Why CityAppTour?
Explore a city in 1 day
Stories from local guides
Pause whenever you want
Affordable & flexible
Stress-free navigation with audio guidance
English guide
Eindhoven pulses as the Netherlands' design and technology heartbeat, where Philips' industrial legacy transformed into a creative playground. The city reinvented itself from factory floors to cutting-edge innovation hubs like Strijp-S, blending raw industrial architecture with bold artistic vision in ways unlike anywhere else in the country.
These contrasts unfold through your headphones as you explore Eindhoven walking tours at your own rhythm. Local voices reveal how abandoned factories became vibrant creative spaces while you navigate between iconic landmarks and surprising street art, experiencing the city's transformation story without being rushed from point to point.
Besides our audio guide, there are many other ways to discover Eindhoven. Here are some suggestions that can enrich your visit:
Best Time to Visit
Eindhoven shines brightest during Dutch Design Week in October when the city buzzes with exhibitions and events. Summer (June-August) offers pleasant weather for self-guided tours Eindhoven visitors enjoy, with temperatures around 20-25°C. Winter brings the magical GLOW light festival in November, transforming the city into an illuminated wonderland.
Getting There
Eindhoven is easily accessible by train, with direct connections from Amsterdam (1.5 hours) and other major Dutch cities. Eindhoven Airport serves numerous European destinations with budget airlines. Once in the city, the compact center is perfect for exploring on foot, while the excellent bus network and OV-fiets (rental bikes available at the train station) make reaching attractions on the outskirts simple.
Opening Hours and Holidays
Most shops in Eindhoven open from 9:00-18:00 Monday through Saturday, with late shopping on Thursdays until 21:00. Sundays see reduced hours (12:00-17:00) but most stores in the center are open. Museums typically operate from 10:00-17:00 Tuesday through Sunday. The Netherlands observes public holidays like King's Day (April 27), when the city transforms into an orange-clad street party.
Comfort on the Go
Eindhoven's flat terrain makes it ideal for walking tours, but comfortable shoes are still essential. The Dutch weather can change quickly, so pack a light raincoat even on sunny days. Public drinking fountains are scarce, so bring a water bottle. For those wanting to see Eindhoven in one day, a portable charger is recommended as you'll likely be using your phone for navigation and photos.
Local Customs and Etiquette
The Dutch appreciate directness and punctuality. When visiting cafés, it's normal to pay individually rather than splitting the bill. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or adding 5-10% for good service is sufficient. Cycling is sacred in Eindhoven – never walk in bike lanes (marked in red) and be aware of the numerous cyclists when crossing streets.
How much time should I plan for a visit to Eindhoven?
You need at least one full day to properly experience Eindhoven. While our self-guided tours Eindhoven visitors enjoy can be completed in 2-3 hours at a steady pace, the real joy comes from taking your time. Stop for coffee at Kazerne design café, explore the Strijp-S creative district more thoroughly, or pause to appreciate the contrast between industrial heritage and modern design interventions.
What makes Eindhoven different from other Dutch cities?
Eindhoven stands out as the Netherlands' design and technology capital, unlike the canal-ringed historic centers of Amsterdam or Utrecht. The city was almost completely rebuilt after WWII, giving it a distinctly modern character with bold architectural statements like the flying-saucer shaped Evoluon and the tilted "Blob" building. Eindhoven's industrial heritage and transformation into a creative hub gives it a raw, innovative energy you won't find in more traditional Dutch cities.
Why choose an audio guide instead of a guided tour in Eindhoven
An audio guide gives you complete freedom to explore the best areas in Eindhoven at your own pace. Unlike scheduled group tours, you can start whenever you want, take breaks at the excellent coffee spots along the route, or spend extra time at the street art in Strijp-S that catches your eye. You'll still get expert commentary and insider stories, but without being tied to someone else's timetable.
Do I need internet while walking?
No, once you've downloaded the Eindhoven walking tours, everything works completely offline. The app uses your phone's GPS to track your location on the map without requiring data. This is particularly useful in Eindhoven where public WiFi is available in many locations but can be spotty in some of the former industrial areas that now house the city's most interesting creative spaces.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join the tour, though it's primarily written for adults. Kids from about 12 years old will appreciate Eindhoven's transformation stories and the futuristic design elements throughout the city. Younger children might enjoy the colorful street art in Strijp-S and the interactive elements of the Eindhoven sightseeing tours, but may not connect with all the historical context.
Can I share the tour with my travel companions?
Yes, you can absolutely enjoy the tour with friends or family. Each person can use their own phone to follow along, and we offer attractive discounts for multiple purchases. This way, everyone can listen at their own pace while still sharing the experience of discovering Eindhoven without a guide.
What else is there to do in Eindhoven?
Beyond our audio guide, Eindhoven offers excellent shopping at the Piazza and Heuvel Galerie, innovative dining at places like Down Town Gourmet Market, and relaxation in the beautiful Stadswandelpark. For technology enthusiasts, the High Tech Campus (nicknamed the "smartest square kilometer in Europe") offers occasional public events showcasing future innovations.
Is there a free tour in Eindhoven?
While some companies advertise "free" walking tours in Eindhoven, these typically expect substantial tips at the end (often €15-20 per person). Our audio guide offers guaranteed quality at a fixed, transparent price with no hidden expectations. You also gain the freedom to explore at your own pace rather than following someone else's schedule through crowded streets.
Who is CityAppTour?
We're a team of travelers passionate about sharing local stories. For Eindhoven specifically, we've collaborated with design historians and former Philips employees to capture the unique spirit of this innovative city, ensuring our audio guides reveal both the well-known highlights and the creative corners that make Eindhoven truly special.
When is Dutch Design Week and how does it affect visiting Eindhoven?
Dutch Design Week typically takes place in late October, transforming Eindhoven into the design capital of Europe for nine days. During this period, over 100 locations across the city host exhibitions, workshops, and events. While it's an exciting time to visit, be aware that accommodations book up months in advance and prices increase significantly. Our audio guide provides an excellent orientation to the city's design districts, making it easier to navigate the festival efficiently.
Is Eindhoven worth visiting if I'm not interested in design or technology?
Absolutely! While design and technology are Eindhoven's calling cards, the city offers much more. The charming Pre-Eindhoven villages that were absorbed as the city grew (like Gestel and Woensel) retain their distinct character with lovely squares and churches. The city's green spaces, including the Genneper Parks and the Stadswandelpark with its collection of sculptures, provide beautiful natural escapes. Eindhoven's food scene is also thriving, with excellent restaurants and cafés that have nothing to do with its industrial past.
"I never expected Eindhoven to be so vibrant! The audio guide revealed fascinating stories behind the transformation from industrial wasteland to creative hotspot. The freedom to explore at my own pace meant I could spend extra time in the areas that really spoke to me." — Rachel, United Kingdom
"Come appassionato di design, pensavo di sapere cosa aspettarmi da Eindhoven, ma questa tour autoguidata mi ha mostrato angoli nascosti che avrei completamente perso. Le storie sull'influenza di Philips sulla città sono state particolarmente affascinanti e mi è piaciuto scoprire street art in posti inaspettati!" — Marco, Italia
"The Eindhoven walking tour was perfect for our family visit. We could take breaks whenever the kids needed, while still learning about the city's unique character. The audio quality was excellent, and the navigation made it impossible to get lost even in the more complex former industrial areas." — Sarah, Canada
