Nijmegen

If you are planning a trip to Nijmegen, you are embarking on a journey to one of the most atmospheric destinations in Europe. Located in the east of the Netherlands, right by the German border, this city proudly holds the title of the oldest in the country, combining Roman heritage with a dynamic academic atmosphere. Getting here is effortless: a developed transport network allows you to travel comfortably by train, bus, or private car from anywhere in the region.

Since the city of Nijmegen does not have its own airport, travelers usually choose to fly into major international hubs nearby. The most convenient options are Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam or Eindhoven Airport, which receive flights from all over the world. Additionally, Weeze Airport in Germany, located just a few dozen kilometers from the city, can be a good alternative.

All these air hubs are well connected to the region by the transport network. After landing, tourists can easily continue their journey by ground transport, as connections between the airports and the eastern part of the Netherlands are organized very efficiently.

The railway is one of the most popular and scenic ways to reach your destination. The city's main transport hub is Nijmegen Railway Station, where comfortable Intercity trains regularly arrive from Utrecht, Amsterdam, and other major centers. The station is located within walking distance of the historic center, making arrival exceptionally convenient for tourists.

Thanks to the dense railway network of the Netherlands, the journey is quick and strictly on schedule. If you are traveling from the south or from Germany, you may need to transfer in the city of Arnhem or Venlo; however, connections usually take minimal time and are intuitive even for first-time visitors.

For budget-conscious travelers, traveling by bus is an excellent option. Many international carriers, such as FlixBus, include Nijmegen in their routes, connecting it with cities in Germany, Belgium, and France. Travel time depends on the departure point, but modern buses ensure a high level of comfort even over long distances.

Regional bus services are also superbly developed. Buses connect the city with small towns in the province of Gelderland and neighboring districts. This is a convenient way to reach the center if you are staying in the suburbs or wish to enjoy views of the Dutch countryside along the way.

Traveling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy high-quality European roads. Nijmegen is surrounded by a network of motorways: the A15, A50, and A73 highways lead to the city, ensuring fast access from both the central part of the country and the German side. The drive from Amsterdam will take about 1.5 hours, and from the German border, just a matter of minutes.

When planning your route, please note that parking in the historic center is paid and often busy. A wise decision would be to use the Park & Ride facilities on the outskirts, from where you can quickly reach the center by public transport or taxi.

To ensure your stay in the country's oldest city is as comfortable and pleasant as possible, we have prepared several important recommendations. These simple tips will help you adapt faster and avoid common tourist mistakes.

1. Clothing and Weather. The climate here is moderate maritime, so the weather can be changeable. Even in summer, it is recommended to carry a light raincoat and comfortable waterproof shoes for long walks on cobblestones.
2. Cycling Culture. The best way to get around is by renting a bicycle. However, please be attentive: locals ride fast and confidently; always use hand signals when turning.
3. Finances and Payment. The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but in some small shops or markets, they may ask for cash or a Maestro card, so it is advisable to carry some small change.
4. Language Barrier. Almost all locals speak fluent English. Do not hesitate to ask passersby for help—the Dutch are very responsive and friendly.
5. Road Safety. Never walk on bicycle paths (they are usually red). This can annoy cyclists and create a dangerous situation.
6. Shops and Opening Hours. Please note that most shops close quite early, around 18:00. The exception is the "shopping evening" (usually on Thursdays), when retail outlets stay open longer.
7. Event Tourism. If you are planning a trip in July, be aware of the "Nijmegen Four Days Marches". During this time, the city is very busy, and accommodation must be booked several months in advance.

By following these simple rules, you will be able to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Nijmegen and take home only positive memories from your journey.