One of the many wonderful things about Eindhoven is its location. This southern Dutch city is a great base for day trips to a range of different places. Not only are other cities in the Netherlands within easy reach, but parts of Belgium and Germany are close enough to visit and return from in just one day. 

The Netherlands 

Den Bosch  

24 minutes by train | 38 km 

‘s-Hertogenbosch, also known as Den Bosch, is filled with fun activities for the whole family. Explore the rich history of the city, visit the cannons on the old city walls, learn how they used water as a defence in battles and admire the biggest cathedral in the Netherlands. Or book a boat tour on the Binnendieze, historic waterways that flow all throughout the city, even underneath buildings. 

Before leaving, don’t forget to try a real Bossche Bol from Jan de Groot, a delicious pastry filled with whipped cream and topped with chocolate. But be quick, they might sell out! 

Fun fact: famous painter Jheronimus Bosch was born here and, to honour him, the city put up statues based on his paintings. See how many you can spot.  

Breda 

38 minutes by train | 60 km 

This city perfectly combines history with innovation and then adds a bit of green on top. Visit one of the two castles, the big church or the Begijnhof to learn more about the history of Breda and their ties with the Dutch royal family. Or go cultural and explore the Blind Walls Gallery, a museum on the street with nearly 150 murals. Take a break in one of the parks for a picnic or a little walk. 

Efteling 

50 minutes by public transport | 50 km 

Step into the magical world of the Efteling. Split into six different sections, each with its own attractions, this 74-year-old theme park is full of wonders. Each ride has a story to immerse yourself in from start to finish, making it fun for all ages. Get lost in fairytales in the Fairytale Forest or ride the thrilling rollercoasters in Ruigrijk. Time flies here. 

Tickets and reservation required and available on their website. 

Maastricht 

1 hour 5 minutes by train | 90 km 

As one of the southernmost and oldest cities in the Netherlands, Maastricht makes for a charming day trip. Visit the Sint-Servaasbasiliek, wander past the remains of the city’s medieval defence system, including the Helpoort, Jekertoren, Onze-Lieve-Vrouwewal and Pater Vincktoren, or step inside Bookstore Dominicanen, a bookshop set inside a church. Before leaving, don’t forget to try a slice or two of vlaai, the local pie Maastricht is known for. 

Nijmegen 

1 hour 10 minutes by train | 80 km 

Another of the Netherlands’ oldest cities, Nijmegen should be on your city trip list. This city has it all, from a shopping street with over 2000 stores to lush green parks to relax in. Take a seat on the Grote Markt at one of the many outdoor cafes and restaurants. You can also go back to the Roman times and explore the ruins in Valkhof Park. Don’t forget to check out the river Waal, walk on the Waalkade or enjoy a relaxing dinner with a beautiful view.

Belgium 

Antwerp 

1 hour 25 minutes by train | 85 km 

If arriving by train, take a moment to admire Antwerp Central Station, often seen as one of the best-looking stations in the world. You arrive right in the centre of the city and just a 15-minute walk from the Grote Markt. From there you can explore the historic centre with ease. 

History and beautiful buildings are not the only thing to come to Antwerp for, however. Belgium is famous for its chocolate, so it’s no surprise that you can find plenty in Antwerp too. For a deeper dive, visit Chocolate Nation, where you can learn how Belgian chocolate is made and taste up to 10 different flavours along the way. There are also workshops and courses if you want to get more hands-on. Before leaving, stop by the restaurant or shop to take a little sweetness home with you. 

Brussels 

2 hours 20 minutes by train | 130 km 

Brussels has plenty to fill your day with. Start at the Grote Markt, then make your way to Manneke Pis. The world-famous statue is surprisingly small but still a must-see when visiting the city. Step inside the Cathedral of Sint-Michiel and Sint-Goedele or visit the Hallepoort. For a break, Wolf Food Market is the place to be. Under one roof, there are 16 restaurants serving food from different cultures. If you want a calmer break, relax in the greenery of the Botanical Garden. 

Ghent 

2 hours 40 minutes by train | 140 km 

Ghent is a city full of character with plenty to see while wandering through the centre. Admire the medieval buildings around Graslei and Korenlei, two picturesque piers that show off the city’s historic charm, or visit Gravensteen Castle and step into one of Ghent’s most recognisable landmarks. Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is also worth a stop, especially if you want to see the famous Ghent Altarpiece. For a different view of the city, take a boat tour along the canals and enjoy the old streets and waterfront buildings from the water. 

Germany 

Aachen  

1 hour 30 minutes by train | 110 km 

Aachen is known for its history and impressive cathedral. Start at Aachen Cathedral, where Charlemagne was buried, and take your time to admire one of the city’s most important historic sights. From there, wander through the old town and stop by the Rathaus on the market square, another landmark that shows Aachen’s long history. If you want to slow down for a moment, visit the Elisenbrunnen, a well-known reminder of the city’s thermal springs and a nice place to pause before continuing your walk. 

Düsseldorf 

1 hour 50 minutes by train | 110 km 

Düsseldorf has a mix of riverside views and modern architecture. Stroll through the Altstadt and enjoy its lively streets before heading towards the Rhine promenade for a walk by the water. Königsallee is another classic stop, known for its elegant shopping street and canal running through the middle. For something more contemporary, make your way to the MedienHafen, where striking buildings line the waterfront and give the city a completely different feel. 

With so many cities within easy reach, Eindhoven is a great starting point for a varied getaway. Park Plaza Eindhoven makes a perfect base thanks to its proximity to the central station, making it simple to set off in the morning and return after a full day out. To make the most of your plans, it‘s recommended to buy train tickets in advance to ensure availability and find the best prices.