During my two-week stay in Brussels, I decided to take a day trip to Maastricht, and I quickly found myself charmed by the city. What to see in Maastricht in one day? I wasn’t sure at first, but after exploring its quiet streets, historic landmarks, and vibrant neighbourhoods, I ended up coming back for a second visit.
The city offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and local life, all wrapped in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether I was wandering the Old Town or people-watching in Vrijthof Square, Maastricht felt like a place worth savouring. Let me walk you through the highlights from my time in this lovely city.
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Is Maastricht Worth Visiting For One Day?
Yes! I wasn’t sure what to expect from Maastricht, but after spending a day wandering its streets, I can confidently say it’s worth the trip. So much so, that I decided to return for a second time.
What struck me first was the blend of old and new. Maastricht has some of the oldest city walls in the Netherlands, yet it also has a youthful energy thanks to its university and vibrant café culture. The cobbled streets of the historic center lead to lively squares filled with locals chatting over coffee, while just across the river, the trendy Wyck district offers boutique shops and independent art galleries.
If you’re into history, there’s plenty to see, from the Basilica of Saint Servatius to the underground tunnels of the Kazematten. Maastricht is second, only to Amsterdam, for the highest number of national heritage buildings in all of the Netherlands.
Food lovers will appreciate the mix of Dutch and Belgian influences—Maastricht does a mean serving of vlaai (a local fruit pie) and has no shortage of cozy pubs pouring Limburg beer. And if you enjoy just soaking in the atmosphere, the riverside views along the Meuse are a perfect spot to slow down and watch the city go by.
Like most Dutch cities, the charm is seeing all the locals love for their vintage bikes. Just like in Utrecht, a small city near Amsterdam, locals come into the city centre by bike.
That said, Maastricht isn’t for everyone. It’s not a place for blockbuster sights or bucket-list attractions. If you need grand palaces or world-famous museums, you might feel underwhelmed. It’s also not the easiest city to get to from Amsterdam, requiring a two-hour train ride. But if you’re looking for a slower-paced day in a town with character, good food, and a mix of history and modern life, Maastricht is definitely worth your time.
What to See in Maastricht in One Day
You won’t see everything in just 1 day, and that’s okay. Maastricht is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, so pick and choose what interests you most—whether it’s history, food, or just wandering the charming streets from this list.
St Servatius Bridge
Start with walking across St. Servatius Bridge felt like stepping into a postcard. It’s the oldest bridge in the Netherlands, dating back to the 13th century, and still one of the best spots to take in Maastricht’s skyline.
The stone arches stretch over the Meuse River, connecting the historic center with the trendy Wyck district. I loved stopping in the middle to watch boats glide by and to take in the contrast between the old city on one side and the modern touches on the other.
Basilica of Saint Servatius
Standing in front of the Basilica of Saint Servatius, I could feel the weight of its history. As the oldest church in the Netherlands, it has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries, built over the tomb of Saint Servatius, Maastricht’s patron saint.
The mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements gives it a unique character, and stepping inside, the dimly lit interior feels peaceful, almost timeless. I took a moment to visit the treasury, where centuries-old relics are displayed, including the ornate reliquary said to hold the saint’s remains.
Saint John Church (Sint Janskerk)
I almost walked past Saint John’s Church, mistaking its striking red tower for just another part of the city skyline. But I’m glad I didn’t.
This 12th-century Gothic church sits right next to the Basilica of Saint Servatius, creating an interesting contrast—one dark and Romanesque, the other tall and bright inside. The real highlight, though, is the climb up the 79-meter tower. The narrow staircase felt endless, but the view from the top made it worth the effort.
From up there, I could see the rooftops of Maastricht stretching out toward the rolling hills of Limburg, a reminder that this city is unlike anywhere else in the Netherlands.
Vrijthof Square
Vrijthof Square is the heart of Maastricht—lively, open, and surrounded by history. Lined with cafés and restaurants, it’s the perfect place to sit with a coffee and watch the city go by. The square has been a gathering place for centuries, once used for medieval fairs and military parades.
Today, it hosts festivals, concerts, and even André Rieu’s famous summer performances. With the Basilica of Saint Servatius on one side and the red tower of Saint John’s Church on the other, it’s a spot I found myself lingering here longer than planned.
Maastricht Old Town
Wandering through Maastricht’s Old Town felt like stepping through layers of history. It reminded me of Haarlem, another city near Amsterdam. The narrow cobbled streets, lined with centuries-old houses, led me past hidden courtyards, charming boutiques, and cozy cafés filled with locals.
Unlike other Dutch cities, Maastricht has a distinctly European feel—more Belgian or even French at times—thanks to its location near the borders.
I loved getting lost here, stumbling upon remnants of the medieval city walls, passing through the imposing Helpoort (the oldest city gate in the Netherlands), and ending up in quiet little squares where time seemed to slow down. It’s not about rushing to see specific sights but rather soaking in the atmosphere of a place that has been lived in for over a thousand years.
One of the things I loved about Maastricht was how each part of the city has its own character. Rather than feeling like one continuous historic center, it’s a mix of different quarters, each with its own story and vibe.
- City Centre – This is the heart of Maastricht, where you’ll find Vrijthof Square, St. Servatius Basilica, and the Dominicanen Bookstore. It’s a blend of history and modern life, with busy shopping streets, lively cafés, and plenty of small alleys worth wandering down.
