A fresh Dutch view on Maastricht

Quality of life

Maastricht is situated on both borders of the river Maas in the south-eastern corner of the Netherlands. Thanks to its strategic geography, practically bordering both Belgium and Germany, Maastricht is a central point in Western Europe. Maastricht has a rich history which is reflected in the old city centre with its many Roman-style buildings and squares, giving the city a sense of charm and tradition. The capital of the Dutch province of Limburg is home to just under 120,000 inhabitants, of which 5,000 are students. The quality of life is important to its inhabitants, a fact which is clearly reflected in the city’s distinct character, reminiscent of the exuberant South.

Preuvenemint

This emphasis on the quality of life is ever so present during the annual Preuvenemint, the biggest gastronomic festival in the Netherlands. The word Preuvenemint is a contraction of the Maastricht words ‘preuve’ (to taste) and ‘evenemint’ (event). The four-day culinary event will be hosted on the Vrijthof Square in the city centre. During the event the square will be transformed into the largest, cosiest open air restaurant in the world. Over thirty stands act as impromptu restaurants where visitors get the chance to taste all sorts of products, both local and exotic. Every ‘restaurant’ has a wide selection of wine on offer as well as (local) beers and soft drinks. A permanent open-air stage will host a variety of live music throughout the event. There is no entrance fee for the Preuvenemint; the live music can be enjoyed for free while food and drinks can be paid for with special Preuvenemint bills (known as the preuvene-lappe). The event, which donates its proceeds to charity, attracts over 100,000 visitors each year. If there is ever a moment to experience the true spirit of Maastricht and taste all the good things in life, it is during the Preuvenemint. The event is held yearly in the last full weekend of August.

Ideal setting

Maastricht is easily accessible. Maastricht-Aachen Airport offers direct access for charter flights, but the city is also situated close to the international airports of Brussels, Düsseldorf, Cologne and Amsterdam. In addition, the Maastricht-Brussels Express connects the city to the European high-speed rail network. This express train will bring you from Brussels to Maastricht in less than an hour and a half. Maastricht is an ideal setting for your business trip. The greater Maastricht area features beautiful countryside, providing many luxurious castles equipped with modern facilities, while the compact city centre offers many cafés, hotels, shops and restaurants within easy walking distance. A visit to Maastricht will surely make any business trip a success.