Nijmegen can be explored in several ways: through Roman history, the distinctive architectural form of a bastion, exhibitions and self-guided tours. There is also a permanent exhibition on species in four different habitats, as well as a cross-border cycling route.
De Bastei: History in the Building
Museum De Bastei is housed in the only surviving bastion in the Netherlands. When it was built, it was named De Stratemakerstoren. Its construction is also described in specific terms: fourteen gun ports are connected by a cannon passage and lead into two casemates. The bastion is therefore more than just a historic name; it is a clearly structured complex made up of several connected parts. Museum De Bastei also presents archaeological remains in situ. This form of presentation places a different emphasis from viewing individual finds: the remains remain visible in their original location.
City, Glacial Ridge and River in One Exhibition
The permanent exhibition Schatkamer van de Rivier explores the diversity of species in the city, on the glacial ridge, in the floodplains and in the river. These four habitats are explicitly part of the exhibition’s subject. Alongside architectural and urban history, nature in different landscapes is also on the agenda. If you want to get to know Nijmegen beyond its historic sites, this offers a distinct thematic perspective that encompasses both city and landscape.
Roman History in Different Contexts
The Romans founded the capital of the Batavians at the Valkhof. The site of the Valkhof Chapel was used strategically first by the Batavians and later by the Romans. The Valkhof Museum displays Roman archaeological finds, including a limestone column dedicated to the gods and a Roman battle helmet from the first century. The museum has been open to the public since Saturday, 6 June 2026; check the latest opening arrangements before your visit. Valkhof Park is Nijmegen’s oldest park and adds a distinct green space to the range of themes.
On Foot, Interactive or by Bike
The Stadswandeling Nijmegen is a five-kilometre self-guided walking route through the city’s cultural history, which dates back to a Roman settlement around 2,000 years ago. The route combines a specific distance with a historical focus, without requiring you to join a guided tour. Expeditie ribbelroute offers a different way to spend time outdoors: this interactive outdoor experience, featuring augmented reality, takes you through Nijmegen city centre. Visitors can book Expeditie in het donker online; a guide will then be waiting for them.
The Via Romana takes you beyond Nijmegen: this cross-border cycling route runs between Nijmegen and Xanten along the centuries-old Roman Limes road. The self-guided walk through the city and this route therefore differ in both form and endpoints. If you choose Nijmegen as your base, this distinction can help with planning: a walk through cultural history or a cycling route between two cities.
Getting There and Practical Information
Nijmegen is well connected to public transport, with many train and bus services. Check the latest timetables before travelling. There are free, supervised bicycle parking facilities in the city centre and at the station; check their current availability in advance. This information can help you factor travel by public transport or bicycle into your plans, without combining the different types of excursion into a single fixed route. When looking for hotels in Nijmegen, you can first decide whether city history, exhibitions or cycling will shape your stay.
For the main travel overview: Nijmegen.
