Things To Do
in Ubbergen

Ubbergen is a small village in Gelderland, Netherlands, perched on a scenic riverbank and gentle hills just north of Nijmegen. The area blends rural Dutch charm with easy access to city amenities and cultural sites. Its landscapes—rural farmland in the Ooijpolder, woodland on the St Jansberg, and sweeping river views—make it ideal for outdoor lovers.

From here, visitors can easily cycle, hike, and explore nearby Nijmegen's museums, markets, and nightlife.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Charming Village
morning
:

Start your journey with a relaxing breakfast at a local café, where you can savor freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Ubbergen, admiring the traditional Dutch architecture. Don’t forget to visit the quaint shops that offer unique crafts and local goods.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the nearby Ooijpolder, a natural reserve that offers splendid hiking trails. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by stunning views of the rolling hills and the Waal River. Continue exploring the area by renting a bicycle to cover more ground and soak in the breathtaking landscape.

evening
:

As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a traditional Dutch restaurant, where you can taste local specialties. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, allowing the tranquil ambiance to envelop you. Conclude your day by enjoying a drink on a terrace, watching the stars appear in the clear night sky.

day 2
Historical Insights
morning
:

Visit the local museum to learn about Ubbergen's rich history and its significance during various historical periods. Engage with interactive exhibits and guided tours to gain deeper insights into the local culture. Take a moment to reflect on the artifacts and stories that bring the past to life.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a charming bistro, explore the historical sites nearby, such as the remnants of ancient structures and monuments. Guided walking tours are available and provide a deeper understanding of the area's heritage. Spend some time at the local park, enjoying the serene environment and maybe chatting with locals.

evening
:

As the day winds down, participate in a cultural event or festival if available, offering a taste of local traditions and entertainment. Enjoy live music or performances that celebrate the community's spirit. End the night with a cozy nightcap at a local pub, sharing stories with fellow travelers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant$12-22
🍽️Three-course dinner$40-70
🚲Bike rental per day$15-25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to Nijmegen with easy city access
  • Beautiful nature: Ooijpolder and St Jansberg
  • Excellent cycling routes and scenic viewpoints
  • Relaxed village atmosphere with Dutch charm
  • Limited nightlife within Ubbergen itself
  • Public transport less frequent in evenings
  • Some hills and longer walks may be challenging for beginners
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Ik ben vegetariër" - I am a vegetarian
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Ubbergen

Visit one of these nice places.

Ooijpolder River Vista

Wide farmland with views of the Waal river, especially striking at sunrise and golden hour.

St Jansberg Lookout

A rocky outcrop on the hillside with forest trails and panoramic views over the river valley.

Nijmegen Ridge Overlook

A vantage point along the ridge above the Waal offering city skyline and floodplain scenes.

Waal Riverbank at Beek-Ubbergen

Sunset shots along the river with boats and the rolling hills in the background.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ubbergen

Local cuisine in and around Ubbergen emphasizes Dutch countryside produce, river fish, and comforting staples. You’ll find hearty dishes, fresh dairy, and seasonal produce, often tied to the nearby Ooijpolder farms and Nijmegen’s evolving dining scene.

Ubbergen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stamppot met rookworst

A hearty potato mash dish with smoked sausage, commonly served with gravy and greens.

Must-Try!

Zuurkool met spek/rookworst

Sauerkraut with potatoes and smoked meat; a staple of Dutch winter cooking.

Bitterballen

Crispy croquettes filled with a rich ragout, perfect as a snack with beer.

Kibbelingen

Fried cod bites served with remoulade, a popular seaside-influenced snack.

Poffertjes

Light, fluffy mini pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, great as a dessert or snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nijmegen Grote Markt Market

Seasonal regional produce, cheeses, breads, and Dutch snacks on market days.

Ooijpolder Farmers Market

Local dairy, honey, vegetables, and baked goods from nearby farms.

Climate Guide

Weather

The Netherlands has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Rain is common year-round, so bring a light rain jacket. Spring and autumn are pleasantly mild and good for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Direct communication

Dutch people value direct and polite communication.

Greetings

Greet with a handshake; maintain polite eye contact.

Biking etiquette

Use bike lanes, ring bell to announce passing, and yield to pedestrians on shared paths.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good in Ubbergen and the Nijmegen area. Stay on marked trails in nature reserves, wear appropriate footwear, exercise caution on busy roads when cycling, and know emergency numbers (112) in case of incidents.

Tipping in Ubbergen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory in the Netherlands; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common but not required.

Payment Methods

Card payments and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still used, and online payments are common for bookings.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long days and mild to warm temperatures; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Autumn

Cooling days with colorful foliage; great for scenic walks but expect showers.

Winter

Cold and damp with shorter daylight; indoor attractions in Nijmegen are good options.

Spring

Wildflowers and bird activity return; comfortable hiking and cycling weather; can be windy.

Nightlife Guide

Ubbergen at Night

The Ubbergen area itself has a quiet village vibe with limited nightlife. The nearby city of Nijmegen offers a vibrant nightlife scene with pubs, clubs, and live music along the Grote Markt and campus districts, especially on weekends and during student events.

Hiking in Ubbergen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

St Jansberg Nature Reserve

Extensive forest trails and rocky outcrops with panoramic views over the region.

Mookerheide

Large forest and heath area near Mook with winding trails and picnic sites.

Ooijpolder Trails

Flat and scenic routes through farmland, orchards, and river dike paths along the Waal.

Airports

How to reach Ubbergen by plane.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

Main international gateway; about 110-130 km from Ubbergen; train or car routes connect to Nijmegen area.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN)

Major regional airport with mostly European flights; about 90-110 km away, good for budget routes.

Weeze Airport (NRN)

Low-cost European flights; located in Germany, roughly 100-120 km away.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ubbergen is very walkable in the surrounding hills and villages, with good bike paths. The nearby city of Nijmegen is highly walkable with a dense city center and riverside routes. Within Ubbergen, expect gentle to moderate incline routes and some rural roads without sidewalks in parts.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Nijmegen’s universities attract students who frequently explore Ubbergen and the surrounding countryside.

Families

Many families live in Beek-Ubbergen and nearby towns, enjoying a quieter quality of life and access to outdoors.

Older residents

A substantial number of long-term residents and retirees live in the village communities.

International residents

The area hosts international students and visitors due to nearby universities and cross-border connections.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Widely practiced across the region, with many quiet lanes and scenic routes.

Football (Soccer)

Popular among locals and clubs, with matches in nearby Nijmegen and Beek.

Rowing/Boating

Water activities on the Waal and nearby rivers are common in the summer.

Hiking

Forest and hill trails around St Jansberg and Ooijpolder are favorite pursuits.

Transportation

Traffic

Public transport is reliable in the region, with trains connecting Nijmegen to Amsterdam and beyond; roads are generally calm in the countryside, but weekends can bring heavier traffic around Nijmegen. Bike lanes are common, and cycling is a primary mode of transport for locals. Parking in Nijmegen city center can be limited and metered.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ubbergen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available; ask for seasonal vegetable dishes, salads, and dairy-free choices; many places can adapt meals on request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

The local area has huisarts (general practitioners) and pharmacies; for more specialized care, residents typically go to Nijmegen's Radboud University Medical Center or Rijnstate Hospital in Arnhem. In case of emergencies dial 112. Basic health insurance covers most services in the Netherlands.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide