A Dutch city known for high-tech innovation and home to electronics giant Philips. Hosts the annual Dutch Design Week, a major global design event.
Eindhoven, the fifth-largest city in the Netherlands, is a center of innovation and creativity. Once a small village, it grew into a technological powerhouse with the rise of Philips electronics. Today, Eindhoven is known for its cutting-edge design, active nightlife, and forward-thinking attitude. You can admire Picasso's works at the Van Abbemuseum, shop in converted factories at Strijp-S, or learn about light bulb production at the Philips Museum.
Dutch Design Capital
Eindhoven has reinvented itself as the Dutch capital of design. This is most evident during Dutch Design Week, held annually in October. For nine days, the city transforms into a showcase for innovative design, with exhibitions, workshops, and events spread across multiple venues. Outside of Design Week, you can experience Eindhoven's creative spirit at Strijp-S, a former Philips industrial complex turned into a cultural and residential area. Here, you'll find designer studios, restaurants, and unique shops in repurposed factory buildings.
Modern Art at Van Abbemuseum
At the Van Abbemuseum, one of Europe's leading institutions for modern and contemporary art, you can view works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Chagall, and Kandinsky. The museum's modernist building stands out in the city center. Regular temporary exhibitions encourage visitors to reconsider their perceptions of art and society.
Nightlife on Stratumseind
When night falls, head to Stratumseind, the longest pub street in the Netherlands. With over 50 bars and clubs on a single street, you'll find options for every preference. You can sip local beers in cozy brown cafés, try craft cocktails in trendy bars, or dance the night away in bustling clubs. Stratumseind is particularly active on Thursday nights when students gather for their weekly night out.
Parks and Recreation
Eindhoven has several parks within the city center, including the Stadswandelpark with its sculpture garden. For a longer nature excursion, visit the Genneper Parken on the outskirts of the city. This large recreational area includes forests, meadows, and sports facilities. You can rent a bike to explore the park's extensive network of cycling paths, or enjoy a picnic by the Dommel River.
A City Shaped by Innovation
Eindhoven's rapid growth in the 20th century stemmed largely from the presence of Philips electronics company. Founded in 1891 to manufacture light bulbs, Philips drove Eindhoven's expansion from a village to a major industrial center. Though Philips relocated its headquarters in 1997, the company's influence remains visible throughout the city. At the Philips Museum, housed in the factory where workers produced the first light bulbs, you can learn about the company's technological innovations and their impact on everyday life.
Getting Around
Eindhoven is a compact city, and you can walk to many attractions from the center. For longer journeys, use the extensive bus network. Purchase an OV-chipkaart for public transport at the central station or at vending machines throughout the city. Cycling is also popular, with many bike rental shops available. For a unique experience, ride on the Van Gogh-Roosegaarde cycle path between Eindhoven and Nuenen, which lights up at night with a design inspired by Van Gogh's "Starry Night."
