Things to Do in Eindhoven: A Local Guide

Start with the city centre, then follow Eindhoven’s industrial and creative story. This guide helps you choose what to do on your first visit, whether you have two hours or a whole weekend. Our local guides also share their favourite places on the Free Walking Tour Eindhoven.

Start with a walking tour of Eindhoven

A guided walk is an easy way to get your bearings and understand why Eindhoven looks different from many Dutch cities. Our English-language tour starts at St. Catherine’s Church on Catharinaplein, runs for about two hours and is tip based. It usually departs on Saturdays at 13:30; check the live calendar for available dates. Your guide connects the Philips story, the Second World War, design and daily life in the centre. See dates and reserve your place.

Explore the city centre and St. Catherine’s Church

Begin at Catharinaplein and look up at the two towers of St. Catherine’s Church. Wander through the shopping streets, then take time to notice the mix of older buildings and newer architecture. The centre is compact enough to explore on foot. For the precise tour meeting point and a map, see our start location guide.

Discover Philips and Eindhoven’s industrial heritage

Philips shaped Eindhoven’s growth and identity. The Philips Museum is a useful indoor stop if you want to learn more about the company and its inventions. Out on the streets, look for traces of the industrial city and ask how former workspaces became places for culture and design. Museum opening hours and tickets can change, so check directly with the museum before travelling.

Spend time in Strijp-S

Strijp-S is a former Philips industrial district with large factory buildings and a different feel from the historic centre. It is worth exploring separately for its architecture, creative businesses, food and events. It is not a promised stop on our city-centre walking tour. If you have a full day, combine the central tour with time in Strijp-S afterwards.

See design, art and street culture

Eindhoven’s design identity reaches beyond one annual event. Notice the architecture and public art as you walk, and consider the Van Abbemuseum if contemporary art appeals to you. Exhibitions and event programmes change throughout the year; use the venues’ own schedules to plan your visit.

Enjoy Eindhoven after the walk

Ask your guide for a café, lunch spot or evening recommendation that fits your plans. You could stay around the centre, explore De Bergen, or visit Strijp-S. If you are planning a short trip, our one-day Eindhoven itinerary puts the stops in a practical order. Travelling on a budget? See free things to do in Eindhoven.

What should you do first?

For a first visit, take the walking tour early in your stay. You will learn the city’s background and leave with ideas suited to your interests. If Saturday does not work for you, you can still use this guide to explore independently; check our calendar for any additional tour dates. The tour is outdoors, in English and takes around two hours. Read the tour FAQ for accessibility and other practical questions.