6x Summer on the Maas

The Maas - also affectionately called 'Mooder Maas' - is much more than just a river. It is the lifeline that flows from north to south through our beautiful municipality and connects the villages with each other. The Maas is the place where people come together and enjoy nature. There is much to experience along this waterway this summer!

Am Ostufer hin und am Westufer zurueck und die Maas ueberqueren mit der Faehre

Enjoying by and on the water

1. The most beautiful terraces on the Maas

Honestly, the ultimate holiday feeling is sitting down on a terrace by the water, right? In Venlo, you can find several terraces located directly by the Maas. Not surprising, since the river connects the entire municipality, from Arcen to Belfeld!

Alt Arce

De Achtertuin

IJssalon Clevers

Restaurant Valuas

Café BLVD

De Werf

IJsco Fantastico

't Vaerhoes

Grandcafé Jochemhof

The Scheuten rooftop bar

A hidden gem. Whether the sun is shining or not, the bustling Scheuten rooftop bar is a piece of vacation in Venlo with the most beautiful view over the Maas and the city center. Enjoy a beautiful sunset and an oasis of tranquility right in the center

2. Sail with the ferry

A fun way to explore the Maas in Venlo is by ferry. During the crossings, you have a beautiful view of the river, the stunning monasteries in Kloosterdorp Steyl or picturesque Arcen. If you start in Steyl, you can zigzag all the way to Arcen by bike. From Steyl to Baarlo, then on to Grubbenvorst to cross to Velden with 'ut veer', then from Lomm to Lottum, and in Lottum with the free ferry to Arcen, where you will have earned an ice cream from IJssalon Clevers!

3. Walking and cycling

For the more active visitors, there are beautiful walking and cycling paths along the Maas in Venlo. Put on your hiking boots and walk through the Maascorridor where herds of Galloway cattle graze under the watchful eye of Ramon, or rent a bike and explore the beautifully green banks. What about a Rondje Maas or the Gardens Route along the Maas? Enjoyment is guaranteed along the Maas!

Discover more

4. Enjoy Venlo from the Maas

Do you want to discover Venlo from the water? Rent a sloop at Sloepverhuur Venlo at the city harbor and determine your own route over the Maas. This way, you can enjoy the city and its surroundings from the water in complete freedom.

Additional benefit? When getting on or off board, you can crown your journey with an ice cream from IJsco Fantastico!

Book your sloop here

5. Picnicking along the Maas

For a relaxing experience along the Maas, you can enjoy a delightful picnic on one of the lovely beaches, banks, or small, green coves. Whether you bring your own basket or head into the city to put together a picnic basket. You will surely find a perfect spot to enjoy delicious food and a beautiful view of the Maas!

Discover our picnic tips

6. Festival Aan de waterkant

During Aan de waterkant, enjoy three weeks of wonderful music by regional talent, theater, and a drink and snack at the Lage Loswal. Celebrate the summer together with Poppodium Grenswerk and Maaspoort at this special location on the Maas in Venlo.

Aan de waterkant takes place from July 9 to 26, 2026, every weekend.

View the line-up

Celebrate your summer in Venlo

Besides the above tips, there is of course much more to experience in and around Venlo this summer. Go out with the whole family, discover the nicest shopping streets, or visit one of the many (free!) festivals and activities.