Eindhoven, the largest town in the southern Netherlands and the country's fifth largest, is often overlooked by tourists despite its rich industrial heritage and cultural offerings. Known as the "City of Light" due to its association with Philips, Eindhoven boasts attractions ranging from art museums and historic churches to parks and connections to Vincent Van Gogh.
For a comprehensive guide to the city's top attractions and sightseeing opportunities, read on.
See also: Where to Stay in Eindhoven
1. The Van Abbemuseum
The Van Abbemuseum, set in a striking modern building, is a premier modern art gallery in the Netherlands, featuring works by artists like Marc Chagall and Pablo Picasso, and housing the largest collection of El Lissitzky's work. The museum also includes sculptures, video works, and posters, with a gift shop and café on-site.
Address: Bilderdijklaan 10, 5611 NH Eindhoven
Official site: http://vanabbemuseum.nl/en/
2. The DAF Museum
The DAF Museum celebrates the legacy of DAF, a major European truck manufacturer, with exhibits including a replica of the original workshops and a collection of vehicles from various eras. The museum also features a shop and restaurant.
Address: Tongelresestraat 27, 5613 DA Eindhoven
Official site: www.dafmuseum.nl/en
3. The PSV Eindhoven Museum
The PSV Eindhoven Museum showcases the history of the PSV football club, with memorabilia, photos, and film footage. Guided tours of the Philips Stadium are available, including packages to watch team practices.
Address: Stadionplein 4, 5616 RX Eindhoven
4. St. Catherine's Church
St. Catherine's Church, a Neo-Gothic structure built in 1867, features twin towers and notable stained-glass windows. The church's interior includes two organs, one with 5,723 pipes.
Address: Catharinaplein 1, 5611 DE Eindhoven
5. The Philips Museum & Collection
The Philips Museum, near the site of the first Philips light bulbs, chronicles the company's evolution and showcases its products. Interactive exhibits like Mission Eureka make it a family-friendly destination. The museum also features the Phillips Collection of contemporary art.
Address: Emmasingel 31, 5611 AZ Eindhoven
Official site: www.philips-museum.com/uk/
6. Van Gogh Village, Nuenen
Nuenen, a village near Eindhoven, is renowned for its connection to Vincent Van Gogh. The Vincentre museum and walking tours of Van Gogh-related sites offer insights into the artist's life and work.
Address: 5671 CA Nuenen
Official site: www.vangoghbrabant.com/en/home/nuenen
7. PreHistorisch Dorp (Prehistoric Village)
PreHistorisch Dorp is an open-air museum that recreates prehistoric, Roman, and early medieval life with costumed interpreters and interactive workshops.
Address: Boutenslaan 161B, 5644 TV Eindhoven
Official site: https://prehistorischdorp.nl/en
8. GLOW and other Festivals
Eindhoven's GLOW festival in November transforms the city with light art installations, including the spectacular illumination of St. Catherine's Church. The city also celebrates its liberation with the Lichtjesroute festival and hosts concerts at venues like Evoluon.
Official site: www.gloweindhoven.nl/en
9. Genneper Parken and Stadswandelpark
Genneper Parken and Stadswandelpark are two of Eindhoven's green spaces, offering trails, sculptures, and historical landmarks like the Genneper Watermill.
Address: Antoon Coolenlaan 1, Eindhoven
10. Dierenrijk Zoo
Dierenrijk Zoo is a family-friendly attraction with interactive wildlife encounters, performances, and indoor and outdoor exhibits.
Address: Baroniehei 1, 5731 RG Mierlo
Official site: www.dierenrijk.nl/en
11. Inkijkmuseum and Ton Smits Huis
The Inkijkmuseum, a unique "look-in" museum, and the Ton Smits Huis, dedicated to a famous Dutch cartoonist, are two intriguing art spaces in Eindhoven.
Address: Jacob Reviuslaan 25, Eindhoven
Where to Stay in Eindhoven for Sightseeing
For first-time visitors, the city center is the best place to stay, with most top attractions within walking distance. There are luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels available to suit various preferences.
