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Of all the 1,500 articles I’ve written for Travel Off Path, what we reveal today is, at first glance, one of the most shocking.
Living up to our name: one of the most remote Dutch cities turns out not to be overlooked at all.
We have discussed the Netherlands from start to finish over the years, or so we thought.
Apparently there’s a well-kept secret about an artsy, off-the-wall tech center that’s becoming one of the coolest cities in the country.
Some visitors call it ‘boring’, but we call it ‘theanti-Amsterdam‘-in a good way.
The crushing of tourism records in 2025, and surprisingly embracing even more visitors with an exciting new train route in the works, the lesser-known city will Eindhoven is the new must-visit of the Netherlands.
PLUS, the Netherlands is largely overweight one of the safest countries in the world as you can see below.
Wait – the Netherlands actually wants you to come?
Although Amsterdam’s Karens are still in full force as the iconic European city has launched several anti-tourism campaigns in recent years, that is not a reflection of the entire country.
There are endless canal-filled alternatives and equally beautiful waterways for longer walks and bike rides, but Eindhoven is one of the more unique city breaks that isn’t much like Amsterdam at all.
While you could say the whole country is a bit quirky, that’s really the only real comparison.
But yes, Eindhoven is not satisfied with the record year 2025 for tourism and welcomes a tick under 7 million passengers at Eindhoven Airport.
They double the number of trains.
It’s clear that America is lax on railroads. Heck, Since I paid my taxes in California today, I’m wondering how much Actually went to the high-speed rail project that seems it will never come to fruition.
However, we all know that this is not the case for Europe, where you can hop aboard a train seemingly anywhere.
Eindhoven has reached an agreement with Brussels on what is being touted as a pioneering rail route for the region, aimed at linking this quietly thriving city with Belgium’s elegant capital.
Here’s what we know so far:
- There will be a new rail connection between Eindhoven and Brussels officially on the move after signing a declaration of intent
- Discussions will continue this summer; the delay is the choice between new infrastructure or refurbishing an existing rail network
- The aim is to reduce the inconvenient transfers between Eindhoven and Brussels that are currently required
- There is no official launch date or operator yet
The ‘Anti-Amsterdam’: why Eindhoven feels like a breath of fresh air
Yes, Eindhoven has a picturesque canal, but it is not the selling point of the city like Amsterdam and others who have built their entire brand around it.
This city has a real identity that goes beyond the tourist clichés.
Despite flying under the radar, those in the know come here because Eindhoven has built a reputation as a creative, progressive city, fueled by design, innovation and repurposed industrial spaces, such as Strijp-Sone of the coolest catering establishments around.
Not to return to Belgium, but if you’ve been following us lately, you know that Antwerp is also a hip newcomer, which is perhaps the best comparison as a trendsetter.
In addition, so was Eindhoven crowned the “least stressful city in the world”, which some visitors in the past thought was boring, but that is not the case.
In between wandering around Strijp-S, looking at the Philips Museum or Van Abbe Museumbrowsing design shops, striking art installations and ending the day in a lively café or brewery: Eindhoven has more than enough to keep things interesting.
Why Eindhoven is perfect for digital nomads
Just because Amsterdam hasn’t exactly rolled out the welcome mat yet, that doesn’t mean the Netherlands isn’t great for remote workers.
But first, it’s always wise to check entry requirements and our real-time security status before venturing into another country, especially for nomads.
What many may not realize since the Netherlands has been on the wrong side of the news when it comes to hospitality, they are indeed offering their own version of a digital nomad visa, officially known as the “Residence permit self-employed person”which is valid for 2 years.
As a major technology hub, Eindhoven is perhaps the best place in the country to plant roots.
With a thriving expat community, a lower cost of living than Amsterdam, and a fast-growing innovation economy, laptop warriors can settle down in comfort while still using the city as a springboard for weekend getaways – whether that means hitting Brussels by train soon or even braving Amsterdam when the mood strikes.
