It would be hard NOT to fall in love with Maastricht, a town in Holland known for its markets, open plazas, and rich history. And so, we, too, fell in line with others who agree that this is a free-spirited place for shopping, touring, and relaxing.
Known for its open-air markets selling everything from clothing to beans, Maastricht identified itself to those of us on Viking’s Holland & Belgium cruise as the place for strolling and taking in all the sights and sounds. With numerous places to sit and sip a coffee or dine on pastries, we found ourselves looking at historical sights but also just enjoying the carefree atmosphere in the plazas and on the streets.
We reveled in more of the architecture of The Netherlands — ornate rooflines, stone construction, and markings that indicate care in construction not seen much today.
The Basilica of Our Lady
We dipped out of the mayhem of markets for a brief but meaningful tour of the Basilica of Our Lady located in the plaza known as Onze Lieve Vrouweplein 7.
The spot where the Basilica of Our Lady now stands was the site of a small church as early as the fifth century AD. This was probably the oldest Christian church in the Netherlands and may have been built on top of the remains of a Roman temple.
Visit Maastricht
We were enthralled to see the lovely blue dome, artifacts still remaining intact, burial records of those interred in the flooring as well as vaulted ceilings and stonework that indicate this is one of the prettiest churches in the country.
But not all churches are so lucky as to remain viable places of worship. Some have been converted, our guide told us, to bookstores or condominiums or other such purposes since fewer and fewer residents are attending church as we know it.
We loved our walk through neighboring small streets as we glimpsed doors embraced by arching florals and alleys where ever-present bicycles call home.
We even took a second and third glance at some decorated cookies in a pastry shop window where the owner motioned for us to come in and enjoy a free sample or a waffle or both! (Lucky us.)
But most of all, what you need to know about Maastricht is not just that it contains 1,677 National Heritage Buildings or that The Maastricht Treaty was signed here or that the euro was created here. You just need to know that it’s what the Viking Daily called it: “irreverent, independent and fun loving — one of the most popular cities for Dutch and international travelers.”
We’re just glad we were among them!
Travel happy,
Rusha & Bert
Nemorino
I’ve been to Maastricht a couple times, but never knew about that church that was re-purposed as a bookshop. Must look for it next time. https://operasandcycling.com/category/netherlands/maastricht/
Oh, the Places We See
It’s sorta sad really, but better than just leaving a church empty, I suppose.
Denzil
Spent quite a few days here; we used to live just up the road. It really is a special place, so relaxed. Nice article and photos!
Oh, the Places We See
It’s a lovely town, and I could stay there much longer.
Curt Mekemson
āirreverent, independent and fun loving” Now that’s the definition of somewhere I would like, Rusha. You did a good job of capturing. I really like the Dutch and fell in love with Amsterdam again on our recent visit. Let me add “Quirky.” š āCurt
Oh, the Places We See
I agree with quirky. And why we love these people and places. Hope your travels take you to interesting places.
WanderingCanadians
I visited Maastricht years ago, but was with family, so we didn’t do a lot of sightseeing. I do remember going to that church though and being amazed with the interior. Sounds like you had a fabulous visit of just wandering around. I can’t believe there’s that many heritage buildings!
Oh, the Places We See
We love wandering just like our Canadian friends do. And as much as we love guides, we also love the freedom to explore on our own. Hope this fall finds you wandering happily.
Carolyn Pearre
Rusha, You have done it again-you are an artist with your camera! Thank you for sharing with all of us.
Oh, the Places We See
My pleasure. It was a great trip with much to see! Glad youāre home. I know you saw much on your trip as well.
Toonsarah
I love all the details of the architecture in your shots! And it sounds a relaxing place to visit š
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks for the compliment. We’re in love with European architecture, but The Netherlands has a unique twist on old rooftop lines and shutters. Thanks!
thehungrytravellers.blog
Not really considered Maastricht before, although have really enjoyed every other Dutch town weāve visited. But it sounds like somewhere we should add to our list.
Oh, the Places We See
It may not be as quaint or historic as some other towns, but thereās a lot of shopping and eating and people watching waiting for you!
Pat
What a delightful place – at least from your photos. You are inciting in me a desire to travel again.
Oh, the Places We See
Iām ready, too!
kzmcb
It looks wonderful. I’ve always thought that if I was able to visit Europe one day, I’d do it on a cruise or two. Thanks so much for sharing these . I’m loving your trip. Are you currently on it, or was it earlier?
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks for always being so positive! I write about our trips when I get home. On the trip, I just try to enjoy and take photos. So it was a couple of months ago that we went on this CB one. And I will say that writing helps me relive the good times!!!
Nancy Powell Gauntt
This is such an interesting article. I have never been to, or heard of this charming tiny town. Your description makes me want to hold p on a river cruise and visit! Thanks for describing such a picturesque town.
Oh, the Places We See
I will say that cruises introduce you to towns you havenāt seen. And theyāre usually quite interesting. Just adds some thing new to the journey. This was a fun stop, but I really loved the cathedral best of all!
cindy knoke
Idyllic!
Sue
Looks worth a visit!
Oh, the Places We See
It is, Sue. All of The Netherlands is picture-worthy!
Sue
Long time since Iāve beenā¦
Oh, the Places We See
I could go again. We never see everything.
Sue
Well, quite!
Jeanne Tapp
The biking lady looks so happy! And the interiors of the churches prompt me to read again Ken Folletts Pillars of the Earth
Oh, the Places We See
I’ve never read that book. Thanks for the recommendation!
Latitude Adjustment: A Tale of Two Wanderers
That certainly does look delightful.
Oh, the Places We See
It really is a good place for touring, especially with so many places to sit and watch the people go by!