Nijmegen

The Netherlands' oldest city, Nijmegen sits on the Meuse River with a rich Roman heritage and a lively student atmosphere. The city offers charming medieval streets, a spectacular city square, and is famous for the annual Four Days Marches walking event.

Things to do

• Valkhof Museum — Explore Roman artifacts and medieval art in this hilltop museum overlooking the Meuse River with remains of a 12th-century imperial palace.
• Grote Markt — Visit the expansive main square surrounded by Renaissance buildings, outdoor cafés, and the impressive Sint-Stevenskerk church.
• Roman Fort Noviomagus Walks — Follow marked routes through the city to discover remains and information boards about Nijmegen's ancient Roman settlement dating back to 19 BC.
• Meuse River Cycling — Cycle along scenic paths following the Meuse River through the Nijmegen countryside and neighboring villages.
• Four Days Marches Museum — Learn about the famous annual walking event that attracts thousands of participants and is deeply embedded in local culture.
• Sint-Stevenskerk — Admire this Gothic church's intricate architecture and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding region.

Food to try

• Poffertjes — Tiny fluffy Dutch pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, a popular street food found throughout Nijmegen's market squares.
• Kibbeling — Crispy battered and fried fish pieces typically served with mayonnaise, a beloved snack along the Meuse River.
• Limburgse Vlaai — A thick fruit pie from the nearby Limburg region with a custard base and fresh fruit topping, commonly found in local bakeries.
• Kaassoufflé — Crispy Dutch cheese-filled pastry typically enjoyed as a quick lunch item from frituren (fry shops).
• Meuse River Fish — Fresh local fish dishes, particularly pike and catfish, served in restaurants along the riverfront.

Local customs & good to know

• Four Days Marches Season — The city's identity centers on this July walking festival; expect heightened activity, decorations, and local pride during and around this annual event.
• Student City Vibe — Nijmegen hosts a large university population, creating lively nightlife, cafés, and a youthful atmosphere, particularly around Grote Markt.
• Bike Culture — Cycling is the primary transportation method; visitors should rent bikes to navigate like locals and respect designated cycling paths throughout the city.
• Gezelligheid in Cafés — Dutch coziness is embraced in café culture; locals linger for drinks and conversation, especially along the river terraces during warmer months.