The Essential Guide to Nijmegen

Welcome to Nijmegen! If you're planning to move to Nijmegen, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Nijmegen has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Nijmegen.

Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands, is a treasure trove of historical sites, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. The Valkhof Museum is a must-visit, housing a collection of Roman, medieval, and modern art. The museum is located in Valkhof Park, where you can also find the ruins of a Roman palace and a medieval chapel. Another historical site is the Grote Markt, a large square surrounded by beautiful old buildings, including the 15th-century St. Stevenskerk. Climb the tower of this church for a panoramic view of the city.

For nature lovers, the Ooijpolder and the Gelderse Poort are beautiful nature reserves just outside the city, perfect for hiking and bird watching. The Kronenburgerpark, with its iconic water tower and city wall ruins, is a peaceful oasis in the city center. Nijmegen is also home to the Radboud University, one of the top universities in the country, with a beautiful campus that's worth a visit.

The city is also known for its events. The Nijmegen Four Days Marches, the world's largest multi-day walking event, attracts participants from all over the world. The accompanying Summer Festival transforms the city into a vibrant party for a week.

Nijmegen boasts a lively restaurant and nightlife scene. De Firma is a popular restaurant known for its creative dishes and beautiful location by the river. Restaurant Vesters is another favorite, offering a daily changing menu based on seasonal and local ingredients. For a unique dining experience, try In de Kazerne, a restaurant located in a former military barracks.

The city's bar scene is equally vibrant. Café Samson is a traditional Dutch pub with an impressive selection of beers. For a more modern vibe, head to Demain, a cocktail bar with a sleek interior and innovative drinks. The city also has a thriving music scene, with venues like Doornroosje and Merleyn hosting concerts from a wide range of genres.

Nijmegen's nightlife is not limited to bars and restaurants. The city has several theaters, including the Stadsschouwburg and De Vereeniging, which host a variety of performances. The LUX, one of the largest art-house cinemas in the Netherlands, is a great place to catch a film.

Recreational activities in Nijmegen are diverse and cater to all interests. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it a popular destination for hiking and cycling. The Ooijpolder and the Gelderse Poort are particularly scenic routes. The city's many parks, such as the Valkhof Park and the Kronenburgerpark, are perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.

Water sports are also popular, with the River Waal offering opportunities for rowing, sailing, and even surfing. The Honig Complex, a former soup factory turned cultural hotspot, hosts a variety of activities, from indoor climbing at Boulderscentrum Drift to beach volleyball at Beachfabriek.

For those interested in history and culture, Nijmegen offers numerous museums and historical sites. The Valkhof Museum, the Africa Museum, and the National Liberation Museum 1944-1945 are all worth a visit. The city also has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries like the Museum Het Valkhof and the Galerie Marzee showcasing contemporary art.

William Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Insider Tips from Expats in Nijmegen: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"If you are a student, there are a few organizations that offer services in English at the university. One is Bureau Buitenland. Another is The Bridge. For older working professionals, there is a network of foreigners in the area. I suggest a few pubs in town such as the one at the cinema Lux. Another really gezellig thing to do is take latin dancing lessons, latin people are really open and friendly," said one expat living in Nijmegen.

William Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

"This isn't a major tourist destination so the foreign network is much smaller. Here, six degrees of separation is more like three degrees of separation. The foreign population is very diverse, I was once at a party with 20 people and every single one was from a different country! Life revolves around moderate amounts of family life, social life and the outdoors. Nature is at your doorstep, with the Waal river and Ooij polder less than 10 minutes biking from the center of town. Nijmegen is a fine example of a very pleasant middle-sized city," commented an expat living in Nijmegen.

William Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote