Stedentrip Benelux

About the destination: Utrecht is both the geographical centre of Holland, and one of its major university towns as well as one of one of the Netherlands' oldest cities, with a compact medieval centre set out around canals unique to the Netherlands. National demonstrations often start here, book and print shops dot tiny streets throughout the old tonw, and in summer, people sit near the Oude Gracht, the old canal. The Old Town of Utrecht really is a pleasant place to wander with its varying architecture and its uniquely-structured canals. As to be expected there are some magnificent churches, the most interesting being the Dom Tower and the remains of its church. In the 17th century, a hurricane separated the Domtoren, an imposing tower, from its cathedral. Don’t let the 465 steps to the tower put you off, the view is splendid. The cathedral’s chapel and enormous clocks are fascinating. Across the street is the Kloostergang, part of the cathedral’s Gothic cloister, a perfect place to sit down and relax, and listen to a Saturday morning carillon concert. The city has a fine number of museums, most of them situated in the Museum Quarter at 10 minutes walking distance from Central Station. Utrecht is known as a student city with a large population of single young people. This results in a booming nightlife with many places to have a quick meal, some drinks or a dance.

About the destination: Lively Leuven (Louvain in French) is an ancient capital, a prominent brewing centre and Flanders’ oldest university town. In term time, and even during holidays, some 25,000 students give the city an upbeat, creative air. The picturesque core is small enough that you could easily see the sights in a short day trip, but characterful pubs and good-value dining could keep you here for weeks.

About the destination: Poised at the edge of two steep gorges, Luxembourg is one of the most physically dramatic capitals in Europe. The country’s rolling landscapes penetrate the city, and medieval walls and spires share the skyline with prosperous international banks and office complexes. The city’s most impressive sight is the Bock, the oldest part of the town fortress. A masterwork of tunnels and storerooms. From the entrance explore its corkscrew staircases and catch tremendous views through the loopholes. The streets nearby are the oldest in town. St-Michael’s Church has stones laid in 987. The earliest section of the façade of the Grand Ducal Palace is a magnificent example of the Spanish Renaissance style. When you tire of the crowded old city, head for parks along the shaded River Pétrusse or, for a change of pace, visit the Portuguese and Italian quarter in the Alzette ravine. You can hear guitars, bands, and choirs in the evening at place d’Armes.

About the destination: Maastricht is a Dutch city situated on both sides of the Meuse River, at the southern tip of the Netherlands and is the capital of the province of Limburg. One of the most appealing attractions in the town is the tour of the ancient fortifications of the city, known as vestgingsweken. The city has two beautiful places that are Vrijthof and Makt. Also you can visit the church of San Servaas gothic style is built on the tomb of St Servaas was an Armenian missionary who died in Maastricht. The church is located on the Vrijthof. Makt Square holds the town hall building and the markets on Wednesdays and Fridays. Maastricht is certainly a very cozy and ideal city to visit with family.

About the destination: Utrecht is both the geographical centre of Holland, and one of its major university towns as well as one of one of the Netherlands' oldest cities, with a compact medieval centre set out around canals unique to the Netherlands. National demonstrations often start here, book and print shops dot tiny streets throughout the old tonw, and in summer, people sit near the Oude Gracht, the old canal. The Old Town of Utrecht really is a pleasant place to wander with its varying architecture and its uniquely-structured canals. As to be expected there are some magnificent churches, the most interesting being the Dom Tower and the remains of its church. In the 17th century, a hurricane separated the Domtoren, an imposing tower, from its cathedral. Don’t let the 465 steps to the tower put you off, the view is splendid. The cathedral’s chapel and enormous clocks are fascinating. Across the street is the Kloostergang, part of the cathedral’s Gothic cloister, a perfect place to sit down and relax, and listen to a Saturday morning carillon concert. The city has a fine number of museums, most of them situated in the Museum Quarter at 10 minutes walking distance from Central Station. Utrecht is known as a student city with a large population of single young people. This results in a booming nightlife with many places to have a quick meal, some drinks or a dance.