Things To Do
in Valkenswaard

Valkenswaard is a charming municipality located in the southern Netherlands, known for its beautiful natural surroundings and rich cultural history. The town is characterized by picturesque landscapes, traditional Dutch architecture, and a close-knit community atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a variety of parks and forests, making it a great destination for hiking and cycling.

Additionally, Valkenswaard hosts several annual events that showcase local traditions and cultural heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Valkenswaard
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Valkenswaard Museum, where you can learn about the town's history and culture. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming streets and enjoy the local architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby De Malpie nature reserve for a picnic lunch surrounded by beautiful scenery. Spend the afternoon exploring the trails and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, such as 'In de Gloria', known for its traditional Dutch cuisine, followed by a leisurely walk in the town center, where you can enjoy the local nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the stunning nature reserve 'Valkenswaardse Heide' for some birdwatching or photography.

afternoon
:

After exploring the reserve, head back to the town for lunch and visit the local shops for some unique souvenirs. Don’t miss the chance to sample some local cheese.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to a local brewery, such as 'Brouwerij De Bock', for a tasting session of local beers and a casual dinner.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Cappuccino$4
🍕Pizza$12
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel per night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Affordable dining options and local markets
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Public transport may require transfers for longer distances
  • Some attractions may have reduced hours in winter
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don’t speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Valkenswaard

Visit one of these nice places.

De Malpie

A stunning nature reserve with beautiful landscapes, perfect for nature photography at any time of the year.

Valkenswaard Town Center

Offers charming streets, traditional Dutch architecture, and vibrant local life, ideal for street photography.

Valkenswaardse Heide

An expansive heathland with unique flora and fauna, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Valkenswaard

Valkenswaard offers a delightful array of local cuisine, emphasizing fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Visitors can enjoy a mix of Dutch classics and innovative dishes.

Valkenswaard Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stamppot

A traditional Dutch dish made from mashed potatoes mixed with various vegetables, often served with sausage.

Must-Try!

Bitterballen

A popular Dutch snack consisting of deep-fried balls filled with a mixture of beef or veal ragout.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Valkenswaard Market

Every Saturday, a lively market takes place in the town center, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Valkenswaard experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures in summer range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to between 0°C and 6°C (32°F to 43°F). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being August and October.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and direct eye contact are customary when greeting someone in the Netherlands.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued; make sure to arrive promptly for appointments or social gatherings.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance during conversations; Dutch people appreciate their personal space.

Safety Guide

Safety

Valkenswaard is generally considered a safe town with low crime rates. However, like any destination, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious when walking alone at night in less populated areas.

Tipping in Valkenswaard

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Valkenswaard is pleasant, with blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather and longer days, perfect for enjoying local festivals and outdoor dining.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall colors, making it a great time for photography and hiking in the nearby nature reserves.

Winter

Winters can be cold, with occasional snow, creating a picturesque setting; however, be prepared for chilly temperatures.

Nightlife Guide

Valkenswaard at Night

Valkenswaard's nightlife is relatively laid-back, with a few cozy pubs and bars where locals gather to socialize. The town offers a selection of live music events and occasional cultural festivals. For a more vibrant nightlife experience, residents often venture into nearby Eindhoven, where a wider array of clubs and late-night venues are available.

Hiking in Valkenswaard

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Valkenswaardse Heide

A vast heathland offering various trails with stunning views, suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.

De Malpie

This nature reserve features well-marked trails through diverse ecosystems, ideal for a peaceful hike amidst nature.

Airports

How to reach Valkenswaard by plane.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN)

Located about 15 km from Valkenswaard, Eindhoven Airport serves as the main international gateway, offering flights to various European destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Valkenswaard is quite walkable, with many amenities located within a short distance of the town center. Sidewalks are well-maintained and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike paths throughout the area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are Dutch, with a mix of families, young professionals, and retirees living in the area.

Expat Community

Valkenswaard has a small but growing expat community, primarily consisting of individuals from neighboring European countries.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in the region, with local clubs hosting matches and engaging the community.

Cycling

Given the flat terrain and extensive cycling paths, cycling is a favored sport, both recreationally and competitively.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Valkenswaard is generally light, with the town's layout accommodating both pedestrians and cyclists. Public transportation options include buses that connect to Eindhoven and surrounding areas, but services may be limited in the evenings and weekends. Overall, the town is easy to navigate, whether by car, bike, or on foot.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Valkenswaard.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff for specific dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free meals are becoming more common, with several eateries providing gluten-free alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Valkenswaard is of high quality, with several clinics and a nearby hospital providing comprehensive medical services. Emergency services are reliable, and most healthcare practitioners speak English. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses abroad.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide