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The Ultimate Eindhoven Cheat Sheet 2025: A Local’s Guide to the Dutch Tech Hub

Insider's guide to Eindhoven for 2025 travelers with money-saving tips, local recommendations, and practical advice from someone who's made all the mistakes so you don't have to.

Getting to Know Eindhoven: The Netherlands’ Innovation Capital

The first time I stepped off the train at Eindhoven Station back in 2018, I was woefully unprepared. I’d come to the Netherlands thinking Amsterdam was the only city worth visiting (how wrong I was!). Eindhoven seemed like just another stop on my itinerary—until it completely charmed me. Seven visits later, I’ve fallen in love with this design-forward, tech-savvy city that most tourists completely overlook.

Let me be honest: I initially made the mistake of scheduling just a single day here. By noon, I was already extending my hotel reservation, frantically canceling my train to Amsterdam. There’s something magnetic about Eindhoven’s blend of industrial heritage and cutting-edge innovation that hooks you right away.

What makes Eindhoven special isn’t just the attractions—it’s the vibe. This isn’t a city preserved in amber like some Dutch destinations; it’s constantly reinventing itself. Former factories now house the coolest restaurants, students discuss tech startups in converted industrial spaces, and design isn’t just appreciated—it’s part of the city’s DNA.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned during my multiple trips, including all the mistakes I’ve made so you can enjoy a smoother experience. From navigating local transport to finding the hidden gems that most tourists miss, consider this your insider’s handbook to Eindhoven in 2025.

Getting to Eindhoven: Transportation Guide

Eindhoven is remarkably accessible, which makes it an ideal addition to any Netherlands itinerary. Here’s how to reach the city and get around once you’re there:

Arriving by Air

Eindhoven Airport (EIN) is the Netherlands’ second-largest airport and serves as a hub for budget airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, and Transavia. From personal experience, I’ve found flights into Eindhoven can be up to 60% cheaper than Amsterdam’s Schiphol, especially if you’re coming from elsewhere in Europe.

💡 Money-Saving Tip: Book your flight to Eindhoven instead of Amsterdam, then take the train to explore the rest of the Netherlands. You’ll likely save at least €50-100 on airfare alone.

Airport to City Center

  • Bus 400/401: The most affordable option at €4.50 one-way (2025 price). Runs every 10 minutes during peak hours and takes about 25 minutes to reach Eindhoven Central Station.
  • Taxi: Around €25-30, convenient but pricey for the short 7km journey.
  • Uber: Available and usually costs €18-25 depending on demand.

My mistake on my first visit was taking a taxi because I was tired after my flight. The bus is actually very comfortable and frequent—save your euros for stroopwafels instead!

Arriving by Train

Eindhoven Central Station is a major railway hub with excellent connections to:

  • Amsterdam: 1 hour 20 minutes (€22.30 in 2025)
  • Rotterdam: 1 hour 10 minutes (€19.40)
  • Utrecht: 50 minutes (€17.60)
  • Maastricht: 1 hour (€18.70)
  • Brussels: 1 hour 50 minutes (€29.80)

💡 Insider Tip: Purchase an NS Dal Voordeel discount card if you’ll be taking multiple train journeys. For €50/year, you get 40% off off-peak travel and 20% off peak times. It paid for itself during my week-long trip.

Getting Around Eindhoven

Eindhoven is incredibly compact—the perfect city to explore by bike or on foot. Here’s what you need to know:

By Bike (The Local Way)

I was initially intimidated by cycling in a Dutch city, but Eindhoven is far less chaotic than Amsterdam and has exceptional bike infrastructure. You can rent a bike from:

  • OV-fiets at the train station (€4.15 per 24 hours with an OV-chipkaart)
  • Fietswinkel Eindhoven (€10 per day or €40 per week)
  • Swapfiets for longer stays (€20/month, maintenance included)

The local Dutch phrase “Mag ik er even langs?” (May I pass by?) has saved me countless times when navigating crowded bike paths.

