Out of all 1,500 articles I’ve written for Travel Off Path, what we’re revealing today is one of the most shocking at first glance.
Living up to our name, one of the most off-path Dutch cities turns out not to be so overlooked at all.
We’ve covered The Netherlands end to end over the years — or so we thought.
Apparently, there’s been a well-kept secret about one artsy, off-the-wall tech hub that’s becoming one of the country’s coolest cities.
Some visitors have called it “boring”, but we’re calling it the “anti-Amsterdam” — in a good way.
Crushing tourism records in 2025, and surprisingly embracing even more visitors with an exciting new train route in the works, the lesser-known city of Eindhoven is the Netherlands’ new must-visit.
PLUS, the Netherlands is largely considered one of the safest countries in the world as you can see below.
Wait — The Netherlands Actually Wants You To Visit?
While Amsterdam’s Karens may still be in full force as the iconic European city rolled out multiple anti-tourism campaigns in recent years, that’s not a reflection of the entire country.
There are endless canal-laden alternatives with equally gorgeous waterways for more spacious strolls and bike rides, but Eindhoven is one of the more unique city breaks that doesn’t mirror Amsterdam much at all.
While one could argue the entire country is a bit quirky, that’s really the only true comparison.
But yes, Eindhoven isn’t settling with its record 2025 year for tourism, welcoming a tick under 7 million passengers at Eindhoven Airport.
They’re doubling down on trains.
Obviously, America is slacking in the train department. Heck, since I paid my California taxes today, I’m wondering how much actually went to the high-speed rail project that seems like it’ll never come to fruition.
We all know that’s not the case for Europe, though, where you can seemingly hop aboard a train anywhere.
Eindhoven has reached an agreement with Brussels for what’s being touted as a game-changing rail route for the region, set to connect this quietly booming city to Belgium’s elegant capital.
Here’s what we know so far:
- A new Eindhoven–Brussels rail link is officially in motion after signing a letter of intent
- Talks will continue this summer; the holdup is deciding between new infrastructure or sprucing up an existing rail network
- The goal is to cut down on the clunky transfers currently needed between Eindhoven and Brussels
- There is no official launch date or operator as of yet
The “Anti-Amsterdam”: Why Eindhoven Feels Like A Breath Of Fresh Air
Yes, Eindhoven has a scenic canal, but it’s not the selling point of the city like Amsterdam’s and others that build their whole brand around them.
This city has a real identity beyond tourism clichés.
Despite flying under the radar, those in the know come here because Eindhoven has carved out a reputation as a creative, forward-thinking city fueled by design, innovation, and repurposed industrial spaces, such as Strijp-S, one of the coolest hangouts there is.
Not to circle back to Belgium, but if you’ve followed us lately, you know that Antwerp is another hip up-and-comer, which may be the closest comparison as a trendsetter.
Additionally, Eindhoven was crowned the “least stressful city in the world”, which some visitors in the past have surmised to be boring, but that’s not the case.
Between wandering Strijp-S, checking out the Philips Museum or Van Abbemuseum, browsing design-forward shops, eye-catching art installations, and ending the day at a lively cafe or brewery, Eindhoven has more than enough to keep things interesting.
Why Eindhoven Is Perfect For Digital Nomads
Since Amsterdam hasn’t exactly been rolling out the welcome mat, that doesn’t mean the Netherlands isn’t great for remote workers to call home.
But first, it’s always wise to check entry requirements and our real-time safety status before venturing off to another country, especially for nomads.
What many may not realize since The Netherlands has been on the wrong side of headlines in terms of hospitality, they do indeed offer their own version of a digital nomad visa, officially known as the “Self Employed Residence Permit”, which is valid for 2 years.
Being a major tech hub, Eindhoven is arguably the best spot in the country to plant roots.
With a thriving expat community, lower cost of living than Amsterdam, and a fast-growing innovation economy, laptop warriors can settle in comfortably while still using the city as a springboard for weekend trips — whether that means Brussels by train someday soon or even braving Amsterdam when the mood strikes.
Stacie Harris is a local resident and reporter of the Maple Grove area. Stacie reports on medicine and science for the Maple Grove Report.
