Discover the hidden gem of the Netherlands – a city that’s transforming into a vibrant hub of innovation and design. Often overlooked by tourists, Eindhoven is a treasure trove of unique experiences waiting to be explored.
Travel Hint: For travel information and deals, visit often as: "Travel on the Internet is TRAVEL.COM" ™
Eindhoven’s rich history, coupled with its industrial heritage, has earned it the nickname “City of Light.” This moniker is a testament to its pioneering spirit, led by the legacy of Philips, a giant in the electronics industry.
As you explore Eindhoven, you’ll uncover a blend of repurposed industrial spaces, world-class museums, and innovative design districts. This city offers a perfect blend of history, modern culture, and forward-thinking attractions, making it an exciting destination for various interests.
Discovering Eindhoven: The City of Light and Innovation
With its fascinating history and cutting-edge technology, Eindhoven is a city that seamlessly blends the past and the present. As you explore this vibrant city, you’ll discover how its rich history has shaped its identity.
A Brief History of Eindhoven
Eindhoven’s story began in the 13th century, but it was the arrival of Philips 125 years ago that transformed it into the fifth-largest city in the Netherlands. The company’s production of light bulbs earned Eindhoven the nickname “City of Light.” Over time, the city evolved from a small settlement into a major industrial hub, influencing the life of its inhabitants and the surrounding region.
The establishment of Philips not only brought industrial growth but also changed the fabric of the city, turning it into a place of innovation and progress.
How to Get Around the City
Navigating Eindhoven is easy, thanks to its excellent public transportation system and bike-friendly infrastructure. You can rent a bike and explore the city like a local, enjoying the freedom to move around at your own pace. For longer distances or alternative routes, the public transport network provides efficient connections between the city’s center and its outlying districts.
Whether you’re visiting the Philips Museum or exploring the creative district of Strijp-S, getting around Eindhoven is convenient and straightforward, allowing you to make the most of your time in this dynamic city.
Explore Strijp-S: Eindhoven’s Creative District
Once known as the ‘Forbidden City,’ Strijp-S has evolved into a vibrant district that showcases Eindhoven’s approach to urban renewal. You can experience the fascinating transformation of this former Philips industrial complex into Eindhoven’s most vibrant creative hub.
From Forbidden City to Cultural Hotspot
Strijp-S was once off-limits to everyone except Philips employees, earning it the nickname “Forbidden City.” However, with the closure of the last Philips factory in 2000, the site was repurposed into a thriving creative district. This transformation preserved the area’s industrial heritage while fostering innovation and creativity. Today, you can explore the unique atmosphere of Strijp-S, where beautiful street art, stylish residential towers, and repurposed factory halls create a space reminiscent of Berlin’s creative neighborhoods.
Must-Visit Spots in Strijp-S
When visiting Strijp-S, there are several must-see attractions. You can start at Bakkie040, a coffee shop that trains homeless people as baristas, promoting social inclusion. Next, head to Area51, Europe’s largest indoor skate hall, which offers an adrenaline-packed experience. Art enthusiasts will appreciate MU Hybrid Art House, an innovative art gallery showcasing cutting-edge works. These spots, along with designer stores, art ateliers, food halls, and brewpubs, make Strijp-S a diverse and exciting destination.
As you explore Strijp-S, you’ll discover how this district exemplifies Eindhoven’s approach to urban renewal. By preserving its industrial heritage and fostering creativity, Strijp-S has become a model for innovative urban development. You can experience the district’s unique blend of art, culture, and entertainment, making it a must-visit destination in Eindhoven.
Visit the Philips Museum: Understanding Eindhoven’s Industrial Heritage
Discover the rich history of Eindhoven at the Philips Museum, a testament to the city’s industrial heritage.
The Story of Philips and Eindhoven
The Philips Museum is located in the original factory where the company first began producing light bulbs at the end of the 19th century. You’ll learn how Philips transformed from a small family business manufacturing lamps in 1891 to a global electronics giant that shaped Eindhoven’s identity and growth.
The museum’s visual displays show how Philips produced and invented a vast array of products beyond light bulbs – from radios and televisions to medical equipment and space technology.
What to See at the Philips Museum
At the Philips Museum, you can explore the recreation of the original workshop where the Philips brothers started their business, giving you a tangible connection to the city’s industrial past. You’ll also marvel at the collection of vintage Philips products that demonstrate the company’s influence on technological development worldwide.
