Things to see and do in Heerlen

Heerlen offers a refreshing alternative to the typical Dutch city experience. Instead of canals and windmills, you’ll find Roman ruins, world-class street art, and a thriving cultural scene. It’s a city with a strong identity, shaped by its industrial past and modern creativity. Whether you’re exploring its murals, discovering its history, or enjoying its green surroundings, Heerlen will surprise you at every turn.

Here are the top 10 things to do in Heerlen:

  1. Schunck Glass Palace & Street Art Museum
    The architectural icon of Heerlen, this former department store is now a cultural hub with an impressive library, art gallery, and music venue. It also serves as the gateway to Heerlen’s vibrant street art scene.
  2. Thermenmuseum
    Discover the Netherlands’ best-preserved Roman bathhouse and step back nearly 2,000 years into the past. The interactive exhibits provide a fascinating look at Heerlen’s ancient roots. Read more on hetromeinsmuseum.nl.
  3. Street Art Heerlen
    Dubbed the “Street Art Capital of the Netherlands,” Heerlen is a paradise for mural lovers. Take a self-guided tour to see works by world-renowned artists like Case Maclaim and Super A.
  4. Parkstad Limburg Theater
    From world-class ballet to local performances, this theater is a must-visit for culture lovers. Check the agenda for concerts, plays, and comedy shows.
  5. Kasteel Hoensbroek
    One of the most beautiful and best-preserved castles in the Netherlands, just a short drive from Heerlen. Explore centuries of history in this fairy-tale setting.
  6. Gaiapark Zoo
    A perfect outing for families, this award-winning zoo offers a natural habitat for animals from around the world, set in a stunning, green landscape.
  7. Brunssummerheide Nature Reserve
    Just outside Heerlen, this vast heathland is a paradise for hikers and cyclists. Visit in late summer when the purple heather blooms.
  8. Royal Theater Heerlen
    A nostalgic cinema experience in an Art Deco setting, perfect for movie buffs looking for independent films or a cozy night out.
  9. Pinkpop Festival Grounds
    Home to the legendary Pinkpop Festival, one of Europe’s longest-running music festivals. Even when the festival isn’t happening, you can visit the iconic site in nearby Landgraaf.
  10. Woonboulevard Heerlen
    The largest home and living shopping boulevard in the Netherlands, ideal for those looking to furnish their new home or get some interior inspiration.

Best places to sleep in Heerlen

There is a lot of accommodation to be found in Heerlen! We checked out the following spots and stayed a few nights at the beautiful Van der Valk Hotel Kasteel Terworm just outside Heerlen, amazing location! Other good options are Hotel de Rousch – 4 sterren Superieur or Stadshotel Heerlen.

Food and local specialties

Heerlen has a growing culinary scene influenced by both Dutch and international flavors. Must-try local specialties include:

  • Zoervleisj – A delicious Limburgish meat stew with a sweet-and-sour sauce, traditionally served with fries.
  • Limburgse vlaai – A traditional Limburgian pie with a variety of fruit fillings, such as cherry or apricot.
  • Nonnevot – A deep-fried, doughy treat shaped like a knot, often enjoyed during carnival season.
  • Burgundian Limburg-style dining – Enjoy local hospitality at restaurants like Brasserie Mijn Streek, which offers fantastic views over Heerlen.

Events and festivals in Heerlen

Heerlen is alive with events all year round. Some highlights include:

  • Heerlen Jazz Festival (May) – A must for jazz lovers, featuring international artists.
  • Cultura Nova (August-September) – An avant-garde arts festival blending theater, music, and visual art in unique urban settings.
  • Wintertijd Heerlen (December-January) – The city transforms into a winter wonderland with Christmas markets and ice skating.
  • Parkstad Culinair (summer months) – A food festival showcasing local and international cuisine.

For a taste of international flavors, Heerlen’s food scene ranges from Italian to Asian fusion, with hidden gems like Mokum Heerlen for great tapas and Sarban for Afghan specialties.

Living in Heerlen: where to buy as an expat

For expats looking to settle in Heerlen, the city offers affordable housing compared to the Randstad, along with a high quality of life. The best areas to consider:

  • Bekkerveld – A quiet, green area with family-friendly housing.
  • Welten – Close to Heerlen’s center but with a more suburban feel.
  • Hoensbroek – A budget-friendly area with good transport links.
  • Eikenderveld – A trendy, up-and-coming neighborhood ideal for young professionals.

With excellent connections to Germany and Belgium, Heerlen is perfect for international professionals working in the Euregion.

Things to do in the area

  • Valkenburg – A charming historic town with castle ruins and underground caves.
  • Maastricht – A vibrant university city full of history, culture, and great food.
  • SnowWorld Landgraaf – One of Europe’s largest indoor ski resorts.
  • Drielandenpunt – The tripoint where the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium meet.
  • Eifel & Ardennes – Beautiful nature reserves just across the border in Germany and Belgium.