By Public Transport

Eindhoven has an excellent bus network operated by Hermes/Bravo:

  • Single journey: €2.50-4.00 depending on distance
  • Day pass: €8.50 (great value if you’re making 3+ trips)
  • OV-chipkaart: The reloadable smart card used throughout the Netherlands (€7.50 for the card itself)

When I first visited, I made the mistake of buying individual tickets each time. Getting an OV-chipkaart from the yellow machines at the station saves both money and time—just remember to check in and out by scanning the card on the readers!

Where to Stay: Neighborhoods & Accommodation Guide

Choosing the right neighborhood can make or break your Eindhoven experience. Here’s my breakdown of the best areas to stay:

City Center (Centrum)

The heart of Eindhoven offers maximum convenience but higher prices. This is where you’ll find the main shopping streets, restaurants, and nightlife. I stayed here on my first visit and loved being able to walk everywhere.

Recommended Stays:

  • Luxury: Inntel Hotels Art Eindhoven – Set in a former Philips factory with industrial-chic design (€140-180/night)
  • Mid-range: Queen Hotel – Boutique property with excellent breakfast (€95-120/night)
  • Budget: The Student Hotel – Modern, vibrant atmosphere with co-working spaces (€65-90/night)

Strijp-S (The Hip District)

This is my personal favorite area to stay. Once Philips’ industrial complex, Strijp-S has been transformed into Eindhoven’s coolest neighborhood full of creative spaces, street art, and excellent restaurants. It’s a 15-minute walk or 5-minute bike ride from the center.

When I stayed at the Hotel Strijp-S (€85-110/night), I felt like I was experiencing the real creative heart of Eindhoven. The building itself is a renovated Philips factory with industrial elements preserved throughout.

Bergen & De Witte Dame

The artsy, bohemian district with independent boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy cafés. Great for those seeking a quieter but still central location with character.

I discovered this area on my third visit and fell in love with its laid-back atmosphere. The Boutique Hotel Glow (€105-125/night) offers stylish rooms in a historic building.

Accommodation Money-Saving Tips

💡 Insider Tip #1: Book accommodations in Eindhoven during the week rather than weekends. Because of its business focus, hotels can be up to 30% cheaper Sunday through Thursday nights.

💡 Insider Tip #2: If you’re visiting during Dutch Design Week (October) or GLOW Festival (November), book at least 3 months in advance. I made the mistake of waiting and paid double the normal rates!

Eindhoven’s Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems

Eindhoven isn’t packed with conventional tourist attractions, which is precisely what makes it special. Instead, you’ll find innovative museums, converted industrial spaces, and plenty of design-focused experiences.

Essential Experiences

1. Philips Museum

Located in the very first Philips factory building, this museum tells the fascinating story of how a small light bulb manufacturer transformed into a global tech giant and shaped Eindhoven in the process.

  • Address: Emmasingel 31
  • Hours: Tue-Sun 10:00-17:00 (closed Mondays)
  • Admission: €11 (2025 price)
  • Website: philips-museum.com

Don’t miss the recreated physics lab where the first light bulbs were produced—the innovative spirit is palpable!

2. Van Abbemuseum

One of Europe’s leading museums for modern and contemporary art, housed in a striking building along the Dommel River. Their collection includes works by Picasso, Kandinsky, and Lissitzky alongside cutting-edge contemporary pieces.

  • Address: Bilderdijklaan 10
  • Hours: Tue-Sun 11:00-17:00
  • Admission: €14 (free with Museumkaart)
  • Website: vanabbemuseum.nl

💡 Money-Saving Tip: Visit on the first Thursday evening of each month when admission is free from 17:00-21:00. I discovered this by chance on my second visit and have planned trips around it since!

