About Maastricht
About Maastricht
Maastricht is located in the heart of Europe, with Germany and Belgium just a few kilometers away. A lively Romanesque city with an international character and edgy touch, Maastricht is easy to love.
The most European city in the Netherlands
The Romans settled here to trade. So did the European powers that fought over the city through the centuries. And so did the heads of government who gave birth to the European Union in Maastricht. Maastricht is much more than a tourist destination with impressive architecture, rich culture and a distinctive Burgundian spirit. Without a doubt it is the most European city in the Netherlands with an ambiance similar to that found in romantic French cities.
The European Union as we know it today was formally established in Maastricht (Maastricht Treaty 1991/1992)
Maastricht is the proud host of many important European events, including TEFAF (The European Fine Art Fair)
Numerous European and international institutes are based in Maastricht
Discover the city
Maastricht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and has several places of interest to
explore. Stroll past monumental houses and churches, city walls, charming alleys, and
intimate squares and enjoy a drink at one of the many outdoor cafés. In addition to all of the
charming, romantic spots, you can stay in boutique design hotels, shop at high-end stores,
and eat at top rated restaurants. And with everything within a short walking distance, you’ll
quickly feel at home.
City highlights
Maastricht is a compact city, which is great for conference attendees. No more worries about
long rides from the hotel to the conference venue. In fact, all of the city’s highlights are within
walking distance of each other. Be sure to take a walk through a living history book; the city
center of Maastricht has been declared a national heritage site. Most streets are pedestrian
zones making for a safer, more relaxed walk. Less commuting to venues means more time to
discover Maastricht, meet up with colleagues and enjoy social events in the evening.
Restaurants
Connections are made over good food and great drinks, and Maastricht just happens to offer
an abundance of culinary treats. Many restaurants are housed in unique historic buildings,
adding charm to the high epicurean standards. You’ll find a wide range of cuisines here, from
French and Italian to Moroccan and Greek, and from Michelin-star experiences to street
food, the city is well-known as a paradise for foodies.
Maastricht, a sustainable city
In Maastricht, people work together to create a healthy city with a great quality of life for
everyone. The city’s sustainability ambitions are linked to the global objectives for
sustainable development: the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Because everything is close by,
people often choose to walk or cycle. Less traffic means fewer emissions and less noise and
a cleaner, calmer city. This benefits not only the environment but also the well-being of its
residents and visitors. Meanwhile, the city gives great attention to greenery. Parks, squares
and walking routes along the river are always nearby as spaces for movement, meeting and
rest. In this way, Maastricht shows how a compact city can contribute to a sustainable,
liveable future for everyone.