Additionally, you’ll understand the little-known story of how Frits Philips used his factories during World War II to provide local Jews with a haven, similar to Oskar Schindler.
Experience World-Class Art at the Van Abbemuseum
As one of the Netherlands’ leading art museums, the Van Abbemuseum is a highlight of Eindhoven’s cultural scene. Established in 1936, it is recognized for its extensive collection of modern and contemporary art.
The Museum’s Impressive Collection
The Van Abbemuseum boasts an impressive permanent collection featuring masterpieces by world-renowned artists such as Picasso, Mondrian, Chagall, and El Lissitzky. The art collection is a significant draw for visitors from around the world.
The museum’s building itself is also a work of art, with a striking futuristic extension added in 2003, surrounded by a moat.
Special Exhibitions and Events
The Van Abbemuseum is committed to presenting thought-provoking temporary exhibitions that change regularly, ensuring there’s always something new to experience during your visit.
You can plan your visit according to your time, and take advantage of free entry on Tuesdays between 3 pm and 5 pm.
Eindhoven, Netherlands: Best Things to Do for Design Lovers
As the design capital of the Netherlands, Eindhoven offers a plethora of exciting experiences for design lovers. Every year, the city comes alive with creativity and innovation, making it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts from around the world.
Dutch Design Week: A Must-Visit Event
Dutch Design Week (DDW) is a highlight of Eindhoven’s design calendar, attracting over 350,000 visitors and 2,600 designers from across the globe. This week-long event features a diverse program of workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and lectures at more than 100 places throughout the city.
During DDW, you can explore the latest trends and innovations in the design world, from technology to fashion. The event is a fantastic opportunity to network with fellow designers and discover new talent.
Design Studios and Galleries to Explore
Beyond DDW, Eindhoven is home to numerous design studios and galleries that are worth visiting throughout the year. One notable spot is Kazerne, a trendy exhibition space that functions as a design gallery, shop, innovation lab, and restaurant in a former military barracks.
You can also visit the workshop and showroom of celebrated Dutch designer Piet Hein Eek in Strijp-R, showcasing the city’s commitment to nurturing young talent and innovative ideas.
Discover Eindhoven’s Unique Architecture
Eindhoven’s architectural landscape is a fascinating mix of old and new, reflecting its rich history and innovative spirit. As you explore the city, you’ll come across a variety of striking buildings that showcase its evolution over time.
The Evoluon: Eindhoven’s UFO Building
The Evoluon is Eindhoven’s most striking building, shaped like a flying saucer. Donated by Philips in the 1960s, it now serves as an events venue and hosts exhibitions like the RetroFuture, which explores how people envisioned the future in the past.
Other Architectural Highlights
Eindhoven is home to many other architectural highlights. The Vesteda Toren, resembling New York’s Flatiron Building, stands out on the skyline. De Admirant, at 105m, is the city’s tallest building. Nearby, you’ll find De Blob, a bizarrely shaped structure, and the White Lady, a former Philips lightbulb factory with a distinctive heptagonal Light Tower.
Visitors can take a guided tour to explore these and other architectural gems, including the Oude Toren, the oldest building in town, and the neo-gothic Augustinian church, now repurposed as a conference center and boutique hotel.
Outdoor Activities and Green Spaces
As one of the greenest cities in the Netherlands, Eindhoven provides numerous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. You can explore a variety of outdoor activities and visit several green spaces that make the city a unique place to visit.
The Van Gogh-Roosegaarde Bicycle Path
A few kilometers outside Eindhoven lies a unique attraction: the Van Gogh-Roosegaarde bicycle path. At first glance, it appears to be a normal bike path, but at night, it transforms into a magical spectacle. Thousands of light-storing stones embedded in the asphalt create swirling patterns reminiscent of Van Gogh’s “Starry Night.” You can experience this enchanting path by taking a nighttime bike ride.
The path is a result of innovative design, combining art and technology to create an immersive experience. It’s a must-visit attraction that showcases Eindhoven’s blend of creativity and innovation.
Parks and Nature Areas in and Around Eindhoven
Eindhoven is home to numerous parks and nature areas, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore Stadswandelpark, an outdoor sculpture gallery perfect for evening strolls among modern art installations. The parkland surrounding Karpendonkse Plas, a lake with numerous waterfowl, is another great spot to visit.
