Everyone always talks about Amsterdam and Rotterdam for a fun city trip in the Netherlands. But, for us, the nearest major city is Eindhoven Netherlands, and it is growing in popularity as a city trip destination. Eindhoven has its own airport with connections to almost all countries in Europe, making it a convenient tourist destination.
We recently visited Eindhoven and are convinced that it is a great alternative to Amsterdam when looking for a weekend in The Netherlands.
Keep reading this Eindhoven travel guide, and let us convince you why you should visit Eindhoven and let us help you plan your Eindhoven city trip!
This Eindhoven City Guide is written by travel writer and Traveltomtom team member Ashley, who explored Eindhoven on behalf of Traveltomtom. We hope this guide inspires you to plan your own Eindhoven city trip!
Table of Contents
The City of Light
Eindhoven is called the City of Light. I have to admit, like so many others, I thought this nickname for Eindhoven came from Philips’ history in the city. But that’s not where this nickname comes from. Eindhoven certainly owes this nickname to light, but not to Philips.
More than 21 years before the Philips company was founded, two other entrepreneurs started a match factory in Eindhoven. Eindhoven was quickly becoming the match city of the Netherlands. Business was going very well and in the following years they grow into the largest employer in the city and produced matches for all over the world.
Yet it is Philips that everyone immediately thinks of when they think of Eindhoven, the City of Light.
Philips and Eindhoven
Taking a tour of the city helped us understand the impact of Philips on Eindhoven history and culture. The company transformed the city in the early 1900s, providing employment, housing, and even founding PSV Eindhoven.
PSV is now one of the best-known and best football clubs in the Netherlands, but did you know that it originated as the Philips Sports Association? A sports club where Philips employees were encouraged to play sports.
A store was also set up in the Philips village where Philips employees could buy food at a discount. In 1931 the stores became independent and the name Etos was born. In Dutch, this abbreviation stands for Unity, Dedication, Consultation and Cooperation, real Philips slogans.
Philips Museum
Of course, with a history as important as that of Philips in Eindhoven, visiting the Philips Museum is a must do on your trip to Eindhoven. The Philips Museum is located in the building that was purchased by Gerard Philips at the end of 1800, and where it all started. How beautiful is that.
Located in the original Philips factory building, this museum perfectly blends history with innovation, making it one of the best places to visit in Eindhoven.
The museum is really a must do when visiting Eindhoven! Even if you are not so much into history, this is highly recommended. The past and present really come together perfectly in this museum.
In the first part you go through the history of Philips in Eindhoven. As you walk through the museum, you will also walk through their wide range of inventions. The second part of the museum is interactive and great fun for young and old. Here we look at the future, of course through the lens of Philips. Here you can get started with AI and other innovative ideas and gadgets in a playful way.
Green, Greener, Eindhoven
Eindhoven is one of the greenest cities in the Netherlands, largely thanks to Philips’ vision of incorporating parks and trees throughout the city. Today, this makes the city a great destination for those who love nature, offering many green spaces to explore.
Philips wanted their factory sites to be designed in such a way that their employees had a healthy dose of greenery on their way to work and back home. Frits Philips himself collected trees during his many travels around the world and had them shipped to Eindhoven.
In this way, he not only ensured a beautiful view for his employees, but also more biodiversity in the city. To this day, this is still reflected in the city, and perhaps more strongly than ever.
As a visitor to Eindhoven, it is wonderful to have lots of greenery and parks in the city. It is a pleasant change from the often densely built-up center.
15-Minute City Concept
Did you know Eindhoven is a 15-minute city? This means everything you need is within a 15-minute walk or bike ride, making it easy to explore. How to explore Eindhoven by bike? Rent a bicycle and discover the city’s major landmarks, green parks, and creative districts at your own pace!
Strijp-S: From Forbidden City to Creative Hub
Strijp-S Eindhoven was once off-limits to non-Philips employees, but today it is one of the most vibrant Eindhoven tourist attractions. The area is a hotspot for trendy stores, unique dining spots, and innovative workplaces.
In the past it was was a big mystery for many people what exactly happened behind the closed doors of Strijp-S. The fact that it is now so incredibly accessible and a place where all of Eindhoven likes to come together is of course wonderful.
Strijp-S still has the look and feel of an old industrial site. But at the same time it also feels very modern and inviting. Almost all the old factory buildings have been transformed into trendy stores, innovative restaurants and creative workplaces.