- Stokstraat Quarter – If you’re looking for a glimpse of Maastricht’s more refined side, this is the place. Once home to the city’s poorest residents, it has transformed into an elegant district with high-end boutiques, art galleries, and stylish cafés. The beautifully restored buildings here are some of the oldest in the city.
- Jeker Quarter – Tucked against the old city walls, the Jeker Quarter has a quieter, more local feel. The Jeker River runs through it with one of Maastricht’s oldest and still-operating water mills called Bishop’s Mill, and you’ll find charming streets, student hangouts, and a mix of historical sites like the old fortifications and green spaces.
- Wyck – Across the St. Servatius Bridge, Wyck has a completely different energy. It’s trendy, a little more modern, and filled with independent shops, artisanal bakeries, and boutique hotels.
Dominicanen Bookstore (Boekhanedel Dominicanen)
A bookstore inside a 13th-century church isn’t something you come across every day, but that’s exactly what makes Boekhandel Dominicanen special. Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the towering Gothic arches and the way the bookshelves fit seamlessly into the old church nave. Once a place of worship, then a military storage space, and even a bicycle shed, this space has seen centuries of change. Now, it’s one of the most beautiful bookstores I’ve ever visited.
I browsed the shelves, took in the faint scent of old paper mixed with coffee from the café tucked into the former choir, and found a quiet corner to soak in the atmosphere. Even if you’re not looking for a book, it’s worth stopping by just to experience the unique setting.
City Hall
Maastricht’s City Hall stands right in the middle of Markt Square, an elegant 17th-century building that has seen centuries of trade, politics, and daily life unfold around it. I stopped to admire its symmetrical design, the grand staircase leading up to the entrance, and the clock tower that still chimes over the square with its 49 bells.
Built when Maastricht was under both Dutch and Spanish rule, it carries traces of that layered history. While the inside is only accessible on guided tours, just standing outside and watching the lively market stalls set up around it on Wednesdays and Fridays is worth it!
Basilica of Our Lady
The Basilica of Our Lady was one of those places I stumbled upon unexpectedly, and I’m glad I did. This Romanesque church, built in the 11th century, stands out with its simple yet striking design, especially the impressive tower that rises above the surrounding buildings.
Inside, I found it peaceful and a bit more understated compared to other churches in Maastricht, with a focus on the original architecture. What makes it special is the statue of Our Lady, which has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. It’s not as crowded as other landmarks, and I loved the quiet atmosphere—it felt like a moment of calm in the middle of the city.
Maastricht Museums Underground and Bonnefaten Museum
A visit to Maastricht Underground was one of those experiences that gave me a completely different view of the city. Beneath the streets, the network of caves and tunnels stretches for miles, dating back to Roman times. I joined a guided tour to learn about the role these tunnels played in the city’s defence, storage, and even as hiding places during the war.
Just a short walk away is the Bonnefanten Museum, a perfect stop for art lovers. Housed in a striking modern building designed by Italian architect Aldo Rossi, the museum houses a collection of contemporary art alongside medieval works.
Fort Saint Peter (Sint Pieter)
On our way back to Brussels, I stopped here to check it out, but don’t make the same mistake I did, and that is you can only visit this Fort on a guided tour.
Located on the hill of St. Pietersberg, I could see that it was part of a larger network of fortifications that once protected the city. The real highlight for me, though, was the view over Maastricht and the surrounding countryside—it gives you a whole new perspective of the city.
If you’re up for a bit of history and a great panorama, it’s definitely worth the visit.
Best Places to Eat for Your One Day in Maastricht
When it comes to food, Maastricht doesn’t disappoint, especially if you’re a fan of the famous Limburgse vlaai (fruit pie). I couldn’t leave without trying a slice, and I quickly found a few spots where the locals go for the best pies. I even bought an entire pie to bring back to Brussels.
Bisschopsmolen is not only a historical gem but also a fantastic place to sample fresh vlaai, straight from the bakery inside the old mill. Another great option is Bakkerij Mathieu Hermans, a local bakery known for its delicious pies and other baked goods. For a cozy atmosphere with a great view, try Stadcafé Lure, where you can enjoy both vlaai and a relaxed meal right by the river.
For lunch, De Brandweer is my top pick. The setting—an old fire station—is unique, the menu is a lighter fare which means you can treat yourself to Limburg pie.
When it comes to grabbing a beer, Maastricht has some cozy spots that feel like a second home to locals. Café Falstaff offers a laid-back vibe and a great selection of local brews, while Café t Pothuiske has a more intimate feel with its warm, traditional interior (this was my favourite). Café de Zwaan is another great choice for a beer, especially if you’re in the mood for a classic Maastricht pub experience, and order their famous draft beer, “Zwarte Ruiter”, which my husband enjoyed.
For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at Beluga if you’re in the mood for fine dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Or, I enjoyed the vibe and menu serving the French classic dishes at Harry’s.
Final Thoughts
I visited Maastricht while staying in Brussels and taking day trips to some of Belgium’s most scenic places. It’s also a scenic drive from Monschau Germany which I highly recommend too. Ready to explore more? Check out my article on Amsterdam for more travel inspiration!
