So, it’s July. Half your friends are off backpacking through the continent, the other half went home to get their laundry done and eat some real food cooked by someone else. And you? You’re still here. In little old Maastricht. In our opinion though, that’s not such a bad thing.

With fewer students around, no 8 a.m lectures haunting you, and actual sunshine, sometimes(?!) experiencing Maastricht in July can feel like you’re in a whole different city. Whether you’re into lazy park days, mini adventures, or just hunting for the best ice cream in town, here are some of our tips for how to make the most out of it.

Find the Sun and Sit in It

Maastricht gets a lot more fun when the weather’s good. Suddenly, everyone’s outside, reading, tanning, playing music, or claiming their picnic spot like it’s a competitive sport. Some solid places to do that:

• Stadspark – Central and lively. 
• Tapijn – More relaxed, a bit of shade, and usually someone playing guitar. 
• De Griend – Right by the water if you’re feeling extra summery. 

Pro tip: bring snacks, sunscreen, and a book you’ll pretend to read.

The Only Ice Cream Stop You Need

Just go to Madaq Chocolatier. Trust me, I am Italian. That’s it. That’s the list.

Take a Walk That Feels Like a Mini Getaway

If you want to stretch your legs and escape the city heat for a bit, good news: Maastricht has something the rest of the Netherlands can only dream of… small hills!

We’ve put together a full blog post with the best hiking trails around the city, from countryside strolls to castle views and the closest thing you’ll find to a Dutch mountain.

Check out our hiking guide here (coming soon!) if you want to swap city air for fresh countryside vibes (or just need to justify that second ice cream).

Cool Down Before You Melt

If your student room feels like a poorly ventilated oven, it’s time to head to the water (the currents in the Maas river can be very strong so we recommend being extra cautious!). 

A few places to check out:

• Fun Valley – Beach vibes and inflatable chaos. 
• Oost-Maarland lake – A bit calmer, perfect for reading or just lying there. 
• The Maas river edge – Good for a walk or dipping your feet in (just don’t treat it like a swimming pool).
• Geusseltbad: only €5 entry, perfect for a day of relaxing and hanging out — plus, you can enjoy some Dutch food there too! 

Worst case? Hide out in the Albert Heijn freezer section for a bit of emergency AC.

Want to Know What’s Happening?

Summer events pop up all over the place in the city, from open-air cinema nights , to food festivals and random saxophone concerts in the park.

Check out the Visit Maastricht events page for what’s going on this week. And follow @mymaastricht on Instagram — we share tips, events, and fun stuff in our stories all summer long.

Bonus Spots to Explore

If you want something lowkey but a little different:

• Hoge Fronten – Quiet and weirdly peaceful. 
• Lage Kanaaldijk – Perfect for a walk or bike ride along the water. 
• Lumière Rooftop/Patio – For coffee and views that feel mildly cinematic.

Whether you’re eating your way through the city, hiking hills you didn’t know existed, or just chilling in the park trying not to sweat through your shirt – Maastricht in summer has more to offer than you’d think.

So no, you’re not missing out. You’re just experiencing the city in its best, most relaxed version. Go enjoy it. And yes, get the extra scoop of ice cream.