Strijp-S is home to Area 51, the largest indoor skate park in Europe, and countless other cultural and artistic experiences. A visit to Strijp-S Eindhoven is one of the best things to do in Eindhoven!
Strijp-S is where things are happening in Eindhoven these days and our no.1 travel tip for Eindhoven!
Best of all, Strijp-S is within walking distance of the city center. So no excuses, visit Strijp-S and enjoy the unique atmosphere and special entrepreneurs who are located there!
Woensel-West: A Hidden Gem
Woensel-West is an upcoming neighborhood and a true Eindhoven hidden gem. Once a struggling district, it has transformed into a lively, diverse area filled with unique second-hand stores, colorful houses, and local eateries. When exploring Woensel-West Eindhoven, make sure to stop by for a coffee at Smaakmakers Coffee Café, a social initiative supporting people with dementia.
The hospitality radiates from the streets and houses. Apparently it hasn’t always been this way. But in recent years they have worked hard to make Woensel-West a nice and pleasant neighborhood again.
Highly recommended in Woensel-West are all the small shops and second-hand shops, but also the colorful houses that really brighten up the neighborhood.
Where to eat in Eindhoven?
Eindhoven is packed with fantastic food options, from fine dining to street food. Here are some must-visit Eindhoven restaurants and cafes:
Dinner in Motion
For a one-of-a-kind dining experience, Dinner in Motion offers a 360-degree immersive dining adventure, making it one of the most unique experiences in Eindhoven.
It was a truly special dining experience!
The dining space constantly changes after every course. Lights, sounds and movements make your sense spark. Eating out while the most beautiful images appear around you on the walls and on the table.
At Dinner in Motion you eat, as it were, in different fantasy worlds, without ever leaving the table. Read more about it in our full Dinner in Motion review.
Down Town Gourmet Market
Looking for the best Eindhoven food markets? The Down Town Gourmet Market is a must-visit, featuring 20 unique food stalls offering international cuisines. Order from multiple vendors using a QR code system and enjoy a lively atmosphere.
Twenty unique food concepts gather here under one roof. These types of food markets are the unique and fun places in a city that we are always looking for. Here you can often try the tastiest specialties.
It is a kind of old market hall that has been completely pimped up. You will find seats everywhere and a bar in the middle. On the outside you will find all the eateries around.
The special thing about this gourmet market is that you find a place at a table and can order all the food and drinks via a QR code. It’s all delivered to your table too. This is in contrast to most other food courts or food markets out there. Our tip, order small dishes from several suppliers, that way you can try something of everything. We will definitely come back here when we are in Eindhoven again.
Restaurant Piet Hein Eek
Located just outside the center, Piet Hein Eek’s restaurant is a hidden culinary gem known for using local ingredients and offering an authentic Eindhoven experience.
You can get there by bike in 10 minutes. Away from the center you will find the home of Piet Hein Eek in the former ceramic workshop of Philips. Here you can discover his factory, shop, restaurant, hotel, exhibition space and event location.
Piet Hein Eek is a Dutch designer. Visiting his workshop is definitely recommended. You will find many special pieces there. The restaurant is also recommended.
In the middle of the neighborhood, full of locals and Brabant conviviality. The neighborhood living room. The best thing is that they only work with local ingredients and suppliers. Local delicacies and delicious and honest dishes.
Smaakmakers Coffee Cafe
Smaakmakers is a coffee café that works together with people with dementia who live at home. They combine catering with daytime activities. It is a place where they focus on everything that is possiblefor them. With clear instructions and guidance, they serve the tastiest lunch dishes and of course good coffee!
When you walk in you immediately feel at home. It is an inspiring environment. A special place with a special story, absolutely a must do for a nice coffee. Smaakmakers Coffee Café is located in the upcoming neighborhood Woensel-West.
Where to Stay in Eindhoven?
For a convenient and comfortable stay, we recommend Pullman Eindhoven Cocagne, one of the best hotels in Eindhoven. It is centrally located, within walking distance of top attractions, shops, and restaurants.
The Pullman Eindhoven Cocagne has its own spa, wellness and pool and a fantastic breakfast to kickstart your day. Please read our full Pullman Eindhoven Cocagne review to find out everything about this amazing hotel in Eindhoven.
