freedom tour nijmegen

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Nijmegen – 82nd Airborne Battlefield Tour

The 82nd Airborne Division had to secure crossings at two major rivers and a canal, take the city of Nijmegen and secure the Groesbeek Heights. A tall order for an Airborne Division to undertake!

This tour will take us on a clockwise loop around the objectives and battles of the All Americans, beginning at the bridge at Grave. We’ll then drive to the lock bridge at Heumen (Molenhoek), the only bridge across the Maas-Waal Canal captured intact.

Our next stop will be the landing zones south of Groesbeek and then the desperate battle to recapture the landing zones to the north. We will then pay our respects to the fallen at the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, one of only 3 cemeteries for Canadian soldiers in the Netherlands.

Then we’ll move to Devils Hill, which dominates the eastern approach of Nijmegen which was contested for days in fierce, often hand to hand, combat.

After a short drive, we will visit the location of the Waal River crossing which we will remember by walking across the bridge to visit the monument on the North bank. Our last stop will the road bridge at Nijmegen, where we will look at the battles fought to capture the biggest bridge of Operation Market Garden.

Nijmegen tour itinerary

This tour begins at 09:00h at the Nijmegen railway station and we will visit the following locations:

• Road bridge across the Maas River at Grave
• Lock bridge across the Maas Waal canal at Heumen
• Drop and landing zones around Groesbeek with a visit to the replica Waco glider
• Canadian Cemetery at Groesbeek
• Devils Hill
• Waal River crossing location
• Waal Bridge battles at Nijmegen

This tour takes around 8 hours and ends around 17:00h (5PM) at the Nijmegen railway station.

This tour is available in English and in Dutch.

We have a flat fee price for our tours:

• Price for a full day private tour for 1 to 4 persons including transportation is €479.99.
• For 5-8 persons I have to charge €649.99 to cover the rent of a large minivan.
• Lunch and museum entrance is not included in the price.
• For a group of more than 4 persons please visit my Groups page

Bookings for 2025

Book this tour now.

Please note that I’m only available on the dates that you can select in the date picker below, all other dates I’m already fully booked.

My name is Joris Nieuwint and I will be your tour guide! Please allow me to introduce myself and tell you a little bit about what I've been doing over the past years. For the past 10 years I've been living in Veghel, and before that, I've lived in Arnhem for almost two decades. Living so close to the battlefields meant that Operation Market Garden always had my interest and I've been studying the battles for all those years. Sharing what I've learned over the years has been my passion and becoming a tour guide was one of my dreams. Keeping the sacrifices of these men alive by telling their stories and showing the locations where it happened is my greatest passion.

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The road to freedom

September 2024 marks the 80th anniversary of Operation Market Garden.

The Arnhem/Nijmegen region played a key role on the world stage towards the end of the Second World War. During Operation Market Garden in September 1944, the Ginkelse Heide heath close to Ede was the site of one of the biggest airborne landing operations in history. Parts of the southern Netherlands were liberated, as far as Nijmegen, but the operation ground to a dramatic halt at the bridge in Arnhem. The subsequent winter was harsh. A few months later, in February 1945, the final phase of the liberation movement – Operation Veritable – started from the Nijmegen area. It marked the beginning of the great Rhineland Offensive. Soldiers and citizens alike became caught up in an unpredictable war in which the stakes were life or death, joy or sorrow. The enemy was eventually defeated and freedom was restored.

Read here more about the events, commemorations and itineraries regarding Operation Market Garden and the road to freedom.

Also get informed about what's going on concerning this theme by the staff of  Citystore Rijk van Nijmegen . 

Forward March!

Nijmegen's bridge called De Oversteek (‘The Crossing’), is named after the world-famous crossing of the River Waal by the U.S. 504th Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division in 1944. There are 48 lamp posts on the bridge in memory of the 48 fallen soldiers who lost their lives there. Every day at around sunset, the lamps on the bridge switch on at a slow marching pace. Every day, veterans and other people join in the ‘ Sunset March ’ across the De Oversteek bridge in honour of the fallen Allied soldiers. Feel free to take part if you wish – anyone can join in.

