Cultural must-sees in Maastricht according to local Renske Thomas

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What are Maastricht's cultural must-sees according to a local? We asked Renske Thomas. She lives in Maastricht, studied cultural studies and worked for the cultural foundation Cultura Mosae for a long time. In her free time, she also likes to engage with art and culture. A true culture connoisseur therefore, who knows where to find the most beautiful spots in her Maastricht.

Meet Renske

Renske loves to travel, but is also a fan of the culture in her own city. ‘I think Maastricht is a very beautiful city aesthetically, one that’s really different from other cities in the country. There’s a calm, unhurried atmosphere. What’s more, you can enjoy good food, the unique culture and cosy meeting places.’ Renske has a great passion for art and culture and loves the city of Maastricht. She enjoys attending cultural events, and there are plenty of them in the city. According to her, there’s always something wonderful to discover. She loves seeking out those beautiful spots.

Renske in 5 words: curious, sincere, optimistic, creative and a thinker/dreamer

renske thomas portrait series maastricht marketing
Renske's favourites Lumière | Muziekgieterij | Marres | Festen | Idyllic little bridge | Café Zondag | The Little Meadow |

Lumière

Anyone who, like Renske, loves arthouse films should visit Lumière cinema, according to her. She often comes there to enjoy the latest films or classics on the big screen. Visitors have over three hundred films to choose from every year. 'It is a beautiful building with fine theatres. There is always a film on the programme I am curious about. Sometimes I miss not being allowed to bring popcorn into the auditorium. Fortunately, there is a restaurant and nice terrace by the water, where you can have a glass of wine or a nice plate of pasta before or after the film.'

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  • Lumiere Maastricht

Muziekgieterij

In Maastricht, Renske prefers to visit concerts at the Muziekgieterij. A wide variety of bands perform there, from pop-rock to indie and from emerging to well-known names. 'This music venue gives space to young musicians on singer/songwriter nights, for example. There are upcoming, surprising talents performing and big names, in the main hall. The Muziekgieterij has something raw and real, which makes it a nice place to experience music.' The Muziekgieterij was founded in 2004 and has since become a highlight for music lovers from home and abroad.

  • renske thomas portrait series muziekgieterij maastricht-marketing

Marres - & Marres Kitchen

For the most interesting exhibitions, Renske says you should be at Marres, House for Contemporary Culture. 'Each exhibition gives a totally different atmosphere and the special spaces feel very intimate. The makers are very diverse: young, old, collaborations between professionals and amateurs, et cetera.' The historic building also houses the Marres Kitchen restaurant with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. 'I like to come here in nice weather for lunch in the beautiful city garden. Having lunch here always gives a bit of a homely feeling.' At around 1,000 square metres, the green oasis is Maastricht's largest public garden. Enjoy your lunch!

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Festen

According to Renske, anyone looking for a special gift for themselves or someone else should head to Festen. ‘You’ll find beautiful jewellery, lovely cards and other unique gifts there.’ The shop was set up by locals in 2010. Thanks to its rapidly changing range, you’ll be surprised anew with every visit. Renske describes it as ‘an authentic little shop with special products. It feels a bit like a fairy tale in there. You sometimes have to look closely to spot the gems, because there are so many different things to discover.’

  • Festen

    Colourful gift and home furnishing shop with an ever-changing collection. More info on Festen

    Festen

Idyllic little bridge - in the Stadspark (city park)

The little bridge near the Pesthuys is one of Renske’s favourite spots. ‘It really gives you that idyllic feeling: I’m so lucky to live in such a beautiful city. I sometimes go out of my way on foot or by bike just so I can pass this spot on my way to work.’ From the little bridge, you can set off on a city walk or a stroll through the leafy city park. In the summer, she also enjoys spending time in the city park for a picnic or a festival, such as Borrel Noten.

Tip: keep an eye on the entertainment calendar for the best events!

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Café Zondag

At Café Zondag, Renske loves coming. Whether for breakfast, lunch or drinks, she says this is the place to be thanks to the relaxed atmosphere, people and music. 'Here I always experience a Sunday feeling, mañana mañana. At the end of the day, the last rays of the sun still fall precisely on the terrace.' According to Renske, what you really have to try here are a glass of Kölsch or a Dark&Stormy cocktail. For lunch, the week's specials are highly recommended. This café in the Wyck district regularly hosts live performances, parties, exhibitions and other activities.

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  • renske thomas portrait series cafe sunday maastricht marketing

The Little Meadow

Renske enjoys visiting the Kleine Weerd nature reserve on the southern edge of Maastricht. 'This is where you come to relax after work or for an evening walk. This lovely place with beautiful nature is perfect for clearing your head.' Walking paths criss-cross the rugged nature reserve along the Meuse. While walking, you look out on the rippling water, in which you might just spot a bever. You might also encounter 'wild' Konik horses along the way. Are your legs not tired yet? Then you can extend your walk to other subareas of the Maasbeemden nature reserve. Tip from Renske: 'the sunset in the Kleine Weerd is very beautiful.'

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  • Kleine Weerd

    Nature reserve on the banks of the river Meuse with paved paths, interspersed with rough vegetation where a great diversity of flora and fauna can be found. More info on Kleine Weerd

    Kleine Weerd De Kleine Weerd Maastricht Renske Thomas

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