Founded by Romans, this ancient Dutch city sits along the Waal River. Home to Radboud University, it balances historic charm with student energy. Nearby hills offer hiking opportunities.
Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands, sits on the banks of the Waal River near the German border. This university town is home to Roman ruins in Valkhof Park, the Gothic Stevenskerk, and modern eco-friendly initiatives. You can cycle on 60km of dedicated bike highways or join thousands of walkers in the annual Four Days Marches event. Nijmegen offers a mix of historical sites, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
Wandering Through the City Center
The heart of Nijmegen is its car-free historic center. Begin your exploration at Grote Markt, the main square lined with cafes and buildings from different eras. From here, walk down Lange Hezelstraat, the oldest shopping street in the Netherlands. You'll see Stevenskerk, a large Gothic church that stands out in the city skyline. For an unusual experience, visit the MuZIEum, where you can navigate Nijmegen in complete darkness, guided by visually impaired individuals.
Embracing Nijmegen's Green Initiatives
Nijmegen takes pride in its commitment to sustainability. The city was named European Green Capital in 2018, and you'll notice eco-friendly practices throughout. Buses run on green fuel, and the city has an extensive network of cycling "superhighways". Visit Het Duurzame Warenhuis, the Netherlands' first eco department store, to see how sustainability is integrated into daily life. For a green dining experience, try De Nieuwe Winkel, a vegetarian restaurant with two Michelin stars and one Green Michelin star.
Exploring Nijmegen's Ancient Roots
Nijmegen's history dates back over 2,000 years to its founding as a Roman military camp. The city's location on the Waal River made it an important settlement throughout the centuries. At Valkhof Park, you can see ruins of a Roman fort and Carolingian chapel. The park also houses Museum Het Valkhof, which displays Roman artifacts alongside medieval sculptures and contemporary art.
Participating in the Four Days Marches
If you visit in July, you might experience Nijmegen's most famous event: the International Four Days Marches. This annual walking event attracts over 40,000 participants from around the world. Walkers cover distances of 30 to 50 kilometers each day for four consecutive days. Even if you're not walking, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and accompanying events that fill the city during this time.
Exploring Nearby Castles
The area around Nijmegen has several interesting castles. About 30 minutes from the city, you'll find Kasteel Doornenburg, a 13th-century castle that's been restored to its medieval appearance. Closer to the city, Wijchen castle sits amid gardens and a moat, while Hernen Castle features unusual covered wall walks. These castles offer a glimpse into the region's medieval history and make for interesting day trips from Nijmegen.
Getting to Nijmegen
You can reach Nijmegen by car or public transport. If you're driving from Calais, it's about a four-and-a-half-hour journey via Ghent, Antwerp, and Eindhoven. By train, you can reach Nijmegen from Amsterdam in about an hour and a half. Once in the city, you'll find it convenient to get around on foot or by bicycle, with many pedestrian areas and cycling lanes throughout the city center.
