Maastricht

Elect's take

"Maastricht feels different from the rest of the Netherlands — the Burgundian and southern European influences are tangible in the architecture, the food and the relaxed café culture of the Vrijthof, making it one of the country's most charming and underrated cities."

The Caves of Maastricht, an extensive network of tunnels carved into the marl beneath and around the city over centuries, provide a fascinating underground tour experience including wartime hiding places and centuries of graffiti left by visitors. The Vrijthof, Maastricht's grand central square, is surrounded by the Basilica of Saint Servatius and Sint-Janskerk and provides an outstanding café terrace culture. The Bonnefantenmuseum houses an excellent collection of contemporary and Old Master art in a striking building by Aldo Rossi. Maastricht's position near the Belgian and German borders has created a culinary culture that blends Dutch, Belgian, French and German influences, reflected in its restaurant scene and the famous Maastricht vlaai pastries. The historic city walls and Helpoort, the oldest city gate in the Netherlands, provide additional heritage.