Top 10 things to do and see in Roermond
Roermond might not be on your travel itinerary for Holland but it is worth adding. Especially if you like some discounted designer clothes or a jump into Germany to get a taste our neighbouring country.
1. Shop till you drop at Designer Outlet Roermond
Roermond is home to the largest designer outlet in the Benelux, attracting millions of visitors every year. With over 180 stores offering discounts on luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, and Michael Kors, it’s a paradise for bargain hunters. Read more on mcarthurglen.com.
2. Explore the historic city center
Roermond’s old town is filled with charming streets, beautiful squares, and historic buildings. Walk through the Munsterplein and Markt Square, where you’ll find cozy cafés, boutiques, and stunning architecture.
3. Visit the St. Christopher’s Cathedral
This impressive Gothic cathedral dominates the skyline of Roermond. Its intricate details and rich history make it a must-visit for architecture and history lovers.
4. Enjoy watersports at the Maasplassen
The Maasplassen, a network of interconnected lakes, offers endless opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and swimming. Rent a boat or relax by the water at one of the beach clubs.
5. Walk through the Cuypershuis Museum
Dedicated to the famous Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers (who designed the Rijksmuseum and Amsterdam Central Station), this museum showcases his work and the rich architectural history of Roermond.
6. Relax at the Roermond Marina
The city’s marina is a great spot to enjoy a drink by the water. Whether you’re watching the boats sail by or enjoying the sunset, it’s a peaceful place to unwind.
7. Visit the Minderbroederskerk
This beautiful monastery church is one of Roermond’s hidden gems. It offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning interiors dating back to the 17th century.
8. Take a day trip to the Meinweg National Park
Just outside Roermond, this national park is perfect for hiking and cycling. With its rolling hills, dense forests, and diverse wildlife, it’s a great escape into nature.
9. Experience the nightlife at Stationsplein
For those who love a night out, Roermond’s Stationsplein is the place to be. Here, you’ll find trendy bars, live music, and a great selection of restaurants to start your evening.
10. Discover the Munsterkerk
One of Roermond’s most iconic landmarks, the Munsterkerk is a beautiful Romanesque church built in the 13th century. Step inside to admire its detailed artwork and peaceful atmosphere.
Best accommodation in Roermond
We have a few options for your to stay for the night. The best are;
- Kasteeltje Hattem (our #1 favorite spot here in Roermond!)
- Het Arresthuis (classy but also chill)
- Hotel Restaurant Café Parkzicht (most budget option)
Food and local specialties
Roermond has a fantastic food scene, with local delicacies influenced by both Dutch and Limburgian traditions. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Limburgse vlaai – A famous Limburgian fruit pie, best enjoyed with a cup of coffee. It’s also in our top Dutch dishes list.
- Zuurvlees – A sweet and sour beef stew, often served with fries.
- Asparagus (in season) – Limburg is known for its white asparagus, served with ham, eggs, and butter sauce.
- Nonnevotten – A traditional Limburgian pastry, often enjoyed during carnival season.
- Fresh fish from the Maas – Roermond’s riverside location means you can find excellent fish dishes at local restaurants.
Events and festivals
Roermond has a lively event calendar throughout the year. Some of the top festivals include:
- Carnival (Vastelaovend) – The biggest event in Limburg, with colorful parades, music, and celebrations throughout the city.
- Roermond City Festival – A summer festival with live music, street performances, and food markets.
- Weihnachtsmarkt Roermond – A charming Christmas market that transforms the city into a winter wonderland.
- Limburg Festival – A cultural event featuring theater, music, and art performances across the region.
- Beach Bash at the Maasplassen – A summer beach party with DJs and watersports activities.
Living in Roermond and expat housing
Roermond is an attractive place for expats, thanks to its proximity to Germany and Belgium, its relatively affordable housing, and its high quality of life. The best neighborhoods for expats include:
- Binnenstad (City Center) – Ideal for those who want to live in the heart of the action, surrounded by historic buildings and restaurants.
- Herten – A quieter residential area with modern homes and easy access to the Maasplassen.
- Maasniel – A family-friendly neighborhood with parks, schools, and shopping centers.
- Kapel in ’t Zand – A green and peaceful area, perfect for those who enjoy a quieter lifestyle.
Roermond has a population of around 100,000 and a strong economy, with a focus on the retail and tourism industries. The city is well-connected to the rest of the Netherlands and the rest of Europe, with good road, rail, and air connections.
A bit of history
Roermond’s history dates back to Roman times, but it truly flourished during the Middle Ages as a prosperous trading city. In the 16th century, it became part of the Spanish Netherlands, and later, it played a significant role during the French and German occupations. Today, Roermond retains much of its historical charm while embracing modern development.
How to get there from other big cities
- From Amsterdam – A direct train from Amsterdam Central to Roermond takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- From Eindhoven – A direct train takes approximately 35 minutes.
- From Maastricht – A quick 30-minute train ride connects these two Limburg cities.
- From Düsseldorf (Germany) – A train ride takes just over an hour, making Roermond a great cross-border destination.
Things to do in the area
- Visit Thorn, the “White Village” – A charming nearby town famous for its white-painted houses and historic atmosphere.
- Explore Maastricht – Just 30 minutes away, Maastricht is one of the Netherlands’ most beautiful cities.
- Check out Venlo – Another great Limburg city is Venlo with a lively shopping district and scenic river views.
- Go cycling along the Maas – The area around Roermond is perfect for scenic bike rides along the river.
- Visit Kasteel Hoensbroek – One of the largest castles in the Netherlands, full of history and stunning architecture.