Additionally, Genneper Parken offers a range of activities, including hiking routes, an organic farm, and Europe’s largest indoor swimming complex. In the winter, it even features an ice-skating rink. You can also visit PreHistorisch Dorp, an educational recreation of an Iron Age village and a medieval hamlet, bringing history to life.
Food and Drink Experiences in Eindhoven
Eindhoven’s culinary scene is a melting pot of international flavors and local specialties. As you explore this vibrant city, you’ll discover a wide range of dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences.
Downtown Gourmet Market and Food Halls
Visit the Downtown Gourmet Market in central Eindhoven, a beautifully decorated food hall housing over twenty different restaurants where you can sample global food without having to travel across the city. You can enjoy dishes from American burgers and Tex Mex to Indonesian, Indian, Greek, and Vietnamese street food, sushi, pancakes, and more. The market offers a convenient dining experience, allowing you to order from multiple restaurants simultaneously via QR codes at your table, with food delivered directly to you.
Local Specialties and Craft Beer
Eindhoven is not just a tech hub; it’s also a paradise for beer enthusiasts. Explore the city’s thriving craft beer scene at local breweries like 100 Watt Stadbrouwerij, Van Moll, Oldskool (Drinkers Pub), Brouwerij ‘t Veem, and Rabauw. These breweries offer a range of flavors and styles that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Be sure to visit Drinkers Pub, which boasts an impressive selection of around 1,000 different beers, making it a great place to explore.
For a unique dining experience, try traditional Dutch herring “the local way” – raw with onions, holding the fish by its tail – available fresh at Eindhoven’s weekly markets on Tuesdays and Saturdays or at SeaBas the urban fisher. You can also visit various places that serve authentic international cuisine, such as Indonesian restaurants like Bali.
Attend a PSV Eindhoven Football Match
Experience the thrill of a PSV Eindhoven football match at the iconic Philips Stadium. Eindhoven is proud of its sporting heritage, and PSV Eindhoven’s men’s football team has given the city ample reason to cheer, having won the Dutch league more than 20 times.
The Philips Stadium Experience
The Philips Stadium is an impressive construction in the heart of Eindhoven and serves as the home ground of PSV Eindhoven. A tour of the stadium is a must for any fan, offering a behind-the-scenes look at areas such as the changing rooms, directors’ box, and pitch-side dugouts.
The adjoining PSV museum is packed with memorabilia, including a replica of the European Cup won by the club in 1988. You can explore the rich history of PSV Eindhoven and its development since its founding by Philips in 1913.
How to Get Tickets and What to Expect
To attend a PSV Eindhoven match, you can purchase tickets through the official PSV Eindhoven website or at the stadium box office. It’s advisable to check the seating chart to choose the best section for your experience.
On game day, arrive early to soak in the pre-match atmosphere. You can visit the PSV Fan Store near the market square or the stadium shop to pick up official team merchandise as a souvenir of your Eindhoven experience.
Planning Your Visit to Eindhoven
To make the most of your Eindhoven adventure, it’s essential to plan ahead, from choosing the right time to visit to booking the perfect place to stay. Eindhoven is a city that offers a wide range of experiences, and with a little planning, you can ensure that your trip is nothing short of amazing.
Best Time to Visit
Eindhoven is a great destination any time of the year, but certain events make specific times more appealing. For instance, if you’re looking for a unique experience, plan your visit during the Dutch Design Week in October or the GLOW light festival in November. Summer is also a lovely time to visit, with pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities. However, if you want to see the Van Gogh-Roosegaarde bicycle path at its best, be prepared for a late-night visit as it’s most magical in the dark.
Where to Stay
Booking your accommodations in advance is highly recommended, especially during major events when Eindhoven fills with visitors. Consider staying at a hotel like Hotel Mariënhage, which is located in the city center and offers a unique blend of historic and contemporary design elements. It’s built around an old monastery, with the original church preserved and now used for events, adding to the hotel’s charm.
Conclusion
Eindhoven, a city that seamlessly merges its industrial past with a futuristic vision, is an experience unlike any other. As you conclude your tour, you’ll appreciate how this Dutch city defies expectations, offering a unique blend of industrial heritage, cutting-edge design, and technological innovation.
Your visit to Eindhoven provides insight into both the Netherlands’ industrial history and its innovative future through museums, design districts, and cultural experience. You’ll discover that Eindhoven represents a different but equally valuable way to tour Dutch culture, showcasing the country’s innovative spirit and creative energy, making the most of your time in this special place.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
Here are some Tours & Sightseeing suggestions that might pique your interests!