional baked goods.

• Nearby towns in Gelderland — Explore neighboring communities and their unique character
• Amsterdam — The capital city is within easy reach by train for a day trip
• Other Dutch cities — The excellent rail network connects Nijmegen to cities across the Netherlands