Discover Nijmegen | A Visitor's Introduction to Nijmegen

Why is Nijmegen Worth a Visit?

Nijmegen is worth visiting for its rich history, charming old town, and laid-back atmosphere. As the Netherlands’ oldest city, it offers a fascinating mix of Roman ruins, medieval streets, and modern architecture. It’s also a city that celebrates the outdoors – with riverside parks, nearby hills and forests, and plenty of cycling routes.

Culturally, Nijmegen punches above its weight, with music festivals, art exhibitions, and the famous Vierdaagse (Four Days Marches), the world’s largest walking event. It’s a place where you can explore museums in the morning, enjoy a riverside terrace in the afternoon, and catch live music in the evening.

Nijmegen Highlights: Things to See and Do in Nijmegen

Valkhof Park & Museum Het Valkhof

This historic park contains remnants of a Roman fort and medieval castle, with sweeping views over the Waal River. Museum Het Valkhof nearby houses Roman artefacts, medieval art, and contemporary exhibitions.

Grote Markt & Stevenskerk

The Grote Markt is the heart of the old town, lined with cafés, shops, and historic façades. Overlooking it is the St. Stevenskerk, a Gothic church offering city views from its tower.

Waalkade

A lively riverside promenade with restaurants, bars, and boat tours. It’s a great place to relax and watch the passing ships.

Kronenburgerpark

A scenic park with medieval towers, ponds, and walking paths, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Honigcomplex

A redeveloped industrial site now housing creative studios, craft breweries, and pop-up restaurants.

De Bastei

An interactive museum on the riverfront exploring the natural and cultural history of Nijmegen and the Waal.

Ooijpolder & Millingerwaard

Nature reserves just outside the city, ideal for cycling and walking, with opportunities to spot wild horses, cattle, and birdlife.

Nijmegen Four Days Marches (Vierdaagse)

Held each July, this world-famous walking event draws thousands of participants and is accompanied by the Vierdaagsefeesten, a week-long city-wide festival with music, food, and entertainment.

Goffertpark

A large park that hosts major concerts and festivals as well as offering space for picnics and sports.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Nijmegen is about 1.5 hours by train from Amsterdam and an hour from Utrecht. It’s also easily reached from Germany’s Ruhr region. The city centre is compact and walkable, with excellent cycling infrastructure.

Parking

Paid parking is available in and around the centre, with several large garages. Park-and-Ride options on the outskirts offer cheaper alternatives.

Dining

Nijmegen’s food scene includes everything from casual pancake houses to fine dining. Look out for riverside seafood restaurants, vegetarian cafés, and local craft breweries. The city’s large student population ensures a lively café and bar scene.

Shopping

The old town offers boutique fashion, bookshops, and speciality stores. Saturday’s market on the Grote Markt is great for fresh produce, cheese, and flowers.

When to Visit

Spring and summer are perfect for enjoying the parks and riverside terraces. July is the liveliest time, thanks to the Vierdaagsefeesten. Autumn offers colourful walks in nearby nature reserves, while winter brings festive markets and cosy cafés.

Local Events

• Vierdaagse & Vierdaagsefeesten (July) – The city’s biggest annual event.

• International Film Festival Nijmegen (autumn) – Independent and international films.

• Nijmegen Music Meeting (May/June) – World music festival.

Exploring Beyond Nijmegen

Nearby Arnhem offers the Airborne Museum and Burgers’ Zoo. The hills and forests of the Rijk van Nijmegen are perfect for cycling, while Germany’s Kleve and Xanten make easy day trips.