3. Strijp-S Cultural District

The beating creative heart of Eindhoven and my absolute favorite area. This former Philips industrial complex now houses restaurants, design studios, skateparks, and cultural venues. Don’t miss:

  • Piet Hein Eek: Furniture designer’s workshop, showroom and restaurant
  • Ketelhuis: Industrial event space with excellent food market on weekends
  • Mu Hybrid Art House: Cutting-edge digital art exhibitions
  • Radio Royaal: Restaurant in a former machine room

I made the mistake of rushing through Strijp-S on my first visit. Now I always dedicate at least half a day to wander this district, as there’s always something new to discover.

Hidden Gems Only Locals Know

These spots won’t appear in most guidebooks, but they offer authentic Eindhoven experiences:

1. Sectie-C

An under-the-radar creative community housed in former industrial buildings in the Tongelre district. Over 250 artists and designers have studios here. On my fourth visit, a local friend introduced me to this area, and I was blown away by the raw creative energy.

  • Address: Daalakkersweg 2-22
  • Tip: Visit during their biannual Open Days (usually in April and October) when all studios welcome visitors
  • Website: sectie-c.com

2. Kazerne

A unique combination of exhibition space, design store, and exceptional restaurant housed in a former military barracks and industrial garage. The concept lets you dine surrounded by museum-quality design pieces.

When I had dinner here, I sat next to a table lamp that cost more than my monthly rent! The food is exceptional—especially their Dutch-inspired tasting menu (€65 for 5 courses).

3. PreHistorisch Dorp (Prehistoric Village)

An open-air museum on the city’s outskirts where you can experience how people lived from prehistoric times through the Middle Ages. Far more engaging than it sounds—you can participate in ancient crafts like bread baking, blacksmithing, and bow making.

I initially thought this would be a cheesy tourist trap but ended up spending a fascinating afternoon learning to make fire without matches from enthusiastic staff in period costume.

  • Address: Boutenslaan 161B
  • Hours: 10:00-17:00 daily (April-October), limited winter opening
  • Admission: €16 adults, €9 children
  • Website: prehistoriscdorp.nl

💰 Money-Saving Tip: If you plan to visit several museums, consider purchasing the Eindhoven Museum Card for €25. It provides free entry to most major museums in the city and pays for itself after just two visits.

Food & Drink: Where to Eat Like a Local

Dutch Specialties to Try

Before listing specific restaurants, here are some local specialties you shouldn’t miss:

  • Worstenbroodjes: Brabant’s signature sausage rolls—different from those in other Dutch regions. The best ones are at Bakkerij van Woerkom (€2.75 each).
  • Bossche Bol: A giant profiterole filled with whipped cream and covered in chocolate, originating from nearby ‘s-Hertogenbosch. Try one at Jan de Groot.
  • Schrobbelèr: A sweet herb liqueur (€3-4 per shot) that originated in neighboring Tilburg but is popular throughout North Brabant.

The local expression “Eet smakelijk!” (Enjoy your meal!) is always appreciated before diving in.

Breakfast & Coffee Spots

Name Specialty Price Range Location
Coffeelab Third-wave coffee, amazing banana bread €€ Multiple locations
Downtown Gourmet Market Food hall with multiple breakfast options €€ Smalle Haven 2
Lucifer Best pancakes in town €€ Paradijslaan 8

On my third visit, I discovered Lucifer’s “Dutch breakfast” (€13.50) which includes mini pancakes, cheese, bread, and a boiled egg—the perfect fuel for a day of exploration.

Lunch Spots

  • Radius: Located in the magnificent Veemgebouw in Strijp-S, they serve outstanding sandwiches and salads using local ingredients. Their kimchi grilled cheese (€9.75) is life-changing.
  • Piet Hein Eek Restaurant: Lunch in the workshop of Eindhoven’s most famous furniture designer. Try the seasonal soup (€7.50) and open-faced sandwiches (€10-13).
  • Friet van Piet: For the best Dutch fries in town. Get them with traditional mayonnaise or try the local favorite, satay sauce. A large cone costs €4.25.