Commemorative plaques in the street

On 22 February, Nijmegen suffered severe damage during an air raid by the US forces. American bombers unleashed their deadly payloads above Nijmegen, destroying the historic heart of the city in one fell swoop . Over 800 civilians were killed as they were making their way to school, work or the market, and thousands more were injured. The commemorative plaques indicate the fire line following the bombing and show the names of the people who died.

In the footsteps of ...

Liberation Route Europe lets you hear and experience what went on in Gelderland during the final stages of the war. Special boulders, called listening spots, can be found in dozens of locations. An audio recording is available at each listening spot, so that everyone can get a sense of the dramatic situations experienced by civilians and soldiers towards the end of the Second World War.

Around the 80-year commemoration of Operation Market Garden and afterwards of the liberation, numerous activities are organized in the region. They are conveniently listed on this page: Festival 80 jaar Vrijheid Overasselt (vrijheidregionijmegen.nl)

Freedom Trail

Freedom Trail is an 11-day walking relay through several provinces of The Netherlands. Walk in the footsteps of the liberators and be part of the stories of war and freedom. Stories of wars and conflicts around the world are passed along the way. Along the way, find - sometimes visible in the landscape - the traces of that World War II left behind. The Freedom Trail is about 330 kilometers long and is divided into 22 stages of about 15 km per stage, ending at the John Frost Bridge in Arnhem. The finish of the Freedom Trail joins the commemoration of the Battle of Arnhem and Bridge to Liberation at the “Bridge too Far” in the presence of WWII veterans. The relay will take place from September 10-20, 2024. You can participate by signing up for one or more stages here . 

Freedom Museum

The Freedom Museum is located in the beautiful green and hilly landscape of Groesbeek. The museum is close to Germany and right in the area of two of the most important operations on the Western Front during WW2: Market Garden and Veritable. It is a tourist attraction for young and old, from home and abroad. The visitors experience the fascinating Story of War and Freedom without Borders in both the Netherlands and Germany, Europe and beyond. There is never one story. A multifaceted image of the Second World War is created through various perspectives, in the context of the history of the 20th century and current events. The visitor is challenged to think critically about freedom then and now, full of experiences, interactivity and museum masterpieces. The sustainable building itself, the 12-meter high Dome, is also an attraction and has a strong resemblance to an enormous parachute. From the terrace you have a panoramic view of the historic landscape.

Canadian Cemetery Groesbeek

This cemetery in Groesbeek contains 2,617 soldiers buried who died during World War II. It is the largest cemetery of the British Commonwealth in the Netherlands. Remarkably, all but one Canadian soldier who died during Operation Veritable were buried here and many were even reburied. Close to the cemetery entrance is a monument in the form of a wall of names commemorating 1,047 missing soldiers.

Cycling routes

Water als wapen - rindern.

Water as a weapon - Driel

Liberation Route - Heumen en Mook

Liberation Route Nijmegen

More information?

Nijmegen region:  Vrijheid is niet vanzelfsprekend (vrijheidregionijmegen.nl)

Arnhem region:  Battle of Arnhem (visitarnhem.com)

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Liberation Route Europe

Liberation Route Europe is an international remembrance trail connecting important milestones of modern European history. Liberation Route Europe links the main regions along the advance of the Western Allied Forces. There are listening points in The Other Holland where your guests can listen to moving stories about what happened during 1944 and 1945.

Freedom Museum

The Freedom Museum is set in the beautiful landscape near Nijmegen, Arnhem and the German border, a unique location: Operation Market Garden, the largest airborne operation in history took place here in September 1944 and Operation Veritable, the Rhineland Offensive, the final road to freedom in Europe, started from here in February 1945. The museum brings the historical events of the liberation by the American, British, Canadian and Polish troops back to life. In the museum, you live through the period preceding the war, experience the occupation, celebrate the liberation and witness the rebuilding of the Netherlands and Europe after the war.

Highlights - Freedom on Wings: 750 model airplanes of WW2 - Model of Operation Market Garden - Air-raid shelter and Liberation Street - Diorama of the Waal crossing - Operation Veritable: the battle for the lower Rhine - The Dome with Roll of Honour

Airborne Museum ‘Hartenstein’

Hartenstein Villa is situated on the edge of Oosterbeek, this exquisite building is the Airborne Museum’s home. It was no coincidence that the museum was established in this villa. During the Battle of Arnhem, Hartenstein Villa was Major-General Urquhart’s British headquarters. The battle lasted nine days, from the 17th till the 25th of September 1944. It was intended to bring a swift end to the Second World War, but that is not what happened...

