Eindhoven is the Netherlands' fifth-largest city and its unofficial capital of technology and design — the birthplace of Philips and home to PSV Eindhoven. It carries the nickname 'City of Light', a reference both to its industrial history making light bulbs and to the light installations and design landmarks that define its centre after dark.
Old and New Side by Side
The city centre mixes older landmarks — the Augustinian Church and St. Catherine's Church — directly alongside modern cafés, glass-fronted shops and contemporary architecture. One of the more distinctive buildings is The Bubble, a structure of curved glass and light on the central Stratumseind/Piazza area.
The Light Installations
After dark, the street leading to the Philips Museum is covered by a canopy of lights known locally as the 'lichtplafond' (light ceiling). Around the city centre, illuminated arches and neon signage are common, particularly in winter when Christmas lighting adds to the display.
Street Art and Hidden Details
Underground passages and side alleys carry bold street art and murals. In some pedestrian areas, glass panels set into the pavement reveal archaeological finds excavated directly beneath the street.
Philips and PSV
The Philips Museum is housed in the company's original 1891 lightbulb factory and covers the history of Philips alongside its current work in technology. Philips Stadion, home of PSV Eindhoven, is a short walk from the centre and offers a museum with an optional stadium tour.
Getting Around
Eindhoven is a compact, walkable city, and cycling is the default way locals get around at night, much like the rest of the Netherlands. The city centre's pedestrian streets, glass-domed outdoor dining areas ('eating bubbles') and shopping arcades are easiest to see on foot, ideally in the evening when the lighting is at its best.