🌱 Sustainability Tip: Eindhoven has embraced the “too good to go” app where restaurants sell their leftover food at steep discounts (usually 50-70% off) at the end of the day. I’ve scored amazing meals for €3-5 this way!

Dinner & Evening Spots

Fine Dining

  • Vane: Located on the 14th floor of the NH Collection hotel with panoramic city views. Their 5-course surprise menu (€69.50) showcases seasonal Dutch ingredients in creative ways.
  • Wiesen: Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant serving sophisticated dishes in a relaxed setting. The 4-course chef’s menu for €49.50 is excellent value.

Mid-Range Gems

  • Calypso: A local institution serving traditional Dutch cuisine with a modern twist. Their stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables and meat) for €18.50 is the best in town.
  • Radio Royaal: Set in a former Philips factory in Strijp-S with industrial-chic decor. Their rotisserie chicken (€22.50) is fantastic.
  • Downtown Gourmet Market: Food hall concept with 21 different kitchens serving everything from sushi to Spanish tapas. Perfect for groups with different tastes.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Happy Italy: Good Italian food at very reasonable prices (most pastas under €10).
  • Stratum Markt: On Tuesdays and Saturdays, this market serves excellent street food, including Dutch specialties like kibbeling (fried fish nuggets) for around €6.

One evening, I made the mistake of not making a reservation at Kazerne on a Saturday night—my local friend laughed and explained that Eindhoven’s best restaurants book up days in advance, especially on weekends. Learn from my error and reserve ahead!

Drinking & Nightlife

Beer & Breweries

Eindhoven has a fantastic craft beer scene. Don’t miss:

  • Van Moll Craft Beer: Local brewery with 30 taps and excellent bar food. Their “Langharig Tuig” IPA (€4.80) is my favorite.
  • 100 Watt Brewery: Located in the old Philips power plant in Strijp-S. Try their “Watt Blond” (€4.50).
  • De Uitzetting: Cozy bar with 12 rotating taps of Dutch craft beers.

The Dutch phrase “Wil je nog een biertje?” (Would you like another beer?) is one you’ll hear often in these establishments!

Cocktails & Evening Hotspots

  • Vestdijk 18: Sophisticated cocktail bar where locals go for after-work drinks. Their Dutch gin cocktails (€12-14) showcase local spirits.
  • Bar Sofa: Relaxed atmosphere with great cocktails and occasional live jazz.
  • Fifth: Rooftop bar with amazing city views. Perfect for sunset drinks.

Shopping: Design, Vintage & Local Products

Eindhoven is a paradise for design lovers and those seeking unique souvenirs beyond the typical tourist trinkets.

Design & Concept Stores

  • Piet Hein Eek Shop: In addition to furniture, they sell smaller design objects and accessories. I found a beautiful handmade ceramic mug for €18 that I treasure.
  • Kazerne Home of Design: Museum-quality design pieces and books. Great for browsing even if the prices are beyond your budget.
  • De Dijk: Concept store selling a curated selection of home goods, stationery, and gifts by Dutch designers.

Vintage & Second-Hand

Some of my best Eindhoven souvenirs have come from these vintage shops:

  • RePlay: Vintage clothing store with an excellent selection of 80s and 90s pieces. I found a vintage Philips employee jacket here for €35!
  • Episode: Chain vintage store with carefully curated items.
  • De Retro Saloon: For mid-century modern furniture and home accessories.

Markets Worth Visiting

  • Saturday Market (Markt): The main city square transforms into a huge market every Saturday (9:00-17:00) with everything from fresh produce to clothing and household goods.
  • Feel Good Market: Held the third Sunday of each month at Ketelhuisplein in Strijp-S. Features handmade goods, vintage items, and street food from local entrepreneurs.
  • Emmasingelkwartier: Monthly Sunday market (March-November) focusing on design, art, and vintage goods.

