Guided Tour of Zonneberg Caves in Maastricht

Maastricht , Netherlands

Guided Tour of Zonneberg Caves in Maastricht

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About this experience

Discover the historical Zonneberg Caves in Maastricht, where locals sought refuge during WWII. With a knowledgeable guide, navigate the high-ceilinged passages of these fascinating caves while learning about their rich history and significance. Enjoy a unique underground experience that combines history with stunning geological formations. Reservations are required, so book your tickets online in advance for an unforgettable exploration of Maastricht's underground wonders.

- Guided tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Suitable for ages 4 and up, with special pricing for children
- Accessible for electric wheelchairs
- Bring a jacket due to low temperatures
- Photography is allowed to capture your journey underground

Available options

English Tour

German Tour

Dutch Tour

What's included

Entrance to Zonneberg Caves

Guided tour

Detailed itinerary

In a labyrinth that once comprised more than 20,000 corridors, an experienced guide takes you underground to see the names and drawings of people who worked here every day a few hundred years ago. Did you know that with a capacity of 50,000 people,, the expansice cave network was able to provide shelter for many of Maastricht’s residents during the Second World War. An evacuation area with electric lighting, a public address system, a bakery, toilets, chapels, a small hospital, water pumps, and many more facilities were all constructed underground, though never put into full use. Remnants of them can still be seen.

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN NL

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not suitable for people with walking difficulties

Meeting point

Important notes

The Meeting Point is next to Restaurant Slavante (Slavante 1). Plan to arrive well in advance, at least 10 minutes before the start. Tours start exactly on time, and we will not wait for late arrivals. Tickets are time-bound. Please have your e-tickets ready for QR-code scanning. The tour departs promptly on time. If you arrive late, you will miss the tour and lose your ticket.

About Maastricht

Maastricht is the oldest and southernmost city in the Netherlands, known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and unique blend of Dutch, Belgian, and German influences. The city is famous for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and the annual TEFAF art fair, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs, art lovers, and food enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Vrijthof Square

Vrijthof Square is the main square in Maastricht and one of the largest and most beautiful squares in the Netherlands. It is surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

St. Servaas Basilica

St. Servaas Basilica is a stunning Romanesque church that dates back to the 11th century. It is named after St. Servatius, the patron saint of Maastricht, and houses a treasure room with valuable religious artifacts.

Historical/Religious 1 hour €6 for the church and treasure room, €8 for the church, treasure room, and crypt

Helpoort

The Helpoort is a medieval city gate that is the oldest remaining city gate in the Netherlands. It dates back to the 13th century and is a testament to Maastricht's rich history as a fortified city.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Bassenge Bookstore

Bassenge Bookstore is a historic bookstore that specializes in rare and antiquarian books. It is located in a beautiful 17th-century building and is a must-visit for book lovers and history enthusiasts.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to browse, prices vary for books

Fort St. Pieter

Fort St. Pieter is a historic fortress that played a significant role in Maastricht's defense during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it is a popular attraction that offers guided tours, a museum, and scenic views of the city.

Historical 1-2 hours €8.50 for adults, €4.50 for children (6-12), free for children under 6

Must-Try Local Dishes

Maastrichtse zwarte worst

A traditional black sausage made from a blend of pork, beef, and spices, served with mustard and bread.

Snack Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Vlaai

A sweet tart filled with a variety of flavors, such as cherry, apple, or custard, and topped with a crumbly streusel.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy, may contain eggs, not suitable for vegans

Limburger cheese

A strong, pungent cheese made from cow's milk, originating from the Limburg region.

Snack Contains dairy, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans with strict dietary restrictions

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby hills and countryside Cycling along the Meuse River and surrounding areas Visiting the Carolus Thermen spa in Aachen Strolling along the picturesque canals and streets of Maastricht Exploring the city's museums and historic landmarks Attending local festivals and events Canal boat tours Fishing in the Meuse River

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit Maastricht, with long daylight hours and pleasant weather. The city hosts numerous festivals and outdoor events during this period.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dutch
Widely spoken: English, German, French
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Maastricht is generally a safe city to visit, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them at night or in isolated areas
• Be wary of strangers approaching you with unusual or aggressive behavior

Getting there

By air

Maastricht Aachen Airport • 9 km from city center

By train

Maastricht Station

By bus

Maastricht Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network in Maastricht is operated by Arriva and covers the entire city and surrounding areas. Buses are frequent and reliable, making it easy to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, TaxiMaastricht

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jekerkwartier Statenkwartier Wyck

Day trips

Vaals

20 km from Maastricht • Half day to full day

Vaals is a charming village located on the border of the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. The village is known for its picturesque countryside, historic landmarks, and the famous Three-Country Point, where you can stand in three countries at once.

Aachen

30 km from Maastricht • Full day

Aachen is a historic city in Germany, located just across the border from Maastricht. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and the famous Aachen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Liege

35 km from Maastricht • Full day

Liege is a vibrant city in Belgium, located just across the border from Maastricht. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene. Liege is also famous for its delicious local cuisine, including the famous Liège waffles and Jupiler beer.

Festivals

Maastricht International Choral Festival • June TEFAF Maastricht • March Maastricht Jazz Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit the city's historic landmarks and museums to learn about its rich history and cultural heritage
Explore the city's picturesque canals and streets on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and scenic spots
Sample the city's excellent food and drink, including local specialties like Maastrichtse zwarte worst (black sausage) and vlaai (a type of tart)
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Maastricht International Choral Festival and TEFAF Maastricht, to experience the city's vibrant cultural scene
Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as Aachen, Liege, and the Ardennes region, to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions of the region