Maastricht

Maastricht, a university city on the southern tip of the Netherlands, distinguished by its medieval-era architecture and vibrant cultural scene, is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands.

Bursting with churches, city walls, merchant houses and big squares as well as plenty of shops, it is also home to violin maestro André Rieu, and where he performs his annual hometown concert, an arrangement of waltzes, classical favourites and popular tunes, set in the famous medieval square.

This main square, Vrijthof, is also where the annual Christmas market is held, offering bratwurst, ‘oliebollen’ (traditional Dutch beignets) and plenty of glühwein, as well as an illuminated Ferris wheel and a beautiful outdoor ice rink that looks especially romantic at night.