Eindhoven is a progressive modern city that has proven itself extremely adaptable since World War II. The technological hub was the birthplace of the electronics company Philips in 1890, and it has continued that tradition of innovation ever since. Eindhoven hosts an annual international design week to celebrate the progressive thinkers of the modern world.
Cram in the culture
To experience the very best of Eindhoiven’s commitment to culture, stop off at the Van Abbemuseum, one of the city’s most popular attractions. It’s home to stunning works of art by some of the greatest of all time. Marvel at the genius exuding from pieces by modernist artists such as Picasso, Kandinsky, and Piet Mondrian.
To discover a little more about the industry that helped propel Eindhoven from the village it once was to the thriving cultural powerhouse it has since become, visit the Philips Museum. The site was the first place in the world that produced lamps, and it was the innovation of the now global company that pushed the city towards a prosperous, forward-thinking future. Wander the exhibits and discover the fascinating story behind one of the world’s largest technology firms.
Dutch Design Week
Eindhoven also hosts Dutch Design Week, the biggest of its kind in northern Europe. It draws 250,000 visitors from the Netherlands and across the world each year. Situated in venues across the city, you can quickly drive to and from workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and lectures to see how the city and its inhabitants seek to innovate every day.The city is also home to the largest technical university in the country, and the institution has transformed the town into a high-tech laboratory.
PSV pride
The Philips Stadion is a super modern stadium, located in the Frederiklaan district of the city. It’s home to the pride of the city, PSV Eindhoven, one of the giants of Dutch soccer. Take a guided tour behind the scenes to gain exclusive access to areas of the stadium usually reserved for players only. From the dressing rooms to the packed trophy cabinet and club museum, immerse yourself in the rich history of this hugely successful club.
More than just tulips
If you have some downtime, take the time to dip out of the city and seek out the serenity of Stadswandelpark. You can enjoy a picnic on one of the park’s plentiful and perfect lawns or wander through the immense statue garden. Wherever you choose to relax, you’ll be able to enjoy unrivaled views out over the water.
Alternatively, discover a different side of the park with the Spacewalk App, which allows you to use your tablet or smartphone to seeastronauts, rockets and planets dotted around the park – ideal if you’ve got children with you.
Once you’ve exhausted Eindhoven, move on to Amsterdam, Arnhem and the many other wonderful cities, towns and villages that make up the Netherlands. A country small in size if not in stature, car rental in Eindhoven gives you the freedom to see it all.