Listen, watch and experience! This underground space provides an immersive and imposing experience of the Battle of Arnhem. Stories of British, Polish and German soldiers come to life in Hartenstein Villa. Civilians also play an important role; they lived in mortal fear. The museum has a large collection of authentic weaponry, documents, footage and photographs on display. Also new exhibitions each year. Listen, watch and experience the Airborne Experience!

Holten Canadian War Cemetery

The Holten Canadian War Cemetery is a place for reflection. Here the victims of WWII are commemorated. Each of the1394 headstones has its own impressive story. The adjacent Information Centre helps visitors to understand the lay-out of the cemetery and to obtain more information of the lives of the fallen soldiers. Personal stories, anecdotes and photographs, often donated by relatives of the war victims, will keep the thought and awareness of those who fell alive. The audio-visual theatre, where visitors can watch a presentation on the liberation of the eastern part of the Netherlands by the Canadians, plays an important part in the Information Centre. It also tells the story why and how the cemetery was laid out at this specific site. The Information Centre has free entrance for all visitors and provides a source of information ’for all generations’.

Airborne at the bridge

Offering a phenomenal view of the world-famous John Frost Bridge, the Airborne at the bridge exhibition in Arnhem tells the personal stories of the British lieutenant John Grayburn, the German Hauptsturmführer Viktor Eberhard Gräbner and the Dutch captain Jacob Groenewoud, all of whom fought and died here during the Battle of Arnhem in September 1944. Airborne at the Bridge has been open to the public since 31 March 2017. This site is part of the Airborne Museum and has replaced the old information centre about the Battle of Arnhem. Admission to Airborne at the Bridge is free for everyone. Airborne at the Bridge also has a VVV i-point and provides tourist information about the region in general. 

More information

For further information or to make special arrangements, please contact Nico de Mol, Visit the Other Holland, +31 (0)6 407 639 48 or  [email protected].

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80 years of freedom: Operation Market Garden

On Thursday 6 June, the celebration of ‘80 years of Freedom,’ commemorating the end of World War II, began on the beaches of Normandy.  This will be followed up in September with the commemoration of Operation Market Garden in September 1944.

Nijmegen and Arnhem were world news at the time. Through this region, the Allies wanted to force a rapid advance towards Hitler Germany. This was only partly successful: the Rhine bridge at Arnhem remained in German hands. Nevertheless, large parts of Limburg and Brabant were liberated, as was the Reich of Nijmegen. From there, the final offensive against the Nazi regime began in February 1945.

Last year, dozens of WW2 heritage institutions, cultural and social organisations in the Rijk van Nijmegen worked hard on a joint commemoration programme around Market Garden. This is now complete, as is the funding. This is partly thanks to subsidies from the province of Gelderland and the municipalities in the region.

Regional programme 80 Years of Freedom

The commemoration of Market Garden next September is part of the ‘80 Years of Freedom’ regional programme in the Rijk van Nijmegen and is supported by the municipalities of Nijmegen, Berg en Dal, Heumen, Wijchen, Beuningen and Druten. It runs from the beginning of 2024 until August 2025.

In February 2024, the commemoration of the bombing of Nijmegen on 22 February 1944 attracted a large audience. After ‘Market Garden 1944-2024’ in September 2024, there will be a focus on the 1944 evacuations in autumn, the Rhineland Offensive in spring 2025 and 80 years of freedom in May. The ‘80 Years of Freedom’ programme links past and present. War violence, devastation, civilian casualties, refugees: what happened here then is happening elsewhere now, including in Europe.

In September 2024, we in the Rijk van Nijmegen commemorate the events of the past, link to the present and celebrate 80 years of freedom.

Some highlights from the programme:

Sunday 15 september.

Freedom Festival and Children's Fair in and around the Freedom Museum in Groesbeek, from 10.00 to 17.00. The Euregio Freedom Walk.

Tuesday 17 September

Market Garden commemoration at the General Gavin monument in Groesbeek, from 11.30am to 12.00pm.

