Want to visit Maastricht with the least amount of money? Then follow this Top 15 of free tours, museums and activities to do in Maastricht that we’ve created for you to enjoy without breaking the bank.
Table des matières
The Dominican Bookshop
The Boekhandel Dominicanen is an 8 centuries old basilica, which was decided to be transformed into a bookshop. Its major asset is undoubtedly its nobility, as well as its refined and charming style.
We advise you to go there to quench your thirst for reading and spend a relaxing moment in an original environment.
The establishment has also thought about the comfort of its visitors and that’s why it has integrated a small café in its premises in order to offer them a warmer atmosphere in which they could quietly devour their favorite books!
The Grote Staat
This is a very lively and busy avenue in Maastricht. We recommend strolling through all its alleys and knocking on the doors of every store to become one with this mysterious and captivating city.
The Grote Staat is a street of contrasts, where luxury stores coexist harmoniously with small artisanal businesses and where modernity does not overshadow tradition.
Moreover, it is a delight for pedestrians who love to stroll from shop to shop without any specific goal.
The Vrijthof
This beautiful square in the heart of Maastricht hosts the annual André Rieu concerts, the most popular gastronomic event in the country, Preuvenemint, and the Christmas event, the Maastricht Magic, which brings a unique festive atmosphere to the city.
Vrijthof is also a place where you can take a leisurely stroll and discover the incredible buildings that symbolize the historical interest of Maastricht and refer to its glorious past and religious vocation.
We suggest you visit, among others, the Saint Servais church, the Spaans Government or the Hoodfwatch.
You can also take advantage of the beautiful terraces to spend a moment of relaxation in a serene and friendly atmosphere.
The Basilica of Our Lady
One of the must-see places in Maastricht is the Basilica of Our Lady or Onze-Lieve-Vrouwebasiliek, which has taken the place of an old church.
We invite you to contemplate the sumptuous treasure of the Basilica and to discover extraordinary artistic works and objects of great value such as the chasubles with incomparable ornaments, the Levietenkleed dress that belonged to Saint Lambert, relics, sculptures as precious as the others, and many other exceptional things.
We would also like to share with you a breathtaking spectacle; the grandiose reflection of the candles lit by the visitors of the basilica in the glass that hides the Virgin Mary.
The door of hell
We loved this 13th century monument and we want you to discover it too. Its beauty is equalled only by its cleanliness. Indeed, it is very well maintained and is located in a very calm place, very close to the city center.
You can go there on foot and take advantage of it to take some air on your way while admiring the landscape.
In the vicinity, you can continue your visit in a very nice park away from the constraints of city life.
From Bisschopsmolen
We are happy to point out the Bisschopsmolen, a beautiful Dutch mill that can be reached easily by walking through a few alleys from the Onze-Lieve-Vrouweplein.
Let yourself be guided by the tempting scent of baking bread and the rustle of the watermill telling its moving story. You will be even more fascinated by seeing the bakers at work to make the best “Vlaai” in the Netherlands.
You will also have the privilege of witnessing the milling of the flour and getting exhaustive answers to all your questions.
Stokstraat
We chose to tell you about Stokstraat because it has a lot to offer! First of all, it stands out for its beautiful renovated buildings dating from the 17th and 18th century, for its clothing and decoration stores and for the Op de Thermen square in homage to the Roman thermal baths that were revealed on this site in 1840.
You’ll love walking through so many stores and mingling with the crowds, without moderation. Here, the shopkeepers welcome you with a lot of good humor and allow you to visit their properties with pleasure. This is a really good choice to get to know Maastricht.
Statue of D’Artagnan
Discover the greatness of D’Artagnan through this statue erected in the beautiful City Park in honor of this hero who died in this city in 1673 during the Dutch War.
You will be impressed by the attention to detail in the reproduction of the character. The posture, the clothes, the gloves and even the sword and boots will almost make you believe he is real!
Take a walk in this green space and get some fresh air!
Ceramic Center
It is our great pleasure to introduce you to this cultural center dedicated to the heritage of Maastricht and Limburg.
Take a long trip back in time through the bones permanently on display in this museum and enjoy the Maastrichtian earthenware coveted by the greatest amateurs
Don’t miss the sumptuous glass objects that are famous all over Europe. The temporary exhibitions are also very interesting.
Among the archaeological discoveries of the region, you have the skeleton of a horse from the 18th century, works of art dating from the1st century BC and shoes dating from about 9 centuries.
Market Square
There’s nothing like a trip to the great outdoors to recapture the joy of life, and the Place du Marché has everything to give you that incredible feeling.
Experience the liveliness and warmth of Dutch civilization in this harmonious ensemble and enjoy the union of contemporary style with the classical architecture of the older buildings.
One thing is for sure, you will not feel out of place in this area because you are likely to meet French-speaking people.
Dinghuis
Formerly a courthouse, it now houses the tourist office. Located in the historical center, you can get all the information you need about your trip at the information desk on the first floor.
The staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
This building is imposing with its immeasurable height, as well as its huge roof. It is distinguished by a beautiful stain that embellishes its facade and a unique structure.
Le ‘t Bassin
This is a favorite address for visitors to Maastricht. You should not miss it!
Le ‘t Bassin offers you a unique opportunity to relax on the water in a peaceful haven away from the noise of the city center and surrounded by beautiful art galleries, restaurants and shops.
The barges are another attraction we highly recommend in this part of Maastricht, but you should go during the summer months as this is when this marina is at its most pleasant.
St. Martin’s Church
You won’t find a more attractive and captivating church in Europe! Its main asset is that it is still functional despite its age.
So, if you need a moment of meditation or simply to admire an extraordinary monument, the church of Saint Martin will soothe you and touch your soul.
Everything in it is beauty and grace! Its stained glass windows, its walls and even its smell are a pure wonder.
To reach it, just take a few steps from one of Maastricht’s vibrant neighborhoods. You’ll see it standing proudly on the water’s edge.
Statue of Jan Pieter Minckelers
As you may have guessed, this statue was made in honor of the inventor of coal gasification and gas lighting, Johannes Petrus Minckelers, a native of Maastricht.
We would therefore like to praise this magnificent sculpture, which we liked very much during our visit.
We also advise you to visit this sculpture with a guide who can tell you everything about this famous scientist and his invention.
The Het Frontenpark
You will not have any trouble finding this park. It’s not far from the city center and is a great place to take a stroll through all those plant-covered fortresses on a sunny day.
Nothing will make you feel better than this inimitable mix of greenery and legend, but be careful not to get lost in its endless paths.
Moreover, this idyllic setting is perfect for a romantic getaway or a couple’s getaway because it gives you the impression that you are truly alone in the world!