06 Jun 24 hours in Tilburg | The “New Dutch” city you can’t miss
This is a sponsored post with CityMarketing Tilburg but all opinions are my own.
If you’re in the Netherlands or planning a trip to the Netherlands and are looking for somewhere to go that isn’t in all the guidebooks (yet), then I have the perfect spot for you.
When you live in Amsterdam like I do, you get stuck in a bit of a bubble. You *want* to explore other places in the country, but you just never seem to get out there. This is a mistake, but not one to feel bad about because there’s always time to visit somewhere new. Make this weekend that moment (or your next trip).
Tilburg, Netherlands is a gem with way more things to do than I expected. I’m kind of mad at myself for not discovering beforehand. But now that I have, I’m ready to share it with you. If you’re a bit jaded by all the small Dutch towns that are cute but don’t offer too much else, then you’ll be glad you’ve made it to this post.
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Why you should visit Tilburg, Netherlands
The reason Sean and I have fallen in love with Tilburg is because there’s the cute Dutch town part, but mixed with tons of cool things to do in a lively, vibrant, livable city that gives you experiences you’ve been craving. Being a university town, there’s a fun vibe that’s impossible to ignore but isn’t overwhelming.
The modern and old are seamlessly intertwined in a way that feels impossible but just adds to the “wow” factor. The streets go all different directions and a lot of the old town center is for pedestrians and bikes. If there was one down side, that would be it. In Amsterdam, bikes go in specific places and don’t normally occupy the same space as pedestrians. In Tilburg, there isn’t always a clear signal (or rule) where the bikes are. So, just pay attention.
Looking for good food and fun? Who wouldn’t answer yes to this?! My list keeps growing of the places I want to eat when we go back, but I’ll include the ones we went to on our trip.
If you like to hang out outside under big parasols with a drink, this is definitely your city. There are so many terraces, you could have your pick of the litter for WEEKS!
Ok, let’s get into the good stuff
How to spend 24 hours in Tilburg
Arrive by train from anywhere in the Netherlands and get off at Tilburg Central Station (not the University stop) and you’ll find some luggage lockers if you want to jump right into exploring. Or head to the Mercure Hotel Tilburg Centrum and check in. We had a great view over the square and church. Pretty epic!
Grab dinner near the hotel
With a cozy bistro vibe and a small, but international menu, Le Bistro is just around the corner from the hotel. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy dinner with an upscale vibe before heading to your next adventure.
Visit the Doloris Meta Maze
The Meta Maze…you all…I can’t even begin to explain. There’s a video on their website that kind of explains it but it’s a place you have to see to believe. It’s a timed entrance, so book ahead of time. You’ll need to leave all electronics in a locker so you can’t record anything!
Grab a cocktail at the rooftop bar
In the same locations, you’ll find Rooftop bar Strøming, a massive rooftop bar (some outside and some inside) and it’s such a cool place. It was dark when we arrived so we didn’t get the full city view, but just being up there is an experience in itself.
Experience Prison Island
There’s a lot to do at NondeJeu like lawn bowling (indoors) or just dive into Prison Island. The rooms are like puzzles. Some rooms are pretty easy and some are pretty hard. I’d take 3 people and go to have an epic time. When lawn bowling, definitely get a drink and snack to round out the experience.
Explore the city by foot or bike in the morning
While it’s still quiet, go out and take in the architecture, visit the Kromhoutpark and play on the rope bridge like a child (it’s pretty fun!). There’s a watertower by the park that’s worth a peek as well. I know some people like to go for a run in a new place and while I’m not that ambitious, a nice walk is good for the soul.
Have lunch at the Gourmet Market Centraal Station
You’ll definitely find something you’re craving at the Food Market Tilburg because it’s full of food stalls of all kinds of cuisines. If it’s a nice day, you can sit out on the turnstile that used to be used for trains and grab a local G&T. This area of the city has been renovated and repurposed to become the coolest of hangout spots.
Check out the LocHal
While you’re nearby, you’ll want to walk over to the LocHal…the city’s library. It’s a wonder in itself. Also repurposed, the design is unlike any library you’ve ever seen. One of the study tables is ON A TRAIN CART. If that’s not reason enough to pop in, I don’t know what is.
Get a Softy ice cream
If you happen to see Softy’s ice cream truck you have to stop for a local favorite. I don’t care what time of year it is, ice cream is always a good idea. Don’t you agree?
Drink a Trappist beer
Visit the tasting room for La Trappe beer at the monastery just outside of the city center. There aren’t too many beers like this left in the world, so if you’re a beer fan, this is a must-do activity.
Hunt for street art
Ask your hotel for a street art map and use your bike to make the search go faster. Of course, you could also do this in the morning while you’re walking which is also quite nice! Don’t miss the one that’s in a tunnel because that was my favorite.
Visit the harbor
In case you want another drink, just a snack or to soak up the sun, head to Piushaven (the harbor) to see what it’s like to have a harbor so close to the old town center. It feels like an extension of people’s homes because you’ll see families, friends, and kids running around. It’s just everyday life for them.
Dinner at Silk Road
As a last stop, we enjoyed dinner at a lovely restaurant called Silk Road. It was sooo good! You can order from a few set menus or a la carte. It’s fun to see a feast laid out in front of you and you have to choose what your first bite is going to be! Also, the inside is stunning, so if you like to eat outdoors like we do, make sure to pop in for a peek 😉
Want to learn more about the Netherlands?
Head over to our country page!
And that’s 24-hours of fun-filled exploration with a pop of foodie goodness in Tilburg. Whether you visit as a day-trip from Amsterdam, or spend a weekend (definitely recommend the weekend option), you’ll have a great time and discover a little city unlike any other I’ve experienced in the Netherlands…and I’ve been to a bunch!
Did you use my guide to visit? Let me know (or tag me!) on Instagram so I can follow your adventures.
Wishing you joy and travels!