Thursday 19 September

Liberation Task Force encampment at Klein Amerika in Groesbeek, with vehicles and equipment mainly from the British army from the Market Garden period. Can be visited all day, in the morning there is also a parade dropping.

Friday 20 September

Encampment of the Pontoongroup ‘40-’45 on the island of Veur-Lent near Nijmegen, to be visited from 10.30 to 17.00. At 12.00 hrs Waalcrossing of the Pontoongroup with 26 boats and 200 re-enactors. At 13.30 official commemoration of the 48 US servicemen killed in this action on 20 September 1944.

Saturday, 21 September

Encampment of Pontoongroup ‘40-’45', from 10am to 7.30pm. At 2.57pm Waalcrossing again, at the same time as the action at the time.

Parade for peace, Peace by Peace from the city centre to the Vasim grounds in Nijmegen. Start at 13.00. From 15.00 to 22.00 Peace by Peace festival on the Vasim grounds. This will continue on Sunday 22 September from 10.30 to 18.00.

Special edition of the Sunset March , for the general public, across city bridge De Oversteek. Start at 7.36pm on the Vasim grounds.

See the full program

Discover Nijmegen's History

The oldest city in the Netherlands is full of stories. Dive into the history of the Greeks and Romans and learn more about the important emperors from Nijmegen. Maybe you want to know how Nijmegen survived the plague or how the city was influenced by the devastation of World War II? You can read all about it in this historical timeline.

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Freedom Museum

The Netherlands

The Freedom Museum is situated in the middle of the former combat zone of Operation Market Garden and the Rhineland Offensive.

Market Garden took place in September 1944. The goal was to take the bridges across the rivers Meuse, Waal and Rhine, paving the way for a rapid advance to Germany. Although the ambitious plan failed as regards its ultimate goal, the area around Nijmegen and Groesbeek was liberated by the British and Americans. Strategically, this turned out to be very important. Because in February 1945, after six months of heavy frontline battles, one of the greatest Allied operations from the Second World War started from this area: the Rhineland Offensive. It was the final push to Berlin, which resulted in the liberation of the Netherlands and Western Europe.

17th September 1944 saw the start of Operation Market Garden and, with it, the Battle of Arnhem. The Allies lost this battle, but the area around the city of Nijmegen was liberated, and the struggle for the city itself was won on 20th September 1944. However, for six long months, Nijmegen and the surrounding area subsequently found itself on the frontline and under continuous attack from German bombs and grenades.

Likewise, despite having been liberated on 17th September 1944, the area around Groesbeek soon became the target of terrible attacks from Kleve and the German Reischswald. Throughout the autumn of 1944, a total of 30,000 people were evacuated from Groesbeek and the surrounding villages. A farm in no man's land is a story about what happened at Groenendaal Farm on Wylerbaan Road.

During the long winter of 1944-1945, the frontline barely moved from its position between the Maas and Rhine rivers, extending from Mook, through Groesbeek and Wyler on to Erlecom. Then finally, on 8th February 1945, Operation Veritable made a dramatic push that would ultimately result in the liberation of The Netherlands and western Europe. The mammoth Rineland Offensive had begun, and it started in Nijmegen.

Things to do in Nijmegen Netherlands | 20 sights and tips

How nice is it to make a city trip in your own country and really take the time to discover a place? This time I go out and explore the Rijk van Nijmegen. This city in Gelderland, located on the Waal river and close to the German border, is the oldest city in the Netherlands and famous for its bustling atmosphere. In this article you can read all my tips for what to do in Nijmegen and the surroundings, including the best photo spots, hotels, good restaurants and of course the best things to do in Nijmegen Netherlands in terms of culture, history and nature. For a day trip to Nijmegen or a lovely weekend trip.

Walk through the Ooijpolder natural reserve

Walk through the groesbeek forests, more about nijmegen in the netherlands.

I have been traveling the world for years, but still know so little about my own country. As an Amsterdam girl, I have to admit that I had never been to Nijmegen. That is why I was even more excited and curious to explore this city in the province of Gelderland. In Nijmegen you will find history and culture, but also a lot of creativity, trendy places and nature. Curious about Nijmegen and the surrounding area? Read all my tips for things to in Nijmegen here.  