💡 Money-Saving Tip: Most Dutch stores offer a VAT refund for non-EU visitors on purchases over €50. Ask for a Global Blue form when making your purchase, then get it stamped at the airport before departure. I saved almost €80 this way on design purchases!

Practical Information & Local Etiquette

Best Time to Visit

Eindhoven is a year-round destination, but each season offers something different:

  • Spring (April-June): My favorite time to visit. The weather is mild, the city’s many parks are blooming, and outdoor café terraces come alive.
  • Summer (July-August): Warmest months with temperatures around 22-25°C (71-77°F). Locals often take vacation in August, so some smaller businesses might be closed.
  • Fall (September-November): The cultural season kicks off with Dutch Design Week in October and GLOW light art festival in November.
  • Winter (December-March): Chilly (3-8°C/37-46°F) but fewer tourists. The city hosts a lovely Christmas market and winter light displays.

My biggest timing mistake was visiting during Dutch Design Week without pre-booking accommodations. While the festival is amazing, prices triple and everything books up months in advance.

Money Matters

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Cards vs. Cash: The Netherlands is largely cashless. I’ve gone entire trips without using physical money. Almost everywhere accepts cards, including small vendors at markets.
  • Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated. 5-10% for good service in restaurants is standard. Locals often round up the bill or add a few euros.
  • VAT Refund: Non-EU visitors can claim the 21% VAT back on purchases over €50 from participating stores.

💡 Money-Saving Tip: Instead of buying bottled water, bring a reusable bottle. Dutch tap water is excellent quality and free refill stations are available throughout the city. I’ve saved at least €30 per trip this way.

Local Etiquette & Customs

The Dutch in general (and Eindhovenaren in particular) are direct, practical, and informal, but there are some cultural nuances worth knowing:

  • Greetings: A handshake is the standard greeting for first meetings. Three cheek kisses (right-left-right) are common among friends but less so in Eindhoven than in Amsterdam.
  • Cycling etiquette: Learn the basic rules if you plan to bike. Stay on the right, signal turns with your hand, and don’t walk in bike lanes (they’re sacred).
  • Directness: The Dutch are famously direct, which can seem rude to visitors from cultures that value politeness over honesty. It’s not personal—they just value efficiency and clarity.
  • Language: While almost everyone speaks excellent English, learning a few Dutch phrases is appreciated. “Dank je wel” (thank you) and “Alstublieft” (please) go a long way.
  • Scheduling: The Dutch take punctuality seriously. Being 5-10 minutes late for social occasions is acceptable, but business appointments should be precisely on time.

One of my embarrassing moments came when I enthusiastically complimented a Dutch friend’s “beautiful” bike. She looked puzzled and replied, “It’s just a regular bike, nothing special.” I learned that hyperbole doesn’t translate well—the Dutch prefer pragmatic observations!

Safety & Emergency Information

Eindhoven is generally very safe, even at night. In my seven visits, I’ve never felt uncomfortable walking alone, even in the evening. Still, standard precautions apply:

  • Emergency number: 112 (police, fire, ambulance)
  • Police station: Mathildelaan 4 (central location, open 24/7)
  • Medical emergencies: Catharina Hospital at Michelangelolaan 2 has an emergency department
  • Pharmacies: Look for signs saying “Apotheek.” Central ones include Apotheek Haagdijk and Service Apotheek Woensel

Sustainable Tourism in Eindhoven

Eindhoven takes sustainability seriously, and it’s easy to minimize your environmental impact while visiting—often saving money in the process:

Eco-Friendly Transportation

  • Cycling: The ultimate eco-friendly transport that also gives you the authentic Dutch experience. Rental shops offer e-bikes too if you prefer.
  • Electric buses: Eindhoven was one of the first cities in Europe to introduce a fully electric bus fleet.
  • Walking: The compact city center means most attractions are within a 20-30 minute walk of each other.

