Eindhoven is different from other towns both in the Netherlands and abroad. It is a city that must be discovered before you can truly appreciate it. One distinguishing fact is that in just one century, Eindhoven has grown from a small agricultural town with 5,000 inhabitants to the fifth largest city in The Netherlands, with a current population of about 206,000. Eindhoven is internationally renowned as a centre of science and technology.

There are a host of things that make living in Eindhoven pleasant: it has its own airport, as well as hotels, cafés and restaurants, shops of all types and sizes, pleasant, friendly streets, a lively and attractive centre, and cultural and sporting activities of international standing. The quality of what Eindhoven has to offer is also reflected in its recreational facilities, particularly the large areas of green that link the parks in the heart of the city to the typical North Brabant countryside.

Although Eindhoven itself does not have many historical sights, a great deal has still been preserved in the surrounding villages. It is an area where the inhabitants are traditionally friendly, and appreciate the good things in life. You can find more information on the international website of Eindhoven Community.

Culture
Eindhoven boasts a number of cultural institutes that offer their own programmes of music, drama, ballet and exhibitions. This information is listed in ‘de Uitloper’, a weekly pamphlet available at various cafés and restaurants.

(Pop) concerts take place frequently in Eindhoven, especially at Muziekcentrum Frits Philips (concert hall), the Stadsschouwburg (theatre), De Effenaar and in the Beursgebouw. You can buy tickets from the main post office or through Ticketmaster on the internet.

Your studies will keep you busy, but should allow you at least some time to become acquainted with more than just your immediate surroundings. The surroundings of Eindhoven are ideal for walking and cycling. The Tourist Office in Eindhoven (VVV) sells maps of cycle and walking routes, taking you to the most picturesque spots. The VVV is also the place to buy admission tickets to pop concerts and obtain all sorts of tourist tips.