Grote Markt and surroundings

The Grote Markt should not be missed during a visit to Nijmegen. It is not only the center of the city but also the place where you find a number of interesting historic sights. The 17th century Boterwaag, dominating the square, is a beautiful building that you will immediately recognize from the many photos of Nijmegen.

Via the Sint-Stevenspoort or Kerkboog, you walk pass a number of historic buildings, to the Stevenskerk, which was badly hit by the bombings during the Second World War. The church, which is located on a hill, was rebuilt and is nowadays characteristic for the cityscape of Nijmegen. It is nice to stroll around the Grote Markt area and a great place for taking pictures.

Valkhof Park | historic things to do in Nijmegen Netherlands

The Valkhof park is a place that you first of all want to visit, because of the view over the Waal. From the Sint-Nicolaaskapel, you have a great view of this 82 km long river. 

But another reason is the Barbarossa ruin. For as long as I’ve been traveling, I’ve been interested in ruins. Because of its fascinating history. I had no idea of ​​the existence of a ruin in Nijmegen. Both the Sint-Nicolaaskapel and the Barbarossa ruin, are national monuments and among the best things to do Nijmegen.

The Barbarossa ruins are the remains of a palace from the 12th century, the Valkhof Castle, which was built by Emperor Barbarossa. The Barbossa ruins and Saint Nicholas chapel were spared during the demolition of the palace in the 18th century, because it was believed that it dates from the Roman period.

Valkhof Museum

Are you interested in archeology and history? Make sure to visit the Valkhof museum. Here you will find different collections of art and archaeological artefacts, including mineral resources from the time of the Romans. Nijmegen was the largest and most important settlement of the Romans in the Netherlands.

City island of Veur-Lent

Via the Snelbinder or Waalbrug bridges, you can walk from the old center of Nijmegen to the city island of Veur-Lent. A place where you can hike, paddle or relax on the beach, when the weather is nice. Moreover, you have the best view of the center here and can take great pictures. How incredible is it that you have your own beach so close to the city!

Take a picture with the face of Nijmegen

On the city island of Veur-Lent you will find a Roman mask, made by artist Andreas Hetfel. It is also called the face of Nijmegen and you can hardly miss it, once you enter the island. The mask was placed here in 2020 but is yet to be given a final location. For now, it is for sure one of the things to do if you want to take a typical Nijmegen picture.

Artist Andreas Hetfeld was inspired by a Roman mask that was found nearby in the Waal river. Roman soldiers are said to have worn this type of mask during ceremonies, battles and competitions. The original mask can be seen in the Valkhof Museum.

The muZIEum | unique things to do in Nijmegen Netherlands

Have you ever thought about what it is like to be blind or visually impaired? In everyday life you probably don’t think about it that much. At least not me. In Nijmegen you can experience what it is like to be blind or partially sighted in a unique way. And not just by watching a movie or attending an information meeting, but by going on a lifelike experience. And that’s pretty intense.

Into the center of Nijmegen

When I arrive at the muZIEum I have no idea what to expect, but I soon realize that I will enter the center of Nijmegen with glasses and a white cane. By putting on these glasses, that include different simulated facial disorders, you experience what it is like to live without full vision. Also called the ripple route. The tour is guided by a blind or partially sighted guide, in our case Conny, who explains about her life and what you should pay attention to when you can’t see. This with the help of a sighted guide, who ensures safety. I feel embarrassed and clumsy at first but immediately guilty as, unlike Conny, I can take off my glasses at the end of the experience.

We learn how to use the white cane, how to recognize certain ridges on the street and what the consequences are if they cannot be found, because of a bicycle that is blocking the road. And course we listen to the stories of Conny. Conny, who became blind in one eye due to a bicycle accident and can only see 40 percent in the other eye, openly talks about her situation. It is remarkable how positive she is in life. At a certain moment we can even briefly experience how she sees life. We keep one eye closed and through the other eye we see a black spot. It’s hard to believe that this is the reality for her. We get small assignments, such as tapping water and taking a selfie. It is confronting but special to experience.

More about the muZIEum

In the muZIEum, located on Ziekerstraat, you will find a space with additional information about blind and partially sighted people. An audio experience is also presented that opens your senses. And there is a dark experience, where you experience what it is like to see nothing at all, under the guidance of a blind or partially sighted guide. The muZIEum is for sure one of the unique things to do in Nijmegen. You may not be so quick to find out yourself, until someone gives you the tip and tells you that you really have to do it. And I am very happy to do so.

