Maastricht, Netherlands: 5 Days of Family Fun on a Budget

Discover the charm of Maastricht, where family adventures meet Dutch delight.

19 July 2023

Maastricht, Netherlands offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the charming city center with its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and vibrant market squares. Take your little ones to the Maastricht Natural History Museum or visit the enchanting fairy-tale forest of Sprookjesbos for an unforgettable experience.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Historic Center:

  • Wander through the cobblestone streets of the charming historic center of Maastricht, where every corner unveils a fascinating story.
  • Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture of St. Servatius Basilica, a true gem of the city.
  • Dive into history at the intriguing Bonnefanten Museum, home to a unique collection of art spanning centuries.
  • Take a break at Café Sjiek, a local favorite, where you can feast on traditional Dutch pancakes in a cozy and rustic atmosphere.
  • Discover the vibrant Market Square (Vrijthof), buzzing with street performers, quaint cafés, and the majestic Saint John's Church.
Day 2

Kids' Paradise:

  • Unleash your inner child at the Grotten Zonneberg, a fascinating underground maze waiting to be explored.
  • Have a blast at AGoGo Valkenburg, an adventure-packed amusement park featuring a thrilling Alpine Coaster and a panoramic cable car ride.
  • Feed your curiosity at the Bonnefanten Museum's interactive exhibition "Art Zoo: A Collection of Wondrous Creatures."
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at Brasserie-Lunchroom Petit Bonheur, where kids can indulge in tasty waffles and pancakes.
  • End the day with a leisurely boat ride along the picturesque River Meuse, admiring the stunning landscapes of the Limburg region.
Day 3

Green Escapades:

  • Immerse yourself in nature at the enchanting Hoge Kempen National Park, just a short drive from Maastricht.
  • Explore the park's hiking and biking trails, surrounded by lush forests, heathlands, and sparkling lakes.
  • Pack a picnic and enjoy a peaceful afternoon at De Dousberg, a tranquil park with beautiful views and ample space for relaxation.
  • Treat your taste buds to some local delicacies at Café Sjiek's outdoor terrace, savoring their famous Limburg Vlaai (traditional pie).
  • Experience the magical Grotten Noord Maastricht, an underground labyrinth of tunnels and caves that will transport you to a different world.
Day 4

Dutch Culture:

  • Start the day with a visit to the eclectic and vibrant Wijck neighborhood, known for its trendy boutiques and quirky design shops.
  • Dive into Dutch art at the Bonnefanten Museum, home to masterpieces from renowned Dutch painters like Rembrandt and Hieronymus Bosch.
  • Indulge in a traditional Dutch pancake at Pancake House My Pancakes, where endless flavor combinations will bewitch your taste buds.
  • Discover the Surrealist wonders of Museum aan het Vrijthof, showcasing a collection of unusual artworks and curiosities.
  • Treat yourself to a scrumptious dinner at the trendy and family-friendly Café Philip, blending delicious food with a lively atmosphere.
Day 5

History and Farewell:

  • Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Maastricht at the Maastricht Underground, an underground museum taking you through centuries of secrets and stories.
  • Explore the centuries-old fortifications of Fort Sint-Pieter, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
  • Savor a traditional Limburgian lunch at Brasserie Tapijn, located in a former military barracks with a charming outdoor terrace.
  • Visit the Museum of Natural History, where you can encounter dinosaurs and learn about the world's ecosystems in an interactive and engaging way.
  • Bid farewell to Maastricht with a leisurely stroll along the Maasboulevard, enjoying the picturesque riverside and the vibrant energy of the city.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Maastricht by plane is to fly into Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST) from various European cities, such as London, Munich, and Barcelona, and then take a bus or taxi to the city center.

Car

Driving to Maastricht is a good option if you have a car or are renting one. The city is easily accessible via the A2 highway, and there are several parking options in the city center.

Train

For those traveling by train, the best way to get to Maastricht is to take the intercity train from Amsterdam Centraal Station or Rotterdam Centraal Station to Maastricht Station, which takes approximately 2.5-3 hours.

Boat

While there are no direct boat routes to Maastricht, it is possible to take a river cruise along the Meuse River and stop in nearby cities such as Liege or Rotterdam, and then continue by train or car to Maastricht.

Bus

Traveling by bus is not the most convenient option, but it is possible to take a Flixbus or Eurolines bus from cities such as Brussels or Paris to Maastricht Bus Station.

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