Eindhoven, sometimes referred to as the city of light, is known as a technology and design hub. The city of light bit comes from the fact that it’s the birthplace of Philips, one of the largest electronics companies in the world. The city even holds an annual festival all about light- GLOW Light Festival. Without further adieu, here are five things you need to do when in Eindhoven!
1. Fill your belly at the Down Town gourmet market
Eindhoven is a little over an hour travel by train from Amsterdam Amstel station. After travelling, you’ll probably be a little peckish, so why not stop by Down Town gourmet market and fill your belly with delicious treats.
This Walhalla of food is brought to you by 21 individual eateries, offering everything from mouth-watering jacket potatoes to Vietnamese street food, ice cream and waffles and beyond. You’ll find this gem at Smalle Haven 2-24, just a ten-minute walk from the station or a few minutes by bike. Make sure you bring your bank card, as they don’t accept cash.
Moving on swiftly, as this is making us drool…
2. Discover the company behind the name
After having stuffed yourself, it's time to take a look at the company that makes Eindhoven the city of light: Philips. Head on over to the Philips museum on the Emmasingel - only about an eight minutes' walk from the Down Town gourmet market. Everyone’s heard of Philips, but how much do you actually know about the brand? And not just that they make light bulbs.
A museum about light bulbs would be quite dull, simply put. But this, this is a journey through time and invention. For example, did you know that James Brown, Jimi Hendrix, Donna Summer, The Bee Gees, Elton John, Dire Straits and many others released albums under one of the Philips / Polygram labels? Fascinating, isn’t it? Well, that and so much more awaits you at the museum. Entry won’t cost you an arm or leg either, at nine euros for an adult and free if you are a Museum Cardholder.
3. Get acquainted with new innovations
It’s not the city of innovation and technology for nothing. There are always new things to discover, and not just in obscure places, but ones you probably see every day. In the MediaMarkt in the centre of Eindhoven, you’ll find all the typical gadgets you would at your usual store, but also something extra.
Allow us to introduce you to the Innovatie Lab (Innovation Lab). There, you’ll have the opportunity to be one of the first to discover new, innovative gadgets from start-ups and other companies. You’ll literally be looking at some of the devices of the future, and of course, you’ll receive up-to-date information on when and where the products will be available to purchase.
4. Admire the street art at the Berenkuil
Normally, it’s not ok to spray graffiti on the walls, although some municipalities do have areas in which it is allowed. In Eindhoven, though, on the walls of a number of cycle tunnels, called the Berenkuil, graffiti artists have been allowed to express themselves.
The result? Amazing works of art, coming together to form an open-air museum and a collection that is ever-changing. Over 100 artists contributed to the wonder that is the Berenkuil. To get there, it’s probably best to rent a bike or get an OV-fiets from the station. It’s about 12 minutes cycling from the station or the MediaMarkt or just under 30 minutes walking.
Photo: Piano Piano!
5. Make your own tipple
What’s better than making a tipple that is uniquely yours? Journey to the Bottle Distillery housed in the Schellensfabriek, the last textile factory in Eindhoven. This monumental building is host to many artisanal companies.
So, about making your own drink. Bottle Distillery holds many workshops, which you’ll need to book in advance, ranging from making your own gin to rum or herb-flavoured liquor. Of course, you’ll not only make your own drink, but you’ll also be able to take it home too, and get a tour, masterclass and tasting session. Prices range from 42,50 euros per person to 45 euros.
An extra tip for footie fans
For you footie fans out there, why not combine your trip to Eindhoven with a visit to the PSV museum? Over 100 years of history is sure to make any PSV fan or otherwise happy.
Book your trip to Eindhoven now
Have these tips got you excited about a trip to Eindhoven? Make sure you check out the NS Spoordeel website for offers on day trip tickets etc. Got any more tips for a day out in Eindhoven? We want to hear them! So, make sure you comment below!