Moreover the muZIEum is not only an experience for visitors, but also an important employment place for countless blind and partially sighted people. Would you like to know more about the muZIEum in Nijmegen? Please check the website for more information.

The Lange Hezelstraat

The Lange Hezelstraat is a lovely street with a history. It is one of the oldest shopping streets in the Netherlands (since 1880) and therefore one of the things to do in Nijmegen, if you like shopping. I’m not much of a shopper anymore, but if I were looking for something beautiful, I would definitely go here. This is because it is bursting with great concept stores, specialty shops and vintage shops.

For festival and summer vibes, you want to be at De Kaaij. You will find a mishmash of picnic tables, umbrellas, stretch tents, a ship’s deck and various food trucks, right under the Waal bridge. One of the super cozy things to do in Nijmegen, if you want to walk with your feet through the sand on a sunny day. But you can also have a drink during the year at the Opoe Sientje ship deck terrace.

De Kaaij is also known as the cultural terrace of Nijmegen, because of the many musicians, artists and DJs who come together and provide performances. So keep an eye on the website for the latest schedule.

Tips for Nijmegen: You can also spend the night at the Opoe Sientje ship deck. At the bottom of this article, in my hotel tips for Nijmegen, you can read more about this place to sleep.

Kronenburgerpark

City parks are always fun! And Nijmegen has the Kronenburgerpark, located near the station and the Lange Hezelstraat. The park is known for the 30 meter high gunpowder tower which, together with the St. Jacobstoren and De Roomse Voet, was part of a medieval wall. Always nice to walk through a park on a sunny day and take a seat on a bench.

Honigfabriek

The Honigfabriek is an old factory that has been transformed into a creative breeding space with young entrepreneurs, restaurants, bars and theatres. Unfortunately, the factory is currently (summer 2022) in a transition phase, as a result of which the majority of the factory is a construction site. Only a few places are open, including restaurant de Meesterproef, Oersoep Biertuin, Cultuurcentrum Brebl and coffee bar First Things First. But you definitely want to keep an eye on this place , as it is one of the must-visit things to do in Nijmegen if you are looking for creative vibes.

Do you love to go for a hike? You can walk straight into the Ooijpolder, via the small footbridge, near the Waalbrug. This natural reserve of more than 2000 hectares, is located on the Waal and consists of greenery, beaches, villages such as Ooij and Persingen and small farms. In the area you can see Konik horses and Galloway cattle and with a bit of luck you can even spot beavers and otters. It is also a good place for bird watching. During my visit it started to rain half way through our walk, so we were only able to enjoy a small part. But when I visit Nijmegen again in the future, I will definitely come back. Here the different walking routes.

Things to do in Nijmegen Netherlands area | 3 tips

A day in Nijmegen is already nice, but it is even better to combine this with a visit to the surrounding area. There is a lot of nature where you can walk, taste wines or delve into the history of the region around Nijmegen. Read here some of my tips for things to do in the Nijmegen area.

Visit the Freedom Museum in Groesbeek | historic things to do in Nijmegen Netherlands

The Freedom Museum is a relatively new museum, located in a green and hilly area of Groesbeek, near the border with Germany. Something that immediately makes the museum special, since not only Dutch but also German visitors come here. The Freedom Museum does not tell one story but tries to share several sides. And they do that well, by placing all the information in a larger context and offering different perspectives. In addition, the focus is not only on war, but especially on peace and freedom and what this actually means in countries such as the Netherlands, Germany, in Europe and beyond.

What does a visit to the Freedom Museum entail?

The museum is interactive and alternates well between heavy topics such as the terrible Second World War and the role Groesbeek played during Operation Market Garden. But also easy to digest information such as freedom clothing, historical events that are shown in a cinematic way and places where you can experience how heavy a grenade, parachute or war rifle is. For me personally, the bomb shelter left a big impression. Here you can take a seat and literally feel and hear the bombs around you.

But above all, the Freedom Museum makes you think and realize that nothing is what it looks like. How do people make choices and what would you do if you were in the same situation? You will be confronted with it in an interesting way. Not easy to digest, but because of the structure of the museum you will certainly experience it differently than you would think. Highly recommended, whether you are interested in history or not. Check opening times and more information about the Freedom Museum here.

