Made(Netherlands) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Maastricht, top picks for families include Hotel De L’Europe, located in the heart of the old town near the Meuse River and St. Pieter’s Cathedral. This historic boutique hotel offers spacious rooms, child-friendly amenities, and daily family tours to nearby parks like Boschstraat Park. The hotel also hosts themed weekends with storytelling sessions, craft workshops, and guided walks through the city’s underground tunnels. With its central location and welcoming atmosphere, it’s ideal for parents seeking both comfort and cultural enrichment for their children.

The Old Town (Oude Stad) is the prime district for staying in Maastricht, where medieval stone buildings, narrow alleys, and centuries-old landmarks like Vrijthof Square, St. John’s Church, and the Catacombs converge. Stay at Hotel De Bonte Huis, a former 15th-century merchant house transformed into a boutique hotel with original timber beams and period décor. Its central location allows easy access to walking tours, local museums, and riverside views. Evenings here are magical, lit by candlelight and echoing with history—perfect for travelers who value authenticity and charm.

For photographers, Hotel de Witte Paard stands out as a must-book stay. Located on Vrijthof Square, this 17th-century building features Gothic arches, hand-carved fireplaces, and intricate stonework—ideal for architectural shots. The hotel offers free photography tours to hidden gems like the underground catacombs and golden-hour sessions along the Waal River. Guests receive a complimentary guidebook with recommended angles and lighting tips. With limited rooms and an artistic ambiance, it’s a dream destination for capturing Maastricht’s timeless beauty.

Each December, Maastricht celebrates the Sinterklaas Festival, one of the Netherlands’ most beloved winter traditions. The city transforms into a festive wonderland with illuminated streets, traditional parades, and markets selling handmade gifts and mulled wine. Guests staying at Hotel Het Kruis can enjoy exclusive festival packages, including parade viewing spots and a special Sinterklaas gift bag. The hotel also hosts intimate jazz nights by the fireplace, blending Dutch warmth with seasonal magic—perfect for a cozy winter escape.

Stay at Hotel De Grote Kerk, which overlooks St. John’s Cathedral and features De Wijnkelder, a renowned restaurant serving regional specialties like goose liver with rye bread and slow-cooked beef with red wine sauce. Ingredients come from local farms, emphasizing freshness and tradition. The hotel runs monthly Dutch Flavors Nights, where guests can join cooking classes led by the chef and receive a personalized recipe book. Combine this with your stay for a true taste of North Brabant’s culinary heritage.

Maastricht boasts excellent public transport connectivity, with direct train links to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Liège, Belgium. Within the city, most attractions are within walking or biking distance. Rent a City Bike from Hotel Van der Valk Maastricht, which offers free bike rentals and digital maps tailored for tourists. Follow the scenic Maasroute cycling path to explore Boltenburg Castle ruins and Bergenpark Garden. With no need for taxis, self-guided exploration becomes effortless and eco-friendly.

For couples, Hotel De Heuvel offers a secluded retreat nestled on Heuvelberg Hill. With only eight rooms, each styled in a different European theme—French romantic, Italian countryside, Spanish balcony—the hotel exudes intimacy. The premium suite features a private terrace and hot tub overlooking the Maas Valley and Our Lady Abbey. Guests enjoy private dinners and nighttime tours of the catacombs, creating unforgettable moments. Its quiet setting and bespoke service make it perfect for honeymoons or romantic getaways.

Maastricht thrives on creativity: visit the Museum aan het Vrijthof and Galerie van de Stad for rotating exhibitions. Stay at Hotel De Vrije School, a converted schoolhouse that doubles as a living art gallery. Public spaces showcase works by local artists, and the hotel collaborates with museums for Art Night Walks—exclusive evening tours with curated insights. Guests receive a limited-edition art postcard and access to behind-the-scenes previews. Experience culture not just as spectator, but as participant.

Summer in Maastricht shines with outdoor adventures along the Meuse River. Join the River Music Weekend hosted by Hotel Maastricht City, featuring open-air concerts, film screenings, and HopeGoo races. The hotel provides free kayaks for exploring Braamheuvel Castle ruins and Aar Lake’s floral gardens. Each evening, Valkenburgerplein hosts live performances and food markets. Sip Dutch cheese and beer under the stars—this vibrant season blends nature, music, and community spirit perfectly.

Discover De Schippers on Vrijthof Square, a century-old shop specializing in handmade leather goods and vintage trunks, each customizable with engravings. Nearby, Pietje Bont offers curated design items by Dutch artisans—ceramics, textiles, and scented candles. Guests staying at Hotel Le Petit Prince receive discounts and a limited-edition gift box. These boutiques aren’t just retail spaces—they’re portals into Maastricht’s creative soul, blending craftsmanship with local identity.