With its characterful old town and vibrant cafe culture, Sittard is an enchanting introduction to Limberg. The city is one of the oldest in the Netherlands and boasts a wealth of history. From admiring half-timbered houses to exploring pint-sized museums, Sittard is a great place to discover Dutch history.

Things to do

Take a stroll around Sittard’s historic center, where sunny cafes spill out onto the streets. Most of the action branches off from Market Square, the city’s main public space. On a sunny day, it’s a great spot to people watch while enjoying a freshly brewed coffee and sticky stroopwafel.

Venture down winding laneways to find a treasure trove of boutiques, bakeries and chocolatiers. If you’re interested in architecture, the Sittard Historical Society has put together a self-guided walking tour that takes you past churches, monasteries and some of the city’s best preserved half-timbered houses.

For a taste of Sittard’s cultural scene, score tickets to an evening show at the Uitbalie Theatre. If you feel like stretching your legs, a walk to the beautiful St Rosa Chapel will take you through the city’s urban forest.

Housed in a converted 19th-century school, the Het Domein Museum showcases a mixed bag of contemporary art, urban history and local archaeology. You can also stop by the Commonwealth War Cemetery to pay tribute to the local soldiers that fought to defend Sittard in World War II.

Getting around

The historic core is compact and easily navigated on foot, with most major attractions just a few minutes apart. From the Sittard Railway Station, a stroll along the Steenweg shopping strip will get you to the historic core in around 10 minutes.