Nice to know: The Freedom Museum is built in the shape of a parachute and completely sustainable. This is partly due to the special air pressure construction of the roof.

Taste wines in the Dutch Winery Center

Did you know that Nijmegen area has vineyards and produces wines? There is almost 25 hectares of vineyard and I had no idea. Therefore if you are in Groesbeek, you definitely want to make a stop at the Dutch Winery Center: Nederlands Wijbouwcentrum. Here you can get a tour, taste wines and have a delicious lunch. You couldn’t make me happier.

Groesbeek is a small town, near the German border, only 15 minutes driving from Nijmegen city center.

If you like to go for walks, make sure to visit the forests of Groesbeek: de Groesbeekse bossen. For sure one of the best things to do in Nijmegen on a nice day. A short walk of 4 kilometers from the Dutch Winery Center leads you past fields, vineyards and forests. Along the way you have the chance to see foxes, deer and wild boars. Unfortunately I did not see any of them, but the forest environment only is already worth it. There are countless trails, from long to short. Tip: You can easily combine this hike with a visit to the Dutch Winery Center, before or after a nice lunch or wine tasting.

When I read the information brochure during the walk, I found out that this area represents a lot of history. It is the place where the airborne landings of Operation Market Garden took place in 1944. A full-sized plane has been placed to remind of this. In 1944 hundreds of them landed in Groesbeek.

Mini travel guide Nijmegen Netherlands

Tours in nijmegen, restaurant tips for nijmegen, arsenaal 1824.

In the center of Nijmegen there is a beautiful building, called the Arsenaal. The building was built in the 15th century as a monastery and later housed an armory. Today it is a national monument, including a grand café, where you can enjoy delicious meals. Accessible and stylish at the same time, something that makes me very happy. I recommend the 3 or 4 course menu, where you choose your own dishes from the French, Mediterranean and Oriental cuiseine. Sashimi as a starter and a great vegetarian curry as a main course, together with the best wine!

Wine bar Lebowski

As you might know by now, I love wine. And during a stay in Nijmegen, a visit to a wine bar should not be missed. Wine Bar Lebowski is a cozy café, including a large outdoor terrace, where you can enjoy a good glass of wine. There are also regular wine tastings. Make sure to check it out.

Restaurant Manna

Do you like fish? Then you’ve come to the right place at Restaurant Manna. In this fish bistro you order quality fish exactly the way you want it. There are also fantastic tasting menus and you eat the very best fruits de mer.

Other restaurant tips for Nijmegen Netherlands

• Bistro Flores
• Coffeeplace: Fika
• De Nieuwe Winkel
• Munt Saladebar
• Lunchroom Downtown
• Ultimo restaurant and winebar

Hotel tips for Nijmegen Netherlands

Hotel credible.

Are you looking for a hotel in the center of Nijmegen? Then make sure to check out Hotel Credible . Hotel Credible is not only a nice hotel but also a great place to be.

The rooms are simple but comfortable and affordable. And in the cozy restaurant you can eat, drink or work on your laptop. The interior is fun, creative and there is a great mix of people. Recommended!

Hotel Credible is located on the edge of the Valkhof Park and within walking distance of the many things to do in Nijmegen.

Check the availability and latest rates for Hotel Credible here . Looking for more hotel options? This is an overview of hotels in Nijmegen in the Netherlands.

Hotel Manna

Are you looking for a more chic hotel in the center of Nijmegen? Then you have to be at Hotel Manna . This boutique hotel, located on the Oranjesingel, consists of 8 luxury suites and 2 studios. The rooms are modern, brightly decorated with design materials and some have a lovely balcony or roof terrace. I stayed in the FortaRock Suite, including a luxury bath. A place you do not want to leave anymore. And close to the many things to do in Nijmegen.

Check the availability and latest rates for  Hotel Manna here. No availability at Manna? Hotel Blue is the sister hotel and highly recommended as well. Looking for more hotel options? This is an overview of hotels in Nijmegen in the Netherlands.