Sustainable Dining

  • Appetreet: 100% plant-based café with minimal waste philosophy. Their seasonal soup (€6.50) uses “imperfect” vegetables that would otherwise be discarded.
  • The Grass Company: Restaurant focusing on local ingredients with a “farm to table” approach.
  • Tuinder Café: Urban garden café where much of the produce is grown on-site.

🌱 Sustainability Tip That Saves Money: Eindhoven has several “zero waste” stores like Unpackt where you can refill containers with dry goods, cleaning products, and personal care items. Prices are often lower than packaged alternatives, and you’ll reduce plastic waste.

Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Several Eindhoven hotels have strong sustainability programs:

  • NH Collection Eindhoven: BREEAM certified sustainable building with energy-efficient systems and a comprehensive recycling program.
  • The Student Hotel: Focuses on energy efficiency, waste reduction, and offers bike rentals.

Day Trips from Eindhoven

While Eindhoven has plenty to keep you occupied, its central location makes it perfect for exploring other parts of the Netherlands and even neighboring countries:

Within the Netherlands

1. ‘s-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch)

Just 30 minutes by train, this medieval city offers a complete contrast to modern Eindhoven. Don’t miss:

  • St. John’s Cathedral – Magnificent Gothic architecture
  • Binnendieze boat tours through canals running underneath the city
  • Jan de Groot bakery for the original Bossche Bol pastry

I did this as a half-day trip but wished I’d stayed longer—the historic center is enchanting and deserves a full day.

2. Tilburg

Another former textile industry city reinventing itself through culture and education (25 minutes by train):

  • De Pont Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Spoorzone area – Creative district in former railway workshops
  • Textile Museum showing the city’s industrial heritage

3. National Park De Groote Peel

Beautiful nature reserve with peat bogs, heathland, and forests (40 minutes by car or bus+walking):

  • Well-marked hiking trails through diverse landscapes
  • Bird watching (over 200 species)
  • Visitor center with excellent exhibitions

Into Belgium & Germany

1. Antwerp, Belgium

Just over an hour by train, this Belgian city offers:

  • Historic center with Guild houses and cathedral
  • MAS Museum with rooftop views
  • Diamond district
  • Excellent shopping and chocolate

2. Aachen, Germany

Cross two borders in one day! This historic German city is about 1 hour 15 minutes by car or 1 hour 45 minutes by train+bus:

  • UNESCO-listed cathedral where Charlemagne was crowned
  • Historic thermal baths
  • Distinctive printen cookies (similar to gingerbread)

💡 Money-Saving Tip: For day trips within the Netherlands, look into the NS Group Day Ticket if traveling with 4-10 people. In 2025, it costs €16.50 per person for unlimited train travel after 9am and on weekends—much cheaper than individual tickets.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for Exploring Eindhoven

After seven visits to this dynamic city, I’ve distilled my experience into this actionable plan to help you make the most of your time in Eindhoven:

Step 1: Get Your Bearings

On your first day, rent a bike and take a self-guided tour of the city’s main districts. Start at Eindhoven Station, pedal through the city center, continue to Strijp-S, and finish with a loop through the university area. This 2-3 hour orientation will help you understand the city’s layout and identify areas you want to explore in more depth.

Pro tip: Download the Eindhoven247 app for self-guided routes and local recommendations.

Step 2: Dive Into Design & Innovation

Dedicate a day to understanding what makes Eindhoven the design capital of the Netherlands. Visit the Philips Museum in the morning, explore the Van Abbemuseum after lunch, then spend the late afternoon browsing design shops in Strijp-S. Finish with dinner at Kazerne to experience design while you dine.

If your visit coincides with Dutch Design Week (October) or GLOW Festival (November), adjust your schedule to include these world-class events.

