Young old town

Nijmegen was built on seven hills, much like Rome, and it is the oldest city in the Netherlands. However, due to the war, little of the old architecture remains. The city is important as the center of the region and as the seat of a university with numerous research institutions.

Remnants of old Nijmegen can be seen around the Stevenskerk and the Waaghaus. Here stand the Domherrenhöfe and the Latin school from 1545. This is also the prettiest part of the city – the rest consists of new buildings. And of course, there’s the view of the Waal with the impressive Waal Bridge. Shopping in Nijmegen is excellent, and numerous local establishments invite you to stop by. What stands out: A stroll through the pedestrian zone involves some ups and downs. Not steep, but for Dutch standards, hills are somewhat special. At the end of our city tour, we find a small, cozy café that rewards us with a fine cappuccino and a wonderful view of the city and river.

Nijmegen may not be the most beautiful of cities, but it is extremely lively, welcoming, and has hardly any tourists (besides us)...