B&B schip de Opoe Sientje

Looking for a special overnight location in Nijmegen. Coincidentally, during my visit to the Kaaij, I walked into the B&B ship Opoe Sientje and I was pleasantly surprised. The ship has 6 rooms available, small but remarkably convenient, even with a bath. There is a cozy interior space and a ship deck terrace where you can eat and drink simple but tasty meals. In addition, you are in a nice creative place and within walking distance of the Ooijpolder. So did you always wanted to sleep on a boat? Then this is your chance.

Check here the availability and latest rates for  Opoe Sientje in Nijmegen. Looking for more hotel options? This is an overview of hotels in Nijmegen in the Netherlands.

How to reach Nijmegen from Amsterdam

Nijmegen is easy to reach from Amsterdam, wich makes for a perfect day trip. From Amsterdam Central Station there are trains leaving almost every 10 to 20 minutes, bringing you to the center of Nijmegen station within one hour and 20 minutes. From here it is an easy walk into the city center. Also from Schiphol airport and other Dutch cities, there are many train connections. By car, you will reach Nijmegen within one and a half hour, depending on your point of departure in Amsterdam and the time of the day.

Looking for more tips and things to do in Nijmegen and surroundings? For more inspiration and tips for a day or weekend in the Rijk van Nijmegen, visit the Visit Nijmegen website .

More about the Netherlan ds

Did you enjoy reading my tips for Nijmegen? And do you want to read more about the Netherlands? Check out all the blogs on the website.

• Things to do on Texel
• A city guide for Haarlem
• Aalsmeer – flower village of the Netherlands
• Places to visit around Amsterdam
• Countryside of Amsterdam – tips for daytrips

This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something using one of our links, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you, which helps us keep this blog alive. Thank you for your support! Please see our  disclosures  for more information.

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Free Walking Sightseeing Tours in Nijmegen, Netherlands

Guided sightseeing tours.

Book guided sightseeing tours and activities in Nijmegen.

Are you ready for an unforgettable time in Nijmegen, Netherlands? Then you've come to the right place with our sightseeing tours. Whether you prefer a guided free walking tour with insider knowledge or enjoy the freedom of a self-guided route, you'll find exactly what you're looking for. Click on a tour and find out more about the highlights that await you!

Self-guided Tour #1

• Hollands Duits Gemaal
• Het Valkhof
• Barbarossakapel
• Spoorwegmonument
• De Schommel
• Mariënburgkapel
• Evangelisch-Lutherse Kerk
• Julianapark
• Concertgebouw de Vereeniging
• Titus Brandsma Gedachteniskerk
• Stadsschouwburg
• Quack-monument
• Mariken van Nieumeghen
• Grote- of Stevenskerk
• Titus Brandsmakapel
• Kronenburgerpark

Self-guided Tour #2

• Maria Geboortekerk

Self-guided Tour #3

• Heilige Antonius van Padua-Sint Annakerk
• De Witte Molen
• Sint-Antonius van Padua

Why Visit Sights? Self-guided sightseeing tours are a free and safe alternative to bus tours. You can explore Nijmegen at your own pace, any time! Do something good for your health by walking.

Want to share your culture with travelers from all the world?

Others cities to visit after nijmegen, free walking tour near nijmegen.

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• Free walking tour in Gouda
• Free walking tour in Haarlem
• Free walking tour in Maastricht
• Free walking tour in Scheveningen
• Free walking tour in Aachen

• About the museum

The Freedom Museum is a historical educational museum that tells the cross-border and multi-perspect...

• Our mission

What we do The Freedom Museum is a historical educational museum that tells the cross-border Story...

• Building and location

A special building in a special location The Freedom Museum is located in a sustainable building wi...

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The Freedom Museum has been made possible thanks to the financial support of the following financier...

The Freedom Museum works together with other institutions on various levels and in several areas, so...

Please support us in keeping the freedom message alive. The Freedom Museum receives almost no grant...

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National Museum of African American History & Culture

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Slavery and Freedom Highlights Tour

• Thursday, September 19, 2024
• 1:15pm - 3:45pm
• Add to Calendar

Free; walk-in Tours are subject to docent availability; last minute cancellations may occur.

About This Event

Explore the complex story of slavery and freedom.  Visitors will view priceless objects, connect to the past, and hear about the actions of ordinary men and women, demanding freedom and transforming our nation.

Photo Credit:  NMAAHC

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