Eindhoven Street Art
Eindhoven is home to fantastic Eindhoven street art, with murals decorating various neighborhoods.
We love good and beautiful street art. More and more cities are giving street art artists the space to provide their city with some beautiful street art pieces. This is also the case in Eindhoven.
We saw some special street art murals, but one of the most famous pieces is the Silly Walk Tunnel, inspired by Monty Python’s John Cleese. The tunnel was opened in 2016 by John Cleese himself.
Walking through the tunnel will immediately make you happy!
Eindhoven Airport: A Gateway to the City
Eindhoven has its own airport, Eindhoven Airport. In terms of passengers, it is the largest airport in the Netherlands after Schiphol Airport.
From Eindhoven you fly to more than 80 destinations throughout Europe and beyond. Eindhoven is therefore easily accessible from all over Europe. That also makes Eindhoven an interesting destination. For both a city trip and the start of a trip through Europe.
In fact, we even think that Eindhoven is a much better city trip destination than Amsterdam, for example. Why? That’s quite simple actually. Eindhoven has everything a good city trip destination should offer. An interesting history, hip and upcoming neighborhoods, a wide range of restaurants and coffee shops, a center with every conceivable shop and interesting sights. What more could you want?
No matter how you travel to Eindhoven, by car, train or plane, it is always very easily accessible. This makes Eindhoven a top city trip destination.
Is Eindhoven Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Eindhoven recently ranked second worldwide on the ‘Quality of Life’ index, thanks to its 15-minute city Eindhoven concept, international atmosphere, and abundance of green spaces. If you’re wondering what to do in Eindhoven for 2 days, this travel guide has covered everything from history and culture to dining and hidden gems!
If we haven’t convinced you yet to start planning a trip to Eindhoven we have definitely done something wrong.
Final Tip: Explore Eindhoven by Bike
Traveltomtom’s tip for Eindhoven: Rent a bike and explore the city’s hidden gems, attractions, and green spaces at your own pace. Whether it’s Eindhoven Philips history, Strijp-S Eindhoven, or Woensel-West Eindhoven, the city offers something for every traveler.
Things to know before going on an Eindhoven city trip
1. How do I get from Eindhoven Airport to the city center?
Eindhoven Airport is well connected to the city center via a direct bus (line 400 or 401), which takes about 20 minutes. You can also take a taxi or rent a bike for an eco-friendly option.
2. What are the best things to do in Eindhoven?
Some must-visit Eindhoven attractions include the Philips Museum, Strijp-S, Woensel-West, Down Town Gourmet Market, and the Silly Walk Tunnel. Renting a bike is the best way to explore!
3. What is Eindhoven famous for?
Eindhoven is known as the “City of Light” due to its history with Philips and the match industry. It’s also famous for its design and technology scene, a university city, the 5th biggest city in Netherlands, football club PSV Eindhoven, and innovative urban development.
4. How many days do you need in Eindhoven?
A 2-day Eindhoven itinerary is ideal for exploring the city’s top attractions, creative hubs, and foodie spots. If you love design, street art, and history, an extra day will allow for a deeper dive. It makes Eindhoven a perfect destination for a weekend trip.
5. Where can I find the best food in Eindhoven?
Dinner in Motion is a unique 360 degrees visual dining experience. Food lovers should also visit the Down Town Gourmet Market and for a mix of design and food, check out Restaurant Piet Hein Eek.
6. What is the best way to get around Eindhoven?
Eindhoven is a 15-minute city, meaning most places are walkable or accessible by bike. Renting a bike is highly recommended for the best experience.
7. What is Strijp-S Eindhoven?
Strijp-S was once a restricted area for Philips employees only but is now a creative hub filled with trendy shops, restaurants, and it also houses the largest indoor skate park in Europe.
8. Where is the best place to stay in Eindhoven?
We highly recommend Pullman Eindhoven Cocagne, a centrally located affordable luxury hotel with excellent amenities and easy access to all major attractions.
9. What is the best time to visit Eindhoven?
Eindhoven is great year-round, but the best time to visit is during Summer when the weather is most pleasant, the city vibrant, many festivals are organized and outdoor activities are enjoyable.
If you have any questions please leave us a comment below and we are happy to help you out with more Eindhoven travel tips.
Enjoy your trip to Eindhoven!
