Venlo: sights and travel tips

Things to see and do in Venlo

Venlo is a city with a rich past and a promising future. Whether you’re strolling through its historic streets, enjoying the beautiful parks, or exploring its excellent shopping and dining options, Venlo offers a little bit of everything. The city is also known for its famous carnival celebrations, making it an exciting place to visit during the festive season. Its location near the German border makes it a gateway to international experiences, while its charming Limburgian character ensures a warm welcome.

Top 10 things to do and see in Venlo

Venlo has plenty to offer, from cultural attractions to natural beauty. If you find yourself in this charming city, make sure to check out these highlights!

#1 Stadhuis van Venlo (Venlo City Hall)

Venlo’s historic city hall is one of the most striking buildings in the region. Built in the 16th century, this Renaissance-style building dominates the Markt square. The impressive façade, adorned with beautiful sculptures and gables, makes it a favorite spot for visitors. The bells in the tower chime throughout the day, adding to the old-world charm of the city center.

#2 Limburgs Museum

For those interested in history and culture, the Limburgs Museum is a must-visit. This museum showcases the history of the Limburg province, from prehistoric times to modern-day developments. The exhibitions include archaeological finds, folk traditions, and interactive displays that bring the past to life. It’s a fantastic place to learn about the region’s unique cultural heritage.

#3 Kasteeltuinen Arcen (Arcen Castle Gardens)

Located just outside Venlo, the Arcen Castle Gardens are one of the most beautiful attractions in the Netherlands. This breathtaking estate features more than 15 themed gardens, picturesque ponds, and an impressive 17th-century castle. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll through the Japanese garden, admire the colorful rose garden, or explore the tropical greenhouse. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.

#4 Maasboulevard

The Maasboulevard is a modern and stylish waterfront promenade where you can enjoy stunning views of the Maas River. Lined with trendy cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely walk or a relaxing drink on a terrace. The Maasboulevard also hosts various events throughout the year, including summer festivals and live music performances.

#5 Museum van Bommel van Dam

Art enthusiasts should not miss the Museum van Bommel van Dam, which focuses on contemporary art. This museum features works by Dutch and international artists, with a mix of paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. The exhibitions change regularly, so there’s always something new to discover.

#6 Jocus Museum

Carnival is an essential part of Venlo’s culture, and the Jocus Museum is dedicated to this vibrant tradition. The museum provides an in-depth look at the history and customs of Limburg’s famous carnival, featuring colorful costumes, masks, and interactive displays. If you visit during the carnival season (February/March), you’ll experience the city at its liveliest.

#7 Groote Heide

Nature lovers and hikers will enjoy the Groote Heide, a vast nature reserve just outside Venlo. With its forests, heathlands, and scenic walking trails, it’s an ideal place for outdoor activities. Whether you prefer cycling, hiking, or simply relaxing in nature, the Groote Heide offers a peaceful escape from the city.

#8 Sint Martinuskerk (St. Martin’s Church)

This impressive neo-Gothic church is one of Venlo’s most recognizable landmarks. Dating back to the 15th century, Sint Martinuskerk is known for its striking architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. Inside, visitors can admire the magnificent organ and the peaceful atmosphere of this historic place of worship.

#9 De Boekend Watermill

For a charming countryside experience, visit the Boekend Watermill, a picturesque working watermill surrounded by lush greenery. The mill dates back to the 14th century and is still in operation today. It’s a perfect spot for a scenic bike ride or a picnic by the water.

#10 German border shopping & hiking

Venlo’s location near the German border makes it a popular shopping destination for both Dutch and German visitors. The city has several large retail centers, including the Designer Outlet in Roermond, just a short drive away. If you prefer nature over shopping, the border region is also home to beautiful forests and hiking trails that connect the Netherlands and Germany.

The best accommodations in Venlo

The bordering city offers a lot of places to stay, but not that many are good in our opinion. The following two are really nice if you want to stay for the night in Venlo. Theaterhotel Venlo or BnB prins Hendrik Venlo are the best options. If you are okay with staying a bit outside (5 min drive) the city than Bilderberg Hotel De Bovenste Molen is amazing!

Food and local specialties

Venlo is known for its delicious Limburgian cuisine, with specialties that reflect its cultural mix of Dutch and German influences. Be sure to try:

• Limburgse vlaai – A traditional Limburgian pie, often filled with fruits like cherries or apricots.
• Zuurvlees – A sweet and sour stew made with marinated beef, similar to German Sauerbraten.
• Asparagus – The region around Venlo is famous for its white asparagus, which is a seasonal delicacy in spring.

Great places to eat include De Keizerin, a cozy brasserie with a mix of Limburgian and international dishes, and Eetcafé Hemingway, known for its warm ambiance and high-quality ingredients.

Events and festivals

Venlo has a lively cultural scene with festivals throughout the year. Some highlights include:

• Venlo Carnival (February/March) – One of the biggest and most colorful celebrations in the Netherlands.
• Zomerparkfeest (August) – A free music and arts festival in the city park, featuring local and international artists.
• Bluesrock Festival (September) – A must-visit for blues and rock fans, attracting top musicians from around the world.

Living in Venlo: Where to buy as an expat

Venlo is an attractive place to live for expats, offering a good quality of life at a more affordable price than major Dutch cities. Popular neighborhoods include:

• Tegelen – A quiet, family-friendly district with a strong community feel.
• Binnenstad – The city center, ideal for those who want to be close to shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Blerick – A residential area with good transport links and green spaces.

A bit of history

Venlo has a rich history dating back to Roman times. It became an important trade city during the Middle Ages and was heavily fortified. In World War II, Venlo suffered significant damage, but much of its historic charm remains intact. Today, the city blends old and new, preserving its cultural heritage while embracing modern developments.

How to get there from other big cities

• From Amsterdam – Take a direct train (2 hours) or drive via the A2 and A73 (2 hours).
• From Rotterdam – Train via Eindhoven (1.5 hours) or drive via the A16 and A73 (1.5 hours).
• From Düsseldorf (Germany) – Train (1 hour) or drive via the A52 (45 minutes).

Things to do in the area

• Roermond (30 min) – Famous for its Designer Outlet and historic center.
• Maasduinen National Park (20 min) – A beautiful natural reserve with dunes, forests, and lakes.
• Düsseldorf (45 min) – A vibrant German city known for shopping, culture, and nightlife.