Step 3: Experience Local Culture

Connect with the authentic Eindhoven through its food, markets, and neighborhood spots. Start at the Saturday market if possible, then enjoy lunch at a local-favorite café like Lucifer. Spend the afternoon exploring the Bergen district with its independent shops and galleries. In the evening, sample local beers at Van Moll or 100 Watt brewery.

Step 4: Take a Day Trip

Use Eindhoven’s excellent transport connections to explore beyond the city. ‘s-Hertogenbosch makes an ideal contrast with its medieval character, or venture to De Groote Peel National Park for natural landscapes that feel worlds away from urban Eindhoven.

Step 5: Discover Your Own Eindhoven

On your final day, follow your personal interests. Are you a tech enthusiast? Arrange a tour of the High Tech Campus. Love architecture? Focus on the city’s innovative buildings. Foodie? Book a culinary workshop or food tour. Eindhoven rewards curious travelers who follow their passions.

Don’t forget to pick up unique souvenirs like local design pieces, Dutch Design Week merchandise (available year-round), or specialty food items like local craft beer or Brabant worstenbroodjes that travel well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Eindhoven worth visiting if I only have limited time in the Netherlands?

Absolutely! While Amsterdam gets most of the attention, Eindhoven offers a completely different—and arguably more authentic—Dutch experience. If you’re interested in design, technology, or contemporary culture, Eindhoven actually delivers more than the capital. I’d recommend at least 2 full days, but even a day trip from Amsterdam (90 minutes by train) is worthwhile.

What’s the best way to get from Amsterdam Airport to Eindhoven?

The direct train from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Eindhoven takes about 1 hour 45 minutes and costs approximately €24 (2025 prices). Trains run every 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly directly to Eindhoven Airport on budget carriers like Ryanair, Wizz Air, or Transavia, which often works out cheaper if you’re coming from elsewhere in Europe.

Do I need to speak Dutch to visit Eindhoven?

Not at all! The Netherlands has one of the highest English proficiency rates in the world, and Eindhoven—with its international tech companies and university—is particularly English-friendly. Everyone from shop assistants to bus drivers speaks excellent English. That said, locals always appreciate visitors who learn a few basic Dutch phrases.

Is Eindhoven expensive compared to other Dutch cities?

Eindhoven is generally more affordable than Amsterdam, Utrecht, or Rotterdam. Hotel rates are about 25-30% lower than equivalent properties in Amsterdam, and restaurant prices are moderately lower as well. The city offers excellent value, especially if you follow the money-saving tips in this guide.

When is Dutch Design Week and is it worth planning my trip around it?

Dutch Design Week usually takes place in late October (for 2025, the dates are October 18-26). It’s absolutely worth planning your trip around if you have any interest in design or creative culture—the entire city transforms into a massive exhibition space with over 2,500 designers showcasing their work in 120+ venues. However, book accommodation at least 3-4 months in advance, as prices increase dramatically and availability becomes limited.

What’s the best neighborhood to stay in Eindhoven?

For first-time visitors, I recommend either the city center (for convenience to shopping and restaurants) or Strijp-S (for the creative atmosphere). Families might prefer the quieter Gestel or Stratum neighborhoods, while budget travelers should look at accommodations near the TU/e (Technical University) campus, which offers good value and is well-connected by public transport.

Is Eindhoven safe for solo travelers?

Extremely safe. As a solo female traveler, I’ve wandered Eindhoven at all hours and never felt uncomfortable. The city has low crime rates, well-lit streets, and excellent public transportation. Normal precautions apply, but safety concerns shouldn’t affect your plans here.

What souvenirs should I buy in Eindhoven?

Skip the generic Dutch souvenirs and look for design-focused items that represent Eindhoven’s creative spirit: a small piece from a local designer, Philips-related memorabilia (vintage items can be found at flea markets), Dutch Design Week merchandise (available year-round at the tourist office), or food items like local craft beer or traditional Brabant worstenbroodjes.

References & Further Reading