Maastricht is beautiful and captivating year-round, but there are recommended visiting seasons. The best time to explore the city is during spring and autumn when the weather is cool and sunny with bright sunshine.

However, if you plan to visit Maastricht in the summer, be sure to pack comfortable clothing suitable for hot and humid weather. If you're visiting in winter, bring warm, waterproof clothing as it can get quite cold, and snowfall is possible.

There are several ways to reach Maastricht, depending on your starting location. If you're in the Netherlands, you can use trains or buses to reach the city. Trains and buses are available from various cities in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht.

If you're coming from outside the Netherlands, you can opt for a flight to Maastricht Aachen Airport, which is about 10 km from the city. This airport serves several flight routes from various European cities, including London, Paris, and Berlin. Upon arrival in Maastricht, you can continue your journey using public transportation like buses or taxis to get around the city. You can also rent a bike or car for more freedom and flexibility.

In Maastricht, you can visit historical sites like the Basilica of Saint Servatius, Sint Servaasbrug bridge, Vrijthof Square, and the underground caves of St. Pietersberg. You can also immerse yourself in the city's cultural scene by visiting the Bonnefanten Museum, savoring Dutch cuisine at cafes and starred restaurants, or indulging in some shopping while strolling along the banks of the Meuse River.

The best areas to stay in Maastricht are Binnenstad (city center), Wyck, and Jekerkwartier because they encompass the main city center. If you prefer not to stay in the city center, you can also consider the following areas: Kommelkwartier, Statenkwartier, Boschstraatkwartier, and Dousberg-Hazendans.

There are several captivating festivals and events held in the city. For example, the Maastricht Carnival. This carnival festival, known as Vastelaovend, is celebrated every year at the end of February or early March, before the start of Lent.

The carnival festivities begin on Sunday with the raising of the Prince's flag and the firing of 11 cannons. On Monday, a grand carnival parade takes place in the city center of Maastricht.

The parade features various carnival groups, including decorated boats, horse-drawn carriages, and lavish costumes. On Tuesday, the carnival concludes with the Zate Hermeniekes Concours, a marching band competition. This celebration is so popular that it attracts thousands of visitors from around the world.